Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
There are only a few places where you can hire motorbikes, which is a shame as this is a
great way to explore the quiet coastal roads - especially in traffic-free Rodrigues. While
you'll occasionally find a 125cc bike, most are 100cc or under; the smaller models are re-
ferred to as scooters.
Expect to pay upwards of Rs 500 per day (Rs 600 in Rodrigues). As with car hire, pay-
ment is requested in advance along with a deposit of Rs 5000 or so.
Towns offering motorcycle hire include Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, Mahébourg and Port
Mathurin. Your best bet is to ask around your hotel. You should be aware that most motor-
cycle hire is 'unofficial' so you may not be covered in case of a collision.
Parking
Parking is free and not a problem in most of Mauritius, although it's best not to leave your
car in an isolated spot. City parking requires payment. There are supervised car parks in
Port Louis, but elsewhere you'll have to park on the street, which in a handful of towns in-
volves buying parking coupons - ask a local if you're not sure. These are available from
petrol stations and cost from Rs 50 for 10 coupons, with each coupon valid for 30
minutes. The same coupons can be used all over the island. Street parking is generally free
at night and on weekends; the exact hours, which vary from one town to another, are in-
dicated on signposts.
Road Rules
Local motorists seem to think they'll save electricity by not switching on their headlights,
and the police are better at people control than traffic control. Traffic congestion is heavy
in Port Louis. There are many pedestrian zebra crossings, but cross with care. Don't ex-
pect courtesy and don't expect drivers to be worried about insurance - you'll get knocked
over.
Driving is on the left and the speed limit varies from 30km/h in town centres to
110km/h on the motorway - speed limits are usually marked. Even so, not many people
stick to these limits and the island has its fair share of accidents. Remember also that the
motorway has a series of roundabouts - bearing down on them at 110km/h is a dangerous
pastime best avoided.
Drivers and passengers are required to wear seat belts. For lack of sufficient breathalys-
ers, the alcohol limit (legally 0.5g/L) is defined by the police as one glass of beer.
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