Today I will take you on a journey across one of the African Islands. But don’t expect a sweltering hot climate and drape under-developed towns. Instead, we will visit pristine beaches, cheerful atmosphere, ultra blue seas and traditional Portuguese architecture…

WELCOME TO MAURITIUS!!!

Introduction

Of volcanic origin and generally sheltered by barriers of coral reefs forming natural, safe, crystal clear lagoons, Mauritius has long been a dream destination. Known to the Arabs as early as the 10th century, but officially «discovered» in 1505 by the Portuguese navigator Pedro Mascarenhas, the island was occupied successively by the Dutch (1598-1712) and the French (1715-1810), and was ceded to Great Britain in 1814 through the Treaty of Paris. On 12 March 1968, Mauritius became Independent. Republic Day was proclaimed on 12 March 1992.

Today, Mauritius is our equivalent of Goa. Pristine and beautiful beaches surround the island. There is very sparse population throughout the island, a no. of water related activities to enjoy and a typical island laid back atmosphere. And on more thing, about 30% of the population are Indians, mainly Hindus.

First Impressions

Air Mauritius operates flights from Mumbai to Mauritius. When you first fly into Mauritius, you feel that you are landing literally on the sea since the airport (The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport) is right on the beach. You are immediately struck by the beauty of the place.

Mauritius is about 65 km from one end to another. So you can imagine that it would be less than the length of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway which is 80km. But on the first drive I discovered that it has a much better highway system than India which rivals most of the Western countries with Expressways stretching throughout the island. As a result it took me just 2 hours to reach my hotel, the Raddison which is almost at the opposite end of the island compared to the airport.

The Raddison has also been featured in a no. of Bollywood films such as Style and Garam Masala to name a few. On the drive you just see vast expanses of countryside, colonial homes as well as vast tracts of sugarcane.

Places to Visit

1. Port Luis : It is the capital city of Mauritius which would cover an area equal to Dadar(in Mumbai)!!! It consists one waterfront and two parallel roads which houses all the government and business offices of the country.
2. Caudan Waterfront : It is THE most famous location in Mauritius having been featured in many movies such as Garam Masala. It is built in colonial style and houses the most expensive and chic shopping areas of the country. It also houses the Casino as well as the Labourdannais Hotel which is strictly a business hotel but is known for its good food.
3. Blue Safari : This is my personal favorite. It consists of a submarine in which one can dive down to the ocean floor and view the spectacular sights such as coral, fish and even a sunk pirate ship, all form the safe confines of a submarine. A word of caution though, some people may get sea sick or feel claustrophobic the submarine.
4. Grand Baie : It is one of the most beautiful places in the country with the best scenery and beaches to see.
5. Ile aux Cerfs : Ile aux Cerfs is a paradise for water sports and has the most beautiful beach in Mauritius. You cannot afford to miss this tiny island, delicately poised on the ocean, a real pearl in the Mauritian landscape. Here you can do snorkeling as well as an unforgettable under sea walk in addition to normal water sports like windsurfing, sailing, etc.
6. Dutch Ruins : At Vieux Grand Port, the oldest settlements in Mauritius, you can see the ruins of the first Dutch fortifications.
7. Naval Museum : Just next door to the SSR Airports, is a small colonial building which houses the Naval museum which will give you a glimpse into the Portuguese naval history of the islands.
8. Indian High Commissioner’s Mansion : This is strictly not a tourist destination. My father was invited to visit the Indian High Commissioner on one day. That is when I noticed this colonial house which was splendid. If do happen to reach there, you might find my name in the Visitors book (2002).

Shopping, Transportation and Food

Shopping

• The area around the Caudan Waterfront is the best area for any kind of shpooing, be it designer labels or Indian ethnic or local products.
• Another good place to shop is Pereybère.
• Mauritius is famous for one particular artifact which is model of Portuguese ships. If you happen to stumble across such a shop, then do buy one since they are really well crafted.

Transportation

• This is actually a major problem in the sense that there are no freely available cabs between various location.
• The best bet would be to hire a taxi through your hotel concierge.
• There is one rail line, but only for hauling sugarcane.

Food

• You need not worry about food here.
• Since distances are large, you will mostly be eating at your hotel.
• In case you do travel, the Caudan Waterfront houses a no. of good restaurants including Pizza Hut, McDonalds, etc. Do try the food at Labourdannais Hotel.
• There is no shortage of Indian food since the Minister of Finance himself was an Indian, Mr. Kushi Ram (I met him.)!!

Conclusion

Mauritius is the best country if you want to see unspoilt beaches beautiful scenery as well as old colonial way of life. One statement I would like to make. The blue color of the sea in Mauritius is unparalleled all over the world specially compared to the greenish water in India. Mauritius is a must visit to get away from hectic city life.

References

• Mauritius.net

Next Stop : Dubai, United Arab Emirates.