It’s not hard to find great locations on the beach, but if you also want efficient infrastructure for your ideal filming location, that narrows down your selection immediately. Mauritius has scored highly as a top destination for international commercial shoots in recent years. Not only does it offer an idyllic selection of pristine beaches to choose from, but it also has a well-established film production infrastructure built up over the many years it has been servicing the Indian film industry. Strong links with South African film production companies also make it easy to access any special requirements that are not available locally.
equipment rental
Major South African equipment suppliers now have permanent branches in Mauritius, saving the cost of freight for heavy equipment and lighting required for film and photo shoots. Cameras still tend to be shipped from South Africa, where they are repaired and maintained, depending on the requirements of each shoot.
Crew
While key team personnel are usually brought in from South Africa for each session, there is also a growing pool of local staff available in Mauritius so costs can be balanced and the benefits of local knowledge and contacts added to the equation. .
Actors and Extras
Professional actors and models fly in for each shoot, but a wide range of local talent is available as extras and characters, from a cosmopolitan array of backgrounds, including European, Indian, African and Chinese. The official language of Mauritius is English and most of the locals speak English and French as well as the local Creole language.
Accommodation
Mauritius has long been a luxury holiday destination, so there is a good selection of top-quality hotels, very often with their own beaches, and renowned for their friendly, smiling hospitality.
Other considerations
Mauritius is only two hours ahead of continental Europe and South Africa, GMT+4, and has direct flights from Europe, Dubai, Bangkok, Perth and South Africa.
International companies that return to Mauritius for their advertisements and catalogs time and time again are Nivea and Ambre Solaire, as well as many beachwear and cosmetics companies. Kellogg’s filmed a Special K spot there in 2011, choosing Mauritius over many other possibilities, such as the Maldives and Bahamas, for its perfect locations, reasonable costs, and established infrastructure.
Overall, Mauritius should be at the top of any short list of beach film locations that demand an island paradise feel with palm-fringed beaches, glistening white sands, and balmy weather.
