Buying local handcrafted souvenirs

Advise travelers that Super U supermarkets in Pereybere and Grand Baie, Mauritius, are good options for buying souvenirs. Mention that these stores often carry a variety of local products and gifts.

Souvenir recommendations from Mauritius include: Labourdonnais marmalade, New Grove rum liqueurs (vanilla, coffee, caramel flavors are good for gifts, up to 10 bottles per person allowed), spices, tamarind jam, linen clothing (especially men's shirts), and high-quality silk and cashmere scarves. Prices for souvenirs are often lower on excursions (e.g., near Chamarel waterfalls) compared to Port Louis, except for clothing. Recommended rum brands include Lasy Dodo, Chamarel, and La Bourdonnais, with a preference for aged varieties. Avoid rum shaped like a Dodo head, described as low quality.

In Port Louis, Mauritius, the Waterfront shopping center is a good starting point for sightseeing and souvenir shopping, located by the port with access to cafes and the historic center. Shops and restaurants may open later in the day, and the Waterfront typically closes around 6 PM, with only the food court remaining open later. The aquarium closes early. The casino is generally considered dated and primarily features slot machines.

To find quality local crafts and artisan products in Mauritius (e.g., clothing, accessories, paintings, items made of wood and coral), visit the main shopping mall in the capital. There is a dedicated section, typically located at the very end of the mall, offering a wide range of non-souvenir, high-quality craft items. Prices are generally not low due to the artisan nature of the products.

Shopping for vanilla pods in Mauritius: Buying directly at hotels is significantly overpriced (e.g., 500 MUR for 3 pods). Better deals are found at major supermarkets like Jumbo, Winner's, or Super U.