Mauritius Travel Guide
Mauritius is an island located in the Indian Ocean about 800km (550 miles) east of Madagascar and 2,000 km (1,250 mi) off the nearest point of the African coast. Mauritius is mostly of volcanic formation and is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs.
Though nestled up alongside Eastern Africa, Mauritius is actually more influenced by its British and French ties than by the African mainland. Mauritian Culture, is a melting pot of various cultures, it is made up of the different customs and traditions of different races and nationalities who, during the last 400 years, have settled on its shores. In Mauritius Europe meets India, China, Africa and many more other cultures. The rich diversity of Mauritian culture is found in every aspect of the Mauritian life.
Once upon a time, the islands of the Indian Ocean were virtually unknown as a tourist destination. Most peoples thoughts of palm trees and trade winds, white sands and blue seas conjured images of the South Pacific or the Caribbean. Not anymore. Mauritius is now a prime tourist attraction with tourists from all over the world who wish to experience a paradise island getaway. Mauritius is the most accessible island in the region, boasting as much tropical paradise as Maui or Martinique.
Things to do
The country is blessed with breathtaking white sand beaches, rich marine life, and lush greeneries. Mauritius is primarily a beach escape destination, well known for its wide range of water sports activities and wonderful tropical marine life.
Food and Cuisine
The cuisine in Mauritius truly reveals the islands multi–cultural and multi–ethnical richness and the merging of these cultures to the point that one dish can be classified as Creole, Mauritian and Indian. Traditionally the base of all Mauritian cuisine is the curries and rougailles and served more simply than a normal curry with white rice and beans. All residents of the island have adopted this cuisine as their staple diet.
Climate
Mauritius has only two seasons with minimal differences between them, making Mauritius a perfect year round destination. Summer runs from November to April, with temperatures reaching as high as 34C (93F) on the coast. Humidity is highest from December to April but is never unbearable, particularly on the coast where there is a constant sea breeze. Cyclones, with strong winds and heavy rain, can occur between January and March. Mauritius will normally experience about three or four cyclones a year during this period, each usually lasting a couple of days. During winter the temperature drop a few degrees, however, there is still plenty of sunshine and it is a very pleasant time of year to visit. Sea temperatures vary between 24C (75F) in the winter and 28C (82F) in the summer. The peak holiday season runs from October to Easter, with hotel prices dropping during over the summer months.
