Mauritius with kids: frequently asked questions

Any age, and that is one of its strengths. There is no malaria and no compulsory vaccinations from the UK, the three-to-four-hour time difference creates no real jet lag, and resorts are set up for babies with cots, high chairs and bottle warmers. With infants the long flight is the only genuine obstacle, and the overnight service from Heathrow softens it considerably. From about 6 or 7 children also get the benefit of snorkelling and dolphin trips.

Yes. It is one of the most stable and safest countries in Africa and the Indian Ocean, with low crime, particularly in tourist areas. Tap water is drinkable in many areas, though bottled is the sensible precaution with children. Private healthcare is of a good standard with reputable clinics in the north and in Port Louis. Comprehensive travel insurance with medical cover is essential.

Around 12 hours direct from London Heathrow with British Airways or Air Mauritius, usually overnight — so children sleep through the long leg and you arrive with the day ahead. From the US there is no direct service; routings connect through Europe or Dubai, making a total of 18 to 22 hours depending on the connection.

They eat well, with less friction than expected. Mauritian cooking blends Indian, Creole, Chinese and French influences, so there are mild, non-spicy dishes on any menu. Every resort has a children's menu and buffets with recognisable options: pasta, rice, chicken and abundant tropical fruit. Outside the resort, *tables d'hôtes* serve excellent home cooking at very reasonable prices.

Not for the whole stay, but for a day or two it is worth it. Driving is on the left, a legacy of British rule, roads are in good condition and traffic is manageable outside Port Louis. A day with a car to leave the resort, see a village and eat at a local table d'hôte tends to be one of the most memorable and cheapest days of the trip.

Light summer clothing year-round, high-factor sun protection — the tropical sun is fierce even in the austral winter — and hats. Between May and September add long sleeves and a light jacket: evenings are cooler than most people expect. Reef shoes are strongly recommended for the lagoon, where there is coral and the occasional sea urchin. A thin wetsuit or rash vest helps for extended snorkelling in the austral winter.

In many areas it is potable, and resort supplies are treated. Even so, with children the standard advice is bottled water throughout the stay — it is cheap and available everywhere. It is a simple precaution that avoids the one digestive problem likely on the trip.

It depends on the month, and this is the point that spoils the most holidays. From May to September, when the trade wind blows, choose the west or north coast, which sit sheltered. From November to March the east coast is more pleasant because that same breeze relieves the heat. The north, around Grand Baie, is the most versatile option for a first visit thanks to the life outside the resort.

The inner lagoon is protected by a coral reef ringing almost the whole island, so the water is shallow, warm and current-free — an unusually safe environment for children to swim and snorkel. Sharks are not an issue inside the lagoon. Reef shoes are worth having for sea urchins, and always respect the flags and the resort's guidance.

Yes, cards are accepted normally in resorts, restaurants and tourist businesses. It is worth carrying some Mauritian rupees in cash for markets, small tables d'hôtes, taxis and tips. There are ATMs throughout the tourist areas and at the airport.

Mauritius is GMT+4, so there is a three-hour difference during British Summer Time and four hours in winter. It is one of its great family advantages over Asian or American destinations: there is virtually no jet lag to manage and children hold their normal routine from day one.