Seychelles

Cost of living

What a month costs

Seychelles is one of Africa's priciest places to live. Almost everything is imported, so groceries, cars and dining out all cost more than the beaches suggest.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Victoria

1. Victoria Clock TowerThe little silver clock modelled on a London original, standing at the town's main crossroads since 1903.
2. Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke MarketThe covered market where locals buy fish, tropical fruit, chillies and vanilla.
3. Seychelles National Botanical GardensPalms, giant tortoises and the famous coco de mer, a shady walk south of the centre.
4. Cathedral of the Immaculate ConceptionThe main Catholic cathedral and a landmark of the mostly Christian town.
5. St Paul's CathedralThe Anglican cathedral, a clean white presence above the streets.
6. Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar TempleA vivid Hindu temple that shows off the island's Indian roots.
7. Bicentennial MonumentThree white wings by a roundabout, marking the African, European and Asian origins of the Seychellois people.
8. National Museum of HistoryIsland history and archives set in the old courthouse beside the clock tower.
9. Natural History MuseumA small but charming look at local wildlife and the giant coco de mer nut.
10. Eden Island MarinaA modern waterfront of yachts, cafes and shops on a reclaimed island next to town.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. PraslinA short flight or ferry to the Vallee de Mai palm forest and the postcard sand of Anse Lazio.
2. La DigueOx carts, bicycles and Anse Source d'Argent, reached by ferry through Praslin.
3. Beau VallonMahe's main swimming beach, a quick drive over the hills from town.
4. Sainte Anne Marine National ParkA cluster of islands and easy snorkelling just offshore from Victoria.
5. Morne Seychellois National ParkMisty peaks, forest trails and the Sans Souci road climbing straight above the city.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. News CafeA popular Eden Island spot for coffee, juices and a relaxed sit down.
2. Le Rendez-VousA cafe and bar in a colonial building by the clock tower, good for a break in the centre.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. Marie AntoinetteA long-running Creole institution serving a fixed spread of local classics in an old wooden house.
2. News CafeAn easy all-day bistro on Eden Island with salads, pizza and grills.
3. The Boardwalk Bar and GrillWaterfront dining on Eden Island, strong on seafood and sunset views.
4. Le Rendez-VousCreole and international plates in the heart of Victoria near the clock tower.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. News CafeReliable morning coffee and breakfast plates on Eden Island.
2. The Boardwalk Bar and GrillA calm waterfront start to the day beside the marina.