Culture in Mauritius

Culture

Mauritius presents itself as a melting pot of traditions and customs, inherited by the populations's ancestors from Europe, Africa and Asia, and thus resulting in a mix of cultural and gastronomic experiences. Oftentimes labelled as a "rainbow nation", Mauritius has a population of approximately 1.5 million inhabitants with a range of religious and ethnic backgrounds (Catholics, Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus, amongst others) who live together in perfect harmony.

Dress code

Mauritius has a fairly relaxed dress code due to the tropical climate. Nevertheless, there are still certain guidelines that should be respected when choosing one's outfit. It is inappropriate for example to wear swimwear outside of the beach zones, and one should also pay attention to dress in a more modest manner when visiting religious sites.

Politeness

Being polite is ingrained in the Mauritian way of living. Mauritians are considered warm and friendly, greeting strangers on the street and offering help whenever needed. Expats and tourists are encouraged to reciprocate in similar manners as a way to show appreciation and gratitude.

Respect and tolerance

Respect and tolerance are deeply rooted in the Mauritian culture, and visitors should always be considerate and respectful towards the various traditions and customs that are present on the island.

Good to know:

The sega is the traditional music and dance style in Mauritius. Originating from the Mauritian slave population and drawing its roots from the African culture, the sega is primarily characterized the by tribal beat-sounds of the ravanne, a tambourine-like instrument.

Language

Even though English is the official language of Mauritius, a great part of the population doesn't speak the language fluently. Instead, Mauritian Creole is spoken extensively, a language that has been influenced by African and South Asian languages and that is a form of pidgin French merged with the basics of English grammar.

Understanding Creole is easier than speaking it. Still, familiarizing oneself with the local language is an crucial part of integrating oneself into the Mauritian culture. The Mauritian people are particularly appreciative when they see foreigners making efforts to speak their language.

The Creole language has undergone an evolution over the years. As an example, the once legendary "Bonzour" used by tourist guides is hardly used anymore.

Ayo

Being the most widely-used word in Mauritius, the word "ayo" can have several meanings depending on the intonations used.

Mari

Being oftentimes used as a superlative, the word "mari" acts to reinforce the word it precedes.

Bonjour Ki pozisyon / Ki Manyer?

This expression literally translates into "Hi, how are you?".

Mo bien / Korek

I'm fine.

Mo ene anglé, mo sorti londres

I'm English, I am from London.

Kouma ou apelé?

What's your name?

Ou marié? Ou éna zanfan?

Are you married? Do you have children?

Kan to vine lakaz ? Taler mo vini

When are you coming home? I'll come by later.

Kot to resté?

Where do you live?

Zordi pena lapli, mo al lamer

It's not raining today, I'm going to the beach.

Ou kontan Moris?

Do you like Mauritius?

Vine guet sa fler la

Come and see this flower.

Ki ler la?

What time is it?