Mauritius

The Republic of Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands in the south west Indian Ocean. This volcanic island, just north of the tropic of Capricorn, is the archetypal tropical island idyll. A ring of coral reefs surrounding most of the coastline has created a series of spectacular shallow lagoons and white coral sand beaches, fringed with coconut palms and casuarina trees. The coastline on the southern end of the island, in contrast, falls away dramatically, giving way to wilder waters and stark cliffs. In the north the land rises to a central plateau; surprisingly mountainous, this region is covered with lush vegetation, tropical flowers and extinct volcanoes. The main island is only 45 kilometres wide and 65 kilometres long.

The British took control during the Napoleonic Wars and Mauritius became independent in 1968. Although English is the official language the lingua franca is Mauritian Creole and most newspapers and television programmes are in French. This paradise, although small, has a great deal to offer. The historic and charming capital of Port Louis, with its bustling central market and modern waterfront complex, is well worth a morning walking around, as are the gardens at Pamplemousse.

Of course the beaches and water-sports are what attract most to the island and they are both world class. There is also excellent deep sea fishing. For those who would like to take a break from the beach there are some beautiful hikes, to Charamel falls and Le Morne mountain being just two of many.

With world class beaches and resorts, combined with a vibrant Creole culture and famous island hospitality, Mauritius is justifiably one of the World’s most sought after island destinations.