Mark Twain remarked, “You gather the idea that Mauritius was made first and then heaven was copied after Mauritius.” Mauritius is well-known for its warm sea waters, sandy white beaches, and is surrounded by the world’s third largest coral roof. There are many luxury hotels and world-class spas to choose. Most tourists spend their time in and around Grand Bae – the hotspot for beaches and entertainment.
Cheap flights to MauritiusMauritius was named after Dutch Prince Maurice Van Nassau. This paradise island is located in the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It was first discovered by Arab sailors in the 9th-century. The Dutch, the French and the British colonised Mauritius successively, till it gained independence in 1968. The country is recognised as a part of the Africa continent and the only country in Africa where Hinduism is the largest religion. It is recognised for its multi-ethnicity and multi-diversity. The female population of Malaysia is higher than its male population. Mauritian Creole is the mother tongue but most people are fluent in English and French as well.
Cheap flights to MauritiusThe climate is tropical; there are two seasons – winter and summer with a marginal difference in the temperatures. The central plateau is cooler than the coastal areas. Some of the world’s rarest plants and animals are found here. Mauritius is home to a diverse flora and fauna due to its volcanic origin, isolation and unique terrain. You can spot many rare birds including, the Pink Pigeon and the Malagasy turtle dove.
The cuisine of Mauritius is an eclectic potpourri of Creole, French, Chinese and Indian influences. Indian passport holders can visit Mauritius without a visa for stay up to 90 days.
Best time to visit Mauritius
The best time to travel to Mauritius is during the cool months between May and December. The weather remains warm throughout the year, and given that it is a tropical country, it can be visited all year round. Avoid the unpredictable cyclone season from January to March. 12 weeks before departure is a good time to book, but if you are looking for really cheap flights, then book 25 weeks before you decide to take off. Recommended time to visit the island is in July as travellers can avail a 7% saving on the ticket.
Cheap flights to Mauritius
Things to do in Mauritius
Start your trip at Port Louis. Shop duty free! The botanical gardens are lovely, admire the giant Amazon lilies. Check out colonial mansions, mosques, churches and Hindu temples. See the skeleton of the now extinct bird – Dodo at The Natural History Museum. Watch the sun set over the cityscape atop Signal Mountain. Head to Domaine de L’Étoile for quad biking, mountain biking, segway rides and other adventures on the Bambous mountains. Visit Isle aux Aigrettes or the Egret Island to meet gigantic Aldabra tortoises and pink pigeons.
Cheap flights to Mauritius
Beaches in Mauritius
All beaches in Mauritius are public and equipped with toilet and parking facilities. Head to the east coast for powdery white sand beaches and to the west coast for flatter shallow beaches. Best beaches in Mauritius include Trou aux Biches, Belle Mare Plage, Ile aux Cerfs, Pereybere, Flic en Flac, Blue Bay Beach and Mont Choisy. It is safe to swim all year round. Trou aux Biches in the north is rated by many as the best beach in Mauritius, with options to swim or snorkel. Le Morne Brabant is the top destination for surfers.
Food in Mauritius
The traditional Creole cuisine is spicy and draws inspiration from many regions including Africa, France, India and China. Tomatoes, onions, chillies and garlic are common ingredients. Spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves are also widely consumed. Curry (cari) is a popular street food item and can be had with rice, roti, dumplings or fried noodles. Also try the Gateau piment or chilli cakes – a popular snack. Rougaille is a traditional dish served at important ceremonies. Seafood lovers should try out the Millionaire’s Salad.
Cheap flights to Mauritius
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