Category Archives: Mauritius

Street Shopping in Mauritius: 5 Most Popular Markets of this Pristine Island

Popularly known for its cobalt-blue seas, white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, Mauritius is a traveller’s paradise in the Indian Ocean presenting a relaxing holiday experience for all.

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Though people visit this mesmerising land for an ideal beach vacation, street shopping in Mauritius is the most indulging and exciting experience, offering plenty for every budget, from surgically carved handicrafts to nostril-tingling rum.

Read on and know about some of the best street markets in Mauritius:

Port Louis Central Market

A huge market in the capital city of Mauritius, the Central Market is popular among locals as “Bazaar Port Louis”. The market is operational since Victorian times and is where you can shop for local clothing, artisanal jewellery, musical instruments, glass sculptures and various handcrafted goods. You will find the market crowded even during the weekdays and can utilise your bargain skills to get the best deals.

Le Craft Market

Located in Port Louis close to the central market, Le Craft Market welcomes visitors with a refreshing fragrance of the scent of teak meddled with mahogany. The market houses 36 stalls spread over two floors wrapped in warm tropical colours in a cosy atmosphere. You can have a long stroll through the market and shop for colourful beach sarongs, semi-precious stones, wooden sculptures, embroidered linen, spices, a unique array of regional handicraft and cultural traditions from Mauritius, Madagascar and Rodrigues, and the sought-after Mauritian RUM.

The Mahebourg Market

A unique market in the fishing village of Mahebourg which is open only once a week on Monday, the Mahebourg Market is just a walk away from the sea and astonishes visitors with an array of colonial buildings. It is the most bargain-friendly market in Mauritius where you can buy some local crafts and fantastic souvenirs. Food lovers can try here a number of traditional dishes such as Dholl Puri, biryani, Chinese noodles and a variety of Creole and Mauritian cuisines. Besides, you can also get your hands of some traditional Indian and Chinese goods, local spices, fruits, vegetables, electronics and a lot more.

The Flacq Market

The largest open market in Mauritius, the Flacq Market is an ideal place to sharpen your bargain skills, to purchase souvenirs to take back home and to see locals shopping for their daily needs. The tropical fruits and sweets stalls in the market are a treat to watch and appeal visitors to purchase some. The market is quite busy on all days; however, it is a better option to visit on weekends. Moreover, there is no chance you’ll not buy a few t-shirts, hats, and some local tea from here.

The Quatre-Bornes Market Fair

A delightful, merry market place, the fair of Quantre-Bornes is where you can treat your eyes to the beauty of a variety of lined-stalls. Opened on Tuesdays and Sundays only, this ephemeral market is where you can shop for garments and fashion accessories. It is an ideal shopping paradise for Mauritian shoppers, and appeals visitors with its reasonable prices. You can buy sweaters and fleece clothing during winters and get your hands on some cool T-shirts and shorts in bright colours during summers. Besides, you should not miss trying the famous dishes served here such as gato-piment, samosas and gato arouille.

Holidays to Mauritius – What to Do and See!

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Mauritius is undeniably one of the most aesthetically blessed places in the world and tourists visit here all round the year. Have a look at some of the truly interesting things you can do here before you plan your trip.

Le Morne Brabant

This peninsula is situated on the windward side of Mauritius, the southernmost tip of it. The huge basaltic mountain is hard to miss. People visit here from different parts of the world; there are several interesting activities that you can partake in here, right from rock climbing to hiking.  Be it exploring the different caves here or simply lounging around on the spectacular beach, there is much to experience here.

Port Louis

Port Louis, the capital, is the best place to live like a local. If you truly want to experience the essence of Mauritius, you need to get into the skin of it. Right from the nooks and crevices of the city, to the local food joints, art galleries and museums, parks and homes; learn the local language, visit the local markets and get to know everything better.

Black River Gorges National Park

If you love nature, this is going to be true bliss for you. This national park situated on the south-western part of Mauritius, is a brilliant place for hikes and camps. There are several different species of flora and fauna that you will witness here. It’s always better to hire tour guides, who know their way around the region, so that you can have a safe yet adventurous trip. This place is home to the Rusa deer, Mauritius Parakeet, Pink pigeon etc.

Ile Aux Cerfs

One of the must-visits during a visit to Mauritius, Ile aux Cerfs is abode to exotic vegetation, white beaches, golf clubs and resorts, and spas to help you unwind and relax in the lap of nature. You can make a day long trip to this island, indulge in adventure sports, sightseeing or simply relaxing on the beach with your cocktails.

Seven Coloured Earths

These naturally occurring rainbow mountains are beyond fascinating!  The Chamerel Plain of the Rivière Noire District is famous across the world for this spectacular phenomenon. Different coloured earth layered over the years due to the rain and other geographical factors has resulted in creating this wonder, attracting tourists from all over.

Holidays in Mauritius – Top Things to Enjoy

Famed for its idyllic beaches, fascinating wildlife, exquisite culinary knowhow, traditional charm, and a plethora of other interesting indulgences, Mauritius is truly a traveller’s delight! Read on and learn about some of the country’s most impressive offerings for the travellers.

Beaches

beaches

Owing to its location in the midst of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is blessed with endless pristine white sand beaches. Ideal to enjoy the best of sun and sand alongside a range of interesting water sports, these beaches are a major attraction in the country. Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Pereybere, La Cuvette, Blue Bay, Belle Mare and Ile aux Cerfs are among the popular beaches in the island country. Enjoy sunbathing as well as different water sports like snorkelling, deep sea diving and windsurfing. The beautiful cliffs, scenic landscape and the turquoise blue waters add to the overall aura of the place.

Flora and Fauna

Home to several native and endangered species, Mauritius is loved for its unique wildlife too. Be it be reptiles, mammals or birds, there’s a lot for people to spot here on the island. Black-Spined Flying Fox, Rusa Deer, Crab-Eating Macaques, Pink Pigeon, Rodrigues Warbler, Madagascar Fody, Keel-Scaled Boa and Swordtails are few of the animals and birds that can be spotted here. Over 700 species of native plants including Ebony, Takamaka, Manglier Vert and Bois De Natte can be found in the country. Black River Gorges National Park, Islets National Park and Bras d’Eau National Park are some of the prominent protected areas in Mauritius.

Shopping

Whether it’s the traditional streetside markets or the stylish malls, shopping in Mauritius remains a memorable experience for all. From handicrafts to antiques and from textiles to authentic jewellery and model boats, you can buy all sorts of things in the country as souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. Besides, freshly grounded coffee and flavoured tea bags are rather popular among the tourists. Bazaar de Grand Baie, Goodlands Market, Quatres Bornes Market and Mahebourg Market are few of the busy markets in the region. If you are looking for top brands and labels, you can visit Bagatelle Mall and Le Craft Market.

Food

food

Influenced by different cooking styles such as Chinese, Indian and European, Mauritian cuisine is a big delight. Predominated by tomatoes, garlic, onion and chillies, Mauritian food could be spicy and delicious. Dishes like Dholl Pori, Boulettes, Farata, Bol Renverse and Du Pain Frire are hugely popular in the country; you must surely try them out while holidaying here. Seafood, especially fish and prawns, is served all over the island. When it comes to beverages, Vanilla Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the country.

Festivals

Festivals in Mauritius highlight the different religions, traditions and customs that thrive in the country. Chinese Spring Festival, Cavadee, Père Laval Pilgrimage, Lantern Festival, Yaum-Um-Nabi and Ugadi are some of the most famous festivals celebrated here. Characterised by fire-walking and sword-climbing ceremonies, Cavadee remains a big hit with the tourists. Held annually on the 8th of September, pilgrimage to the tomb of Father Jacques Désiré Laval is an event celebrated with much pomp and show.

Temples

Mostly built by the early rulers of the country, the temples are classic examples of religious influence and traditional architecture in Mauritius. Located in the village of Triolet, Maheswarnath Shiv Mandir is the largest Hindu temple in Mauritius visited by hundreds of pilgrims every year. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ganga Talao and Sagar Shiv Mandir are popular attractions among the devotees. Visit these Shiva temples during the annual festival of Maha Shivarathri (Hindu festival celebrated annually in honour of the god Shiva) to witness them in their true glory.

Attractions

Besides the beaches, peninsulas and volcanoes promise an interesting sightseeing experience to the tourists. Seven Coloured Earths, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, Le Morne Brabant, Chamarel Waterfall, Trou aux Cerfs, Blue Penny Museum, L’Aventure du Sucre (Sugar Museum) and Tamarind Falls are among the top sites in the country. Featuring a range of exciting rides and thrilling adventure activities, Casela World of Adventures is one of the most popular theme parks in Mauritius.

Mauritius Holidays beyond the Beaches: 6 Top Things to Do

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Mauritius as a holiday destination is much beyond its pristine beaches and azure waters. It is an island nation that is home to diverse cultures, lip smacking street food, perfect roads for a road trip and a wide variety of indigenously prepared rums to savour! The list is, in fact, exhausting but we have got the best experiences waiting for you. Take a look.

Drive down the southern coast

Driving around in a rented or a chauffeur driven car down the southern coast roads is perhaps the best way to discover the natural beauty of Mauritius. The roads lead to many beautiful fishermen villages and stunning hidden beaches. Don’t forget to stop by the Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO world heritage site that symbolizes the slaves’ resistance and fight for freedom.

Go on a rum tasting tour

‘Rumerie de Chamarel’, a local rum distillery located in the southern part of Mauritius, is an excellent place to discover the art of rum making and to enjoy some of the finest rum blends produced on the island. The distillery provides guided tours through the facility followed by a rum tasting session and scrumptious lunch in a colonial ambience themed restaurant.

Explore the diversity of cultures

The diversity of cultures in Mauritius can be gauged by the dotting presence of temples, churches, mosques and Chinese pagodas all over the island. You can visit brilliantly carved temples, stop by the god idols for a photograph, listen to folklores and participate in the Mauritius spirited Sega dance.  Visiting Mauritius is like visiting many countries at once.

Relish some street food

Mouth-watering street food is available at pocket friendly prices in Mauritius. You can try Napolitaine, Smoked Marlin Salade, Min Frite, Anana Confit, Cateaux Piment and Roti and Dalpuri. Most of the street foods available on the island are a mix of Chinese, Indian, African, Creole and French cuisines. Mauritius’ sugarcane juice is a must try as well.

Peek into Mauritius’ tea plantation history

Bois Cheri Tea Plantation, located about 12 km north of Riviere Des Anguilles, offers guided tours and exhibitions on the island’s tea history. You also get to enjoy different tea varieties at the end of the tour. Staying for lunch at the plantation is not a bad idea either as the delicacies prepared with local ingredients at the terrace restaurant are simply brilliant.

Take the underwater sea walk

The famous underwater sea walk in Mauritius is one of the best experiences the island has on offer. You get to see the enticing marine life from up close as you walk on the sea bed and different coral reefs. This excursion lasts an hour including the transport from island to the lagoon but leaves one with a lifetime of memories.

Mauritius – A Beautiful Indian Ocean Gem You Must Learn About

A beautiful island in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is famous for its incredible natural riches and fantastic culture and traditions. It is not surprising that millions of honeymooners, family holidaymakers, and adventurers visit this fabulous island nation year on year.  It is important that tourists learn as much as possible about the country before hitting its shores.

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Mauritius lies some 2,000 km off the southeast coast of the African continent and is connected to most of the world’s major destinations by Air Mauritius, the flag carrier of the country, or other global operators. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the key gateway to the country and welcomes over 2 million passengers annually.

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Mauritius has long list of tourist attractions, which ensures elaborate sightseeing excursions for the visitors.  [sg_popup id="21"]Mauritius Botanical Garden[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="20"]Black River Gorges National Park[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="22"]Île aux Cerfs Island[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="19"]Port Louis[/sg_popup], and [sg_popup id="23"]Ile aux Aigrettes[/sg_popup] are some of the key tourist spots you’ll love to visit in the country. When it comes to climatic conditions, Mauritius remains pleasantly warm, more or less, throughout the year.

As a result of its multicultural population, a number of festivals are celebrated in Mauritius and each one of them is enjoyed by the locals. Most of the major Indian festivals are celebrated here and so are the Chinese ones. The island is extremely lively during the Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Along with enjoying the colourful festivals, do sample some of the region’s best known delicacies.  Mauritian cuisine is a mix of Indian, Chinese, and European/ Mediterranean food. You can enjoy rougaille, briyani, curries and other local dishes popular in the country.

In regards to health tips, travellers must opt for comprehensive health insurance for their holidays in the country. Also, visitors to Mauritius are advised to carry insect or mosquito repellents. To enjoy a happy and safe holiday in the nation, one must practise basic safety measures.

Luxury Holidays to Indian Ocean Destinations – Top Resorts at Top Destinations

Indian Ocean is a wonderful region of several island nations. The region is pretty popular with luxury travellers as it boasts several top class islands that attract vacationers from all corners of the globe. The coastal charms of countries like Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Mauritius are truly splendid and push holiday makers to spend money on air tickets and hotel deals. Opulent resorts at each of these destinations are hugely popular as they allow travellers to experience luxury holidays to Indian Ocean destinations. Take a fleeting look at top two luxurious properties at each of the above mentioned destinations.

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Sri Lanka

Paradise Road the Villa Bentota and Saman Villas are among the top holiday resorts that can be found in the country. While the Villa Bentota, south of Colombo, offers around a dozen individually designed rooms and suites, complete with all amenities and services, Saman Villas is a top Sri Lanka beach resort that’s located atop a cape facing the Indian Ocean. Both these resorts feature almost every conceivable facility for guests, who are booking air tickets to Sri Lanka and seeking accommodation at either of the two.

Maldives

For many, Cocoa Island Resort is the best luxury resort in the country. Tourists who opt for the resort are greeted with azure waters and white velvety beaches. All sorts of amenities are available at the resort rooms, which are inspired by dhoni boats. Taj Exotica Resort and Spa is another top address for luxury in Maldives. The villas are all palm-thatched, and the interiors are done in true traditional style. Holiday makers who invest on flight tickets keeping in mind both luxury and tradition might not find a better option than this.

Mauritius

The Oberoi Mauritius is one fine luxury resort that’s located close to the capital city of Port Louis. Guests will love the natural tones of luxurious rooms that are replete with all facilities. On the east coast of Mauritius, the Four Seasons Resort at Anahita is yet another favourite of sybarites’ spending money on luxury holiday deals. The resort is surrounded by beautiful green gardens and beaches. A top golf course lies adjacent to the resort.