Expat interviews from Mauritius

Lespri Pozitif: Jérôme Valin's vision for a positive Mauritius
Everyday life
Lespri Pozitif: Jérôme Valin's vision for a positive Mauritius
Jérôme Valin has lived in Mauritius since the 1980s, experiencing first-hand the significant shifts in audiovisual production while immersing himself in the island's culture. Through his channel Lespri Pozitif, he highlights community-driven, cultural, and sustainable initiatives that bring Mauritius to life. He aims to share a perspective that is optimistic, engaged, and deeply human.
Life in Mauritius through the lens of filmmaker Lucy Leheilleix
Everyday life
Life in Mauritius through the lens of filmmaker Lucy Leheilleix
Lucy Leheilleix, a South African expat, is a filmmaker and outdoor enthusiast who has made Mauritius her creative playground. With a background in TV and documentaries, she now crafts vibrant video content that captures the island's natural beauty, local culture, and environmental causes. Passionate about water sports and visual storytelling, Lucy blends adventure with purpose, inspiring others to see Mauritius through a fresh, authentic lens.
Moving to Mauritius on a Premium Visa: Sierra's story
Everyday life
Moving to Mauritius on a Premium Visa: Sierra's story
When Sierra left Washington, D.C. for Mauritius, she wasn't just relocating—she was on a mission to explore, document, and share. A creative storyteller and digital nomad, Sierra first learned about Mauritius through a random online article and later turned that spark into a full-fledged move in 2023 under the Premium Visa. Since then, she's built a life that blends work, passion, and purpose—running her blog and YouTube channel Expat Sierra, freelancing, and diving into local culture. In this interview, Sierra opens up about her visa journey, life as an expat, connecting with communities, and her hopes for a more inclusive, millennial-friendly Mauritius.
Daniella Bee: An expat reinventing education in Mauritius
Schools & studies
Daniella Bee: An expat reinventing education in Mauritius
Daniella Bee, a French expat, moved to Mauritius two years ago. Once a globe-trotting digital nomad, she traded freedom and movement for something more grounded: purpose. Captivated by the island's natural beauty—and undeterred by its challenges—she chose to stay. Guided by compassion and curiosity, Daniella founded Grains d'Étoile, an educational initiative rooted in humanity, inclusion, and ecology. Her story is one of vision, commitment, and bold transformation. Meet the woman turning dreams into action.
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Everyday life
From Annecy to Mauritius: Meet Lionel, a digital expert
Originally from Annecy, Lionel discusses his evolution from an early career in sales to his current role as an expert in optimizing online processes for French SMEs. Currently based in Mauritius, he explains how he merges technological innovation with personal connections to transform business strategies and why he chose this tropical paradise as his new home.
Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre: Championing inclusive leadership and diversity
Work
Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre: Championing inclusive leadership and diversity
Join us for an in-depth discussion with Myriam Blin, Head of the Charles Telfair Centre, a key institution in the Western Indian Ocean dedicated to addressing regional challenges and enhancing collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and business leaders. She leads training initiatives focused on gender transformation leadership to meet the growing need for inclusive leadership. In this interview, she emphasizes the vital importance of diversity and inclusion in the current professional landscape and explores the distinctive challenges encountered in Mauritius. 
Love without borders: Thibault Cabanettes' journey to Mauritius for love
Everyday life
Love without borders: Thibault Cabanettes' journey to Mauritius for love
It was a delight to chat with Thibault Cabanettes, a dynamic young man from Marseille who embarked on a heartfelt journey to Mauritius in the name of love. With a diverse academic and professional background in France, Thibault took a life-changing leap, moving to Mauritius to be with Divya, his significant other. In this Interview, Thibault shares the hurdles and highlights of his new life in Mauritius, offering an intimate look into what it means to chase love across the globe.
MAMA JAZ festival: A must for all music lovers !
MAMA JAZ festival: A must for all music lovers !
Ready for a 9th edition, MAMA JAZ has evolved from a mere idea shared among friends to a thriving month-long festival celebrating Mauritius' musical talent. In this interview with Gavin Poonoosamy, the founder of MAMA JAZ, we find out about the evolution of the festival and what makes it a must-attend event.
Women's Rights Day: Stéphanie Bouloc, pioneering entrepreneur in the field of circular economy
Women's Rights Day: Stéphanie Bouloc, pioneering entrepreneur in the field of circular economy
Stéphanie Bouloc's journey from France to the picturesque island of Mauritius six years ago is not just about seeking paradise; it's about a deep commitment to the principles of the circular economy. As we commemorate Women's Rights Day, let's delve into the story of this resilient and innovative woman.
From Spain to Mauritius: A journey of adventure and growth 
Everyday life
From Spain to Mauritius: A journey of adventure and growth 
In this interview, we speak to María Cánovas, a dynamic individual hailing from Spain whose passion for travel and new cultural experiences led her to the enchanting island of Mauritius. Armed with a background in Tourism and Economics, María's journey unfolds as she takes us through her transformative six-month marketing internship at a prestigious hotel and the subsequent decision to return for a longer stay. 
From Botswana to Mauritius: An expat's reflections on the challenges faced by international students
Schools & studies
From Botswana to Mauritius: An expat's reflections on the challenges faced by international students
Bokamoso is a young international student from Botswana. She moved to Mauritius in June 2022 after being awarded the prestigious Mauritius-Africa Scholarship Scheme. While she recognizes that adapting to a new country takes a lot of effort, Bokamoso agrees that Mauritius has a lot to offer, from its beauty and diversity to the quality of its higher education system. She shared her view with us in this Interview.
Kris Lutchmayah: From the UK to Mauritius to reconnect with his roots
Everyday life
Kris Lutchmayah: From the UK to Mauritius to reconnect with his roots
Originally from Birmingham, in the UK, but with Mauritian roots, Kris Lutchmayah settled in Mauritius 10 years ago. A one-of-a-kind expat, he juggles a busy career as a property management specialist, digital marketer, actor and model, and a vibrant social life that includes exploring the island and promoting its beauty and richness via his social media channels. In this Interview, Kris Lutchmayah, or Just Kris for social media enthusiasts, talks to us about his daily routine, vegan lifestyle, and his long-term plans.
Career coach shares her views on entrepreneurship in Africa/Indian Ocean
Work
Career coach shares her views on entrepreneurship in Africa/Indian Ocean
Sandra Leblé is an entrepreneur and the co-president of French Tech Mauritius. She has been living on the island since August 2021 and is a professional coach. She shares with us her views on the entrepreneurial ecosystem not only in Mauritius but also in the African/Indian Ocean region, which she believes is brimming with opportunities for all those who wish to enter the Tech world.
Planning your move abroad as an international student: Tips from an expert
Schools & studies
Planning your move abroad as an international student: Tips from an expert
Sayantan Biswas, originally from India, is the co-founder of Adventum Student Living, an international student mobility platform. Since the reopening of the borders of most countries, he observed a growing number of students moving abroad for their studies, which also means a growing demand for student services. In this interview, he gives out tips for international students planning their move abroad to study in 2023.
Work
"Graines de Boss" is opening up to entrepreneurs in Mauritius
Fabrice Delon, the “Graines de Boss” CEO, talks about his project and his plans to expand to Mauritius. He encourages local companies which are less than 5 years old to apply as of December 1st, 2022.
South African in Mauritius: Lee talks about real estate and being adventurous on the island
South African in Mauritius: Lee talks about real estate and being adventurous on the island
Lee moved to Mauritius 12 years ago searching for a better quality of life for her family and herself. The real estate consultant talks to us about the real estate market in Mauritius as well as about what she loves about the island life.
Expat entrepreneur and influencer Mégane talks about her thirst for freedom
Everyday life
Expat entrepreneur and influencer Mégane talks about her thirst for freedom
Mégane landed for the first time in Mauritius in 2018 for an internship, but she quickly fell in love with the island's beauty. So back in France in 2019, she decided to go back and settle down in Mauritius for good. Today, she is an entrepreneur and social media influencer and talks to us about her journey as an expat.
Back to the island to launch her business: Charlotte tells us her story
Back to the island to launch her business: Charlotte tells us her story
After living abroad for 14 years, Charlotte moves back to Mauritius in 2020. Amidst the crisis, the young woman had no clue what direction her life would take. A year later, she has successfully created her small business and is hopeful as to what the future holds.

Other Types

Why Mauritius is Africa's new study abroad destination
Schools & studies
Why Mauritius is Africa's new study abroad destination
In the 2025–2026 National Budget, the Mauritian government announced plans to invest millions in the “Study Mauritius” brand. The goal is to position the country as a regional hub for higher education, attracting students from Africa, Asia, and beyond. What programs and measures under this initiative are likely to appeal to international students?
Small jobs, big support: How expats in Mauritius exchange skills and services
Everyday life
Small jobs, big support: How expats in Mauritius exchange skills and services
Behind the familiar image of a digital nomad in Mauritius sipping a smoothie by the sea, or a relaxed retiree with their feet buried in the sand, there's another side to the story—less glamorous, but just as real. It's a world built on odd jobs, skill swaps, favors, and informal networks that keep daily life going. A quiet, often invisible economy made of know-how, exchanges, and most of all... human connection. In this way of life, the goal isn't to “win” in any traditional sense. It's about flow—of skills, energy, ideas, time, objects, support, and knowledge. It's an economy rooted in handmade work, local ties, and genuine relationships. And yes, maybe even a hint of freedom.
Top events in Mauritius this July
Leisure
Top events in Mauritius this July
Whether you're pushing your limits on the slopes of Le Morne, moving to amapiano rhythms, or losing yourself in the intimacy of a piano recital, the month offers something for every taste. Expect a bold and varied lineup that blends international headliners with the finest local talent. Stages spring up across the island—from the Caudan Arts Centre to the beaches of Anse La Raie—showcasing a rich cultural calendar that makes winter feel anything but quiet. Here's your guide to the top events heating up the southern winter.
Life in Mauritius: 10 truths every expat will recognize
Everyday life
Life in Mauritius: 10 truths every expat will recognize
Living in Mauritius is a dream come true for many. But beyond the postcard-perfect images, life here comes with its own set of surprises—small details, habits, and emotions that only those who truly live on the island come to know. Here are 10 things only expats in Mauritius can share… always with a knowing smile.
End of property tax breaks in Mauritius: How it affects you
Tax
End of property tax breaks in Mauritius: How it affects you
Bad news for expats and prospective expats in Mauritius: the climate of austerity ushered in by the 2025/2026 National Budget will have a direct impact on non-citizen property owners on the island. Expats are set to feel the pinch as the budget brings higher taxes on buying, selling, and transferring property. Some of these taxes will even apply retroactively to properties purchased before 2025. The generous tax exemptions granted to various property schemes since 2016-2019 are finally coming to an end.
How living in Mauritius shapes a new you
Everyday life
How living in Mauritius shapes a new you
Living in Mauritius isn't just about changing time zones — it's about changing your rhythm, your tastes, your language, and even your playlist. For expats settling on this multicultural island, diversity isn't just part of the scenery. It's an immersion, a transformation — a whole new way of life. We spoke to several of them. What they shared with us carried the flavor of a curry, the warmth of a séga, and the joy of a heartfelt “mo kontan twa.” Here's what they told us.