For many Europeans, relocating to Mauritius represents the opportunity to live in a tropical setting while making the most of the environment all year long. However, before taking the plunge, there are several questions pertaining to the advantages, the administrative procedures, accommodation, among others, that need to be addressed. Fabrice Henaut, a 53-year-old expat, shares his reasons to relocate to Mauritius. The company director, father of four sons, tells us about his journey from France to Anahita, on the east coast of the island.
Why did you choose Mauritius?
At the beginning, I came to Mauritius mostly for holidays, especially to Anahita which is a magical place for golf, which I play every time I can. Then I realised that the country offers fantastic services, and has a lot of potential, mainly through its people. Then I came up with the idea of creating an inbound and outbound call centre for my existing company and its back office.
Is it when you decided to live in Mauritius?
From the moment I wanted to create a call centre, I travelled more regularly, during the months of October, December, February and April, in addition to the school holidays. My company was quickly growing, I had to be present permanently, like I was when I created my first company 30 years ago. Therefore I decided to relocate in Mauritius with my wife and my 7-year-old son from December 2021.
Is doing business in Mauritius so different from doing business in France?
Like everywhere else, patience is required at some point. However, there is a much more developed sense of service than in France, with well-trained and professional staff, which is not always the case in Europe.
What encouraged you to invest in Mauritius?
We had a construction project in Lyon in France and rather than renting or acquiring a temporary house for 2 or 3 years, we chose to come live at Anahita from 3 to 5 years for the call centre, and to enjoy our brand-new villa.
What does Mauritius represent for you?
Mauritius is a magical country to me and not only for holidays. The population is warm and pleasant and I find my own values among the people, which are those of helping others. I love the spirit of service that prevails.
There are many places to settle in Mauritius, what made you choose Anahita?
I did not know Mauritius before choosing Anahita and now that I know the island better, I can state that it is the east coast’s most beautiful place, thanks to two golf courses by the lagoon, its environment, and the people we meet. This is what made the difference for many Europeans.
You are also very involved with the children around Anahita. Can you tell us more?
I am a football enthusiast and my 7-year-old son also loves this sport. To please him as well as Mauritians, I wanted to create a football school. Hence, I recruited an educator and every Wednesday and Friday at 5 p.m., we invite the Beau Champ neighbourhood’s kids to train with the hope of participating to tournaments. After 2 months of creation, we have 60 kids. It is more complicated to manage because it represents a large number, but it makes us happy to see the children, offer them a pair of shoes or a snack.
We recently had our first tournament and we went by bus with 20 children and 8 adults. They played and we all went for lunch together. My aim is for the children to know that on a football field there is no social class or money involved, but only fun and respect. The most wonderful part is when the children ask us every Friday night “when is the next tournament”. This project is one of my priorities.
Like many other expats, Fabrice Henaut and his family have made Mauritius their home, thanks to the many advantages of expatriating to the island. Find out what makes the country such a pleasant and secure place to live or invest.
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