Mauritius Island Destination Information - Mauritius Hotels
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 azure, 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
colonized 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, Chinese, portuguese 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, although 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.
Dinner overlooking the Ocean |
Diving and Snorkeling 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 Trout au Birches on the
Northern Coast. Snorkeling is excellent, especially on the Northern
Coast. Exploring the coral reef from a boat, snorkeling 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 of mauritius.
Golfers are particularly spoilt, with the World- Championship
level 'Belle Mare' Golf Course. Other activities on the Island
include hunting, available at the Domain 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 manufactured here. Many famous brands
such as 'Polo', 'Calvin Klein' and 'Lactose' are available at a
fraction of the prices found elsewhere. Model Ships including
magnificently intricate miniature replicas of 'The Bounty',
'Victory', 'Endeavor, 'Catty Sark', 'Golden Hind' and even the
'Titanic' can be bought 'off the shelf' or ordered to your
specifications.
Local Cuisine
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 Chinese traditions. Local delicacies 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 in their price ranges.
See a list of all the Hotels we feature - click here
See a list of the Villas we feature - click here
|
