If you have decided to enjoy your holidays in Mauritius, this article is for you!
Wherever you go on the island, you will be greeted with a big smile! The population is of extreme softness and this remains one of the many positive assets of this destination. During your trip to Mauritius, you will be amazed by its cultural diversity, its historical background and its unparalleled fauna and flora. Throughout the year, Mauritians celebrate their religious festivals where their culture is beautifully depicted via their traditions … A variety of events not to be missed!
Leisure in Mauritius
Your holidays in Mauritius are an opportunity to enjoy the many activities proposed on the island. You can start by enjoying the sea, the sand sunshine. To relax, you can enjoy a session at the thalassotherapy center (Spa). You can spend your evenings in one of the restaurant, bar or nightclub of the island. Those are grouped mainly on the West Coast and in the North. Don’t miss the magnificent sunset at Flic-en-Flac if you are planning on having a swim at one of the longest beach of the island.
For sports lovers, Mauritius is the perfect place to practice golf, diving, horse riding and extreme sports such as “parasailing” or Zip line. The crystal clear waters along with a unique aquatic fauna and flora are particularly appreciated by fans of scuba diving. The splendor and diversity of landscapes make the island a favorite spot for hikers also and annual trails are organized for those hiking lovers.
What you should visit in Mauritius
Upon arrival on the island, plan your outings so as not to miss anything of its many natural and exceptional attractions. The capital, Port Louis, is home to prominent monuments such as the Government House, Fort Adelaide built by the British and the Immigration Depot (Aapravasi Ghat) UNESCO World Heritage.
Every corner of the island offers a lot of surprising discoveries. Leave the capital and visit the northern part of the island which boasts the most beautiful beaches of the island: Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisi, Pereybere … It also hosts leisure centers, restaurants and nightclubs. And if you wish to rediscover Mauritius in its colonial years, a visit to Chateau Labourdonnais remains the best way to experience this beautiful retro facet of this island.
On the South and South East of the island, you will have the opportunity admire the cliffs being hit by waves of surprising power. The East of Mauritius is loved for its most secluded and quiet beach of the island, Belle Mare. You can also have a visit of Iles Aux Cerfs and enjoy a Creole barbecue on the lovely outer islet.
On the West, you can contemplate the Morne Brabant Mountain, UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the longest beach of the island, Flic-en-Flac. And finally in the center of Mauritius, discover completely different landscapes: Trou aux Cerfs, an ancient volcano, the Tea Route and the famous Ganga Talao, and its giant statue of Shiva.
Climate in Mauritius
Mauritius is situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean in the tropical zone of the southern hemisphere. The geographical position of the island allows it to enjoy a warm climate when the North is going through the cold season. Its tropical climate has two seasons: summer and winter. The temperature curve ranges between 15 ° C and 30 ° C, with variations depending on where you are on the island; whether in a coastal or inland region on a plateau or a plain. During winter, you will experience mild temperatures and low rainfall, while in summer hot and humid weather with occasional rain and cyclone risk.
What should you put in your suitcase?
Be aware that you can complete your wardrobe there; Mauritius excels in the field of textile manufacturing, both in terms of quality and price. When heading to the beach, do not forget your sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and sandals because even in luxury hotels, seashores are covered with corals where sea urchins nest sometimes.
Where to stay during your vacation?
You have a wide choice regarding accommodation in Mauritius. You can choose from 5 *and 4 * luxury hotel or private villas. Everything depends upon what you have planned as holidays, but you will surely find something that will fulfill tastes and desires.
Electricity
The voltage is 220 V, identical to what you come across in Europe, and most rooms have at minimum a French outlet. It is recommended that you bring an adapter but you will be able to find them in most hotels.
Mauritian currency
One Euro is approximately the value of 40 rupees, the currency of Mauritius. No restriction is imposed on imports of foreign currency in whatever form (drafts, traveler’s checks). International credit cards are accepted in all hotels, but also in restaurants and shops on the island.
ATMs are available in all major cities of the island, and it is also possible to exchange currencies in most hotels of the island.
Approximate rates:
USD 1.00 = Rs 30.00
EUR 1.00 = Rs 43.50
USD 1.00 = Rs 3510
Additional info
Medical care and pharmacies are easily accessible. The food is rich and varied, both among street vendors and the many restaurants that you will come across during your trip around the island
Entry formalities in Mauritius
Any person who is entering Mauritius must have a passport valid until the date of return. Citizens of the European Union do not need a visa.
Jet lag
Mauritius enjoys a slight time difference compared to France and the United Kingdom (GMT +4). The flight time between Paris/London and Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is 11 and 12 hours respectively, and about 4 hours from Johannesburg. Compared to France, Mauritius is ahead 3 hours in winter and two hours in summer. Thus, when it is noon in France, in Mauritius it is 15.00 in winter and 14:00 in summer.
Customs allowances
Duty Free: 200 cigarettes, two litres of spirits
Credit cards accepted
American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa
Language
The island is multilingual. The official language is English and French is widely understood. The communication language is Creole. But in everyday life, most Mauritians use French spontaneously, so you will have no difficulty holding a conversation with the people of Mauritius.
Opening hours Services
The majority of services are closed on Sundays but supermarkets and malls stay open a half day on Sunday.
Store: Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat, 0900-1730 (Except Port-Louis-Thursday Open Full Day)
Thursday – 0900-1300
Sun – 0900-1230
Governmental Services: Mon – Fri: 0900 – 1600
Banks: Mon – Fri: 0930 – 1430 Sat: 0930 – 1130
