(Last updated: 9 Sep 2013)

Travel

Airports

Sir Seewoosagar Ramgoolam (Plaisance) airport is about 48km from Port Louis. Travelling time by road to the capital is about an hour. An airport tax is payable on departure at the airport, but is included in the price of the air ticket.

Two Air Mauritius Bell-Jet Ranger helicopters are available for transfers between the airport and the hotels, and for sightseeing tours.

Ground transport

Check with your travel agent for coach transfers from the airport to different hotels around the island.

Car hire companies are also represented at the airport and can be hired upon arrival. Taxis are also readily available from the airport. A trip from the airport to Port Louis centre should cost around A$40.

There is a bus service in Mauritius that covers the whole island. The hours of service are 5.30am to 8.00pm in towns, and 6.30am to 6.30pm in rural areas.

Taxis can be hired from hotels or taxi stands. They are also available for half-day or full-day tours. All taxis have a yellow square box indicating their route on their car doors and a 'Taxi' sign on top. You must always agree on the taxi fares before undertaking a journey. Tipping is not necessary.

Car rental is also available. Driving in certain parts of the island can be a challenging exercise as you may not find signs easily and roads are sometimes narrow (especially in remote areas).

Hotels

Mauritius offers excellent value for money in terms of accommodation and quality of service. Tourism is one of the pillars of Mauritian economy and so great care is taken to ensure that visitors are looked after. Prices for accommodation vary according to level of the establishment, location and facilities offered.

Dining

Eating out is a very popular pastime for Mauritians. The typical Mauritian cuisine is not easy to pinpoint, as there is such a mix of cultures and accompanying tastes. Styles to choose from include Chinese, Creole, Indian, Continental, Japanese, and fast food. Restaurants can be found in every corner of the island.

Tipping

Tipping is around 10 per cent, but not necessary for taxis.

Top Business Risks

• Bribery of Foreign Officials
• Tariffs and regulations
• Doing business in Mauritius

OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises

Multinational Enterprises should be aware of the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises that provide voluntary principles and standards for responsible business behaviour in a variety of areas, consistent with applicable domestic laws. These Guidelines are endorsed and promoted by the Australian Government. For more information, go to the AusNCP website.