Mauritius Vacations

When visiting Mauritius, it's important to be aware of a few cultural issues. You don't need to stress because offending a Mauritian is quite a challenge in this tolerant land. When stepping into a place of worship, play it safe with modest clothing and the shoe removal drill. Some Hindu temples might nudge you to part ways with leather items like belts and a golden rule: hands off the deity statues.

Also, tipping is not the default move in Mauritius, so there is no pressure to tip if the service doesn't quite hit the mark—many all-inclusive resorts roll in a service charge, so no extra tipping is required.

But, if a dive instructor, waiter, or any staff dazzles you with top-notch service, a small tip is the ticket to express your gratitude. Keep in mind that salaries in Mauritius, especially in service industries, lean towards the lower side, so a tip goes a long way and is always warmly welcomed.

Music is an integral part of Mauritian culture, and the most popular styles are Reggae, Séga and Seggae. It is a type of ritual music.

It is a musical representation of Mauritius' way of life. It depicts the lighthearted, vivid, and joyful nature of Mauritius people. Men usually wear oversized shirts and baggy trousers, while women wear long, colourful skirts.

If you want to experience the local culture, you can get the séga clothes at the central market in Port-Louis or Grand Bay. You're in for luck, as tourists are often invited to join this cheerful dance. But the twist is that you must do this barefoot, whether on the beach or in resorts.

When you're planning a visit, make sure to set your sights on May to December—these months pack cool, dry, and sunny weather, making it prime time for your island getaway.

Mauritius boasts a classic tropical climate, keeping things warm and inviting all year long. Whether it's May or December, you can bet on soaking up the sun in this slice of paradise. Get ready for beach bliss, seafood delights, and the kind of sunshine that dreams are made of.

The country also keeps things warm year-round with a sub-tropical climate. Temperatures? Rarely dipping below 17 degrees or soaring above 31 degrees Celsius. And here's the cool part—the island's varied terrain means different microclimates all around. If rain tries to ruin your day, you will just be an hour away from the sunshine.

Now, the seasons in Mauritius are just summer and winter. Hence, make sure to pack smart for your island adventure: beachwear, shorts, and tees for the day, and a touch of smart casual for the evenings. Oh, and the essentials? Swimsuit, sun hat, shades, sandals, sunscreen, comfy walking shoes, a light sweater, and warm threads if you're jetting in from June to August—the weather's a bit moody then.

Mauritius is a safe and friendly destination for travellers, but there are some things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Do not rely on Google Maps, as it is not optimized for Mauritius

Trust your guide instead

Drive on the left side of the road

Do not park on double yellow lines

Avoid taking buses after 6 pm, as many areas are deserted after this time

Do not hike without a guide

Be careful of slippery tiles in restrooms.

Wash your hands often to avoid diarrheal illness.

Beware of men who offer to help you with your luggage as soon as you arrive at the airport. They lie when they say that the terminal is crowded and you need their help. 

Buy water from local shops instead of hotels. Hotels charge almost double for water. 

Do not fall for taxi drivers who claim to take you to "amazing beaches with golden sands" or similar places. This is a common tourist trap. 

There is no such thing as a private beach in Mauritius. Although hotels have cleverly colonized large stretches of sand, they do not own any of them.

Mauritian cuisine is a flavour-packed fusion of African, French, European, Chinese, and Indian influences. Imagine a meal that brings together the best from these diverse cultures—that's what you'll find in Mauritius.

Now, let's talk street food. Mauritius boasts some of the world's best, served up by local vendors. You must try dholl puri - a flatbread rolled up with pickles, chutney, a spread of yellow split peas, gateaux piment, and spicy fried pea cakes. It's a street food paradise!

The French had their time ruling Mauritius (1715-1810), and their culinary mark is still alive. Think coq au vin and civet de lievre—French delights that found a home in Mauritius. And cheers to the French for introducing top-notch wines. It is now a hit on the island. It's a day well spent with a glass of wine on one hand and the delicious street favourite snack on the other.

Then, do try napolitaines—shortbread cookies filled with jam for a sweet touch. They're a Mauritian specialty that will satisfy any sweet tooth.