Setting Up Shop in Mauritius: A Digital Nomad’s Workspace Guide

Mauritius, a beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and a thriving business environment. For digital nomads looking to set up shop in this tropical paradise, Mauritius provides a range of workspace options, from coworking spaces to beachfront cafes. In this guide, we will explore the best places to work, the local business climate, and the essential information you need to know as a digital nomad in Mauritius.

Working in Mauritius

Mauritius has positioned itself as a business-friendly island, attracting entrepreneurs and professionals from around the world. The country boasts a stable economy, reliable infrastructure, and a favorable tax regime, making it an ideal location for remote workers and startups. Here are some key points to consider when working in Mauritius:

• Visa Requirements: Digital nomads can enter Mauritius on a tourist visa, which allows for a stay of up to 90 days. For longer stays, it is recommended to apply for a business visa or a work permit.
• Internet Connectivity: Mauritius has a well-developed telecommunications network, offering high-speed internet access in most urban areas. Coworking spaces and cafes also provide reliable Wi-Fi connections.
• Time Zone: Mauritius operates on Mauritius Standard Time (MUT), which is four hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4). This time zone is convenient for working with European and African clients.
• Language: The official languages of Mauritius are English and French. English is widely spoken, making communication with locals and business contacts easy for English-speaking digital nomads.
• Currency: The currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). Most businesses accept major credit cards, and ATMs are widely available.
• Coworking Spaces: Mauritius offers a growing number of coworking spaces, providing comfortable and professional work environments. Some popular options include Turbine Business Incubator, The Hive, and CoWork Grand Baie.

Choosing Your Workspace

When it comes to choosing a workspace in Mauritius, digital nomads have several options to consider. Whether you prefer a quiet office environment, a lively cafe atmosphere, or a beachfront setting, Mauritius has something for everyone. Here are some top choices for digital nomad workspaces in Mauritius:

• Tamarin Business Centre: Located in Tamarin, this modern coworking space offers flexible workstations, meeting rooms, and high-speed internet. With a relaxed and professional atmosphere, it is a popular choice among remote workers.
• Le Café des Arts: Situated in Curepipe, Le Café des Arts is a charming cafe with a creative vibe. It provides free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quiet ambiance, making it an excellent choice for focused work sessions.
• Blue Bay Beach: For those who enjoy working with a view, Blue Bay Beach is a stunning location. Set up your laptop on the sandy shores and enjoy the sound of crashing waves while you work.
• Sugar Beach: Located in Flic en Flac, Sugar Beach is a luxury resort that offers a peaceful and professional work environment. With its beautiful surroundings and excellent amenities, it is an ideal place for digital nomads seeking tranquility.

Networking and Business Opportunities

Mauritius is not only a great place to work but also a hub for networking and business opportunities. The country hosts various business events, conferences, and meetups that bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals from different industries. Here are some notable networking opportunities in Mauritius:

• Mauritius Africa FinTech Hub: This hub provides a platform for networking and collaboration within the fintech industry. It hosts workshops, pitch events, and networking sessions, connecting digital nomads with local and international professionals.
• Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry: The chamber organizes business forums, trade missions, and networking events, offering digital nomads the chance to connect with local businesses and explore potential partnerships.
• Meetup.com Groups: Joining relevant Meetup.com groups in Mauritius can provide opportunities to meet like-minded professionals, attend workshops, and participate in networking events.

Exploring Mauritius

While work is essential, exploring the beauty of Mauritius is equally important. Take breaks from your work and indulge in the island’s breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant cuisine. Here are some must-visit places in Mauritius:

• Black River Gorges National Park: Explore the lush greenery, hiking trails, and stunning waterfalls in this national park, which is home to a variety of endemic plant and animal species.
• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: Discover the exotic flora and fauna in one of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Don’t miss the famous giant water lilies.
• Port Louis: Visit the capital city of Mauritius and explore its bustling markets, historical sites, and vibrant street food scene.
• Le Morne Brabant: Take a hike up this UNESCO World Heritage site and enjoy panoramic views of the island’s southwestern coast.

Conclusion

Setting up shop in Mauritius as a digital nomad offers an incredible opportunity to work in a picturesque setting while enjoying a favorable business environment. With its coworking spaces, networking events, and beautiful landscapes, Mauritius provides the perfect balance between work and leisure. Embrace the island’s unique charm, and make the most of your digital nomad experience in Mauritius.

References

– Turbine Business Incubator: turbine.mu
– The Hive: thehivemauritius.com
– CoWork Grand Baie: coworkgrandbaie.com
– Mauritius Africa FinTech Hub: mafh.mu
– Mauritius Chamber of Commerce and Industry: mcci.org
– Meetup.com: meetup.com
– Black River Gorges National Park: mauritiusattractions.com
– Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: mauritiusinsideout.com
– Port Louis: mauritius.travel
– Le Morne Brabant: unesco.org