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Banking hours |
Monday to Thursday: 9.15 am - 3.15 pm, Friday: 9.15 am - 3.30 pm, Saturday: 9.15 am -11.15 am (some banks only). Bank counters are also open to coincide with the arrival and departure of international flights at the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Airport. There are also several money changing agencies all over the island.
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Climate |
The temperature on the coastal areas varies between 22°C in winter and 33°C in summer. In the central part of the island, the maximum daytime temperature varies from about 19°C in August to about 26°C in February. The western and northern regions are warmer and relatively drier than the East and the South
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Conferences |
Almost all of our large hotels are equipped and ready to cater for conferences. The number of people that can be accommodated varies from 30 to 500. The International Conference Centre in Grand Bay, the Freeport Exhibition Centre in Mer Rouge and the Swami Vivekananda Conference Centre close to the capital Port Louis can all easily accommodate between 600 and 1,000 people.
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Credit Cards |
Credit cards are normally accepted by banks and most hotels, restaurants and shops.
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Currency |
The monetary unit is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs.) which is divided into 100 cents (cs). It is freely convertible and there is no exchange control. At the latest exchange rate, one Euro is worth around Rs. 41.
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Customs |
Passengers over 18 years of age may import the following duty-free items: 250 grams of tobacco (including cigars and cigarettes), 1 litre of spirits, 2 litres of wine, ale or beer, one quarter litre of Eau de Toilette and perfume not exceeding 100 ml.
- A plant import permit must be obtained from the Ministry of Agriculture, prior to the introduction of plants and plant material including cuttings, flowers, bulbs, fresh fruits, vegetables and seeds.
- It is prohibited to introduce sugarcane and parts thereof, soil micro-organisms and invertebrate animals.
- All imported animals including animal products need an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture and a health certificate from the country of origin.
- Drug trafficking is illegal and carries very heavy penalties. Firearms and ammunition need import permits and must be declared on arrival.
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Diving |
Mauritius waters boast several diving spots of incomparable interest and beauty. PADI certified diving centres can be found all around the island and in most major beach hotels. The Mauritius Underwater Group (MUG) is a favourite meet among expatriate diving fans.
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Driving |
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People in Mauritius drive on the left-hand side of the road and give way to the right. Non-nationals with a driving license issued by a competent authority in their respective countries are allowed to drive during their stay in Mauritius. Mauritius laws severely reprimand driving under the influence of alcohol.
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Eating out |
Mauritius has a wide choice of gourmet restaurants, serving exquisite local Creole food to a wide mix of fine international cuisine. They are generally competitively priced and the most reputable ones can get pretty packed at times. It is advisable to make a booking.
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Economy |
The Mauritian economy is one of the fastest growing in sub-Saharan Africa. In just three decades, the country has moved from a monocrop sugar-dominated economy to a sophisticated and diversified services oriented one. The services sector currently accounts for 70% of GDP.
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Electricity |
Stable and reliable all over the island at 220 volts, 50 Hz
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Emergency |
Police: 999
Fire: 995
Ambulance: 114
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Fitness centres |
Well equipped and professionally maintained fitness centres are available all around the island. An entry fee and an annual subscription fee are normally charged.
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Food |
Fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits can be found easily in all the island’s main supermarkets, hypermarkets and specialty outlets. Meat is mostly imported. Vegetarians are also spoilt for choice.
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Gambling |
Gambling is permitted under Mauritian laws to individuals of legal age (18). Several casinos and gambling houses are available. Horse betting is popular during the racing season (between April and December). Horse racing occurs at the Champs de Mars in Port Louis.
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Geography |
Mauritius is situated in the Indian Ocean, at approximately 2000 kilometres off the southeastern coast of Africa, to the East of Madagascar. The country covers an area of 1865 square kilometers, with some 330 kilometres of coastline. Mauritius has kilometers of white sandy beaches, fringed by a safe, well preserved turquoise coloured lagoon.
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Golf |
Mauritius boasts a few professionally designed 18-hole golf courses with stunning views over the lagoon. Several golf clubs offer annual memberships. Many of the islands properties offered to non-nationals under the so-called Integrated Resort Scheme are built on golf estates.
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Government |
Mauritius is a democratic state based on the Westminster model and enjoys political stability. The head of state is the President and the Prime Minister heads the government and a Council of Ministers. Free elections are held every five years.
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Green Mauritius |
| The Government has enacted strict environment protection legislation in several areas to preserve the natural beauty of the island and of its lagoon. Eco-living is strongly encouraged. The treasures of our hinterland lend themselves perfectly to a whole range of leisure and eco-tourism activities. |
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