How to Use the Public Bus System in Mauritius
The beautiful island of Mauritius is bigger than it seems. For the budget traveler, hiring a taxi for the entirety of a vacation is not a cost-effective option. The bus system is an inexpensive alternative that allows you to interact with Mauritians and see as much of the beautiful island as you wish to see.
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Instructions
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Locate the nearest bus stop. It might be a large terminal or just a bus stop on the side of the road. Your hotel staff should be able and willing to guide you. This article will assume that you are near a terminal, which is easier for a person who is unfamiliar with the Mauritian bus system.
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At the terminal, locate the waiting area for your bus route. There may or may not be a bus in the loading zone. If there is, board it. If not, wait until it arrives and then board it. You will not pay immediately, but rather once the bus starts moving.
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Once the bus departs from the terminal, the conductor will start from the front of the bus until he collects a bus fare from every rider. Tell the conductor where you are going [or point on a map] and they will determine your fare. Pay in coins if possible to prevent a pocket full of heavy change at the end of the day.
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Pay close attention to where you are as the bus is moving. Use your map to follow along. Once you get near your desired stop, stand up and start moving toward the front of the bus. When the bus stops, thank the driver and be on your way.
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Tips & Warnings
If possible, choose a seat near the front of the bus. Bumpy roads and aggressive drivers combine to make the rear of the bus an unpleasant place to be.
If you need help finding something, don't hesitate to ask any person you see. Mauritians truly are some of the kindest people in the world and they will do their best to assist you.
Bus routes can be found online [if you look hard enough] or in print form from some hotels and/or travel information offices.
