Off East Africa, amidst those mischievously intricate coral reefs, lies the breathtakingly wonderful Seychelles. While it is a land where luxury travelers like to spend time in peace, shopaholics can also fill their bags with souvenirs. After you have explored your traveler soul, you might find a little time to check out the amazing markets, craft shops, and jewelry stalls.
The island nation is home to some of the world's best souvenirs, and the markets are a site to discover. So put on your tropical hats, and check your wallets for enough cash; you don't want to be a penny pincher in this case.
What to Buy In Seychelles
There are so plenty of things to buy in Seychelles. Make sure to look for each of these while you are here - you definitely would not want to miss anything.
1. Coconut Shell Artifacts
One of the loveliest things to take home from Seychelles are the coconut shell artefacts. Carved in different ways, these are enticing due to their peculiar shapes. The most popular among the foreigners is the Coco de Mer- also known as the sea coconut or the double coconut. The form is quite erotic, for it resembles a female bottom. No wonder the Coco de Mer made global headlines when Seychelles' government gifted this naughty nut to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge!
However, strict rules apply to it being taken outside the country and, therefore, you must ensure that it carries proper documentation. These buttock shaped nuts have raised eyebrows since times immemorial, and it’s a must on your shopping list on the islands. Other coconut shell artefacts include the one with a smiling man's face carved on to it. Besides, coconut bathing soaps, oils and perfumes are another bunches of products to buy.
2. Vanilla Pods
Seychelles have a long historical tie with vanilla. Considered a gem in the flavouring industry, vanilla is found in abundance in Seychelles. You can’t return home without buying some vanilla from here- all it needs is a small space in your bag. The sweet flavours burst into your mouth the moment you smell the sweet fragrance lurking from the plantation farms in La Digue. Vanilla Pods and vanilla essence are a must once you are here.
3. Shark Chutney
Shark Chutney is an exotic savoury dish you will not find anywhere else in the world. Cooked with salt, fried onion, pepper and turmeric, the aroma is unforgettable. The boiled, skinned shark is first finely mashed and then garnished with bilimbi juice and lime which adds to the uniqueness. With so many flavours waiting to tickle your taste buds, the unique dish must be given a shot when in Seychelles, for stay is incomplete without buying some indigenous food.
Where to go!
Mahe is the best island in Seychelles for shopping as 90% of Seychelles’s population is concentrated on this island. However, instead of mega shopping malls you’ll find some small interesting shops and markets that are somewhat laid-back and random. Some of the specialty shops on Mahe Island deal with locally-made products such as tea and perfume. You’ll find the flavour and aroma of these products absolutely unique. However, the most well-known specialty shop in the entire islands is Kenwyn House. This structure has considerable historical significance besides being a gem figure. The Island of Mahe has the best markets in Seychelles, such as Sir Selwyn Clarke Market - a lively spot where you can buy fresh vegetables, fruit, spices, and fish. The Sir Selwyn Clarke Market area also consists of numerous little gift shops.
RocApply Tips:
- As with other facets of life in Seychelles, food, and grocery are also sold in their local currency, so ensure to make all the necessary conversions and move around with a little local cash on you. Many of the establishments only accept the dollar.
- The market is a very popular and crowded place to, so it is important to watch your wallet.
- As a newcomer, some of the names of the items might confuse you, please use any online translator services to check the correct word for whatever you are searching for.
- Always ask for help or directions from fellow students and if you can't find any around you then ask even the locals they are always happy to assist foreigners and visitors.
"I enjoy shopping and I found it affordable but some of the clothes are definitely not of the highest quality." - Hassan from Turkey
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