Formal name of the country:
Republic of Mauritius

Short name:
Mauritius

Term for citizens:
Mauritian (s)

Capital :
Port Louis

Date of independence:
March 12, 1968 (from the United Kingdom)


Economic data (2001)

Population : 1.2 million

Population growth : 1.0 %

Average life expectancy: 72.1 years

Infant mortality rate: 17 per 1000 live births

Literacy rate : 84.8 % of over 15 years old (82.7% for female)

Access to improved water source: 100%

Fixed line and mobile telephones (per 1000 persons): 509.1

Personal computers (per 1000 persons): 109.1

Internet users: 158 000

GDP: US $ 4.5 billion

GDP per capita US: $ 3830


Economy

At independence Mauritius was a typical monocrop economy dependent on the sugar economy for its subsistence. It has since then diversified into tourism, industry (mainly textile), financial and porthandling services.

Weather in Mauritius

Weather reports on Mauritius are available at the following website: mbc.intnet.mu/meteo.htm


Electricity voltage

Voltage is 220 volts.


What to wear (as a tourist)

In the winter months of June to September, carry some light woolens for the cool evenings. Visitors are requested to dress properly (no shorts, mini skirts) when visiting religious buildings and to remove shoes when entering mosques and temples.


Tipping

Tipping is not compulsory and is a gesture of appreciation from the guest.