Souvenirs and handcraft Mauritius

 Shopping

Mauritius is the duty-free island. At the beginning of 2005, the government decided to do away with taxes on luxury (brand name clothing, leatherwear, jewellery) and electrical goods. This measure aims at making Mauritius a shopping paradise like Dubai.

The most typical souvenir to bring back from Mauritius is a model ship. Made to a scale of 1:75 from the blue prints of historical boats, these miniatures are true master pieces scrupulously respecting every detail (canons, sails, ropes) of the original ships. In Curepipe and in the centre of Floreal, you can find traditional workshops, but the best address for more choice is Goodlands workshop in the north.

Another typical purchase is spices, which you can buy at Port-Louis market, and vanilla tea, the plantations being located in the south, in Bois Cheri. Mauritian handicraft also comprises wickerwork (baskets, trays, hats) and embroidered material. Be careful when buying T-shirts, shirts and other pieces of clothing. They are more and more often imported from Asia. Independent tailors however, are still affordable and can make a tailored dress, skirt or suit within a few days.

Shops are generally open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm on week days.