Banking Services and Exchange (MCB, SBM) in Mauritius: what actually matters to know
Short answer
The Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) and State Bank of Mauritius (SBM) provide the most favorable exchange rates and are the best places to accept older-series USD bills without commission. For general EUR to MUR exchange, airport rates are often advantageous, though searching for multiple exchange offices in areas like Grand Bay can secure better deals.
From real experience
For currency exchange on Mauritius, it's most advantageous to do so upon arrival at the airport.
For potentially better rates, head to Grand Bay where multiple exchange offices are located. The Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) often offers the most favorable rates. For example, the EUR to MUR rate was 53.45 on April 27th, which was significantly better than hotel rates.
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Old series USD banknotes are often rejected at Mauritius airport currency exchanges.
Recommended banks for exchanging older USD bills: MCB (Mauritius Commercial Bank) and SBM (State Bank of Mauritius). Specifically, a bank near the bus stop opposite the Grand Baie public beach is reported to accept older series notes.
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Currency exchange in Mauritius: Banks (specifically MCB) accept old-series USD bills at the same rate as new ones without extra commission.
UAE Dirhams (AED) are also widely exchangeable for Mauritian Rupees (MUR) at major shopping centers like Casela.
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Old-format US dollar bills may not be accepted everywhere in Mauritius.
While some exchange points in the airport might accept them, it's advisable to use newer bills. MCB bank exchanges any currency without commission.
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Provide recommendations for advantageous locations or methods to exchange EUR to MUR in Flic-en-Flac, Mauritius.
Include information on official exchange bureaus or banks.