Visas
Citizens of most Commonwealth and European countries, as well
as the USA, do not require visas. However, all visitors must
be in possession of a valid passport and a return or onward
ticket. Visas may be obtained from Mauritian Embassies and
High Commissions throughout the world. It is strongly recommended
to contact them or the Mauritius Passport Office for entry
requirements.
Currency
The currency used is called the Mauritian Rupee (Rs) which
is divided into 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations
of Rs5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000. Coins are available in
denominations of 5, 10, 20, 25, 50 cents, Rs1 and 5.
Visitors to Mauritius are allowed up to Rs700 in notes on
arrival and may take out Rs350 when leaving. There is no restriction
on the importation of foreign currency in any form.
Business Hours
Mondays to Fridays: 9.30am - 4.00pm
Saturdays: Half day.
By Air
Mauritius is served by a number of international airlines
such as Aeroflot, Air Austral, Air Europe, Air France, Air
Madagascar, Air Mauritius, Air Seychelles, Air Zimbabwe, British
Airways, Condor, Singapore Airlines and South African Airways.
An airport tax of Rs300 per passenger over the age of twelve
is payable on departure. Vouchers can be purchased at the
hotel or the Air Mauritius counter at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam
International Airport.
Tipping
All restaurants and hotels automatically add a 10% government
tax. Tipping is generally expected. However, it is left to
the customer's personal discretion.
Road Signs & Maps
Road signs are not always helpful. Every visitor should invest
in a good map. There should not be any problems when asking
for directions in French or English.
Buses
Bus companies and private bus operators cover every corner
of the island. Fares are cheap. Services on the main routes,
especially between the towns, are frequent whereas travelling
to remoter rural areas is more complicated. However, visitors
should not depend on timetables and should ask for advice.
Taxis
Taxis are a practical alternative, although tourists should
bargain to avoid paying too much, especially on fares to and
from the airport. Although some drivers make excellent guides,
visitors should be cautious of drivers offering to take them
to particular restaurants, hotels or shops, for which they
get a commission from the owners.
Getting Around
For the adventurous, there are 'taxi-trains' which are shared
by any number of commuters, each paying for their part of
the journey. They can be flagged down from the roadside.
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