Shopping in Mauritius

Shopping in Mauritius is like going into a journey of civilization and cultures. Traditional Mauritian arts, crafts and the best branded luxury goods can be found in a number of shopping arcades and centres in all towns and beach resorts. Duty Free shops too offer attractive prices. Basically it ranges from shopping in a relaxed atmosphere of a shopping centre to hawkers and street markets. One can find amazing exotic buys which are truly made in Mauritius like perfume oils, rattan bags, local spices, pickles, flavoured teas and freshly ground coffee. The local craftsmen make beautiful ship models which are really unique, original and something you would love to take home as a souvenir truly representing Mauritius. One can even visit and buy Diamonds from their Diamond factory. Be careful when you are shopping with hawkers on the beaches, markets and streets of Mauritius. Their markets are colourful and give a taste of the traditional way of life in Mauritius.

 

Popular Buys In Mauritius

Anthuriums

The heart shaped crimson coloured Anthurium is a wonderful gift. The plant is grown in shade and lasts over a week in water. Mauritius exports this beautiful plant to South Africa, Europe and Australia.

 

 

Cashmere and Woolens

The textile industry is an important pillar in Mauritian economy and manufactures world class textile products at competitive prices. Warm clothes like sweaters, jackets and pullovers are available at very reasonable rates and are in fact sold in Europe at very high prices. Apart from winter clothes, you also get very good summer wear. Its always better to shop at factory outlets for the best deal.

 

 

Branded Items

Next time you buy Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein or Hugo Boss in your country, check the label, chances are its made in Mauritius. Branded items such as Ralph Lauren are available at unbelievable prices and they are not fake. You do get fake too, so check before buying. You will find them everywhere. Grand Baie and Arsenal, Port Louis, Curepipe and Floréal. Clothes from Australian Beach wear Billabong, are also available at fantastic prices. Look out for these at Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis and Grand Baie. The factory outlet is at Coromandel on the outskirts of Port Louis, 10 minutes from the city centre.

 

Business Suits

Business is the last thing on your mind when you are in Mauritius, but at the excellent quality and price, a business suit makes a great buy while you are there. Custom made business suits are tailored in less than 2 days. Check out Karl Kaiser at Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis, Sunset Boulevard, Grand Baie and Nino Cerutti in Mauricia Shopping Centre, Grand Baie.

 

 

 

Flea Markets

The flea markets of Mauritius are a must visit to get a feel and be a part of the noisy crowd and typical flea market. There are amazing bargains. You will find souvenirs, home ware, costume jewellery, cassesttes, DVD’s, CD’s, food and knick knacks. Do not forget to bargain. Some of the market places are

Port Louis – Marche Central, open daily

Goodlands – open daily

Grand Baie  – Bazaar de Grand Baie, open daily

Rose Hill – Arab town, open daily except thu

Bell Rose – Arab town, open sun

Quatre Bonnes – Fiore, open thu and sun

 

Some shopping centres in Mauritius

Grand Baie

Sunset Boulevard, Le Mauricia Shopping Centre, Le Dodo Square, Super U and Grand Baie Bazaar. Open daily till 6pm. Sundays till noon.

Port Louis

Le Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Waterfront, Le Marche Central, China town. Open weekdays till 5:30 pm and weekends till noon.

Curepipe – Floreal

Garden Shopping Village, Pushkar, Les Arcades Salaffa. Open thu and sun till noon, all other days till 5:30pm

Quatre Bonnes

Orchard Towers, Quatre Bonnes Market, Georgetown. Open thu and sun till noon, all other days till 5:30pm

Beach Hawkers

They sell a variety of stuff but are not always honest and could rip you with fake items. Exercise caution when you shop with them.

 

Some Shopping Tips

1. Be aware that taxi drivers will make sure you stop at selected shops where they earn high commissions.

2. Browse around first to compare prices. Polish up on your bargaining skills and try shopping with a local accompanying you. It makes a lot of difference.

3. Keep close watch on your belongings and purse. Always keep receipts in case you want to exchange stuff or return it.