Mauritius, the Seychelles and the Maldvies
(Part 1 of 3: Mauritius)

What's the difference between Mauritius, the Seychelles and the Maldives? Aren't they all the same with their sapphire-blue water, powder-white beaches and luxurious hotels? In a way, yes. But they each have their own unique culture, food and attractions too. We are going to take an in-depth look at each one, starting with Mauritius.

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Overview

Mauritius is a small single island state just 65km wide and 45km long. Located in the Indian Ocean, 700km off the coast of Madagascar. Mauritius is part of the African continent. Ringed by coral reefs and home to stunning beaches lapped by turquoise seas, it is a water-sports paradise. Offering scuba diving, parasailing, water skiing, stand-up paddling, jet skiing and deep-sea fishing. In addition to water-based activities, golf, horse-riding, cycling and tennis are also popular. Many hotels have professional kids clubs and decadent spas, making it a holiday destination which caters for everyone.

Food

Mauritian food (not to mention its place names) has been strongly influenced by its multi-ethnic inhabitants. Indian immigrants arrived on the island in the 1800s and now comprise 68% of its population. Many Chinese also immigrated there. At various points in its past, the island was under the rule of the Dutch, the French and the British. (from whom it finally gained its independence in 1968). This went to create a melting pot of flavours, many of which are combined in the same meal. The uniqueness of Mauritian food has caused it to win many plaudits.

Weather and Climate

As Mauritius is in the southern hemisphere. This means the seasons are the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. From November to April, the weather is hot and humid and rainfall is abundant especially in the centre of the island. This is the best time for scuba diving. From May to October, the temperatures are lower, especially on the coasts, because of the sea breezes which makes it the best time for surfing. In general, the north and west of the island are warmer and drier than the east and south. Here are average temperatures in celsius and average rainfall amounts in millimetres for each month:

Things To See and Do

1. The Seven-Coloured Earths of Chamarel
2. The Waterfalls of Chamarel
3. Black River Gorges National Park
4. Le Morne mountain
5. Pamplemousse Royal Botanical Gardens (one of the best in the world and home to giant tortoises)
6. Shop at Le Caudan Waterfront, at the Outlet Malls, or at the markets
7. Visit the island's colonial capital, Port Louis
8. Try a helicopter tour or catamaran cruise
9. Blue Penny Museum and learn about the island's past
10. Casela Wildlife Park
11. Forest and mountain treks
12. As they drive on the left hand side of the road, why not hire a car and explore the island for yourself

Our Top Mauritius Accommodation

1. Constance Belle Mar Plage
2. Constance Le Prince Maurice
3. Dinarobin Beachcomber Golf Resort and Spa
4. Heritage Awali Golf and Spa Resort
5. Heritage Le Telfair Golf and Spa Resort
6. Le Cannonier
7. Le Mauricia
8. Le Victoria
9. Long Beach Golf and Spa Resort
10. LUX Belle Mare
11. LUX Grand Gaube
12. LUX Le Morne
13. Maritim Crystals Beach Hotel
14. Maritim Resort and Spa
15. Merville Beach Grand Baie
16. Paradis Hotel and Golf Club
17. Shandrani Beachcomber Resort and Spa
18. Shangri-La Le Touessrock Resort and Spa
19. Sugar Beach Resort and Spa
20. Tamassa
21. The Oberoi
22. Trou Aux Biches Beachcomer Resort and Spa
23. Veranda Paul et Virginie Hotel and Spa (adult only)

Mauritius Tourism Promotional Video