Welcome to MAURITIUS

 

Here's a mini-guide to Mauritius, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean. It's famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and diverse culture. This dream destination offers an unforgettable travel experience, combining relaxation, adventure and cultural discovery. Whether you're looking for sandy beaches, exciting water sports or a chance to immerse yourself in a rich and diverse culture, Mauritius has something for everyone. With its breathtaking scenery and unique heritage, Mauritius is a true jewel in the Indian Ocean. From the idyllic beaches of Grand Baie to the verdant mountains of Chamarel, every corner of the island offers treasures to discover. Immerse yourself in Mauritian culture, savour its exquisite cuisine and be enchanted by the warmth of its people.

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Arriving in Mauritius

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Getting to Mauritius is easy thanks to the many international air links. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport in Plaisance is the main point of entry for travellers from all over the world. Airlines such as Air Mauritius, Emirates, Air France and British Airways offer direct flights from major cities. These flights make it easy to reach this tropical paradise. On arrival, you'll be greeted by the gentle warmth of the tropical air and the welcoming smiles of Mauritians. The airport is well-equipped with transport services such as taxis, shuttles and car hire, making your transition to your accommodation easy.

Mauritius has a varied and efficient transport network, making it easy to get around the island. Taxis are widely available and offer a quick and comfortable way to get around. Public buses, operated by a number of companies such as National Transport Corporation (NTC) and United Bus Service (UBS), are an economical option for exploring the island. For more independence, car hire is a good option, allowing you to discover the island's different landscapes at your own pace. Scooter and bicycle hire services are also available for those who prefer a more environmentally-friendly means of transport.

 

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Choosing accommodation in Mauritius

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Mauritius offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and preferences. For those seeking luxury, beachfront resorts in Belle Mare, boutique hotels in Flic en Flac and private villas in Grand Baie offer world-class services and breathtaking views. These establishments often have spas, infinity pools and gourmet restaurants, perfect for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. Charming hotels, often set in beautiful natural surroundings, offer an equally comfortable alternative with a touch of character. Accommodation in Mahébourg, surrounded by lagoons and coral reefs, is particularly popular for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to cultural sites.

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Mauritian gastronomy

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Mauritian cuisine is a festival of flavours, reflecting the island's cultural and geographical diversity. Among its signature dishes, dholl puri (split pea pancake) is a must. This popular street food is often topped with curry, chutney and chilli. Another local delicacy is the inverted bowl, a rice dish served with sautéed vegetables, meat and a tasty sauce. Fish vindaye, a dish of fish marinated in a spicy sauce, is also a must. Chilli cakes, spicy doughnuts, are a delicious snack that you can find in markets and street stalls.

To sample these culinary delights, Mauritius offers a multitude of restaurants ranging from upmarket establishments to small street stalls. The restaurant Le Château de Bel Ombre is renowned for its refined Mauritian cuisine and historic setting. For a more local experience, head to the night markets in Port Louis or Grand Baie, where you can sample a variety of traditional dishes. In Flic en Flac, the Domaine Anna restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere. For authentic Creole dishes, Chez Tino in Trou d'Eau Douce is a must.

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Tourist attractions

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Mauritius is full of fascinating historical and cultural sites. Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former immigrant depot where Indian indentured labourers arrived in the 19th century. The Château de Labourdonnais, a magnificent colonial house, offers an insight into the island's history and architecture. The Blue Penny Museum in Port Louis houses an impressive collection of rare stamps, including the famous Blue Penny. The capital, Port Louis, is also rich in history, with its colonial buildings, bustling central market and picturesque waterfront.

Mauritius is also renowned for its natural beauty. The Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the southern hemisphere, is famous for its collections of tropical plants, including giant water lilies and talipots. The seven-coloured lands of Chamarel, a unique geological formation, offer a spectacle of colourful dunes. The beaches of Mauritius, such as Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare and Le Morne, are perfect for relaxing, swimming and water sports. The palm-fringed white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters create an idyllic setting for an unforgettable holiday.

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Activities and entertainment in Mauritius

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Mauritius is an ideal playground for lovers of water sports and adventure. The beaches of Grand Baie and Blue Bay are perfect for scuba diving, snorkelling and kitesurfing. The coral reefs around these beaches offer incredible marine biodiversity, with dive sites to suit all levels. For thrill-seekers, climbing Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain, is an unforgettable experience. The hikes offer spectacular views of the ocean and surrounding lagoons. The Gorges de la Rivière Noire National Park is also an excellent place for hiking, with its trails through forests and waterfalls.

Nightlife in Mauritius is vibrant and varied, with something for everyone. Grand Baie and Flic en Flac are the main areas to go out, with a multitude of bars, clubs and discos. The Banana Beach Club in Grand Baie is an iconic place to enjoy live music and cocktails by the beach. For a cultural experience, don't miss the performances of sega, the traditional Mauritian dance. Hotels and resorts often organise sega evenings with dancers in colourful costumes and lively music. Cultural festivals, such as the Kreol Festival in November, are major events not to be missed.

 

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Mauritius shopping guide

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Mauritian markets are colourful and lively places where you can buy unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Textiles such as sarongs and linen shirts are popular purchases. Carved wooden items, coral jewellery and raffia baskets are also popular souvenirs. Port Louis Central Market and Flacq Market offer a variety of local handicrafts, handmade jewellery and works of art. The markets of Mahébourg are ideal for buying spices, local produce and unique souvenirs.

For emblematic products of Mauritius, don't miss the shops specialising in rum and tea. Rum distilleries such as Rhumerie de Chamarel offer guided tours and tastings, as well as the chance to buy rum direct from the producers. The Bois Chéri tea plantations offer guided tours and tastings, as well as the chance to buy tea direct from the producers. Fashion boutiques in Grand Baie and Curepipe offer creations by emerging Mauritian designers, while shops in Port Louis sell carved wood items, linen clothing and raffia objects.



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Diving into Mauritian culture

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Mauritians are known for their warmth and friendliness, and will be delighted to share their culture with you. Festivals are an excellent opportunity to discover Mauritian culture. The Cavadee, a Tamil festival, is a unique celebration with colourful processions and rituals. You can also take part in local cooking workshops, dance classes or village visits for total immersion. These activities allow you to understand the daily life of Mauritians and to forge meaningful links with them.

 

Mauritius is a country of festivals, with celebrations taking place throughout the year. The Kreol Festival in November is one of the most spectacular events, with performances of dance, music and traditional crafts. The Maha Shivaratri, a Hindu festival in honour of Shiva, attracts thousands of pilgrims every year, with processions to the sacred Great Basin lake. Chinese New Year is also a major celebration, with dragon parades, fireworks and traditional feasts.

 

Visiting Mauritius is much more than a simple tourist trip. It's about immersing yourself in a rich and diverse culture, discovering breathtaking landscapes and meeting a warm and welcoming people. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on pristine beaches or savouring spicy dishes, every moment spent on this island will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Mauritius invites you to return, explore further and continue to discover its countless wonders. Whether for an adventure, a spiritual retreat or simply to relax, Mauritius offers a multitude of unique and memorable experiences. Come and discover why this island is called the jewel of the Indian Ocean and let yourself be seduced by its timeless magic.

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Mauritius: more than just a trip

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