Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean known for its stunning beaches, turquoise lagoons, and rich culture. The island has a fascinating history shaped by Dutch, French, and British colonial rulers. Today, Mauritius is an independent state with a diverse population consisting of a blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences.

Mauritian culture is unique and diverse, with a rich history that is reflected in the music, art, literature, and customs of its people.

Mauritius is renowned for its cultural diversity and the coexistence of people from different ethnicities and religions. The traditions and festivals in Mauritius are an integral part of the Mauritian identity and provide insights into the island's history and culture. From Hindu festivals to Creole culture, Chinese celebrations, Islamic holidays, and Tamil traditions, there is an abundance of cultural events and practices.

Various languages are spoken in Mauritius, including English, French, Creole, Bhojpuri, Hindi, and Urdu.

The currency in Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). It is advisable to exchange money into MUR and have a credit card as a backup in case your debit card doesn't work or gets lost. However, it's important to check with your own bank beforehand regarding fees and limits for international transactions to avoid unexpected costs. It is also recommended to carry enough cash as there are many small shops in Mauritius that may not accept credit cards.

As a student in Mauritius, it is important to be aware of and respect cultural differences and etiquette. This includes showing respect for older people, wearing appropriate clothing, eating with your hands, practicing hospitality, being punctual, and using respectful body language.

Public transportation on Mauritius is not as well-developed as in other countries. There are buses and taxis available, but they are often unreliable and may not always reach your desired destinations. If you prefer more flexibility, it is advisable to rent a car. Here are some things to consider when renting a car:

• Inspect the vehicle for any damages upon pickup and document them with photos. This way, you cannot be held responsible for damages you did not cause.
• Clarify the duration of the rental and the pickup and return times in advance to avoid unexpected costs for late returns.
• Request a receipt for every payment and keep them for future reference to resolve any discrepancies.
• An international driver's license is not necessary for driving in Mauritius. A German driver's license is sufficient.

Apart from the fascinating cultural aspects, Mauritius offers numerous breathtaking attractions and activities that should be experienced. These include visits to the island's stunning beaches and lagoons, exploring historical sites and museums, as well as engaging in water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and surfing.

The cuisine of Mauritius is a blend of Indian, Chinese, African, and European influences, offering a variety of dishes that are a must-try. Some of the most famous dishes include curry, biryani, gateau piment, and dholl puri.

Festivals are an integral part of cultural life in Mauritius. Most events last an entire day and take place at beautiful locations such as ancient ruins or private islands. One highlight among the festivals is PURE, an annual techno festival that takes place in a new location each time, such as a private island or a large hotel. But there are many more festivals to experience in Mauritius. Another well-known event is the Sunburn Festival, which takes place every year in August and attracts visitors from around the world. The TomorrowIsland Festival and Party Hardy are also popular events that should not be missed.

In addition to music festivals, there are several cultural events to visit in Mauritius. The Cavadee Festival, mainly celebrated by the Tamil community, is a fascinating experience for visitors. Spiritual rituals are performed, where believers challenge themselves physically to express their devotion to their deity.

So, when you are in Mauritius, be sure to attend one of the many festivals to experience the unique culture and way of life on the island.

An unforgettable experience in Mauritius is ending a day with friends on a catamaran, costing around 1000 Rs (approximately 20€) per person. This includes dinner and drinks, and you can watch the sunset and party until 10 PM.

The best place to party in Mauritius is Grand Baie, where there is a street with many clubs and bars. Popular clubs include Insomnia and Bar et vous, while The Tavern (a karaoke bar) and NJoy are popular bars. If you feel like partying elsewhere, be sure to visit the Awanam Beachclub in Tamarin. Here, you can dance to live music and enjoy delicious drinks.

Mauritius is home to a large population of stray dogs that often roam the streets in search of food. Sometimes, you may also come across groups of dogs wandering together. Many of these dogs are visibly without homes or have been neglected. Fortunately, nowadays there are several animal shelters and animal welfare organizations that combat these mistreatments and actively work towards the well-being of stray dogs. My experiences with stray dogs in Mauritius have been entirely positive: they are friendly, calm, and by no means dangerous. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to be cautious and respectful when encountering stray dogs.