Remote work in Mauritius: Igor’s testimony!

Remote work in Mauritius is a dream come true, and Igor made it a reality by settling on our island as a digital nomad.

For this exciting new chapter in his life, he relied on the services of Smart Traveller.

Discover his new tropical lifestyle!

Igor’s testimony

In a few words, who are you?

My name is Igor, and I’m a 45-year-old psychologist. My core values are connection and sharing with people, compassion, and fully experiencing life in the present moment. I’d like to share my journey as a digital nomad moving to Mauritius for a year or two, working with my clients from the Western Balkans, both old and new.

What made you want to expatriate? How was this project born? What was the trigger for your expatriation?

I have always loved traveling. When I travel, I experience a state of flow, feeling free and excited, and becoming the best version of myself. As a university professor, I had the opportunity to travel globally during the long winter and summer breaks between semesters.

Each place has its own charm, but I discovered that tropical climates spark something special within me. The desire to live in Mauritius arose almost immediately after I left my university position after 18 years.

While researching online, I realized that Mauritius offers everything I value in one place. During this search, I also found SmartTraveller and confirmed my conclusion during an initial conversation with Albane.

Mauritius… Why did you choose our little island? Was it the only destination you had in mind?

Mauritius offers a tropical climate, a blend of diverse cultures and tourists, beautiful coastlines, an exciting nature, and well-developed infrastructures, all at a more affordable cost compared to other tropical islands I considered in the Indian Ocean. Additionally, the time zone suits me well for working with clients back home.

Did you ask yourself any questions before taking the plunge? What were your questions, doubts, and fears before your departure?

I had no internal doubts or dilemmas about making the move. My only questions were logistical. SmartTraveller answered all the questions I couldn’t find online, for which I’m immensely grateful.

You chose the Premium Visa to come and settle in Mauritius. Why this visa over any other? What benefits does it offer you?

The Premium Visa is ideal for me because I have a well-established private psychological practice back home. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, all my clients have adapted to online sessions, making it seamless to continue my work remotely from Mauritius.

If you had to sum up your arrival in Mauritius in one word, what would it be?

Effortless!

Regarding your settlement… Finally! How did it go? Did you encounter any difficulties? 

Yes, finally! Everything went incredibly smoothly without any hiccups or challenges. Initially, I booked an apartment in the western part of the island, in Flic-en-Flac, for a month via Airbnb and also rented a maxi scooter.

Initially, I had planned to reside in various locations for a month each, so during the initial months while in Flic-en-Flac, I explored other regions. However, I ultimately concluded that Flic-en-Flac was perfect for me!

Subsequently, I secured long-term accommodation through local agencies. Throughout this process of exploration during the initial month, everyone I encountered – whether seeking advice or assistance – was exceedingly kind and helpful.

I didn’t encounter a single unpleasant experience, mistreatment, or deception. Getting around was effortless since English is widely spoken, and all the familiar products I used back home were readily available in Mauritian stores, alongside numerous local items not found back home! 

Whether craving local delicacies from street vendors or fine dining experiences, Mauritius offers a diverse culinary scene catering to all tastes. The quality of fruits is exceptional, Asian cuisine is ubiquitous, and European dishes and a vast selection of wines are readily accessible.

The tap water is potable, and the cost of mobile internet packages is remarkably affordable, even by African standards.

What’s life like under the sun today? How do you structure your daily routine? What does it entail? Let us dream!

I’ve spent enough time in Mauritius to experience both summer and winter, and I honestly can’t choose a favorite period – both hold their unique charm.

Back home, my typical working hours commence at 10 am. With the two-hour time difference, I begin work in Mauritius at noon. This arrangement is fantastic as I’ve long forgotten what it’s like to wake up to an alarm clock since arriving in Mauritius.

Whenever I wake up, I have ample time to gradually awaken, stretch, enjoy breakfast, and head to the beach for a refreshing swim and some sunbathing. Only then does my workday commence, coinciding with the midday heat.

Following work, I can devote myself fully and peacefully to my initial client sessions. In the evenings, I return to the beach, indulge in a swim, and bask in the breathtaking sunset, a ritual I cherish since residing on the west side of the island. Dinner with an ocean view follows, before I ease into my evening sessions (at 10 pm in Mauritius, it’s 8 pm back home – my usual session end time).

Afterwards, I have time for emails, reading, or leisurely strolls. I do not work for two days a week, dedicating this time to exploring the island or simply unwinding and enjoying the beach at Flic-en-Flac.

One word to encapsulate this marvelous adventure!

I have no regrets whatsoever. Choosing Mauritius at this point in my life was the perfect decision.

What are your thoughts on Smart Traveller’s support and services?

SmartTraveller proved to be the ideal choice for resettlement assistance and mediation. We maintain regular contact, and I always feel comfortable reaching out with questions or seeking advice and assistance. I can consistently rely on Albane and the team, and for that, I am immensely grateful.

If the idea of remote work in Mauritius sparks your imagination, our little paradise awaits you with open arms!

Discover more about the digital nomad lifestyle in Mauritius!

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