Investing in Mauritius Property Investing in Mauritius Property | Page 18

TOURISM
In the past thirty years, Mauritius has developed from a
low-income economy based on agriculture to a middle-
income diversified economy. Much of this economic
growth has been the result of the expansion of the luxury
tourism sector. Mauritius is one of Africa’s wealthier
countries, and its economy is mainly dependent on the
sugar, textiles, and tourism industries. As world sugar
prices have declined and the production of textiles has
become economically unfeasible, the tourist industry
is being concentrated on. Tourist policy in Mauritius
promotes elite and specialist tourism because of the
limited space available for tourism and the need to
maximise income while minimizing environmental
impact. Low budget tourism in not encouraged. Preferring
high-end tourism, the Mauritian government promotes
boutique luxury hotels, 4 and 5 stars beach resorts, golf
courses, and spas and beauty centres. Tourism is directed
primarily at the high-spending European market.
The Mauritian government encourages tourism for
its ability to spread economic development along
with reducing inequalities in income distribution by
providing jobs. In other words, it raises the standard of
living of the local people. As mentioned by Glasson et
al., 1995, the government views tourism as a catalyst
for national and regional development. Moreover, it
brings employment, exchange of currency, balance of
payments advantages and important development such
as infrastructure benefiting locals and visitors alike.
Tourism industry has been the largest as well the fastest
industry of the world.
Tourists are primarily European, mainly French and
British. Mauritius tends to be a high cost tourist
destination. Air travel and accommodation are relatively
expensive. Most tourists are on package holidays;
there is very little independent travel or backpacking.
To promote up-market tourism, charter flights have
been banned, the resort hotels have been built to high
standards and there are high standards of cuisine and
service. There are direct flights from Britain and South
Africa.