Current Time in Seychelles
Seychelles culture regarding time
Seychelles culture regarding time
Social climate with a relaxed attitude toward time
As the term "island time" suggests, Seychelles is very relaxed about time. Some delays are common, and strict punctuality is not expected.
Meetings and gatherings often do not start on schedule
It is not uncommon for business and community gatherings to start later than the scheduled start time. People are rarely blamed for being a little late to the meeting time, and the event proceeds flexibly according to the flow of participants.
Time is important for religious events
In Seychelles, where Christianity is the main religion, religious events such as church services tend to be relatively time-sensitive. In some areas, there are times when a strong attitude of punctuality is evident.
Seychelles values regarding time
Prioritizing connections with people
In Seychelles, there is a culture that values human relationships and conversations over punctuality. The emphasis is on "meeting" and "talking" rather than on the business, and even if the time is slightly off, it will be accepted harmoniously.
Don't rush to avoid stress
Being rushed is said to be a cause of stress, so the value of "going at your own pace" is deeply rooted in the workplace and in life. They are not pressed for time, and value mental space.
Value harmony over efficiency
There is a culture that values harmony with the surroundings and a natural flow rather than time efficiency or the speed at which tasks are completed, and this attitude is reflected in time management.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or relocating to Seychelles
You should allow some flexibility for appointment times
Appointments with local people are often expected to be delayed by 10 to 15 minutes, so if you make a schedule assuming that things will not go as planned, you can reduce stress.
Public institutions are also flexible
Government offices and buses may not run as scheduled, so it is important to lower your expectations regarding time. Checking in advance and allowing time for things to go smoothly will lead to smooth responses.
Resorts and tourist facilities are also tolerant of time
The tourism industry is generally tolerant, and it is not uncommon for activity meeting times and guide arrival times to be late. Waiting calmly without urging will lead to building good relationships.
Interesting trivia about time in Seychelles
"Seychelles time" is a joking phrase
Locals sometimes jokingly say, "It's Seychelles time, so it's okay if we're late." This is a familiar expression that symbolizes a relaxed sense of time.
There is a culture of acting according to sunset
Traditionally, there is a culture of adjusting one's daily rhythm based on the movement of the sun rather than the clock, and this habit still remains among people involved in fishing and agriculture.
The start time of the wedding is a "guideline"
It is common for weddings in Seychelles not to start at the scheduled time, and it is common for them to be 30 minutes to an hour late. The attendees understand this and gather at a leisurely pace.