Information About Mauritius |
Mauritius is a pear shaped island situated off the south east coast of Africa. The coastline is fringed with white beaches and protected by coral reef almost all around the island, except for the southern coast that offers wilder strands or dramatic cliffs. From the northern plains the land rises to a central plateau dotted by lakes and extinct volcanic craters.
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The capital Port Louis is the nerve centre of the island with streets lined with royal palm trees and old stone buildings.There are many historical and cultural sites to visit in the city including “Cham de Mars” a very popular racetrack which attracts a large crowd during horse racing season from May to November. The Central Market has all the ingredients which captures the essence of Mauritius; local crafts, bright sarongs, colourful heaps of vegetables and fruits, spices and savouries filled with curry and chutney. Nobody can miss the entrance to Port Louis Chinatown where one can find almost anything at an affordable price. The Waterfront is one of the unavoidable places for one of the best shopping opportunities and wide range of restaurants, it will expose you to famous international fashion brands and jewellery. At the Craft Market you can have a glimpse of traditional Mauritian skills and while strolling around you may come across one of the local artists painting. You can also take a small boat from the marina for a harbour cruise.
Going off for a holiday on a dream island does not stop you from improving your golf skills. Most of the links are spectacular with the sea as background, “Ile aux Cerfs” Golf Course, the latest one to be opened, is set up on its own islet, fringed by white sands with a back drop of green mountains, truly one of the world’s great settings. All 18 holes of this golf course have views over the ocean. Ile Aux Cerfs is also a paradise for water sports.
A visit to the Botanical Garden is a must, naturalists throughout the world know the garden for its large collection of indigenous and exotic plants, including the giant Victoria Amazonica water lilies and palm trees.
Mauritius is also famous for its Sega music which is rhythmic and lively. It’s a must to catch the live entertainment shows at one of the local Restaurants or Hotels and watch a colourful performance of local dancers in traditional costumes, dancing to the beat of the drums, shuffling their feet and swaying their hips.
Mauritius marine life conceals an infinite sea treasure, its crystal clear lagoons and magnificent coral beds are inhabited by bright colourful fish, which can be discovered by scuba diving, small discovery submarine or an undersea walk. Behind the barrier reef, the experienced scuba diver can come across some spectacular underwater caves, large coral blocks and old shipwrecks dating back to the 17th century. Excitement above the water comes along with the experience of deep sea fishing. Species found in Mauritius include Blue or Black Marlin, all types of shark, various tuna, sailfish, bonitos, dorado, wahoo or barracuda. A unique sight on the Mauritius coast, black dolphins and long beaked dolphins have chosen Tamarin Bay as their meeting place.
You can also go mountain claiming or explore the forests, enjoy the spectacular beauty of waterfalls or live an exciting adventure by canoeing down the rivers. Other activities include 4x4 circuits, mountain biking, archery, quad biking, a helicopter ride around the Island or a visit to the Water Park Leisure Village.
Visit “La Vanille Reserve Des Mascareignes” where 500 giant tortoises roaming free and Nile crocodiles (in safe captivity) can be found.
Another attraction on the Island is “Chamarel or Seven Coloured Earth” which is a series of contrasting colours of blue, green, red and yellow which is apparently the result the erosion of the volcanic ash.
Mauritians are trilingual, English is the official language, but French and Creole are commonly used. The population of Mauritius is approximately 1.2 million including Rodrigues and outer Islands.
The local Mauritian rupee is divided into 100 cent and is available in coins and notes. Change counters offer their services all over the island, mainly through the banking network. Most of the restaurants and tourist shops will take credit cards.
Visitors can keep connected to the rest of the world by visiting the many cyber cafes.
No travel visa is required just a valid passport. |
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