Mauritius offers more than just breathtaking landscapes and luxurious resorts. Its unique blend of cultures, from Creole to French and Indian, shapes a vibrant lifestyle that beckons visitors from around the globe. Join us as we uncover the essence of Mauritius' lifestyle, from its culinary delights and outdoor adventures to its rich cultural tapestry and laid-back island charm.
Population of Mauritius
Mauritius is a quaint island enriched by its multiple origins and cultures, and according to the latest figures, it is home to a population of 1,308,222 inhabitants. There are different ethnicities:
One people, one nation
The Mauritian population is distinguished by its various ethnic origins:
Indo-Mauritians: 67%
Mauritian Creoles: 28%
Sino-Mauritians: 3%
Franco-Mauritians: 2%
Language(s) in Mauritius
English is the official language of the Mauritian Republic, a remnant of British colonialism. The administration and official texts are all in English. French and Mauritian Creole are the most readily spoken languages, however.
Due to the multicultural composition of the Mauritian nation, Creole integrates elements of English, Bhojpuri, Chinese, as well as African dialects, forming a true linguistic melting pot.
Mauritian cultural code
Mauritian culture is based on coexistence, solidarity, and conviviality. Despite inevitable challenges, Mauritians cultivate a deep attachment to the community. Gathered around warm meals, whether it's an intimate lunch or a lively celebration like a wedding or birthday, they share unforgettable moments of conviviality. In neighbourhoods, especially in popular areas, the proximity between neighbours fosters exchanges and acts of mutual aid, reflecting the values of solidarity and camaraderie that animate daily life in Mauritius.
Cultural diversity lies at the heart of Mauritius, where the rich legacies of Indian, African, Chinese, Arab, and European cultures converge. This plurality translates into a constant exchange among the different communities of the population. Thus, during religious or cultural festivals, it is common to observe a generous sharing of sweets, delicious dishes, and gifts, reflecting the prevailing convivial atmosphere. Despite differences in beliefs and cultures, this gesture embodies the spirit of unity and tolerance that characterizes Mauritian society.
Congeniality and peaceful living in Mauritius
Mauritian culture is based on congeniality and living peacefully together. Although things have not always been smooth, Mauritians like to live in a community. They like to gather around a table for dinner, lunch, or for a big party at a wedding or a birthday. In residential areas, especially in working-class neighborhoods, the neighbors get along well and help each other out.
As Mauritius is the meeting place of many cultures - including Indian, African, Chinese, Arab, and European cultures - there is a lot of sharing between the different segments of the Mauritian population. It is customary, for example, that for religious and cultural holidays or celebrations, some share sweets, food and presents with others, even if they do not share the same beliefs or culture.
Family values in Mauritius
Family is sacred to Mauritians. In fact, it is customary for young Mauritians to live with their parents until they are ready to get married and start their own family. It is not at all uncommon for the whole family to be involved in a family member's decision-making, whether it be about marriage, choice of housing, or anything else - a habit that might be difficult to understand for expats coming from Western countries.
Respect for elders is also very important for Mauritians. It is relatively rare for Mauritians to send their elderly parents or grandparents to retirement homes.
Greetings in Mauritius
Depending on the relationship with the interlocutor, the greeting can be a simple "hello", a handshake, or even a kiss, 2 kisses on the cheeks in fact.
Proximity and friendship in Mauritius
It is relatively easy to make close friends in Mauritius. Mauritians are very open, will invite you to have a drink or dinner at their place, and will introduce you to their families and friends quite quickly if you manage to forge a friendship with them.
Punctuality in Mauritius
It is "island life" all the way here. Mauritians have a very laid-back way of doing things, and their lives will not be dictated by a clock! Do not take it personally if a Mauritian is late to a party, it is perfectly normal and does not constitute a lack of respect.
Besides, parties always start at least an hour after the stated time, so avoid getting there on time. However, they are usually quite punctual when it comes to appointments and professional interviews.
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
