Most of us have heard of Mauritius, the small island nation around two hundred kilometres off the southeast coast of Africa. Fewer people know why this little corner of the world is so special and should be on every traveller’s list of must-visit destinations.
When it comes to the ideal holiday destination, Mauritius has it all. You will find it vibrant and busy without being overcrowded, and there is no shortage of restaurants, shopping and experiences for every taste. You can spend a morning on the beach and an afternoon in the jungle, and everywhere you look there is nothing but natural beauty.
Is Mauritius on your bucket list? Read on to discover twelve essential reasons why you it should be on your list.
The Weather is Good All-Year-Round
Mauritius is located very close to the Tropic of Capricorn, which means that the sun remains at its highest point over Mauritius for longer than it does in other places. This means that it is sunny and warm pretty much all year. Visit in summer, between November and April, when temperatures reach the mid-thirties, or visit in winter, from May to October, when temperatures rarely drop below 20. There is also no rainy season, so there is little chance of a holiday being completely rained out.
Mauritian Food
This African nation was previously a Dutch, French and British colony at different times. Furthermore, around 68 percent of Mauritians are of Indian descent, and there is also a large Asian, or Sino-Mauritian, community. This ethnic and cultural mix means that the food in Mauritius is a delectable mix of Asian, African, Indian and French cuisines. Couple this with the fresh fish that the island’s fishermen bring in every day, and there is no such thing as a bad meal in Mauritius. Whether you are fine dining or grabbing some street food, your taste buds are sure to be satisfied.
Multiculturalism
As well as offering some fantastic food, Mauritius’ multiculturalism makes for a unique cultural experience. While the majority of the population is Hindu, French colonisation has also left a significant mark on the country, and the native Creole is a French-based language with strong African, Asian and English influences. Walk down a single street in the capital of Port Louis and you can encounter Hindus, Muslims, Africans and Chinese living together and rubbing shoulders in a delightful and enviably amicable cultural hotpot.
The Beaches
Wherever you stay in Mauritius, you are never far from a white sandy beach. As well as pristine sand, you can relax under the shade of palm trees, take a dip in warm lagoon waters, and then replenish yourself with a fresh coconut.
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Unbeatable Diving
It is not only Mauritius’ beach scene that is unforgettable. Just under her crystal blue waters is a magical wonderland of colourful coral reefs and exotic marine life, plus a few shipwrecks from the 18th and 19th centuries. This makes Mauritius the ideal destination for experienced divers looking for something new, and new divers who want to learn at one of Mauritius’ many excellent diving schools. Even just grabbing a snorkel for a few hours, you will be amazed at what there is to see.
Befriend Dolphins
If diving is not enough aquatic life for you, head to Tamarin Bay where you are guaranteed to be able to hobnob with the local dolphin population. You might also catch sight of some magnificent whales in the deeper water. Is Mauritius on your bucket list for amazing water adventures?
Jungle Fever
Only a short distance from Mauritius’ immaculate white beaches is her rugged jungle interior. Stuffed full of waterfalls, swimming holes, tropical birds and other native flora and fauna, you can spend one day on the beach, and the next hiking through unspoiled jungle. Head to Black River Gorges National Park and keep your eyes peeled for pink pigeons and the echo parakeet. Unfortunately, you won’t see any Dodos, another bird that was native to Mauritius.
Sacred Bathing
For a bit of Indian culture and healing, head to the Grand Bassin, a natural lake within an extinct volcano which, according to myth, is fed from the sacred Ganges River in India. Taking a dip here is purifying at any time of year, but visiting during the annual Shivratri festival in February is considered particularly auspicious. This area is also home to some impressive Indian architecture and statues, including the world’s second largest statue of Lord Shiva.
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Endless shopping
When out and about in Mauritius, don’t forget your credit card, as you are bound to find something you like. Mauritius has some amazing local markets where you will find amazing food alongside colourful and eye-catching local fabrics and handmade curiosities that you will want to take home. Just people watching at the local markets is an experience not-to-be-missed. Is Mauritius on your bucket list? If yes, start your adventure at the Port Louis Market.
Gambling
Mauritius is one of those corners of the world, like Monaco and Macao, where you will find a classy gambling scene with flashy casinos designed to entice. Is Mauritius on your bucket list? Whether you are keen to try your luck, or you are just looking for a glitzy night out, head to a Mauritian casino to feel like James Bond for the evening.
Affordable Luxury
While a quality five-star hotel anywhere in the world is going to set you back, Mauritius’ beachfront luxury accommodation, with unbeatable service and amazing facilities such as spas and water sports, are more affordable than in most tropical destinations. Moreover, even if you book something a bit more low-key, the locals are very welcoming and the staff at your hotel are sure to go out of their way to leave you feeling like a VIP.
Safety
While all popular holiday destinations are plagued by pickpockets and scam artists, Mauritius is a safe destination as far as tourism is concerned. It’s stable government and low terrorism threat makes it one of the safest countries in Africa. You should feel safe walking the streets at night, though it is best to avoid deserted areas, including beaches, after dark.
Is Mauritius on your bucket list? You’ve never been anywhere like Mauritius, such a beautiful place to visit for your next holiday. Have you been to Mauritius? Share your experience with us in the comment below:
