How safe is Mahé
Is Mahé Safe to Visit in 2023
Absolutely, my dear adventurers! The enchanting island of Mahé, the largest in the radiant archipelago of the Seychelles, continues to be a safe haven for those yearning to tread off the well-worn tourist track. Of course, it remains crucial to bear in mind some key areas where caution should be exercised. Strap on your scout hats, we're about to dive deep.
Transport & Taxis Risk
Mahé, with its smiling taxi drivers and meticulously maintained buses, hasn't spared any effort in ensuring your journey is smooth. Public transport can be deemed extremely secure. Nonetheless, travellers should be mindful of fare negotiations with taxis, as meters are often absent in vehicles. Don't let that spontaneous "island time" taxi fare surge catch you by surprise!
Pickpockets Risk
Just as one would at any global hotspot, keeping an eye on personal belongings is essential. Avoid falling into the postcard-trap of leaving your valuables unattended on the beach, tucked under your towel while you disappear for a quick dip. Rates of petty theft in Mahé remain low, but just like my Aunt Gertrude's pot of gold, nobody wants their vacation spoils to disappear into thin air, right?
Natural Disasters Risk
Our island paradise isn't immune to the forces of Mother Nature. With the Seychelles situated in the Indian Ocean, cyclones might drop in for an uninvited visit, especially between November and April. That being said, significant tropical storms are rare. The last damaging cyclone hit the Seychelles way back in 1987; that's before many of us even knew what a selfie was!
Terrorism Risk
For the intrepid traveller, fear not. Mahé enjoys a low-profile on the global stage, making it a lower-risk destination for incidents of terrorism. The Global Terrorism Index of 2022 puts Seychelles off the radar when it comes to any significant threats. Nevertheless, one must always stay informed about global events when planning travels.
Scams Risk
Just between you and me, and the rare Aldabra giant tortoise, cases of tourist scams in Mahé are almost unheard of. That being said, always remind yourself to be assertive yet respectful when dealing with service providers, and expect to negotiate prices in markets.
Women Travelers Risk
Hear ye, fearless ladies! Mahé stands out as a respectful and welcoming destination for women travellers. Whether you're travelling solo or in a group, it's generally safe to explore the island's lush trails and tranquil beaches. As always though, exercising common sense is key.
In short, enjoyable as this treasure trove of natural wonder may be, it would be a serious faux pas to embark on your journey without first purchasing travel insurance. Travel insurance is an invaluable shield against unforeseen circumstances, from trip cancellations to emergency medical costs. As we say on the island, better safe than sorry! Or was it better a coconut in hand than two on the tree? Either way, Happy Travelling!
