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Is Seychelles Safe for Gay Couples? A Comprehensive Travel Guide

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Sitting in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a long-held name for romantic getaways and idyllic beach vacations. Its powdery white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes are no secret that couples from across the world come here. But for gay couples and LGBTQ+ travelers in general, the allure of a destination like that often comes with a set of special concerns about safety and being accepted.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the many aspects of LGBTQ+ travel in Seychelles, covering legal landscape, social attitude, gay friendly destinations and essential safety tips. At the end of this article you’ll know what to expect and how to make the most of your romantic getaway to this beautiful island nation

1. Legal Landscape for LGBTQ+ in Seychelles

If you’re planning a trip to Seychelles with your partner, it’s very important to know how Seychelles deals with LGBT issues on a legal level. In recent years Seychelles has taken great strides to move towards equality and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2016, the country made a progressive step when it decriminalised same sex sexual activity. But it was a landmark decision, a turning point in the nation’s way with LGBTQ+ civil rights, toward a society that was at least a bit more inclusive.

Status of same sex marriage is another big feature of the legal landscape. Same-sex marriages or civil partnerships are not recognized in Seychelles as of now. But it should be said that the government has shown an openness to discussing this in the future, and which tells you that improvements in the status of LGBTQ+ rights can still be made.

2. Social Attitudes Toward Gay Couples

For gay couples planning on visiting Seychelles, understanding the social context and social attitudes around LGBTQ+ people is important. As is true of many island nations with a colonial history, Seychelles has a predominantly conservative society, the legacy of which is shaped by traditional values and religious influences. This conservative background also means that attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals are not universal and can be wildly different depending on where you live and what you believe.

Our friend Darren at OutofOffice.com did a wonderful video comparing the Seychelles with the Maldives from an LGBT perspective. Check it out below!

Tourists are generally accepted and tolerated in LGBTQ+ forms in tourist areas, especially in the main islands and in upmarket resorts but otherwise, the situation can be quite problematic for people visiting in cities and rural areas. Part of the reason is that tourism is such a powerful part of the Seychellois economy, and we have regular exposure to visitors from all over the world. Hotel staff, tour operators, and those keen on working in the hospitality industry are more likely to be friendly and professional with any LGBTQ+ couple.

Visiting Seychelles as a gay couple is to respect and cultural sensitivity when coming into contact with locals. You don’t have to hide your relationship, but you should know the local customs and norms. For instance, a place where holding hands is suited is a resort or in the presence of humans; it might be in a small village or religious site, for example.


Remember to take care of yourselves and each other. Here are some practical tips to ensure you understand local laws, customs and regulations before you travel.

You can also get the travel experience engaging with locals. The local people are friendly and curious of visitors to their islands. If you’re comfortable, telling people of some of your experience will potentially help create a positive interaction and deepen understanding. But in all situations you need to read the situation and respect boundaries.

3. Gay-Friendly Destinations in Seychelles

As a whole, Seychelles is getting more and more welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers, but some parts of the archipelago are particularly suited for gay couples who want to spend a romantic and comfortable time away from home. Above all, these areas are places where you have a choice of beautiful natural scenery, a lively local culture, and a slightly more open mindset.

Many travelers start their journey on Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles, with Victoria, the capital city. There are tons to do, from Victoria’s charming streets to the world’s most beautiful beaches, while this island is bustling. Mahé is good for gay couples as it offers privacy and avenues to socialize. From Victoria and throughout the island, there are plenty of chances to meet locals and other travelers in a less formal environment, particularly in and around the island’s lively nightlife scene.

Loving gay couple taking selfie on balcony. Two men in casual clothes smiling at camera, city in background. Love, affection, relationship, travelling concept

A second great option for LGBTQ+ travel is Praslin, the second largest island in Seychelles. Praslin is a much more laid-back side than the hustle and bustle of Mahé, known for its pristine beaches and lush vegetation. Among the world’s best, the famous Anse Lazio beach is a must. The island’s natural beauty, with UNESCO World Heritage site Vallée de Mai, offers plenty to get into a romantic walk or adventure.

La Digue is, for couples who want to experience a little bit more quiet, a good destination. Its ox-cart transportation and bicycle friendly roads give this small island its charm. Not only picturesque, but the Anse Source d’Argent beach with its iconic granite boulders is also a great place for photographs and to gazing over stunning sunsets.

While accommodations in Seychelles, and in particular high end resorts and hotels, are familiar with accommodating guests from the LGBTQ+ space, they strive to create an environment that is welcoming. But it’s always a good idea to do research and pick an LGBTQ-friendly resort or private villa. Gay couples can find these establishments to be better equipped to provide the specific needs and preferences of gay couples, leading to a more comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Besides accommodation, you can also explore inclusive activities that give you the ability to immerse in the island’s culture and natural beauty. In the crystal clear waters, you can snorkel, hike in the lush forests, or visit local markets. These are wonderful ways to experience Seychelles together. Most tour operators offer small groups or private excursions as it’s a more intimate and comfortable way of seeing things for couples that seek private time.

4. Safety Tips for Gay Couples

Seychelles is safe for all travelers, including LGBTQ+ travelers, but there are some things you can do to make sure the trip runs smoothly. Some of the additional things that gay couples must consider in terms of safety would be additional things that pertain to social attitudes as well as legal protections for you.

First of all, there is no law against public displays of affection between same sex couples in Seychelles, however, we advise that they should be discreet in public spaces outside of resort areas. It’s not hiding your relationship, it’s being aware of local sensitivities and not bringing unwanted attention to yourself. Skip save more intimate moments to actually private settings where you can free to be yourselves.

Whenever you decide on a hotel or resort, do your homework on whether they are considered a friendly place for the LGBTQ community. Search for the establishment’s reviews from other gay travelers if there’s anything regarding LGBTQ+ certifications or partnerships of the place, and don’t shy away from calling directly to inquire about anything specific in case you have. The better your accommodation, the more welcoming and inclusive it is, the more likely you are to have a great overall experience of your time there and a comfortable base for your adventures.

If you’re LGBTQ+, consider buying travel insurance that’s LGBTQ+ specific and covers unique needs and concerns. Others provide benefits such as covering HIV and AIDS-related medical costs or help in case of a legal issue because of your sexual orientation. These are unlikely scenarios happening in Seychelles but having that extra layer of protection will give you some peace of mind.

Before your trip, get yourself familiar with local emergency contacts and resources. Save the contact information of your country’s embassy or consulate in Seychelles, and know the location of the embassy or consulate in case you encounter complications with your travel. It’s also a good idea to do some research on any existing local LGBTQ+ organizations or support groups that could give you assistance or info (if you need it).

Lastly, trust your instincts. The thing is, it’s okay to remove yourself if a situation or location seems uncomfortable or unsafe. While your Seychelles experiences will probably be overwhelmingly positive, it’s important to know what to be on the lookout for and make informed, safe decisions.

Conclusion

It’s true: Seychelles, with its waters so clear you can gaze up and spot the stars, and its growing and increasingly progressive vibe, absolutely can be a safe, fun destination for gay couples. Yes, while there are challenges and concerns, they tend to be trumped by what incredible experiences and memories you will make in this tropical paradise. LGBTQ+ travelers, by learning about the legal environment, respecting local customs, selecting gay-friendly accommodations, and taking basic safety measures, can enjoy all that Seychelles has to offer.

And remember that every trip is an opportunity to both enjoy personally, but also to impart greater understanding and acceptance. So, of course, your positive interactions as a gay couple in Seychelles can start to change perceptions and create a space for even further inclusivity down the road.

For more detailed information on LGBTQ+-friendly destinations around the world, travel tips, and personal stories from gay couples, be sure to explore other articles on Gay Couple Getaway. Our comprehensive guides and firsthand experiences can help you plan your perfect romantic escape, whether it’s to Seychelles or any other beautiful corner of the globe. We’d love to hear about your own experiences in Seychelles or any questions you might have, drop us a comment in the chat box!

Author: Steve

Steve is a UK based LGBTQ travel blogger dedicated to sharing travel experiences, tips and insights for his community. From destination guides to travel tips, he curates essential resources for gay couples and queer families.

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