Group trips to Réunion

Réunion is in the East Africa Time Zone (EAT), which is UTC+4. The island does not observe daylight saving time.

• If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 3pm in Réunion.
• If it is 12pm in New York, USA (Eastern Time), it will be 8pm in Réunion.

Réunion uses the Euro (EUR). It's the same currency used across many European countries, so if you're traveling from the UK, USA, or other European countries, you might not need to exchange much money. However, if you do need to exchange currency, you can do so at:

• Banks
• Exchange bureaus
• Airports

Make sure to check current exchange rates before you go, as they can fluctuate.

Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in Réunion, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller shops, markets, or rural areas. ATMs are available in urban areas where you can withdraw cash. Make sure to check with your bank about any international transaction fees before your trip.

In Réunion, tipping is not obligatory, but it's appreciated for good service. Generally, service charges are included in the bill, especially in restaurants. If you feel the service was exceptional, you can leave a small tip, around 5-10 percent of the bill. For other services like taxis or hotels, rounding up the fare or leaving a small extra amount is a nice gesture but not required. Always consider the quality of service when deciding to tip.

In Réunion, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants. If you're planning to travel around the island, consider buying a local SIM card for more reliable connectivity. Providers like Orange and SFR offer prepaid plans, and you can purchase SIM cards at the airport or in town. Since Réunion is a French overseas department, roaming might be available if you're visiting from the EU, but check with your provider for details.

In Réunion, the official language is French, but Réunion Creole is widely spoken by locals. Here are some useful expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello: Bonjour (French), Bonzour (Réunion Creole)
• Thank you: Merci (French), Mèrsi (Réunion Creole)
• Please: S'il vous plaît (French), Siouplé (Réunion Creole)
• How are you?: Comment ça va? (French), Komman i lé? (Réunion Creole)
• Yes: Oui (French), Wi (Réunion Creole)

Understanding a bit of both languages can help you get around and connect with the locals.

In Réunion, you'll find that they use Type C and Type E plugs, which are common in Europe. These plugs have two round pins, and the standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you're coming from the UK, the USA, or another country with different plug types, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to ensure you can use your devices without any issues.

The main religion in Réunion is Roman Catholicism, which is practiced by a significant portion of the population. Other religions such as Hinduism and Islam are also present due to the island's diverse cultural background. There are no specific dressing requirements tied to religion; however, it's always respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Important religious holidays include Christmas, Easter, and All Saints' Day, reflecting the island's Catholic majority.

When packing for Réunion, consider the island's tropical climate and diverse landscapes. Here's a helpful list to make sure you're prepared:

• Clothing:
  • Light, breathable shirts
  • Shorts and skirts
  • Swimwear
  • Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Raincoat or poncho
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Hiking boots for exploring trails
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Chargers and power bank
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion sickness tablets

This list should cover all the essentials for your adventure.

Réunion has a tropical climate with weather that varies by region and elevation. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Coastal areas: Generally warm and humid year-round, with temperatures around 24-30°C (75-86°F). The rainy season runs from November to April.
• Highlands: Cooler temperatures, ranging from 5-25°C (41-77°F), and more rainfall. The dry season is from May to October.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, May to October, when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities.