How many days for Saint-Denis? +
One to two days are plenty. Saint-Denis is the island's cultural gateway: market, Creole villas, multiculturalism (Catholic, Hindu, Muslim, Chinese). Beyond that, head for Mafate, Cilaos, the Piton de la Fournaise or Saint-Pierre.
Should you rent a car on Reunion Island? +
Yes, without hesitation. Car Jaune and Citalis cover the main lines but not the hiking trails, the cirques, or the best beaches. Compact car €30-50/day, pre-book from mainland France, agencies at Roland-Garros.
Is Saint-Denis safe for travelers? +
Yes, like any French capital. Standard vigilance in the Chaudron district at night, supervised parking for rental cars. No specific traveler issues.
What's the Saint-Denis climate? +
Saint-Denis is on the northeast coast, exposed to wet trade winds. Rainier and cloudier than the west (Saint-Gilles). For real beach and sun, swing west from day two. Dry austral winter (May-Oct) is ideal everywhere.
Do you need a visa for Reunion Island? +
No, Reunion is a French overseas department. Valid ID or passport for French and EU citizens. For non-EU, same rules as mainland France (long-stay Schengen visa per nationality).
What's the best food to try in Saint-Denis? +
Reunion Creole cuisine blends Malagasy, Indian, Chinese and French traditions. Must-try specialties: chicken or fish carry, sausage rougail, samoussas, bouchons, bonbons piments. Sweet side: sweet-potato cake, candied achards, arranged rum. Head for food trucks and small neighborhood restos rather than tourist tables.
