English is the official language of the island, though you're bound to hear French, Créole (a melange of French and various African dialects) and a smattering of Indian languages.

The island's main contribution to the performing arts is the Créole séga, a foot-shuffling, body-gyrating dance that's generally performed on the beach to the rhythm of Latin American, Caribbean and African music. Séga variations to Créole music are popular in the island's discos and the choreographed ‘cultural shows' you'll see in hotel lounges.

One highlight of a visit to Mauritius is the magnificent mixture of cuisines on offer. The most common varieties are Créole, European, Chinese and Indian, with seafood almost always the specialty. In addition, a typical Mauritian buffet might include a Muslim biryani, Indian chicken curry, Chinese pork dish, Créole roast beef and French-style vegetables. Boiled rice is served with just about everything. Common dishes include rougaille, a Mediterranean dish of tomatoes, onions, garlic and any kind of meat or fish, and daube, an octopus stew.

Favorite local beverages includes lassi, a refreshing yogurt and ice-water drink, and alouda, a syrupy brew of agar, milk and flavourings that's available everywhere from streetside vendors.

Locally produced beer and rum are potent, plentiful and cheap; wines are expensive and usually imported from France or South Africa.