Mesmerising Mauritius

Mauritius. An island nation off the south east coast of the African continent, east of Madagascar and south west of the Indian Ocean. It will enchant you, mesmerise you and uplift your soul. The main island from which the country derives its name, is of volcanic origin and is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs, is home to the Dodo, a large flightless bird related to pigeons. The island set in the turquoise sea is an oasis of peace and tranquillity, where the past and present blend together beautifully. The contrast of colours, cultures and tastes make Mauritius so charming that it is really quite an unforgettable holiday. The island was first ruled by the Dutch, then French and lastly the British. Mauritius became independent in 1968. Together with Réunion and Rodrigues, Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands. The islands largest city and capital is Port Louis. Mauritius has a stable democracy with regular free elections and a positive human rights record, the country has attracted considerable foreign investment and earned one of Africa's highest per capita income. The clear warm waters, lush vegetation and white beaches make Mauritius a tropical dream come true. The sea famous for water sports, the evenings see the bars, restaurants and clubs buzzing with activity, marine life conceals infinite treasures of the sea, the golf courses are spectacular. When in Mauritius take time to rejuvenate yourself.

 

Some General Information

Capital : Port Louis

Official Language : Mauritian Creole, Bhojpuri, French and English

Religion : Hindu, Roman Catholic, Muslim

Currency : Mauritian Rupee (MUR)

Time Zone : + 4 hours GMT

Temperature : Mauritius has only 2 seasons. Summer and winter and there is not much difference between these two. Tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May). Important to know that it could rain cats and dogs suddenly anywhere on the island.

Sightseeing : While there is much to see and do than what is listed here, this is just to give you a brief idea. The must visits are Port Louis, Pampelmousses, Ile Aux Cerfs, Black River Gorge, Le Souffleur, Mauritius Aquarium, Grand Bassin, The Crocodile Park, Blue Bay, Mahebourg and many more.

 

Getting There

Mauritius has 1 airport : Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport or SSR International Airport (MRU). It is situated near the coast in the south east of Mauritius, around 6 km from Mahebourg. Port Louis is about 40 kms from the airport. The airport has one terminal, 2 VIP lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, banks, post office, several places to eat and drink, including fast food and a la carte. There are 2 duty free shops, 1 in each, arrival and departure lounge, bookstore, lost and found counter, car hire and disabled facilities. There are no hotels at the airport. The national airline is Air Mauritius and operates daily flights. They also offer helicopter services for tours and charters from SSR International Airport and from a number of hotels.

Address of SSR International Airport

AML House

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport

Plaine Magnien

Mauritius
Website : airportinfo@airportsofmauritius.aero
Telephone Number : (230) 603 6000
Fax Number            : (230) 637 5306

Website of Air Mauritius : www.airmauritius.com

 

Tourist Information

Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority

4-5th Floor, Victoria House
St Louis Street
Port Louis
Republic of Mauritius
Tel: (230) 210 1545
Fax: (230) 212 5142

 

http://www.tourism-mauritius.mu
http://www.tourisme-ilemaurice.mu

Offices around Mauritius
SSR International Airport, Tel : 637 3635
Victoria House, Port Louis Tel: 210 1545
Pamplemousses, Comptoir des Mascareignes, Tel : 243 9900
Trou d'Eau Douce, Maho , Tel : 480 0925
Rodrigues Island, La Residence, Rue de la Solidarite, Port Mathurin Tel : 832 0866/7 Fax : 832 0174

 

Hotels and Resorts

Mauritius is a haven. Ideal for honeymooners, water sports enthusiasts, adventure holidays, family getaways, and one of the most popular golfing destinations. All these reasons have made it from a secret paradise to a popular holiday destination. The holiday accommodation industry has seen many drastic changes. One can choose from luxury resorts, to 5 star hotels, villas, small family owned bungalows, apartments, International chains such as Hilton, Sofitel, Meridien, Club Med as well as local chains such as Sun International, Naiade, Beachcomber and many more. The services offered too have increased since earlier times. Now one can expect world class leisure facilities, gourmet food, children's entertainment, adventure activities, personal service to visitors and warm hospitality.

 

Travel Tips

1. The people of Mauritius are very courteous and expect people to be courteous as well. A handshake is the most acceptable form of greeting. Taking a gift while visiting a Mauritian is appreciated.

2. Tipping is not mandatory but expected by porters and waiters. Small tips are appreciated greatly.

3. Any amount of money can be taken to Mauritius but only MUR 250 can be taken out of Mauritius. Excess money can even be converted into your own currency at the airport before departure.

4. Mauritius is a little conservative when it comes to dressing. Smart casuals will do. Nudity and topless at the beach is highly inappropriate. Even to go from the beach to hotel in swimwear is not acceptable. It is recommended that tourists abide by the local sensibilities and keep robes and sarongs handy.

5. Though Mauritius is a safe place, tourist related petty crimes do take place and incidents of rape and assault are on the rise. Some basic precautions must be taken for your own safety like not going out alone after dark, avoid jewellery, do not patronise unlicensed taxis and avoid unexpected offers for guided tours.