Mauritius

Population (2007 est.) / Ethnic Groups : 1,250,882 / Indo-Mauritian 68%, Creole 27%, Sino-Mauritian 3%, Franco-Mauritian 2%

Religions : Hindu 48%, Roman Catholic 24%, other Christian 8%, Islam 17%, Buddhists and others: 3%.

About : Mauritius is the sugar-cane island of the Indian Ocean. Fields of cane cultivation, broken only by small villages, stretch over a wide plateau above the tropical white sand beaches, breezy bays and glorious seascapes. It was also the island of the dodo, a large, flightless bird whose good-natured simplicity resulted in the poor creature’s total extinction. The island forms part of the Mascarene Archipelago, all that remains of an ancient land mass which once united Asia and Africa. To the southwest lies Rйunion Island, with its savagely beautiful volcanic landscape, while some 560 km (350 miles) east appears Rodrigues Island, a mere dot in the ocean, surrounded by even smaller islets and reefs, and an integral part of Mauritius. Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean - a tropical paradise akin to Maui or Martinique but more budget-traveller friendly. Though nestled up alongside Africa, it's actually more influenced by its British and French ties and predominantly Indian workforce.

Travel : Mauritius will enchant you, will uplift your soul, making you feel that you belong to the chosen few. Every visitor enjoys personal attention. The contrast of a multitude of colours and tastes, the island, set in its turnqoise sea, is an oasis of peace and tranquility. Mauritius, a melting pot where past and present are smoothly blended together, offers an essential beauty that will compel to return to its shores time and time again. This island will engrave in your memory forever.

There are also numerous activities that will complement what can become memorable holidays. The warm crystal clear waters of the lagoons and white sandy beaches are ideal for any water sport activities. Sailing, diving, snorkelling, ski, etc. can be practiced in the best conditions all year round. Blue and Black Marlins, sail fish and tunas thrive in the tropical water around the island. With record catches the island boast one of the best reputations around the world for deep-sea fishing. Last but not least, nightlife is catered for by a number of restaurants, bars, cinemas and nightclubs. Gamblers might prefer the subtle and thrilling atmosphere of a number of casinos found in towns and beach resorts.

Car rental
Don’t forget: In Mauritius vehicles drive on the left, as in Britain. There is a good network of paved roads. All international companies (Europcar, Hertz, Avis etc.) have a counter at the airport. Cheaper are the private companies in the tourist areas. Car rentals in Mauritius may be a bit expensive as cars and spares are subject to high taxes. International car hire companies are of course the safest way to go but a few of the smaller local are performing and offer the possibility to save some money while benefiting from an OK to good service. However, it’s recommend NOT renting unofficial cars as they are often in really bad shape and one may face severe troubles in case of accident. Registered cars for hire bear yellow number plates!

Taxi
You pay taxis always for both ways. Therefore its cheaper to let a taxi wait than to take a second one home. Just fix the price before departure and pay at the end.
Tip: taxi drivers are good guides. Take a taxi for a full day and let him show you the best places. Just be sure to fix the price before! In Mauritius, most taxis have a meter but it is not compulsorily used. Therefore, it is recommended to ask the driver to start the

meter if you need them for a short drive. For longer trips, it is essential to discuss the price before embarking. If you are in a hotel, ask for guidance on tariffs at the reception. Taxis are rather expensive for short drives but are worth for all day trips where the driver will take you for a broad sightseeing tour. Many of the Mauritian taxi drivers have obtained their licence from pure political favours. Mauritius is thus the only country where there are truly fake taxis (particulars having a taxi licence in order to obtain lower customs and tax rates,) and fake true taxis (particulars operating without licence stopping all over the road to pick up passengers.)

Bus
Busses are almost everywhere! The busses are not very comfortable, but therefore very cheap: you can reach Port Louis from all spots of the island for less than Euro 1,-!
Time-tables are existing, but nobody has ever seen one. So better go to the bus stop and wait: Normally the next bus is coming within a few minutes. Ask the local before you die of desperation, they are very helpful. Busses are driving only during daylight! ’Express’ busses are usually a little more expensive, but therefor they use the direct way and are sometimes equipped with air conditioning.