MOVING TO MAURITIUS?

Relocating to an idyllic island like Mauritius has become far more reachable over recent years, with many South Africans packing up and leaving their home country for white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and less stress. In fact, Executive Director of Park Lane Properties, Brian Blatch says the Mauritian property market is booming, with a large chunk of property buyers being South African. “There is a lot of construction happening; many new projects,” he says. “We can’t meet the demand.”

The island is a mere four-hour flight from South Africa, making commuting relatively painless. And, with many people working from home these days, living in Mauritius while working for a large corporate company in Joburg, is not impossible.

Three South African Cities In Mauritius

The Mauritian version of Cape Town must be in the south-western part of the island. This is where you’ll find the Rivière Noire

(Black River) district, famous for the 6 574-hectare Black River Gorges National Park. The natural reserve is filled with lovely hiking trails, indigenous forests and a variety of wildlife. It is perfect for families with a very outdoorsy, Capetonian vibe attached to it.

The geographically flat northern part of the island is similar to Joburg, with a strong island vibe for the younger crowd. Here you’re likely to still find a club open after 22:00, and Catamaran rides and lobster are very much a thing. This area has also proven to be a little more expensive on the property side. Central Mauritius can be compared to

TIPS WHEN MOVING TO MAURITIUS:

Durban’s Kloof area and with its cooler climate and some distance from the beach, it is a favourite among older people.

PERMIT PRESSURE?

Mauritius has five different residential permits which you can apply for. Whether it’s through property investment (buy a house of R7 million or more, and you’re in for good), a retirement visa or an occupational visa, there are options. And, with a clever contact like Park Lane Properties, obtaining a visa and buying or renting a property won’t be difficult at all. H

• A visit to Mauritius prior to committing to emigrating, is crucial.

• Considering transport taxes, buying a new car to take over to the island would be like buying it for twice the price. Rather take your old car.

• Bearing in mind that Mauritian houses are 250m² on average, you’ll have to consider a garage sale before the move.

• At least 80% of the rental properties in Mauritius are furnished, so even if you bring nothing over, you’ll still be fine.