SOME SEYCHELLES TRIVA
There are 155 islands that comprise the Seychelles but just two islands where the bulk of goods and humans are sent – Praslin and La Digue, both famous for their beauty and the legendary coco de mer (a sort of double coconut that looks like a bum). I would never see them, but they sound just lovely.
90% of the Seychellois population is found on Mahé and the Seychelles as a whole has been influenced by Africa, Asia and Europe throughout its history. There is also evidence of pirates having used the islands in the 18th century for piratey things. The country is still 95% catholic after the Portuguese had their word, but the locals only grant about 2 hours-worth of religious affair during Christmas, Easter and pope-arrivals before calling it a drinking party.
SEYCHELLES FOOD & DRINK
Staff meals on North Island are served sort of buffet-style. You bring your own plate and cutlery, they pile on food until you say “stop”, dig in, and then wash up. Creole cuisine is quite a carnivorous vibe – with servings of chicken, beef, lamb, pork, some identifiable thing, and fish nearly every single day! If you’re vegetarian you generally have to settle for plain rice, a lentil puree and Country Fresh boiled veg.
The local shop supplies snacks and essential items (alcohol being a major one) and is only open 3 times a week after hours. I heard loud music after the first opening and I’m told that Saturday night gets really festive (which is the day I leave, so won’t get to witness that). The locals also gun for Guinness over the homebrew as it has the highest alcohol percentage. I tried the local poison on my birthday – two breeds of beer – one named “Seybrew”, which made me affectionately think of the Cape coloureds.
Because of the drinking issue, the locals are given a booze quota. 80% of the staff are also male, so there is understandably some pent up frustration with living on North Island. I wonder how fornicating works with so few people?
Next: Seychelles #6: Highlights & Lowlights
Previously: Seychelles #4: North Island Conservation
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