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Sub Saharan Africa

Mauritius

Flag of Mauritius
Still current at: 26 November 2009
Updated: 29 September 2009

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular assistance figures).  The overall level of the advice has not changed.

(see travel advice legal disclaimer)


Travel advice for this country

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
 
For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Petty crime levels are increasing.  You should take sensible precautions against theft.  Take care of bags and valuables when visiting popular tourist areas including Port Louis, Grand Baie and Flic en Flac. Deposit your valuables and cash in hotel safes, where practical. Keep copies of important documents, including passports, separately.
 
Ensure self-catering accommodation and hotel rooms are secure.  Avoid renting accommodation from unregistered proprietors.  All accommodation should be registered with the Ministry of Tourism.
 
Most crime is non-violent; however the use of weapons was evident in some burglaries in 2007.  Although uncommon, there have been some instances of sexual assault/rape.  Avoid walking alone at night on deserted /public beaches or in poorly lit areas especially in the back streets of the business district of Port Louis.
 
Only do business with enterprises that have permanent premises, rather than street or beach vendors.  Ensure that water-sport operators hold a valid permit issued by the Ministry of Tourism.

Report any incidents to the Police du Tourisme on the hotline number 213 2818 (available from anywhere on the island).
 
For more information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Mauritius Country Profile

Relations with the UK are close, though demonstrations outside the British High Commission occur sporadically because of issues relating to the British Indian Ocean Territory.  You should monitor events through the local media and avoid all demonstrations, rallies and other large public gatherings.

Local Travel
 
Road Travel

You can drive on your UK driving licence, but you must have it with you at all times.  The standard of driving varies and there are frequent minor accidents (19,000 per year). Be particularly careful when driving after dark as pedestrians and unlit two-wheeled vehicles are serious hazards.
 
For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Air Travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.  You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

For more general information see Airline Security.

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Contacts

Mauritius

Address:

British High Commission
Les Cascades Building
Edith Cavell Street
Port Louis
PO Box 1063

Telephone:

(230) 202 9400
(230) 252 8006 Duty Officer (in case of genuine emergency out of office hours)

Fax:

(230) 202 9408
(230) 202 9407 Consular/Visa

Email: bhc@intnet.mu

Office hours:

GMT:
Mon-Thurs: 0345-1145
Fri: 0345-0930

Local Time : GMT + 4 (Mauritius is normally 1 hour ahead of Comoros, but since the introduction of daylight saving time in Mauritius, there is 2 hours of a difference from November to March).

Out of hours, the Mauritius High Commission will give contact number.

Website: http://ukinmauritius.fco.gov.uk/en

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