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The Indian Ocean Island of Mauritius
Like a rich green emerald, swathed in the translucent, turquoise silk of the southwest Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a small island which has only recently developed tourism.
Only 58Km in length and 46Km at its widest point, Mauritius has a dramatic landscape of wild jagged peaks (the highest is 828 metres), a lush central plateau sloping gently down to the stunning 'blush pink' coral beaches and azur, crystal clear sea.
Mauritius owes this remarkable landscape to the now inactive volcano, and to the coral reef which mainly surrounds the island.
It is the people of Mauritius that make it one of the most colorful and enjoyable of all tropical islands. Originally colonised by the French, followed by the British and eventually gaining independence in 1968, the island people have adopted the 'best' of their ancient colonial bosses, and added a rich mosaic of cultures drawn from the Indian, Chineese, portugese and creole population.
The climate is a seductive 24°C to 36°C, with the hottest months from January to April and the coolest from July to September. There is no specific rainy season, the windy months are from January to April with the chance of cyclones, althought a direct hit happens about once every 16 years.
The water-sport activities on Mauritius are amongst the best in the World:
Deep-sea fishing for marlin, sailfish, barracuda, wahoo, tuna and shark attract world-class competition. Record-size blue marlin are best caught between October and March.
Diving and Snorkling facilities abound. The best place for diving on Mauritius is off Flic and Flac where the main diving attraction is the cave known as the Cathedral. Other good diving sites are found off Grand Baie and Trou au Biches on the Northern Coast. Snorkling is excellent, especially on the Northern Coast. Exploring the coral reef from a boat, snorkling just off the beaches or for those who prefer not getting wet, a glass bottom boat.
Surfing is best between June and August with up to two metre waves common. Tamarin, Baie du Cap and Le Morne are excellent spots with a good social scene.
Water sports such as windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, kayaking are available throughout the island.
Golfers are particularly spoilt, with the World- Championship level 'Belle Mare' Golf Course. Other activities on the Island include hunting, available at the Domaine du Chasseur, an estate on the South-West Coast where controlled deer-hunting is available. Cycling is an excellent way of exploring the island, although car rental is available everywhere.
Shopping is a major seduction on Mauritius, especially for high quality clothes which are manaufactured here. Many famous brands such as 'Polo', 'Calvin Klein' and 'Lacoste' are available at a fraction of the prices found elsewhere. Model Ships including magnificently intricate minature replicas of 'The Bounty', 'Victory', 'Endeavour, 'Cutty Sark', 'Golden Hind' and even the 'Titanic' can be bought 'off the shelf' or ordered to your specifications.
The cuisine of Mauritius follows the rich
cultural diversity of the people. The French have left
their passion for food, which has been heartily adopted
in Mauritian dishes deriving from Creole, Indian and
Chineese traditions. Local delicasies include smoked
marlin, palm hearts, venison and wild boar, and of course
a fantastic range of seafood and fish. The island boasts
numerous excellent restaurants, many of which offer the
opportunity to dine under the stars, overlooking the
gently lapping waves.
The hotels on
Mauritius are of a very high standard, and those selected
by Island-Safari are amongst the best.
Colonial Coconut
Hotel good 'value for money' hotel on the
Northern Coast
La Maison, a private villa sleeping
10 on the Northern Coast
Le
Prince Maurice, THE hotel on Mauritius, 5
star luxury all the way
Paradis a family Resort Hotel on
the Morne Peninsular on the West Coast
For
further information, reservation details or details of
packages which include the Island of Mauritius, please go
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