Rodrigues - Good to Know

Authenticity, tranquillity, and a warm welcome are what set apart this smallest island of the Mascareignes in the Indian Ocean, which was discovered in 1528 by Don Diégo Rodriguez. The island is located about 560 km north-east of Mauritius and nearly 800 km from Reunion Island. The time has seemed to stop here...you don't visit Rodrigues, but you live it. The most precious give Rodrigues can offer you is.....your dreams....

	Facts About Rodrigues
	Location19°43' latitude South and 63°25' longitude East. Population Approximately 40,000 residents, primarily of Creole origin. The island is a mixture of descendants of African heritage and descendants of the French colony. Area 109 km2 (18 km long and 8 km wide) and a 200 km2 lagoon of turquoise, emerald, and blue water comprised of 17 islets such as Ile aux Cocos, Ile aux Sable, Ile Hermitage, Ile aux Chats, and Ile Catherine where daily excursions can be arranged, or a night spend just like Robinson Crusoe. Political Status Rodrigues Island forms part of the Republic of Mauritius. Since 12 October 2002, the island is autonomous and has its own assembly. Main place and principal port Port-Mathurin. Airport Plaine-Corail. Languages Creole is the maternal language. French is the main language used in the medias, family and business relations, and is taught in school. However, English is the official language and is used in the administration. Relief Rodrigues offers an amazingly diverse range of topography including hills, plateaus, narrow and deep valleys, and clear bays that shelter the beaches where you quickly forget the stresses of your everyday life. The highest peak is Mont Limon which reaches 398 m above sea level. Climate Rodrigues offers a tropical climate, which is pleasant throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 29°C to 34°C during summer (November to April). The temperature is cooler during the winter months (May to October). Cyclones can threaten the island during the summer seasons. Droughts sometimes afflict the island between September and November. The water temperature varies between 23°C and 29°C. Currency, Credit Cards The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (Rs). In November 2007, 1 Euro ? Rs 42. Credit card use is not widespread in Rodrigues; although certain hotels and shops may accept them. It is preferable to bring liquid money for your stay in Rodrigues. Foreign exchange is available at different bank counters at the airport in Mauritius or upon arrival at Rodrigues Plaine Corail airport. You can also withdraw money from automated teller machines (ATMs) located at the airport, Mont Lubin, La Ferme, and Port Mathurin. Time Change Don't forget to take into consideration the time change (GMT + 4). Rodrigues is two hours ahead of Europe during the summer and three hours during the winter. GSM Mobile Telephones Contact your local operator to make sure you are well covered throughout the world. Electricity The sockets are 200 Volts and adaptors are available in local shops. Formalities Your passport must be valid for 6 months after your return. Also, note that a return air ticket is required. Vaccination No vaccinations are required. Medical Assistance Insurance Medical coverage is recommended (it is sometimes included with certain credit cards), although there is a hospital and pharmacy in Rodrigues. Vehicles are driven on the left. 90% of Rodriguans are church-going catholics.