Article: Common Misconceptions About Mauritius.

Facts that set the record straight: we tackle the most common myths that we’ve heard about Mauritius.

Mauritius is often imagined as nothing more than a luxury honeymoon escape, but the reality is far more diverse and fascinating. Time and again, the same misconceptions crop up, usually passed along by word of mouth or from glossy brochures that only tell half the story. From its cultural depth to the variety of experiences beyond the beaches, Mauritius deserves to be understood for the vibrant, multi-layered destination it truly is.

1. "There are only a few direct flights from the UK each week" - Totally untrue.
Contrary to popular belief, there are daily direct and indirect flights to Mauritius from the UK. Air Mauritius now operates daily direct flights from London Gatwick, and British Airways flys every day during peak periods. Emirates are making it easier than ever for UK travellers to reach this beautiful destination, with daily indirect flights from most major airports in the UK.

2. "You need a Yellow Fever vaccination to enter" - Not if you’re flying directly from the UK.
This is only relevant if you’re arriving from a country with a Yellow Fever risk. Travellers from the UK and most other regions do not need a Yellow Fever vaccine to visit Mauritius.

3. “The west coast is best”? - Not Necessarily.

While the west coast of Mauritius often steals the spotlight with its calm, lagoon-protected beaches and legendary sunsets, there’s far more to this island than one shoreline. Every coast has its own personality, each as tempting as the next.

• The north and north-west, around Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches, offer a lively, cosmopolitan vibe with vibrant beach life, charming cafés, boutique shopping, and a gentle sea that invites endless swims and snorkelling. It’s no wonder this area remains a firm favourite for both locals and returning travellers.

• The east coast is all about raw beauty and elegance. With postcard-perfect stretches like Belle Mare, it’s a dream for sunrise seekers, nature lovers, and anyone looking for quieter, more refined moments. While July and August bring in the trade winds, they also deliver cooling breezes and a touch of drama to the landscape.

• The south is arguably Mauritius at its most soulful, less developed, wildly scenic, and often quieter than its northern cousins. Home to some of the island’s most luxurious hideaways, it blends clifftop views, untouched beaches, and a real sense of escape. Think dramatic coastlines, lush hills, and that feeling you’ve found somewhere truly special. Also the ideal spot for kitesurfers and romantics alike.

So yes, the west has its charms, but to say it’s “the best” is misleading. Let’s just say Mauritius prefers to keep its coastal crown shared.

4. “Everyone speaks French, and English isn’t widely spoken" - This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Mauritius is a multilingual country, and while French is commonly spoken, English is widely used and understood, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Visitors from the UK will have no trouble communicating with the locals.

 5. "Credit and debit cards are not accepted" Outdated information.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the island, from hotels to restaurants and most retail stores. ATMs are also readily available in popular tourist areas. The only consideration when it comes to money is that the local currency (Mauritian Rupees) is a closed currency, meaning it’s not traded outside the country, so only take out in small amounts.

 6. "Mauritians are French" - Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, French is one of many influences.

Though there are French influences from colonial times, the island is officially a part of Africa and home to a diverse population with roots from India, China, Europe, and Africa, creating a vibrant multicultural society.

 7. "Mauritian food is spicy " - Not always the case 
While some Mauritian dishes are spicy, the cuisine offers a wide range of flavours. You’ll find everything from mild Creole curries to French-inspired dishes, as well as Indian and Chinese influences, ensuring there’s something for every palate.

8. "You can still find the dodo bird in Mauritius" - Ha ha! this one always makes us laugh.
This one always makes us giggle. The dodo bird has been extinct since the late 17th century, but its image is used as a beloved symbol of the island’s unique natural history, so while Dodo’s no longer exist it’s legacy certainly lives on.

9. "Mauritius is dangerous" - This is unfair
Let’s set the record straight: Mauritius is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the Indian Ocean. It enjoys a low crime rate, a strong culture of hospitality, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere that leaves many travellers feeling right at home. However, as with any destination, isolated incidents can and do occur, and unfortunately, a couple of high-profile cases over recent years have left an unfair shadow on the island’s reputation. In reality, the vast majority of visitors experience nothing but warm welcomes, lazy beach days, and a true sense of island tranquillity. That said, safety in the water isn’t something to be taken for granted. Mauritius is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, but nature should always be respected. Kitesurfers, in particular, should take care: strong winds and shifting currents, especially on the east and south coasts during the trade wind season, have occasionally caught out even seasoned pros. Always check local conditions, follow guidance, and know your limits.

10. “Mauritius is too windy for boat trips” - Not all year, and not everywhere.

Mauritius does experience trade winds, particularly from May to October, which can make the south and east coasts breezier. For some, this is a dream come true: perfect for kite surfing and wind sports. But if you’re after calm waters for diving or boat trips, simply head to the north and west coasts where conditions are sheltered, especially during these months. The variety means you can always find the right spot, depending on what you want to do.

11) “The sea in Mauritius isn’t as good as the Maldives or Seychelles for snorkelling”- Different yes, but charming none the less.

It’s fair to say that Mauritius doesn’t always deliver the same postcard-perfect shallow lagoons of the Maldives or the warm clear waters of the Seychelles. Low tides, shallow coral reefs and even the odd sea urchin can sometimes make things a little trickier. But to dismiss Mauritius’ waters as “rubbish for snorkelling” would be unfair, there are excellent diving and snorkelling hotspots dotted around the island, with shipwrecks, marine parks and vibrant reefs waiting to be explored. It’s a different underwater world, but one well worth discovering.