Travel writer Sarah Bridge had to quarantine in Mauritius for 14 days on a work trip – here she shares what she learnt and what she’d do differently next time.
How did you end up quarantining in a hotel in Mauritius?
During November 2020, I traveled to Mauritius for a month to consult with the tourism board on media strategy and training. With a year’s writing contract having just ended, I felt my travel was essential for work. However, I was still apprehensive about the quality of the hotel accommodations and food. I stayed at the Trou aux Biches Beachcomber hotel in the northwest region of the island for 14 days. All incoming arrivals to Mauritius are required to quarantine, regardless of nationality. My journey started with a flight from Heathrow to Dubai, followed by a connecting flight to Mauritius.
How much does it cost to quarantine in a hotel in Mauritius?
The cost of hotel quarantine in Mauritius varies, ranging between £1,000 and £5,000, depending on the hotel’s star rating and the type of room selected. This price includes transfers, all meals, and non-Mauritians face an additional charge of around £247 to account for medical costs, including three Covid tests. The impressive aspect of Mauritius’s system is that hotel staff work in a bubble, starting their shifts and interacting only with guests who arrive on the same day. This methodology greatly reduces the risk of cross-contamination, protecting both guests and the local community.
How had the hotel accommodated guests quarantining?
The entire hotel was designated as a quarantine hotel. Upon landing, all passengers underwent a Covid test at the airport before being transported in minibuses to the hotel. I experienced a wait of approximately two and a half hours before being taken to Trou aux Biches, enjoying a unique arrival with a police escort. Throughout the stay, meals were delivered directly to my door and left on a stand outside – this ensured minimal contact. My room had a lovely balcony allowing a pleasant through-breeze.
The meals provided during my quarantine included breakfast, lunch, dinner, and optional afternoon tea, which I had to decline due to the generous serving sizes. Hotel staff phoned daily to confirm meal preferences from a weekly menu. The food was excellent, diverse, and satisfying, including options like fish and rice, beef stew, and delicious puddings. Each meal included a litre of still water, with the option to order wines or beers, payable at the end of the stay. There were soft drinks and UHT milk available in the mini-bar, alongside a kettle for coffee and tea.
Although I couldn’t leave my room, I found ways to exercise on the steps leading down to the path. I envied ground-floor guests, who were allowed designated areas for fresh air and sunbathing. However, there were no communal areas for all guests.
Was everyone in the hotel quarantining?
Yes, the entire hotel was reserved for quarantining guests. This meant that the restaurant, gym, and pools were all closed to ensure maximum safety.
What precautions were the staff taking to avoid catching the virus?
Staff consistently wore masks and adhered to strict hygiene protocols, including regular hand sanitization. Daily temperature checks were conducted outside my room, and no one entered my room throughout the entire stay. I was provided with cleaning supplies, including a mop and bucket, and could request more items if needed.
How was your mental health during quarantine?
Emotionally, I managed well throughout the quarantine, considering itself a privilege to be in Mauritius and with the benefit of a spacious hotel room. My setup allowed me to create a distinct separation between work and personal time, enhancing my mental well-being. There was only one day I felt restless—my final day—waiting for my Covid test results, but once I received the all-clear, my spirits lifted. I quickly transitioned to a new hotel to enjoy the island’s beauty and was eager to explore.
Would you quarantine again?
I would definitely choose to quarantine again if it was necessary, especially in Mauritius, because it meant I could eventually explore and enjoy the local environment. I also found the experience liberating, allowing ample time to handle overdue tasks, like photo organization and catching up on movies. In hindsight, I would request a room with a sea view to enhance the experience further.
What advice would you give to anyone who is about to go through hotel quarantine?
If you’re a coffee lover, bring a coffee press to enjoy quality brews. It’s also beneficial to have an HDMI cable to connect your laptop to the TV for a more comfortable viewing experience. Establishing an exercise routine is essential for both mental health and to manage food consumption. If working isn’t possible, engage in activities that provide a sense of purpose, such as learning a new language or creative writing. Maintain a consistent daily routine, get dressed, and stay active to enhance the quarantine experience.
