Discover Mauritius
Mauritius, a small slice of paradise lying in the Indian Ocean, remains a favourite holiday destination for its beautiful white sandy beaches. Located about 900 kilometers from Madagascar and about 200 kilometers from Reunion Island, it forms part of the Mascarene Islands. With its 330 kilometers of coastline and beaches, it has a population of approximately 1.3 million inhabitants, Port Louis being its capital. The island gained its independence in 1968 and its main economic pillars are the finance, tourism, ICT, and textile and sugar production industries.
Location
Mauritius is located at 20.30 degrees south and 57 degrees east. It has a geographical area of 2040 km² and the island is surrounded by lagoons, coral reefs and a few outer islands not far from the shore.
Climate
Being of volcanic origin, Mauritius has a central plateau and mountains are scattered throughout the island. Tropical forests and plants are other features that add to the natural beauty of Mauritius.
The maximum coastal temperature varies between 38 degrees Celsius in summer and 24 degrees in winter. The coldest months are June, July and August, but even then sea water remains warm and very nice, with a minimum temperature of 20 degrees Celsius.
Mauritian cuisine
Mauritian cuisine is very tempting and delicious. Food remains an important part of the Mauritian culture. Diversity is the key word in the Mauritian cuisine, which consists of an amalgam of Indian, European and Chinese cuisine as we have different religions. But if we say what is typical Mauritian food, the answer is Seafood. Once you try the Mauritian food – you will not be able to give up on it.
Nightlife in Mauritius
The idea of nightlife varies, for some it means to drink in a pub or bar, for others, it means dancing and partying in discos and clubs with friends or even playing in casinos. No matter what your preference, Mauritius will fulfill all your desires.
Culture
One of the greatest assets of Mauritius is undoubtedly its people: its ethnic mix gives it a unique cultural identity. Mauritius might be a famous destination for its beaches, sea and sunshine, yet, the island has a rich cultural, historical and natural background. Hundreds of activities will seduce young and old, whether you are a couple, with family, friends or on a business trip.
Airport Mauritius
The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the only international airport of Mauritius. It is a, recently upgraded, top notch and modern airport. Formerly known as the Plaisance airport, it was renamed in memory of the late Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, the first Prime Minister and leader of the Independence movement on the island.
The airport is located in Plaine Magnien, a beautiful and peaceful village located in the district of Grand Port southeast of Mauritius.
Given the small size of the island, the trip from the airport to your destination will never last more than two hours..
Practical information
To help you prepare your trip to Mauritius, here are some practical information about the things you will require during your stay on the island.
Vaccines and health
For travelers from Europe, no vaccine is required since there is no risk of malaria in Mauritius or Rodrigues.
There are numerous pharmacies on the island and they are generally open on Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 18.00 or 19.00.
Electricity
The voltage is 220 V, identical to what you have in Europe, and most rooms have at minimum a French outlet. It is advisable to bring an adapter along even if most of the hotels will lend you one.
Mauritian currency
A Euro has approximately the value of 40 Mauritian Rupees, a US Dollar can be worth 35 Mauritian Rupees and a Pound Sterling can be worth some 55 Mauritian Rupees.
No restrictions are imposed on imports of foreign currency whatever the form (drafts, travelers cheques). International credit cards are accepted in all hotels, restaurants and shops on the island (Visa, MasterCard, American Express…)
Languages
The official language in Mauritius is English but French is commonly used in everyday life, so you will have little if no difficulty holding a conversation with the locals.
