Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards, though Amex is catching up
quickly. Nearly all tourist shops, restaurants and accommodation accept payment by credit
card, as do car-hire companies, tour agents and so forth. Any establishment well outside
the tourist bubble will still expect payment in cash.
A few places add on an extra fee, typically 3%, to the bill to cover 'bank charges'. The
cheaper car-hire companies are the worst offenders. To be on the safe side, always ask.
Cash advances on credit cards are available from most major banks, including MCB,
Barclays, the State Bank and HSBC. Just remember to take your passport.
Moneychangers
Major currencies and travellers cheques can be changed at the main banks, exchange bur-
eaus and the larger hotels. Bureaux de change sometimes offer slightly better rates than
banks, but there's usually little difference. Hotels tend to have the worst rates and may add
an additional service commission. As a general rule, travellers cheques bring a better rate
than cash. There is no blackmarket in Mauritius.
Banks don't charge commission on changing cash. As for travellers cheques, the system
varies. Some banks, such as HSBC, charge 1% of the total, with a minimum of Rs 200,
while MCB and the State Bank levy Rs 50 for up to 10 cheques. Don't forget to take
along your passport when changing money. And make sure you hang on to the encash-
ment form, which will have to be presented if you want to change Mauritian rupees back
into foreign currency at the end of your stay.
Taxes
Most items apart from unprepared food are subject to 15% VAT. There's no clear rule
about whether this tax is included in prices quoted for meals, rooms and activities. If it's
not clear, be sure to ask or you may be in for a shock.
Tipping
Tipping is not generally practiced in Mauritius and is never an obligation. Top-end hotels
and restaurants sometimes add a service charge of about 10% to 15% to the bill.
OPENING HOURS
Banks
9am to 3.15pm Monday to Friday (extended hours in tourist hubs like Grand Baie
and Flic en Flac)
Government offices
9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, 9am to noon Saturday (closed during
religious and public holidays)
