- Attractions in Mauritius
- Language
- Mauritius boasts a rich linguistic landscape, with Mauritian Creole as the lingua franca, and English as the official language used in government and business. French is also widely spoken, particularly in media and education. The island’s multicultural heritage includes several ethnic languages like Hindi, Bhojpuri, Tamil, and Urdu, reflecting its diverse community.
- Best time to visit
- The best time to visit Mauritius is from May to December when the weather is cool, dry, and sunny. This period offers ideal conditions for exploring the island's stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cultural festivals. May to October provides comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities, while the months of November and December are perfect for those looking to enjoy the warm summer climate without the peak season crowds.
- Festivals
- Date: JanuaryFestival name: Thaipoosam CavadeeThis Tamil festival is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war. Devotees fast and carry "Cavadee," a wooden arch covered in flowers with a pot of milk at each end, to temples as a form of penance.
- Date: JanuaryFestival name: Chinese New YearIt marks the beginning of the Chinese lunar year. Celebrations include lion dances, fireworks, and families gathering for festive meals.
- Local cuisine
- Dholl Puri
- A popular Mauritian street food, Dholl Puri is a thin, wheat flour flatbread stuffed with ground yellow split peas, served with bean curry, atchar, and chutney. It’s griddled and often enjoyed as a wrap.
- Rougaille
- This is a Creole-inspired tomato-based dish, spicy and flavorful, often prepared with fish or meat (commonly chicken, beef, or sausages) and served with rice or bread.
- Gateaux Piment
- Often referred to as chili cakes, these are deep-fried balls made from ground yellow split peas, chilies, and herbs, serving as a popular snack or side dish.
- Briani
- A Mauritian version of biryani, this fragrant dish is made with basmati rice, spices, meat (chicken, beef, or lamb), and sometimes potatoes and boiled eggs, cooked in a sealed pot for a rich flavor.
- Mine Frite
- A Chinese-inspired dish, Mine Frite consists of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and meat or seafood, seasoned with soy sauce and spices for a quick, savory meal.
- Bol Renversé
- Also known as "Magic Bowl," this dish features stir-fried chicken, shrimp, or tofu with vegetables, served over rice and covered with a fried or scrambled egg, typically presented in a bowl and inverted onto a plate.
- Mazavaroo
- A fiery chili paste made from crushed red chilies, garlic, and oil. It's a ubiquitous condiment in Mauritian cuisine, adding a spicy kick to any dish.
- Alouda
- A refreshing beverage, Alouda is a sweet milk drink flavored with agar-agar jelly, basil seeds, and vanilla, often topped with a scoop of ice cream, popular at street stalls and markets.
- Packing
When visiting Mauritius, packing light but smart is key. Essential items include lightweight and breathable clothing to accommodate the tropical climate, along with a few warmer layers for cooler evenings. Don't forget swimwear, a high SPF sunscreen, and a hat for protection against the strong sun. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the island's diverse landscapes. Also, pack a reliable insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes, especially if you plan on venturing into more lush areas. Considering the island's beautiful beaches and water activities, bringing along water shoes and snorkeling gear could enhance your experience.
- Currency
The currency used in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Denominations include coins for smaller values and banknotes for higher values, with banknotes commonly circulating in denominations of 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, and 2000 rupees. ATMs are widely available across the island, especially in urban areas and near tourist spots, providing easy access to cash. Most international credit and debit cards are accepted in Mauritius, particularly Visa and MasterCard. It's important to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage abroad. While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, carrying some cash is advisable for smaller purchases and in more remote areas.
- Transport
Mauritius's primary gateway for international travelers is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, located near the capital, Port Louis. This airport connects Mauritius to various global destinations. Once on the island, visitors can choose from several in-country transportation options. Rental cars are widely available and offer the most flexibility for exploring the island at your own pace. Alternatively, Mauritius has a comprehensive network of public buses that are cost-effective and cover most areas of interest, although they may not always adhere strictly to schedules. Taxis are also readily available, it's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid surprises. For a unique experience, consider hiring a bicycle or scooter to navigate the less busy roads and enjoy the scenic views.
- Emergency
Travelers to Mauritius should be mindful of several cultural taboos to ensure respectful interaction with the local community. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially in rural areas. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and always ask permission before taking photographs of people or private property. It's also considered impolite to refuse an offer of food or drink without a valid reason. Regarding emergency services, the universal emergency number in Mauritius is 112.
- Power socket
Mauritius operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The primary types of power sockets used are Type C and Type G. Type C, also known as the Europlug, is a two-pin ungrounded plug, whereas Type G is a three-pin grounded plug, similar to those used in the United Kingdom.
