Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Credit cards will prove the cheapest and easiest way to pay for major purchases in
Réunion. Visa (Carte Bleue) and MasterCard (Eurocard) are the cards most widely accep-
ted by hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, adventure centres, major petrol stations and
stores. Credit cards are mandatory if you want to rent a car, as they'll be used as a form of
caution
(deposit). Smaller places, however, sometimes refuse cards for small amounts
(typically under €15) and it's rare for
chambres d'hôtes
and
gîtes d'étapes
to take credit
cards.
It's a good idea to check with your credit-card company before leaving home about
charges on international transactions.
Moneychangers
All banks in Réunion have dropped their foreign-exchange facilities in favour or ATMs.
There's only one bureau de change on the island - it's outside Roland Garros International
Airport.
As a general strategy, it's sensible to bring a fair supply of euros with you and to top up
from the ATMs.
Tipping
Tipping is not necessary in Réunion.
OPENING HOURS
Banks
Usually open from 8am to 4pm, Monday to Friday or Tuesday to Saturday.
Bars and clubs
Normally serve from late morning until the last customers leave (late);
nightclubs generally go from 10pm into the wee hours on Friday and Saturday.
Government offices
Open from 8.30am to noon and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Thursday, to
3pm Friday.
Restaurants
Open for lunch between 11.30am or noon and 2pm and for dinner from 7pm;
they are often closed on one or two days of the week.
Shops and businesses
Usually from 8.30am to 5pm or 6pm Monday to Saturday, often
with a break from noon to 1pm or 2pm. Some shops close on Monday.
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
Most of Réunion's offices, museums and shops are closed during
jours fériés
(public holi-
days).
New Year's Day
1 January
Easter Monday
March/April
