Integration as expats in Mauritius

To settle in successfully, you need to be open to differences and new experiences. Here are a few tips to help you integrate socially, enrich your culture and adapt to Mauritian habits and customs.

Meeting new people

As a first step, you could meet people through the various expatriate associations in Mauritius. For French-speakers,  Maurice Accueil in the North and Tamarin Accueil in the West organise events throughout the year. Numerous Facebook groups bring together expatriates on the island, so do not hesitate to join them and introduce yourself.

To open the doors to a rich social life, do not underestimate the role of activities. There are plenty of sporting, cultural and humanitarian activities on the island where you can meet locals and expats alike and quickly make new friends. In Mauritius newcomers do not usually go unnoticed, and you will surely be quickly introduced.

A world in one island

In Mauritius, you will feel like you are travelling the world without ever leaving the island... On the one hand, you will certainly meet expatriates from a wide variety of backgrounds. On the other hand, you will connect with Mauritians of all religions and cultures, united by their love of the island and of Creole. Prepare to immerse yourself in diverse cultural experiences, from donning a sari or kurta at an enchanting Indian wedding, partaking in the breaking of Ramadan fast, rejoicing in the festivities of Chinese New Year, to participating in the thrill of a deer hunt.

Mauritians are warm, with an almost Latin culture. In Mauritius, people talk loudly, laugh loudly and spend many hours at the table for any occasion. Family and friends hold a special place in the hearts of Mauritians. Once you have settled in, you will be there for life.

Creole, a tool for integration

Expressions such as ayo, ki manyer, pena problem, and korek are integral parts of everyday Creole discourse in Mauritius. Although English and French will enable seamless communication with most locals, gaining a basic understanding of Kreol Morisien displays your willingness to assimilate into the local culture and could prove beneficial in certain scenarios.

We do recommend those organization should you want to learn other languages: 

Koz Kozé (Creol lessons) www.facebook.com/creoleclassesmauritius/ • +230 5428 8688

Alliance Française (French lessons)
‍www.afmaurice.org • +230 212 2949

British Council (English lessons)
www.britishcouncil.mu • +230 403 0200

Travelling Teachers (Various languages)
www.travellingteachers.org • +230 5987 3037

Adapting to the specific characteristics of Mauritius

Mauritius is rich with distinct cultural nuances. Each day presents an opportunity to encounter fresh and, sometimes, perplexing experiences. Embrace this diversity with an open heart and a positive attitude, opting for laughter and smiles over judgements. Although giving in to frustration and criticism may be a common reaction, it could lead you into a negative spiral and, in the long run, taint your Mauritian experience. Here, life is approached differently. Once you have decided to settle in Mauritius, it is best to adapt and accept it.