Seychelles is a collection of small islands in the Somali Sea. Known for its warm, tropical weather and unique wildlife, Seychelles’s coral and granite islands could be the perfect place for you and your family. Visiting this island nation often isn’t enough to satiate traveler’s interests, and many decide to move here permanently. But where to live?
The best places to live in Seychelles are often highly populated (at least by island standards), close to schools and markets, and full of like-minded expatriates. Which part of Seychelles is best? The answer depends on your preferences, budget, and needs.
Victoria is a bustling city that might work well for business professionals, young adults, and childless couples. However, it might be a little too much for growing families or older individuals. Anse Etoile, on the other hand, is a fantastic place for families and seniors. But it might be too slow-paced for adventurers.
Remember, the best places to stay in Seychelles have as much to do with you and your needs as it does the actual location. You’ll want to consider your budget, family, and future plans before selecting a new home. Fortunately, you won’t need to do hours of research to make a decision, as we’ve compiled all the info you need right here.
Key Takeaways
- Seychelles is a nation that comprises more than 100 unique islands. It sits in the Somali Sea of the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa, and above Madagascar.
- This island nation is popular among expatriates due to its beautiful shores, diverse wildlife, comfortable temperatures, plentiful recreation activities, and unique investment opportunities.
- Due to the geographical nature of Seychelles, many goods must be imported from other countries. As such, the average cost of living here is slightly higher than the US or European Union Average.
- Approximately 17,000 expats are currently working and living in Seychelles, though this number fluctuates as expatriate residents travel abroad.
- The incidence of violent crime in Seychelles is relatively low, though petty crimes have steadily increased over the last several years. Burglary is becoming more common, prompting many homeowners to invest in more powerful security features.
- The cost of living in Seychelles is about 6.5% higher than in the US, but the cost to rent a home is approximately18.61% lower than in the US.
- The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation runs air-conditioned buses across Mahé and Praslin, and ferry services can help with inter-island travel. Still, a small boat, a bicycle, or a gas-efficient vehicle are excellent transportation options for residents.
5 Best Places To Live in Seychelles
While there are quite a few neighborhoods worth exploring in the Seychelles Islands, expats tend to favor more populated areas, including Greater Victoria. If you’re looking for a place to hang your hat and call home, you’ll want to check out these diverse Seychelles districts!
1. Beau Vallon
Living in an island paradise doesn’t necessarily mean you have to pay a luxurious price tag. Some of the most affordable homes in Seychelles are found in the neat residential hamlet of Beau Vallon, on the island of Mahé. Gorgeous local beaches abound, and fishing trips are only a skip and hop away. Simple living is yours when you’re a resident of Beau Vallon.
This spot is also relatively popular among expats from India and Italy. These cultural influences can be seen in the local cuisine of Beau Vallon, which primarily consists of vegetarian dishes with Indian influences and artisanal pizzas. Creole cuisine takes a backseat in this area, which may be preferable for some potential residents.
Still, there are many homes and apartments for sale and for rent in Beau Vallon, and few of them are luxury villas and high-priced mansions. This makes Beau Vallon a prime spot for expats on a budget. There are also a few supermarkets and shopping centers here to help keep your home stocked and comfortable.
Even better, the Beau Vallon Medical Center is just down the road from most of this neighborhood’s homes and apartments. If you fall ill or suffer an injury, you can seek treatment right away without having to catch a ferry to another island.
Whether you’d like to take a long, peaceful walk down the beach, get some grocery shopping done, or hike the Dans Gallas Trail, at least one thing remains true: You can do it all in Beau Vallon. Indeed, this tiny neighborhood is one of the best-value options for expatriates, and it’s one of the most beautiful as well.
2. Praslin
The second-largest island in Seychelles is Praslin, and it’s also one of the most populated areas. Because most people enjoy getting to know one another, as well as local community members, Praslin is a popular choice among expats. This island has a relatively laid-back atmosphere and a slower pace than capital city Victoria or suburban Anse Etoile.
But the thing that stands out about Praslin is its lush environment. Every direction you look, there’s a blue-watered, white-sand beach or deep groves of green vegetation. Birdsong fills the air, and the sunshine seems to push through the leafy treetops to warm your skin and light the brown earth pathways leading from village to village.
Praslin is an island of duality, making it a fine choice for those torn between Victoria and the more rural Seychelles neighborhoods. There are miles of wild growth, separated here and there by tiny homes or gardens. But there are also coastal villages, small towns, and plenty of commercial opportunities.
Still, it’s challenging to find single-family properties on Praslin. The island’s natural charm has lent itself well to tourism, and many of the villas and homes for sale cost upwards of a million dollars. Less opulent properties are equally expensive, as they often consist of several buildings or homes.
But if you’re ready to start a business that caters to the tourism industry in Seychelles, Praslin might be the right place for you. Besides, if your business goes well, you can upgrade your digs and enjoy a life of ease in one of this island’s many sumptuous oceanside manors. Of course, you could always choose a slightly less expensive neighborhood, like Anse Etoile.
3. Anse Etoile
Where do most people live in Seychelles? Somewhat surprisingly, the answer isn’t the nation’s capital city. Instead, it’s the most significant island belonging to Seychelles: Mahé. This massive landmass is home to some genuinely breathtaking neighborhoods, sights, and sounds.
However, property prices are on the rise. Empty lots easily sell for several million dollars, and expats may prefer to rent their living quarters rather than buy. Though this area isn’t nearly as popular among tourists as other parts of Seychelles, it is quickly developing into a trustworthy residential spot.
Paved roadways, open patios facing the sea, and misty mountainous mornings are only a taste of what to expect in Anse Etoile. There are also restaurants, shops, bars, clubs, and modest churches. When combined, these amenities help make Anse Etoile a comfier, friendlier place.
Not in the mood for Creole cuisine? There’s a vegetarian restaurant right down the road. Not into an international menu? Why not try some Cajun cuisine instead? When you live in Anse Etoile, you’ve got almost all the best things in Seychelles there at your feet. The beaches here even rival some of the most touristic options near Victoria or on Praslin.
However, unless you’re looking to become a bartender or hotel staff employee, there are few employment opportunities in Anse Etoile. That said, those who work remotely might feel tickled to rent a small villa here and enjoy the jaw-dropping views.
4. La Digue
The granite stones of La Digue look like something from another time or another planet. But rest assured, this sizable chunk of land is very real, and it could be your next home. While La Digue is best-known for its snorkeling spots and peaceful beaches, there are also three small residential areas.
La Reunion is a great place to live if you’re a foodie, as there are multiple restaurants and takeaway services in the area. However, La Passe is a little quieter and out of the way, beckoning introverts and solo expats alike.
L’Union, on the other hand, is a mix of agricultural and touristic attractions. Private homes can be pricey on this island, as much of the land has been left unspoiled and untouched. Part of La Digue’s allure is its wild beauty, so property development is slow-going at best.
That said, when compared to many of the other islands that make up Seychelles, La Digue might just be the most affordable option. A handful of homes and apartments are available for less than the standard asking price of one million dollars, which is a true steal.
5. Victoria
The capital city of Seychelles is a vibrant, interesting, and exciting place to live. Victoria is home to the most popular international school in Seychelles, the International School Seychelles, the massive open-air Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, and the gorgeously green Victoria Botanical Gardens.
The Hindu temples rise like skinny mountains from the city’s paved surfaces, and the thin white Victoria Clock Tower helps residents and visitors keep track of the time. Italian, French, and Creole restaurants are plentiful in the city center, as are colorful apartment buildings and tourist-friendly resorts.
If you choose to live here, you might end up paying more in terms of rent or property prices. However, you’ll also be a stone’s throw away from some of the most modern amenities Seychelles has to offer, including several shopping malls, a cinema, and a handful of bookstores.
Peace Park is a large grassy park area designed to help children, pets, and fitness enthusiasts enjoy some fresh air. It’s also home to some of the most beloved statues in Seychelles. There are also quite a few cafes and takeaway restaurants worth exploring here, as well as plenty of open room for new businesses.
English River is one of the most popular expat sub-neighborhoods in Victoria. This city is a fantastic place to be if you’re hoping to make a name for yourself in Seychelles. But it’s also a smart option for those wishing to enjoy a taste of island city living.
Related: How to Buy Property in Seychelles as a Foreigner
Honorable Mentions
Though the above picks are top-notch neighborhoods for expats, they’re not your only options. We thought it best to also briefly mention additional areas you could call home, including:
- Bel Air (Greater Victoria)
- Roche Caiman (Greater Victoria)
- St. Louis (Greater Victoria)
- Au Cap (Mahé)
- Anse Royale (Mahé)
- Glacis (Mahé)
- Grande Anse (Praslin)
All of these locations could be the perfect spot for your new home and life in Seychelles! As always, be sure to confer with friends, family members, and other expats before signing any paperwork and allowing money to change hands.
Final Thoughts
Seychelles is an African island nation that attracts more than 350,000 visitors each year. It’s also home to a staggeringly large expat population, though this population tends to shift as residents adopt a more nomadic lifestyle or move elsewhere.
As such, Seychelles is relatively dependent on a constant influx of expatriate labor. The cost of living here is slightly higher than in the US or EU countries, though this difference is primarily due to expensive imported goods. Simple island-grown fruits, vegetables, and animal products tend to be less costly than their Western counterparts.
Expats may enjoy the lower average rent prices in Seychelles, though they’re bound to rue the expensive property prices found throughout the islands. There are dozens of million-dollar homes from which to choose, but more straightforward housing isn’t often offered to foreigners, especially those who are unfamiliar with Seychelles.
Suppose you’ve always wanted to move to an island paradise, and you’re looking to enjoy a moderately high quality of living. In that case, Seychelles could be the ideal destination for you and your family. However, it’s not the least expensive option, and petty crimes are becoming more common, especially in touristic and residential areas.
