What to wear

In the winter months namely June - September light woollen clothing is required for the cool evenings. When visiting religious sites please show respect and wear clothing that covers your legs and arms. You may need to wear a headscarf or remove shoes. Nudism is not permitted on the beaches and is frowned upon anywhere else.

Climate: The climate in Mauritius is relatively mild and pleasant. Throughout the year temperatures are quite moderate with infrequent rainfall making the most ideal time to travel to Mauritius between the months of April and June and between September and December.

Summer:

November to April - Most of the rainfall occurs in the months of February and March. Since daylight then falls between 5.30am and 7pm, scuba diving is best during December to March. The climate is warm and muggy with highs occurring in the months of December, January and February. Rainfall is plentiful, in particular on the central plateau. The best time for deep-fishing in Mauritius is between October and April. During the cyclone season Mauritius escapes the onslaught due to the small size of the island. However, most of the beach resorts have adequate protection in their architecture to resist the strong winds. The strong winds may affect only the vegetation and certain wooden buildings.

Winter:

May to October - Temperatures drop during these months. At this time, the prevailing winds blow from the east and southeast over Mauritius. In August the

temperature drops to its lowest - 20°C on the coast. The day gets shorter and lasts from 6.45am to 5.45pm on most days, making this the best season for surfing in Mauritius (specifically from June to August). 600 metres above sea level the average temperature is between 20°C in August and 26°C in February on the central plateau in Mauritius. Temperature is higher on the coast by about 3 - 5 degrees. The northern and western parts are warm and dry compared to the eastern and southern parts of Mauritius.

Places of Interest

Old buildings and contemporary life blend beautifully past and present in Mauritius. Monuments, buildings and statues line the colourful avenues in Port Louis. The striking Place D'Armes is the focal palm-lined square that links Government House to the capital's port. Fort Adelaide is a historic building that hosts shows and concerts. Tourists and other visitors are welcome into the city adorned with statues of diverse figures in Mauritian History. The 18th Century French Colonial buildings of Government House are further down the road.

Built in the 19th century - along a cultural itinerary recognised as being the oldest in the region is the Theatre of Port-Louis. A little further up is the very popular racetrack known as the Champ de Mars. This is the second oldest race club in the world after the English Jockey Club in the southern hemisphere. Since the official flag-raising ceremony in 1968 marking the independence of Mauritius this has often been affiliated with national and political events.

Cuisine

Mauritian cuisine is initiated from 3 continents just as the origin of its people. A variety of delectable fare is on offer from Indian, Creole, Chinese to European at any one sitting. A truly delicious experience.

A variety of specialised restaurants are available for visitors to savour the local fare. The combination of flavours by integrating various styles in a menu make the cuisine a delightful mix of Creole, European, Indian, Muslim and/or Chinese cooking. With the Mauritian flair for adventurous cooking skills

cultivated through its population of different cultural heritages and indigenous cooking methods the outcome is exquisitely delicious Mauritius cuisine .....in a finger-licking-good class of its own!

Nightlife

Romantic strolls on the beach, balmy starry nights, al fresco dining, dancing, etc. all invite you to a warm dreamy holiday in Mauritius.

Along the north and west coast of Mauritius, life is buzzing at the lively nightclubs, pubs and restaurants. Visitors can find most types of music they are partial to including French, English, techno or jazz.

For special occasions international DJs are often invited. Casinos are also available around the local towns.

Shopping

Shopping prospects are plentiful for visitors. Whether souvenirs or full-fledged indulgence there is a little something for everyone to take back home. A rack of fragrant spices, colourful pashminas, indigenous Mauritian weave baskets, or even a diamond necklace - the variety for shopping is endless.

Additionally, duty-free items now include cellular phones and other types of telephone related elements, watches and clocks, binoculars, sunglasses, engravings and antiques, popular photographic and cinematographic equipment and accessories and paintings. Embroidery, pottery, cut stones, basketwork are very popular items. Special orders can be placed and delivered within a few days on leatherwear and jewels, since there is now no duty on these. Leading brands of clothes and knitwear are sold at reasonable prices.

For a 'wow' factor, visit Mauritian jewellery shops where east meets west making Mauritian jewellery matchless in style and design. Customs duty has also been reduced on cosmetics and perfumes and VAT refund claims can be made at the airport by showing receipts and the goods bought, for visitors returning home from Mauritius. Airline companies charges apply for ship models according to size and weight.

Festivals and Holidays

Mauritius is an intriguing combination of varied cultures and religions. Emerging from three continents, the residents have brought traditions and beliefs from their ancestral countries.

In Mauritius, religious events are celebrated in a spirit of peace and harmony throughout the year. 15 public holidays are fixed in Mauritius every year, such as 1st and 2nd January, 1st February, 12th March, 1st May, 2nd November and 25th December. The remaining public holidays are religious festivals which vary from year to year depending on the lunar calendar.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, banks, tourist shops and restaurants. ATMs are found in most tourist spots.

Driving

Visitors with a valid driving licence issued by in their country of residence need to have their licence endorsed at the traffic branch at Line Barracks, Port Louis and may drive during their time in Mauritius. Self-driving is a common and flexible way to safely tour the island. Driving is on the left - as in the UK.

Electricity

220 volts and 3-pin plugs.

Health

Although no vaccinations are required, yellow fever certificates are necessary for travellers from areas where yellow fever may exist. Please do consult your GP or health centre.

Tipping

Not compulsory, but is usually expected.