Mauritius has something to offer everyone, from its culturally rich cuisine to its majestic mountain peaks and plateaus. This article provides my 5 key insights from living in East Africa as an American expat.
It’s been four months since I packed up my life in Washington, D.C., to start a new chapter as an expat here in Mauritius.
Each new day on the Isle of Maurice has been filled with exciting new tastes, sounds, sights, and unique challenges as a foreign national.
Here are 5 insightful takeaways from living in Mauritius as an Expat
Pexels/Dominik-Ruhl
1. A Multicultural Melting Pot
Outside of America, Maurice is the most diverse country that I have ever encountered.
The island is located 1,132 km from mainland Africa and is home to an array of ethnic backgrounds who proudly identify as Mauritian.
European settlers were among the first explorers to discover the island and took advantage of its hot climate by importing sugar cane plants. Africans from Madagascar were then forced into slavery on the island, where they were made to cultivate sugar cane and build infrastructure.
After slavery was abolished, the British imported Indian and Chinese indentured servants who were given small compensation to continue cultivating crops and build the island’s economy.
Present-day Mauritians come in all shades and sizes and celebrate their beautiful country’s diversity while remembering those that paved the way.
Pexels/Aline Viana Prado
2. A Biodiverse Jewel in the Indian Ocean
Look no further if you’re looking for a travel destination that boasts land, sea, and air.
This tropical destination has impressive coastlines, which are unique on every shore and includes a diverse array of marine life.
Catamaran and speedboats are available to take guests on the turquoise and cerulean blue waters of the Indian Ocean for day and evening excursions. Dolphin swims, whale watching, snorkeling, and island hopping are among some of the main activities visitors can enjoy through the guidance of responsible and ethical tour operators on the island.
Some helicopters and seaplanes can give you an aerial view of the island and even a famous underwater waterfall.
The island’s majestic mountain ranges are breathtaking, and they are home to winding trails, biodiversity, and views for a perfect photo op.
Pexels/Arthouse Studio
3. Mauritian Hospitality & Warmth
Mauritius was the first destination I chose and warmly discovered that it chose me back. Upon arrival, I realized that many Mauritians would go out of their way to help a stranger and lend a smile unprovockingly.
I have lived in big cities all my life, so it has taken me some time to conceptualize how approachable most Mauritians are. Whether you’re a tourist on a two-week vacation or an expat looking to settle in for a while, you can count on finding Mauritians that will happily pitch in to make your stay enjoyable.
Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio
4. Remote Workers: 5G internet connection is available
I had a Solis Global Wi-Fi Hotspot when I first arrived after learning from the company’s website that it was supposed to work here. Unfortunately, this was not true, and I scrambled to find an alternative option for my remote work responsibilities.
Emtel is a telecommunications company that has many electronic shop locations on the island and offers portable wifi devices. Thankfully, I was able to purchase a broadband on-the-go device and plan without surpassing $60.
I upgraded to an Airbox5G device once I leased my first apartment, and I enjoy uninterrupted internet 97% of the time.
Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio
5. The Flexible Cost of Living
The Ile of Maurice has something for all lifestyles, whether you’re looking for lavishness that suits the rich and the famous or a more modest experience.
Since this is an island, many groceries are imported, which can ring up a tab pretty quickly. However, there are farmer’s markets throughout the week that can offer farm-picked produce, fresh fish, and meat at affordable prices.
The cheapest apartments tend to be towards the center and south of the island, while the more expensive options are typically towards the north and the west.
For example, two-bedroom apartments can run from Rs 18,354 – Rs 36, 708 ($400 -$800) in the center and south of the island. However, this may cost around Rs 36,708 – Rs 50, 474 + ($800 – $1100+) in the north or west, mainly due to mast tourist attractions.
The average electricity bill for two people usually estimates around Rs 780 – Rs 1376 ($17 – $30) per month but can also vary depending on individual consumption.
Pexels/Cottonbro Studio
Conclusion
I hope that my key takeaways were helpful and inspired you to visit this jewel in the Indian Ocean.
You can visit EDB Mauritius to learn of the multiple ways that you can visit or live in one of the most peaceful and prosperous countries in the world.
