🎓 For Students:

• Education System: French education system applies (primary, secondary, and higher education). Universities and grandes écoles in mainland France; local higher-education facilities exist.
• Popular Fields: Tourism & hospitality, volcanology, environmental science, agriculture, maritime studies.
• Student Visa: EU/EEA nationals do not need visas; non-EU students follow France's visa/residence procedures.

✈️ For Visitors:

• Visa: As an overseas department of France, Schengen rules generally apply — check France visa rules for your nationality.
• Popular Destinations: Saint-Denis, Saint-Pierre, Cirque de Cilaos, Piton de la Fournaise, Mafate, Îlet à Cordes.
• Best Time to Visit: May to November (drier, cooler); cyclone season is typically November–April.
• Local Transportation: Buses, car rentals common; mountain roads require careful driving.

💼 For Professionals & Expats:

• Work & Residence: French laws apply; EU citizens have freedom of movement. Non-EU nationals require appropriate permits.
• Key Sectors: Tourism, agriculture (sugar, vanilla), fishing, services and public administration.
• Business Etiquette: French business culture; French language predominates in formal settings.
• Cost of Living: Island life and imports increase costs vs mainland France for some goods.

🏞️ Nature & Culture:

• Natural Highlights: Active volcano Piton de la Fournaise, dramatic cirques (Mafate, Cilaos, Salazie), coral reefs and rainforest.
• Cultural Mix: Creole culture with French influences; Creole, French widely spoken.
• Major Events: Local festivals, music and Creole celebrations; French public holidays observed.
• Local Cuisine: Creole flavours—curry, rougail, seafood, vanilla-infused dishes.

📌 Quick Tips:

• Currency: Euro (EUR).
• Time Zone: RET (UTC+04:00), no Daylight Saving Time.
• Emergency Number: 112 (EU standard) and local emergency lines.
• Electricity: 230 V, 50 Hz; plug type E (French two-pin with earth).
• Language: French (official); Réunion Creole widely used.