| | | >> RÉUNION > TRAVEL INFORMATION & FACTS
 CAPITAL : St-Denis
TIME: GMT +4HRS
CURRENCY: French Franc / Euro
How to get there
Air Austral flies to Réunion twice a week on Thursdays and Sundays.
Visa Requirements
As Réunion is a French Province, South African passport holders will require a visa. This is best done through a travel agent or visa service, as the process is somewhat tedious. EC, British and American passport holders do not require a visa.
Health Requirements
Réunion is a malaria free country, the water is potable and no immunizations are required.
Dress Code
If just going on a holiday, beach wear is a necessity. Warm clothing will be required for the mountains as well as good comfortable hiking shoes with strong grips. Always remember to pack some rain protection as well as sun protection. If visiting Réunion Island on business, or if you intend visiting some of the more formal restaurants and venues, appropriate attire is advisable (smart lightweight clothing).
Getting Around
The best way of getting around Réunion is by car as the road infrastructure is excellent. Driving is on the right hand side of the road.
Language
Predominantly French and Creole. It is advisable that English speaking visitors travel with a small English/French phrase book. Language can be a stumbling block but most people will be polite and try and assist where possible.
Accommodation
There are approximately 48 hotels on the island with two 4-star hotels, the rest being 2-star or 3-star rated according to the French system. They are of a high standard, with restaurants serving good food, ranging from continental to Creole to Indian and Chinese cuisine. There are also numerous B&B establishments and mountain houses (Gites) at reasonable rates, where visitors sit down to enjoy meals with the proprietor's family.
Times to visit
Réunion can be visited all year round, although February generally is not a good month as cyclones may occur.
Climate
Hot and humid in the coastal regions, cool in the mountains.
Currency
At the moment the French Franc, but Réunion is converting to the Euro. All till transactions now have both values, the French Franc amount and the Euro equivalent. $US are also easily exchangeable. American Express is not readily accepted.
Luggage Allowance - 20 kg max weight
- 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine
- Power Supply 220 V, European 2 prong plugs
Cost-Saving Tips
Pack some teabags, travel kettle or small immersion element, some coffee, bottle opener (corkscrew) and a small cooler bag. Shop for your incidentals at the supermarkets in Réunion. It is a LOT cheaper than purchasing such items through the hotel. |
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