Welcome to our guide on life in Mauritius, the stunning island jewel of the Indian Ocean! Here, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the many facets of this tropical paradise and what it’s like to call it home. Mauritius is a place of pure natural beauty and cultural richness. From its pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters to its lush, green landscapes and vibrant mix of people from different backgrounds, this island has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of living in Mauritius. Whether you’re drawn to its idyllic shores, considering job opportunities, or simply intrigued by the idea of a new adventure, we’ve got you covered. Stay with us as we uncover the unique experiences, opportunities, and challenges that come with the choice to live in this tropical haven. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of what life in Mauritius entails, and whether it aligns with your lifestyle aspirations.
Pros and Cons of living in Mauritius:
The Cons of Mauritius
Expensive Lifestyle- While the cost of living in Mauritius may be lower than in some Western countries, it can still be relatively high compared to other African nations and Southeast Asian expat-favorite destinations like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. This
is especially true for housing and imported goods, with groceries and common household items typically priced around 30% higher due to imports from France, Australia, or South Africa. Dining out can also be costly unless you know local favorites. Services like yoga, spa, and gyms tend to be expensive due to a scarcity of trained professionals, a focus on premium tourism, and a smaller local population. Additionally, car prices in Mauritius are significantly higher due to a 100% import duty. Nonetheless, living in Mauritius is notably
more affordable than many other popular low-tax destinations..
Curious about the cost of living in Mauritius? Check out our article.
Limited Public Transportation and Driving Challenges- Let’s dive right in: Public transportation in Mauritius leaves much to be desired.
It’s often packed, slow-moving, and not the go-to choice for spontaneous trips. There is a bright spot, though, with the recently built tramway courtesy of the Indian Government, albeit limited to central areas (with expansion plans in the works).
While some locals may find buses a viable option, they might not be the best fit for newcomers or tourists who crave flexibility and convenience. Unlike destinations where you can rely on walking, Uber, or scooters, Mauritius presents fewer choices. There’s no Uber-like service, no scooter taxis, and budget-friendly taxi options are scarce. Biking outside tourist hubs is also less advisable due to traffic conditions. With a limited pedestrian infrastructure, walking as a mode of transportation can be challenging and often not the wisest choice.
In summary:
- Consider using a car to explore Mauritius
- Assume heavy traffic during peak hours.
- Understand that walking and public transport are not favorable options for getting around in Mauritius.
Traffic Congestion- If you reside in suburban areas like Port Louis, you should anticipate traffic that is slow and congested, leading to potential waiting times of up to 30 minutes. This is because the road infrastructure may not always be able to handle the growing number of vehicles on the island. However, if you live in the coastal towns, traffic flows much more smoothly.
Limited Job Opportunities- Expatriates may face challenges in securing well-paying job opportunities in Mauritius due to limited job openings and intense competition in the relatively small labor market. Work permit regulations, a preference for local talent, and industry-specific variations further contribute to this limitation. Networking and personal connections, as well as adjusting salary expectations, can play a crucial role in job hunting for expatriates in Mauritius.
Cyclones- Mauritius is prone to cyclones, especially during the cyclone season from November to April. These storms can cause significant damage to property and disrupt daily life.
Isolation- Mauritius is relatively isolated in the Indian Ocean, which can make travel to other countries more expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, the distance can lead to a sense of isolation for some expatriates. Scheduling an annual family vacation could help with this.
Stray dogs attack- For decades, Mauritius has grappled with the persistent issue of stray dogs and dog attacks. The government once employed a “catch and euthanize” program, but it sparked outrage due to poor conditions and abuse. Recently, the focus has shifted to a “catch/neuter/release” policy, but this approach faces challenges due to a shortage of vets and a high stray dog population.
Lack of credible online information available– No need to worry about that as the Frolic Mauritius website is here to help make your life in Mauritius easier and more convenient.
Water Shortages- Mauritius is currently experiencing a drought that began late last year. There are limited solutions for the water shortage, but one important step is to reduce water loss. Mauritius is highly vulnerable to climate change, exacerbating the water scarcity problem. Over the past decade, the negative effects of climate change have become evident with longer dry seasons, shorter wet seasons, and more severe droughts. Despite government efforts, the issue remains unresolved.
Safety- Mauritius is generally considered a relatively safe destination, with safety concerns being notably lower in comparison to several Western countries and much lower than the rest of Africa. In the context of the Global Peace Index, Mauritius has been ranked 28th in 2023, positioning it between Spain and Australia. Most safety concerns in Mauritius revolve around issues such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and robberies, primarily stemming from limited economic opportunities, poverty, and occasional drug-related incidents. While violent property crimes like armed robberies and break-ins are relatively rare, they do occur on occasion. To enhance your safety during your stay in Mauritius, it is advisable to take precautions such as ensuring the security of your accommodation. This includes checking windows and doors, especially at night, and securely locking balcony and terrace doors.
Although Mauritius is generally considered safe, it’s worth noting that higher crime rates are reported in certain areas, notably in the capital, Port Louis, and popular tourist towns like Grand Bay, Pereybere, and Flic en Flac. However, with standard safety precautions and awareness, visitors can enjoy their time in Mauritius with peace of mind.
Don’t get too carried away with the cons. Let’s dive into the fantastic advantages of living in your little corner of paradise, Mauritius, where the perks are as plentiful as the coconuts on the beach!
The Pros of Mauritius
Laid-back, less stressful lifestyle- Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation, is celebrated for its laid-back and less stressful lifestyle. Its natural beauty, diverse culture, and strong emphasis on work-life balance creates an environment where relaxation and enjoyment take center stage. Visitors and residents alike appreciate the scenic landscapes, rich culinary traditions, and welcoming locals, all contributing to a sense of tranquility and well-being on the island. Whether you’re exploring its stunning beaches, savoring diverse cuisines, or simply taking in the vibrant culture, Mauritius offers a peaceful and unhurried way of life.
Good Quality of Life-
“Mauritius boasts a robust and stable government that keeps the nation running seamlessly. This conducive environment contributes to a high quality of life for its residents and fosters the country’s overall progress. The sense of safety and contentment is palpable among its people.
Mauritius thrives on economic diversity, with revenue streams spanning tourism, banking, agriculture, and manufacturing. This diversity not only fuels job creation but also facilitates opportunities for individuals to thrive and lead fulfilling lives. The nation’s educational institutions play a pivotal role, ensuring its citizens receive quality education, setting them up for prosperous careers.
The country’s infrastructure, including its modern roadways and efficient transportation systems, adds to the overall ease of living. Mauritians are dedicated stewards of their environment, maintaining cleanliness and ecological health. They have a deep respect for the breathtaking natural surroundings, displaying an admirable commitment to preserving our planet.
For those seeking a splendid place to call home, Mauritius offers a wide array of luxurious houses and apartments, often graced with breathtaking views. It’s no wonder that Mauritius has become the preferred destination for many affluent individuals, families, and retired non-citizens looking to establish their residences.
Life in Mauritius is synonymous with comfort and style. Here, the promise of an exceptional life is not a distant dream but a daily reality.
If you’re intrigued by the prospect of experiencing the authentic essence of Mauritius, we invite you to explore further through our articles.
Favorable tax system- The country maintains a relatively low income tax rate which is advantageous for both residents and expatriates. This feature allows individuals to retain a larger portion of their income. Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of Mauritius’ tax system is the absence of capital gains and inheritance taxes. This means that individuals and businesses are not burdened with additional taxes when selling assets or transferring wealth to heirs.
The predictability of a fixed 15% income tax, corporate tax, and value-added tax (VAT) simplifies tax planning for both individuals and businesses, promoting financial stability. Mauritius offers an 80% tax exemption on foreign-sourced dividends, interest, and similar income. This provision is especially enticing for international investors seeking to minimize their tax liabilities. For specific sectors like exporters and importers, Mauritius levies a reduced corporate tax rate of 3%, encouraging growth and investment in these industries.
Interest and dividends earned from a Mauritian company are exempt from withholding tax, making it more attractive for foreign investors to participate in the local economy. The absence of taxes on capital gains, estate duty, wealth, and inheritance tax simplifies financial transactions and estate planning for residents and investors. Under certain conditions, Mauritius provides tax holidays for specific types of business activities, such as investment banking, global headquarters administration, global treasury activities, and global legal advisory services. These incentives encourage the establishment and growth of these sectors.
Top-notch climate- Mauritius has a really nice climate all year long. It has two main seasons. In the summer, from November to April, it’s sunny and warm, with temperatures around 30°C. Sometimes, in January and March, there can be some rain and storms, but they usually don’t last long.
Mauritius is in the southern hemisphere, so when it’s summer there, it’s winter in the northern hemisphere. Winter in Mauritius, from May to October, is cooler and drier. The temperatures are between 22°C and 26°C. The ocean stays warm, between 22°C and 29°C all year.
You may notice that different parts of the island have varied temperatures for example, if you go to the Moka region, which is in the middle of the island, it’s much colder than on the coasts.
Breathtaking Nature- Mauritius is a nature lover’s dream with its amazing outdoors. You’ve got everything from towering mountains to lush valleys to explore. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, Mauritius has it all! This island paradise is famous for its beautiful coastline, coral reefs, and unique landscapes. It’s like a gem in the Indian Ocean, known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean.’ Mauritius is home to rare wildlife like the giant tortoise and the colorful pink pigeon. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, they’ve made a comeback. The Mauritian Wildlife Foundation works hard to protect these creatures and their habitats. They’re also restoring wildlife on nearby islands.
Mauritius is serious about protecting its environment. It takes part in global efforts to tackle climate change and works hard to keep it’s coasts clean. When a ship ran aground and threatened their coral reefs, the people of Mauritius jumped into action. They used creative solutions like floating barriers made from sugarcane leaves, plastic bottles, and even hair to save their marine life.
Mauritius is not just a beautiful place; it’s a place where people care about their natural treasures and work together to protect them.
Good Healthcare system- Mauritius has great healthcare options! They’ve got free healthcare in public hospitals, and while private ones can be a bit pricey, they offer fantastic service. People even come here for medical tourism. The government believes healthcare is a right, so everyone including tourist has easy access to free primary public health services. You’ll find a primary care provider within 3 miles of your home.
And guess what? Mauritius is also investing heavily in high-tech medical gear. It’s involved in importing and exporting a ton of it, as well as has six companies making medical devices, providing jobs for 600 people. So, it’s not just a beautiful island; it’s a healthy one too!
High-Speed Internet- Mauritius enjoys good internet speed thanks to its connection to the SAFE (South Africa-Far East) submarine fiber-optic cable. The country has multiple internet service providers, with Mauritius Telecom and EMTEL being the major players. They offer various options like ADSL, fiber-optic cable, 4G and 5G providing stable internet connectivity.
While the speeds may not match those in Europe, they are quite reliable. Fiber-optic internet is becoming more widely available across the island. In terms of fixed-network broadband internet, Mauritius ranks 115th internationally with an average download speed of 31.50 Mbit/second, though the upload speed is lower at 10.06 Mbit/second.
For mobile internet on tablets and smartphones, Mauritius is ranked 71st globally with a download speed of 33.10 Mbit/second, and the upload speed, around 12 Mbit, places it 54th. Internet in Mauritius is particularly stable, especially in the northern part of the island where optical fiber is already installed.
Good International Education System-
Mauritius boasts a thriving education landscape, offering a range of options to suit diverse preferences and needs. From top-tier international schools to well-established universities and robust vocational training facilities, the choices are abundant.
What’s even more appealing is that quality education here won’t break the bank. You have the option of free public schools, including college, or you can opt for French and international private schools, which are available in locations such as Moka, Curepipe, the North, and the West. And for those seeking alternative educational paths, Moka, North, East, and West offer those options as well.
Tertiary education is on the rise, drawing students from across Africa and Asia. The island is home to prestigious institutions like Charles Telfair Campus, Mahatma Gandhi Institute’s Ecole des Beaux-Arts, and the University of Mauritius. Furthermore, partnerships with renowned names like Paris-Dauphine and Sorbonne Business School enhance the educational experience.
If you’re seeking an enriching educational journey for your children, Mauritius stands as a compelling choice!
A multilingual country- Mauritius is a linguistically diverse nation where people communicate using a wide range of languages and dialects. This diversity stems from the country’s multicultural makeup, and most Mauritians are proficient in at least two or even three languages. This linguistic richness provides expatriates with great flexibility and an ability to connect with the local culture using various language options.
Interestingly, the Mauritian Constitution does not designate an official language, reflecting the nation’s linguistic diversity. The one million inhabitants of Mauritius converse in a mix of languages, including English, French, Mauritian Creole, French-based Creole, and various ethnic languages such as Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Marathi, Urdu, Tamil, or Mandarin. English holds a prominent position as the language of government administration, the legal system, and the business sector, whereas French is more prominent in media. Meanwhile, Mauritian Creole, spoken by the majority of the population, serves as the native language of the country and is commonly used in informal settings.
Multiple Visa Policies- Mauritius has always had welcoming visa policies, but they’ve recently become even more accommodating for nomads and expats. The introduction of the Premium Travel Visa allows you to stay in Mauritius for an entire year and it can be renewed. To qualify, you need to have your source of income from outside the country, making it an attractive option for digital nomads and retirees. If you would like to know the step-by-step guide to apply for Premium Visa then you can check our article. This program offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Mauritius and determine if it’s the right place for you on a long-term basis. Professionals and retirees can also seek residency permits like Self-occupation permits, Investor visas, and Retirement visas for up to 10 years, based on their income, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency after just three years.
Delicious local delicacies-Mauritian cuisine, while culturally significant, may not be a top draw for international food enthusiasts seeking the world’s finest delicacies. Nevertheless, it offers an intriguing blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Chinese influences on staple foods, making it worth trying for the cultural experience. If you would like to check out some cool eateries then you can find them here.
Mauritian Food to Try:
- Dholl Puri: Soft chickpea flatbreads with bean and tomato sauces. Wholesome, but not super flavorful.
- Roti: Highly recommended, especially with curry. Great for a beach meal.
- Briyani: Tasty rice dish with veggies and beef, best in Port Louis.
- Alouda: Sweet vanilla milk drink with melted ice cream. A safe choice.
- Haleem: Lamb and lentil soup, often found at street stalls.
Mauritius offers a variety of other dishes, and it’s a good idea to follow the “hot and noisy” principle by trying what locals are enjoying at popular vendors.
EN 
FR
Recent Comments