Joanna James
Mauritius is among one of the first choices that most travellers will think of when trying to plan a vacation. The quaint island is filled with interesting things to do.
The island is blessed with a tropical climate that boasts warm weather all year round. The summer lasts from November to April, when the days get hot and humid. May to October is winter but the weather only grows moderately cooler during this time. The best time to plan a trip to Mauritius is between the months of May and December when you can expect cool, dry weather with plenty of sunshine. The period to avoid is the wet cyclone season, which lasts from January to March. Strong winds are also present on the East Coast in July and August.
Drawing in from Creole, Chinese, Indian and African cuisine, the street food in Mauritius is arguably one of the best that you will ever come across. It is worth trying it out just for the beautiful combinations of flavour, various exotic touches of spices and colours that are enough to work up a hearty appetite.
On the island of Mauritius, luxury resorts line the beachfront but budget hotels and guesthouses are also available. Most of the properties offer indulgences like an in-house spa and salon, a spectacular Indian Ocean view, direct beach access, a bar on the beach, a kids' club, multiple restaurants and an assortment of activities ranging from water sports, including driving an underwater scooter, to activities on the ground like tennis. The hotels will equip you with bicycles or scuba diving gear if you wish to head out on an excursion. If you are looking for an experience that is truly special, however, check out the extensive spa menu at InterContinental Mauritius Resort Balaclava Fort.
The beaches of Mauritius are not to be missed. Head over to Belle Mare on the East Coast to enjoy an afternoon of snorkelling. Grand Baie is considered the island's most beautiful beach, enjoy a cocktail with the sunset in the background or play a round of golf at one of the two golf courses nearby. The Northwestern Trou aux Biches, with its calm waters, is perfect for paddling, sea kayaking, snorkelling and water skiing. It is also safe for children and ideal for a family day out. Mauritius is popular for its pristine beaches, azure lagoons and the world's longest unbroken coral reef that circles the island. Head inland to discover the lush forests and cascading waterfalls of Black River Gorges National Park. Take a nature trail to observe the native wildlife, like the flying fox.
The tea plantations carpeting the city are an absolutely tranquilizing attraction that the island of Mauritius is blessed with. As you drive on the winding mist-laden road which is surrounded by tea plantations on either side, you can witness hard-working tea-pickers at work, plucking leaves from the bushes in an almost rhythmic fashion. For the heart of all tea plantations don't miss the ever so magical Bois Cheri Tea Plantations.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
