Menu
Expat.com

How to make it as an English speaking expat in Mauritius

Written byNicola Richardson 27 May 2021

Bonjour! Hello! Bonzur! Coming to live in a country that is so diverse and speaks a plethora of different languages can be overwhelming, which should you learn first? 

It doesn't have to be overwhelming being a native English speaker in Mauritius, most Mauritians speak a good level English, as well as their native French and Creole so getting by as a native English speaker in most day to day settings from going to the supermarket, ordering your favourite coffee or getting petrol can be quite easy and stress free. It's more when you come to socialise or use the local bus service that you may need to brush up on those French/ Creole skills! It's also easy to find and meet other expats that you can converse with all over Mauritius. There are many FaceBook groups for the different areas in Mauritius which are set up by expats looking to meet other expats; it's a great way to expand your social network and help you feel more at home.

 Let's look at a few easy and accessible ways you can feel comfortable and confident being a native English speaker in Mauritius, but also practising a new language with the locals and really getting the full Mauritian experience.

Socialising with the locals

Don't shy away from socialising with new people just because you are a native English speaker- embrace it! Learn a few basic day to day French/ Creole phrases that you can have up your sleeve and start using them in the supermarkets, cafés, hair salon etc most Mauritians speak English in these settings but to be able to meet and greet people in their language is such a great feeling. How about getting you're walking shoes on and head to your local park, it's great to get around others with similar interests and you'll find people speaking English, French and Creole who you can communicate with easily. The more you put yourself out there in the culture the more you'll feel at home and gain a better understanding of the local life. And who knows maybe you can organise a Mauritian dinner party with your new found local friends, complete with local cuisine, conversation and music (Sega of course!)

Local transport

Feeling adventurous? How about taking the local transport! As an expat, the local buses and tram are a fabulous way to get out and see the island. The tram network has announcements and a ticketing system in both English and French, so it's easy to get around. Head out armed with those basic day to day phrases and catch the local bus, you can hop on all over the island, take a seat and the ticket attendant will give you your ticket for around 40 rupees. Sit back and enjoy the fabulous views of Mauritius and you head to a new spot to explore!

Get out of your comfort zone, a little

As a native English speaker it's always good to step outside your comfort zone once in a while. Head to the villages and smaller towns to get your fabulously fresh fruit and vegetables and order your produce from a local. It's amazing how much the locals appreciate you trying to speak a few basic phrases with them. Have you thought about researching different groups that interest you? There are so many interest groups from book clubs, walking groups to church meet ups and crafting! Where you will meet others that speak your native language some of whom are from your home country or even town who you can comfortably converse with and learn new skills. 

Happy conversing!

Everyday life
Language
Mauritius
About

I love the great outdoors and going on new and fabulous adventures.

Comments

More articles

View all articles

Articles to help you in your expat project in Mauritius

  • Retiring in Mauritius
    Retiring in Mauritius

    Mauritius is rapidly becoming a hub for foreign retirees. To provide for the growing interest, in addition to the ...

  • Customs in Mauritius
    Customs in Mauritius

    As you embark on your expatriate journey to the picturesque shores of Mauritius, navigating the intricacies of ...

  • Traveling to Mauritius
    Traveling to Mauritius

    Are you looking to move to Mauritius on a short-term visa to scout for opportunities or to get a feel of life on ...

  • Retire in Mauritius
    Retire in Mauritius

    Do you want to spend the rest of your life gazing at seemingly endless stripes of warm sand, swinging your golf ...

  • Driver's licence in Mauritius
    Driver's licence in Mauritius

    Mauritius has a well-developed public transport network, although the frequency and working hours might not work ...

  • Emergency numbers in Mauritius
    Emergency numbers in Mauritius

    The list below contains emergency numbers in Mauritius, should you be in need for assistance at any ...

  • Banking services in Mauritius
    Banking services in Mauritius

    Opening a bank account in Mauritius can help you in many ways, including receiving your salary, paying your ...

  • The health system in Mauritius
    The health system in Mauritius

    Health is a major issue when moving abroad. Are expats eligible for the Mauritian health system? What are the ...

All of Mauritius's guide articles