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7 Inspiring Ways Expat Enrich Mauritius’ Culture

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A group of Vietnamese expats in Mauritius gathered to celebrate a Vietnamese festival, maintaining cultural traditions while embracing the multicultural society of Mauritius.

Cultural Continuity : Vietnamese Keep Traditions Alive in Mauritius
Jameela Jaddoo
dim 15/10/2023 – 08:25

Mauritius, a tropical island nestled in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its cultural diversity and rich heritage. Among the many communities that call this island home, Vietnamese expats in Mauritius have made a significant impact. From starting businesses to sharing their traditional cuisine, Vietnamese immigrants are helping shape the cultural landscape of this island paradise. In this article, we explore how Vietnamese expats in Mauritius have adapted to their new environment, thrived in various sectors, and continue to celebrate their vibrant cultural heritage.

Adapting to Life in Mauritius

For many Vietnamese expats, the journey to Mauritius began with love and the promise of a new life. Hà Shu, who has lived in Mauritius for over eleven years, met her husband, Pierre, in Hong Kong while on a business trip. Their shared values and mutual respect for each other led them to build a life together on the island. Hà Shu explains, “I think maybe it’s called destiny. Meeting Pierre was a turning point in my life. Moving to Mauritius was an easy decision as we both wanted to settle down in a peaceful, multicultural environment.”

Like many Vietnamese expats in Mauritius, Hà Shu found it relatively easy to adapt to the island’s laid-back lifestyle. She credits her open-mindedness and the support from her husband and his family for making the transition smoother. “Living in Mauritius has allowed me to connect with people from different parts of the world. It’s a unique blend of cultures, and I feel fortunate to be part of it,” she says.

Vietnamese Business Success in Mauritius

One of the most remarkable success stories among the Vietnamese expat community is the establishment of businesses that not only cater to the Vietnamese community but also to the broader Mauritian market. For instance, Hà Shu manages a family business that supplies uniforms and corporate gifts to hotels, schools, and companies. Her business model is built around providing quality products while embracing both Mauritian and Vietnamese cultures.

Similarly, Tuyen Ngo, another Vietnamese expat, opened an online retail store specializing in women’s fashion. After noticing a gap in the Mauritian market for high-quality, trendy women’s wear, Tuyen saw an opportunity to bring the latest trends from Vietnam and other Asian countries to the island. “Vietnam and Asian countries are known for their fashion. I saw a gap in the market for stylish yet affordable clothing, and that’s how I decided to start my business,” says Tuyen.

These entrepreneurial ventures not only contribute to the local economy but also foster cross-cultural exchange by introducing Mauritians to Vietnamese products and traditions.

Vietnamese Cuisine: A Taste of Vietnam in Mauritius

One of the most significant ways Vietnamese expats have influenced Mauritius is through their cuisine. Vietnamese food is known for its fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Popular dishes such as pho, spring rolls, and banh mi have become favorites among locals and visitors alike.

Vietnamese expats in Mauritius often share their cooking techniques with their Mauritian friends, introducing them to traditional Vietnamese flavors. Jenny, a Vietnamese expat, enjoys preparing Vietnamese dishes for her Mauritian family and friends. “It’s wonderful to share my culture through food. When I cook for my family here in Mauritius, it helps me stay connected to my roots,” she explains.

Additionally, restaurants like Hà Shu’s family business often feature both Vietnamese and Mauritian dishes, allowing for a seamless fusion of the two cultures. Vietnamese restaurants in Mauritius are becoming increasingly popular, attracting both tourists and locals eager to try authentic Vietnamese food.

Celebrating Vietnamese Traditions in Mauritius

Though living far from their homeland, Vietnamese expats in Mauritius remain deeply connected to their cultural traditions. Celebrations such as Tet (Vietnamese New Year), Vietnamese Women’s Day, and Independence Day are significant events for the community. During these festivals, expats gather with friends and family to share meals, reminisce about their homeland, and pass on cultural values to the next generation.

Uyen Vu Dian, a Vietnamese mother of two, teaches her children the Vietnamese national anthem and celebrates Vietnamese holidays like Tet and Mid-Autumn Festival. “We are far from Vietnam, but we still want to instill a sense of pride in our heritage in our children. We teach them about Vietnamese history, our culture, and the importance of family,” Uyen says.

These celebrations not only reinforce cultural identity but also offer a chance to showcase Vietnamese traditions to the wider Mauritian community, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

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Challenges Faced by Vietnamese Expats

While the journey for Vietnamese expats in Mauritius has largely been positive, there have been challenges along the way. Tuyen Ngo, who moved to Mauritius nine years ago, recalls the cultural shock she experienced when it came to food. “In Vietnam, we have noodles or pho for breakfast, but Mauritians prefer bread. The local food was very different, and it took me some time to get used to it,” she explains.

Another challenge is the language barrier. While many Vietnamese expats speak English and French, mastering Mauritian Creole has been a crucial step in fully integrating into the local society. However, with patience and perseverance, many Vietnamese expats have successfully adapted to the local customs and have even embraced Mauritian Creole, further fostering cultural exchange.

What Mauritians Can Learn from Vietnamese Expats

The Vietnamese expat community in Mauritius has much to offer in terms of cultural exchange. Mauritians can learn from the strong family values that are central to Vietnamese society, as well as the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit that many Vietnamese expats have demonstrated in starting their businesses. Vietnamese cuisine also offers a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional Mauritian dishes, providing an opportunity for Mauritians to explore new flavors and cooking styles.

On the other hand, Vietnamese expats can benefit from Mauritius’ multicultural society and the island’s tolerance for diverse cultures and traditions. Mauritian hospitality and the warmth with which expats are welcomed is a key aspect of what makes Mauritius a great place to live for more :

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Vietnamese Expats in Mauritius

Vietnamese expats have significantly enriched the cultural fabric of Mauritius. Through their businesses, cuisine, and celebrations, they have created a bridge between the two countries, fostering mutual understanding and respect. As Mauritius continues to grow as a multicultural society, the presence and contributions of Vietnamese expats will only strengthen the island’s vibrant diversity.

For anyone considering moving to Mauritius, whether for work, family, or adventure, embracing the island’s cultural richness is key to enjoying a fulfilling life. If you’re looking for more information about Vietnamese culture and Mauritian life, you can explore local guides on tourism and cultural integration.

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