Like most countries, beliefs are a core part of culture in a community. The 115 exotic islands of Seychelles are no different. Seychelles is 90 percent Catholic, however they are still very superstitious people. While there is history of ‘black magic’ and some say is still continued to this day, tourists will have a very hard time getting local people to open up or admit this though because this is not very Catholic. Gris Gris, as it’s called to many, came with the African and Malagasy slaves. It’s a blend of black magic and herbalism. Black magic in any form including sorcery, fortune-telling, and the possession of amulets and charms was actually banned in 1958. The British still controlled Seychelles at the time and while the law still stands today, some in Seychelles are still extremely superstitious. Homes and gifts If visiting a house after sunset, one must call out the name three times to ensure it’s not a ghost responding. Never sweep a house after 6 pm as this will sweep your fortunes away—though sweeping might be okay; just don’t throw the dirt outside. Never gift a handkerchief or a knife to a loved one as it is terribly bad luck. sweep away © Rigel/Flickr Animals If a snake crosses your path, something bad is sure to happen. If you hear a long howl from a dog, someone in the neighbourhood will die. If a big rhinoceros beetle—known here as a coconut beetle—flies into a house at night, it’s announcing a bad spells.…
Get exclusive access to this story
Subscribe to Nomad Africa and get unlimited access to our exclusive articles on African cultural heritage, travel tips, tourism news updates, industry trends and insights. Your subscription will also help support tourism in Africa. Subscription starts from only R15 ($1 USD) per month.*
Already a subscriber? Login here
*Charged for the first month after which standard rates apply. Cancel anytime.
...
