MAURITIUS ISLAND

CURRENCY: Mauritian Rupee (MUR).

EXCHANGE RATE: MR 20.40 = US$1.

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: English, French, Hindustani and Creole.

POPULATION: 1,040,000.

INTERNATIONAL CODE: TELEPHONE 230.

CURRENCY CONTROLS: The import and export of the Rupee(s) and foreign currencies is free.There are no restrictions.All major currencies are easily exchangeable.

GAMING INFORMATION: There are nine casinos on Mauritius located in resort areas.They are licensed by the Gaming Control board and managed by the State Investment Corporation Management Company.Separate joint ventures (private and government) operate the casinos based on the governmental controls.The Mauritius is in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 km / 1,250 miles from the east coast of Africa, and 1,000 km / 625 miles from Madagascar.It is a small island group located at the Tropic of Capricorn, almost 2,000 km / 1,250 miles off the east coast of Africa.The islands are volcanic in origin, and are famous for their beautiful beaches, exotic coral reefs, and a colorful ethnic culture mix.About 65% are of Indian descent, 30% of African and Creole origin, and the rest Chinese and Europeans.

CLIMATE: Tropical warm climate year round with reversed seasons due to its south of the equator location.Summer January temperatures are 27'c (81'F); July winter temperatures are 23'c (73'F).

VISITOR INFORMATION: Mauritius Government Tourist Office, Ennanual Anquetil Bldg., Sir S.Ramgoolan St., Port Louis, Mauritius.

Tel: 201-1703.

Fax: 212-5142.

HOW TO GET THERE: By air - British Airways, Air France, Qantas, SAA, Air India, Air Mauritius, Alitalia, Lufthansa, Zambia Airways, Royal Swazi National Airways fly to the island's Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolamm Airport, near Mahebourg on the southeast coast.