Mauritius is a magnificent tropical paradise jam-packedwith natural beauty! Scintillating blue ocean, sun-kissed beaches, gorgeouswaterfalls, pulsating night-outs, eclectic shopping and tantalizing cuisines –this dazzling nation packs in something for everyone!
With loadsof unique experiences, heaps of activities and tapestry of incredible charms –it comes as no surprise that Mauritiusimpresses all and sundry! In fact, Mauritius is one of the few holidayhotspots that are loved by families, honeymooners and adventurers alike!
The easyavailability of luxury Mauritius holiday deals attract many to flock here, year-round. However, thoseseeking holidays here should be mindful of the entry requisites, health tipsand local laws to enjoy unflustered holidays!
Entry Requirements - Visas
1. Britonsplanning luxury holidays to Mauritiusdo not need to procure a visa beforehand. British passport holders with areturn ticket are issued a visa, usually valid for three months, on arrival.However, those seeking employment in the country need to arrange a work permit wellin advance.
Entry Requirements - Passport validity
1. Britishnationals planning holidays to Mauritiusmust hold a valid passport. In addition, the passport must be valid for aminimum period of six months from the date of entry into country. Thoseflouting this rule may be denied entry into the country by the immigrationauthorities.
2. It is highly advisable for those willing to travel to South Africa from Mauritius to ensure at least twounused pages in the passport.
Entry Requirements - Yellow fever certificate
1. Alltravellers arriving from a region where yellow fever is prevalent will requirea yellow fever certificate.
Health
1. Britonshopping on Mauritiusflights must ensure that they have allthe prescribed medication to last the trip.
2. Itis sensible to exercise precautions against diseases like Chikungunya and AIDSthat are prevalent in Mauritius.
3. Thoselooking for exhaustive information on vaccination requirements, healthoutbreaks and general disease protection and prevention can visit the websitesof the National Travel Heath Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland'sFit For Travel.
Local Laws
1. Drugtrafficking and consumption is an unbailable offence here and can attractsevere penalties and punishments. Drug trafficking attracts rigorous jail-sentences(up to 45 years) and import of 15 grams of cannabis could call for a one-yearcustodial sentence and a fine of 100,000 Mauritian rupees. Possession or importof cigarette papers is also illegal in the country.
2. Britonsbooking luxury Mauritius holiday dealsshould be mindful of carrying copies of valid medical certificates in case of theprescribed and over the counter medicines. Prescribed drugs that include psychotropicpreparations like tranquillisers or hypnotics, narcotics like morphine and otherstrong pain-killers by law require prior permission before import. Floutingthis may lead to an arrest.
3. Forexhaustive details on drug related policies one can seek advice from theMauritius High Commission in London.Import permits and special authorisation requests are generally processed in24-48 hours if one submits relevant supportive documents while applying. Oneneeds to furnish basic details like applicant’s address and name, flightdetails, photocopy of the personal details page of applicant’s passport, addressand period of intended stay in Mauritiuswith the description and quantities of drugs to be carried.
4. Alwayscarry photocopies of the passport and driving licence as the police may ask visitorsto furnish identification proofs. However, leave the original documents at somesafe place like hotel’s safe.
5. Whilethe law of the land does not make homosexuality illegal, the act of sodomy isunlawful irrespective of sexual orientation.
