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Set adrift off the east coast of Africa, in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is one of the world's most spectacular tropical paradises. Nature has looked kindly on the island, bestowing it with some 330 kilometres of shimmering sandy coastline, one of the world's largest unbroken coral reefs, a wealth of rare wildlife, and a picturesque interior of sugar cane fields, mountains, cascading waterfalls and lush forests. It's no wonder Mauritius has been a favourite with the rich and famous for many years, and some of the world's most luxurious hotels, secluded beaches and tranquil lagoons can be found here.

On the dazzling east coast, you'll find the legendary Ile aux Cerfs, a stunning lagoon endowed with soft white sand and warm, clear waters. But this is just one of many inviting places to enjoy a dip in the Indian Ocean. If you can drag yourself away from the beach, take a trip to the lively capital, Port Louis. Or you could lose yourself in the stunning countryside of the interior — Mauritius is a surprisingly varied destination, full of colour and character, and a warm welcome will always await you. Come evening, enjoy delicious freshly caught seafood and locally produced rum to the soundtrack of the Sega, a traditional form of Mauritian music and dance.

CULTURE:
Mauritius is a blend of diverse cultures and religions. The population consists of Hindus, Creole, Chinese, Muslims and Europeans.

CURRENCY:
The monetary unit is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs.) which is divided into 100 cents (cs). At the latest exchange rate, one Euro is worth around Rs. 30.

ELECTRICITY:
220 volts.

HEALTH:
No vaccinations are required. However a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age who arrive from areas where yellow fever cases are reported.

LANGUAGE:
Most people in Mauritius are bilingual and are equally fluent in English
and French. Creole and French are the main languages in the everyday environment and several oriental languages are also spoken.

MEDICAL SERVICES:
Free public medical facilities are widely available. Private clinics provide medical services for a fee.

SHOPPING:
Shopping hours in our main cities range from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm (Monday-Saturday). Some shops are open till noon on Sundays and public holidays. Many duty free shops and modern shopping centres (Caudan, Curepipe, Floréal Square, Happy World House, Orchard Centre) offer a wide choice of products.
Please note that there are no shops open in Rose-Hill, Curepipe and Quatre-Bornes on Thursday afternoon.

TIPPING:
Tipping is not compulsory.

VAT:
A value added tax of 15% is payable on goods and services including hotel and restaurant bills.

VISA & ENTRY REQUIRMENTS:
A visitor must be in possession of a valid passport and a return or onward ticket. A visitor's visa is normally granted for a period of two weeks to one month upon arrival, to almost all holders of a valid passport, with one or two exceptions. Visitors are strongly recommended to contact the Passport and Immigration Office in Mauritius or the nearest Mauritian Embassy or Consulate. The visa can be extended upon request at the Passport and Immigration Office, Sterling House, 11-19 Lislet Geoffroy Street, Port-Louis, Tel : (230) 210-9312 to 210-9317 Fax (230)210-9322.

WHAT TO WEAR:
Take your best beach and casual wear. In the winter months (June -September), carry some light woollen clothing for the cool evenings.
Please show due respect when visiting religious places. Wear appropriate clothing (and remove leather shoes and belts) when entering the premises.