Réunion

Travel tips for Réunion: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Cards are widely accepted in Réunion's towns and hotels, similar to mainland France. However, travelers recommend carrying Euro cash for markets, roadside food stalls, mountain gîtes, and smaller villages where card readers can be unreliable.

Try the food

  • Rougail Saucisse: A hearty stew made with smoked pork sausages simmered in a rich sauce of tomatoes, onions, ginger, and chilies.
  • Cari Poulet: A fragrant chicken curry cooked with turmeric, thyme, garlic, and tomatoes, typically served over rice.
  • Bouchons: Bite-sized steamed dumplings filled with minced pork or chicken, often enjoyed as a street food snack with soy sauce and chili paste.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: Combien ça coûte ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type E
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Safe to drink
Emergency
112 (general), 17 (police), 15 (ambulance), 18 (fire)
SIM tip
Purchase a local SIM card from Orange or SFR at Roland Garros Airport upon arrival, or buy an eSIM online beforehand for instant data access.

Etiquette

Service is included in restaurant bills by law, so tipping is not required, but leaving small change for excellent service is appreciated.

Airports in Réunion