Practical
Mauritius Information
INVITATIONS
If you are getting married you'll be thinking of sending out your
wedding invitations. Well to be married on Mauritius (or indeed take
a vacation on Mauritius), one almost requires an invitation because the
only way from the UK to
Mauritius is by schedule flights (no package charter flights allowed
). The Mauritian government keeps a close watch on all the flights onto
the Island for although tourists are very much welcome they don't wish
to be besieged by them and for those fortunate to visit, that you see
this Paradise Island at their leisure, free from
overcrowding. So if you are able to visit Mauritius, consider yourself
privileged - in more ways than one.
CLIMATE
Mauritius is an all-year-round destination. The warm season extends from
November to April, with a slight risk of cyclones between December and
March. The weather gets a little cooler from May to September. Water
temperature never goes below 22°C.
FORMALITIES
No vaccination required. No visa for EU citizens.
CURRENCY
The unit is the Mauritian Rupee. Major credit cards accepted in the larger
banks for cash withdrawals. Numerous bank agencies throughout the island.
Major credit cards accepted at hotels.
LANGUAGE
English is the official language. French is also very widespread, alongside
its Creole derivative, which is the de facto 'national language'.
LOCAL TIME
GMT + 4 hours.
BUSINESS
HOURS
Banks: l0am-2pm from Monday to Friday.
Post office: 8.00-11.30am and 12.00-15.30pm Monday-Friday.
You may buy stamps at your hotel.
Shops: 9am-4pm. Often closed on Saturdays.
Large hotels have their own boutiques, with longer opening hours.
TELECOM:
Numerous public card telephones in Port Louis and Grand Baie. It is possible
to rent a cellular telephone. Enquire at your hotel.
WEDDINGS
& HONEYMOONS
The lush tropical setting of Mauritius, the gracious hospitality of its
people, the variety of charming customs, the gentle community of various
religions, the ease of the official arrangements, all combine to make
Mauritius the ideal setting for unique wedding ceremonies, each specially
designed to fulfill the most romantic daydreams.
RECONFIRMATION
Do not forget to reconfirm your onward or return flight at least 72 hours
before departure with the Air Line or with your incoming agent.
CLOTHING
Do not overload your suitcase. Summer (and winter) clothes are very affordable
in Mauritius. You will need a sweater for the cooler evenings from June
to September.
SHOPPING
Many boutiques and supermarkets in Port-Louis, Grand Baie, Curepipe,
Mahebourg.
Large hotels have their own boutiques and sometimes their own accessories
and clothing lines.
Worthwhile buys : ship models, duty-free jewellery, clothing (summer
and winter).
TIPPING
Not compulsory. However
it is welcome if service is exceptional. This is valid for bars, restaurants,
and taxis.
TRANSPORTATION
A very dense network of public buses gets you to every corner of the
island, from 5.30am to 6pm. Very low fare for a thrilling experience!
At numerous locations, you can also easily rent a bicycle or a car.
It is also possible to rent a taxi for half or a whole day.
Negotiate the price with the driver before leaving.
Drive on the left hand side.
INTERESTING
READING
- Lonely Planet Mauritius
Reunion & Seychelles -
- Roston Ellis, Guide
to Mauritius, Bradt Publications -
- Roseline Lum, Mauritius,
Culture Shock!
- Guides - Katherina and
Eric Roberts, Visitors guide to Mauritius Rodrigues and Reunion,
Moorland publishing company -
- Martine Maurel, Mauritius
GlobetrotterTravel Guide, Globetrotter Travel Guide
Speak To Someone Who's Been !
Telephone:
( 0113 ) 2773 663
