Mauritius

Mauritius

The idyllic island of Mauritius lies off the east coast of Madagascar and Southern Africa with glistening Indian Ocean surrounds.  This tropical paradise is famed for its cobalt blue waters and white sandy beaches, making it the perfect location for a relaxing getaway.  However, Mauritius also offers visitors a wealth of historic sights, a multitude of cultures, geographical diversity and endless exciting activities including great water sports. 

The volcanic island Republic is a dazzling array of spectacular scenery from one corner to the next.  Lush forests, streams and waterfalls decorate the landscape with dazzling white sands towering palm trees and teeming coral reefs.  Speckled with world-class hotels, top spas and golf courses, Mauritius epitomises luxury.  Modern resorts have been carefully designed to ensure the island's beauty and ecology is not compromised. 

The Mauritian culture is a wonderful blend of English, French, Chinese, Creole, Hindu and Muslim influences.  English is the official language on the island, although French and Creole are mostly spoken amongst the local community.  The warmth and hospitality of the people can be seen the moment you arrive onto the island.

Mauritius offers superb local cuisine embracing tropical fruits and vegetables.  The multi-cultural population influences the selection of food with French, Creole, Indian, Chinese or English dishes served to a high standard. 

The Mauritian capital of Port Louis is home to the Caudan waterfront, which is a hive of activity with a selection of outdoor cafes, restaurants and shops.  Grand Baie, in the north of the island, offers great shopping and a vibrant nightlife. 

Couples and honeymooners will love this tranquil slice of paradise.  With plenty to see and do if desired, and tropical surroundings for lazy days in the sun, Mauritius is sure to impress.

Water sports
Head to Grand Baie, for water sports such as parasailing, an underwater walk, submarine and semi-submersible scooters for a great day at sea.

Dining
For an adventurous lunch of roasted wild boar, duck or deer curry with one of the best island views, try Domaine du Chasseur's alfresco Panoramour Restaurant. 

The Crocodile Park
La Vanille Réserve des Mascareignes is the only place worldwide to breed aldabra tortoises and also has deer, monkeys, boar and an insectarium.

Rodrigues Island
The tiny, volcanic Rodrigues Island lies northeast of Mauritius and is known as the ‘anti-stress' island.  The capital, Port Mathurin, is only seven streets wide, with a Creole population.  Rodrigues is a great place for walking, diving, kite surfing and deep-sea fishing.

Shopping
Mauritius is an ideal location for duty-free and tax free shopping.  Port Louis' Caudan Waterfront is home to sophisticate shopping with designer clothing, jewellery and handicrafts available.  There is also a good selection of designer shops at Grand Baie, but the locals shop at Curepipe, Quatre-Bornes and Rose-Hill.  Central Market is great for local bargains and the craft market includes jewellery, cashmere, Chinese and Indian jade, silks, basketry, glass and model ships. 

Nightlife
Grand Baie is at the heart of the island's nightlife, with bars, live music, restaurants and nightclubs all bustling after dark.  Sega dancing is popular in Rivière Noire and is particularly lively on Saturday nights.  Sega troupes give performances at most hotels.  Lavish casinos are also a common sight on the island’s night scene.