"TRAVEL ADVICE"

For the latest advice and information, please contact  the Mauritian Embassy in your country. Address and Telephone numbers are in the Embassies Section. Further information  can also be obtained from the British High Commission, Consular and Immigration Section, Les Cascades Building, Edith Cavell Street, Port Louis (tel: +230 211 1361; fax: +230 211 1369/212 8470).

The crime level  in Mauritius remains low, although incidents of theft and assault are on the increase. Visitors staying in self-catering accommodation should be aware of the increase in reported housebreaking. Tourists staying in large hotel complexes are at less risk.

Care should be taken with bags and valuables when visiting the popular tourist areas of Grand Baie and Flic en Flac or crowded local markets.

Some pharmaceutical drugs which are freely available on prescription in the UK, are prohibited in Mauritius (such as the high dosage pain killer, Coproxamal). Importation of these drugs without a valid prescription results in prosecution and a fine. Visitors arriving with prescription drugs should keep them in the manufacturer's box with the pharmacy prescription label ready for inspection by Mauritian customs.

There have recently been two incidents in which speedboats caused serious injury to swimmers off hotel beaches. Visitors should exercise care and be alert to this danger particularly outside marked bathing areas.