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Home > Destinations > Mauritius > General Info
 
General Information 
People | Language | Food | Currency | Credit Cards | Essential Things to Carry
  

The island of Mauritius is approximately 855 km off the east coast of Madagascar, Africa being the nearest continent & Mombasa some 1800 km away. Mauritius is a volcanic island only 1,865 sq km in area. The Central Plateau reaches 800 mt in altitude with the highest peak, Piton de la Riviere Noire hitting 828 mt.

 


The coastline of 330 km is almost entirely surrounded by one of the largest unbroken coral reefs in the world.

  

This beautiful landmass is full of scenic landscapes and enchanting spots that savor to the tourist's quest. Rodrigues is another Mauritian island that lies about 560 km east. Its greatest length is about is about 18 km and the greatest breadth is about 8 km. 

 
 
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People
 

The Population of Mauritius is 1,150, 000 approx. It is remarkable in ethnic diversity reflected by multi - cultured society such as Indians, Africans, Chinese & Europeans. Mauritius is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. 68 % of the total population is of Indian origin, 27.5 % Creole, 1 % Franco-Mauritian and 3.2 % Chinese.

 


Of the whole population 51 % are Hindus 17 % are Muslims and 27 % are Christians.

 
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Language
 

French and Creole are the main spoken laungauge used in everyday life. A number of oriental languages are also spoken. Mauritians also speak their native language such as Hindi, Chinese, Urdu, etc. English is the official language and is widely understood.

 
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Food
 

Dining in Mauritius is a gourmet affair either in A la Carte or Buffet style, served in spacious restaurants, on idyllic beaches or under the galaxy of stars. Choose form a diverse selection of Indian curries, muslim, biryanis, Creole rougailles, Chinese sweet & sour pork, French delicacies, English bacon & egg etc. 

 
 

There are many dining outlets that often combine sights, sound and fragrance so as to appeal all sensory buds. Mauritius has gained the 'Cordon Blue' for the good food that is provided in hotels and restaurants.

 
 
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Currency
 

The currency of Mauritius is the Rupee. Notes and coins are available. Notes are available in the denominations of Rs.10, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.200, Rs.500, & Rs.1000. 

 
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Credit Cards

Major credit cards - American Express, Diners, Mastercard and Visa - are accepted in most shops and hotels.

  
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Essential Things to Carry :

Clothes :
Swimming Costumes, shorts & T shirts. Do carry light woolens for the winter months of May to September. 

It is advisible to carry adequate sun care products with UVA - filter agents should be carried. It is advisable to wear a hat and sunglasses when in the sun during the entire day, especially in the summer months when the sun's rays are scorching hot. 

  
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General Info
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