Tourists flock into Victoria, what to buy |09 September 2013

Every now and then lots of foreign visitors are seen strolling around town enjoying the unique beauty of our island and its people. They buy take-aways, mineral water while trying to adapt to our hot climate. Tourists tend to spend money mainly on local souvenirs while there are other things the Seychelles offers from which they could have fun and enjoy!

Are we doing enough to make visitors spend more and therefore do not go back home with their Euros, pound sterlings or their dollars? Is our craft sector producing more locally made products from locally found raw materials? Or is our craft stall being inundated by stuff from Thailand creating the impression that one is in that country?

Walking around Victoria or driving around the islands will unearth a wide variety of things to buy. Craft outlets are found almost everywhere; a wide variety of artists hosting their works either in their own homes or galleries will surely share their passion and method of working with visitors as they cater to your choice of purchase.

The Camion Hall set of shops right next to Victoria Taxi Stand also house a number of local craft items. Don’t look around town only to find ways to spend while holidaying in Seychelles. You can also go sailing. There is no better way to enjoy Seychelles than by cruising its pristine waters by catamaran, keelboat, bareboat or kayak, to name but a few.

You can also go fishing where you will be rewarded with some of the finest fishing in the ocean. Diving is another entertainment where you can spend and have fun. Dive centres are located throughout Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

Don’t stay cooped up in your hotel room – eat out! There are excellent local restaurants or charming seaside bistros where you can also appreciate the surroundings with your feet in the sand! There is an array of cafes, pizzerias and snack bars throughout the islands.

And why not enjoy the unique atmosphere of the local clubs and bars where you can dance to the latest music until the smallest hours? Visitors are advised when strolling around to just ask our friendly locals where and on what you can spend the Euros and they’ll be too happy to inform you.

Spanish and Chinese visitors choosing a local souvenir at the Victoria Market recently. Visitors should be encouraged to spend more while holidaying in Seychelles