DESTINATION INFORMATION

The island of Mauritius conjures up picture-postcard images of beautiful, deserted beaches, crystal clear waters and canopies of tropical palms. There is, however, more to this Indian Ocean haven, making it one of the most diverse and luxurious holiday destinations you could wish to visit. Quite simply, Mauritius is an island of contrasts. The breathtaking beaches and calm, translucent waters that rim the island are soon replaced by verdant greens and smudgy purples as you move into the interior, with its rolling hills, swaying sugar cane, mountainous peaks and gushing waterfalls. The abundant natural beauty combined with the world’s third largest coral reef system allow for a wealth of excellent sporting and leisure opportunities. Exploring the island is a delightful treat, where you will discover the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens, bird and safari parks, original working sugar mills and the cosmopolitan capital, Port Louis, with its vibrant markets and excellent shopping. With a history steeped in foreign rule, the locals are a melting pot of cultures and religions residing in harmony and contributing to the unique diversity which makes this island so fascinating. Where else could you go to a Chinese restaurant and pay in Mauritian Rupees, glimpse a Hindu temple in a French named village and have English as the official language? The cuisine of Mauritius is exceptional; a blend of wonderful, exotic flavours inspired by the myriad of cultures, drawing in on ingredients abundant to the island – freshly caught seafood, indigenous herbs and spices and colourful fruits bursting with flavour. Blessed with a good all-year-round climate, pristine beaches, excellent accommodation and facilities to suit all tastes and budgets, and the widest of smiles from the locals, it is not difficult to see why Mauritius makes the perfect holiday destination.