Joanna James
Mauritius is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean and is renowned for its pristine oceans, sandy beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Mauritius boasts a very high GDP and has claimed the top spot as the richest African country after expanding its production lines to sectors beyond sugar and textiles. This beautiful island is home to a gorgeous selection of beaches; the La Cambuse public beach is one of the most stunning and well-maintained beaches available, and it is less than thirty minutes away from amazing places such as the Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort and Villas.
The population of Mauritius is comprised of a large collection of ethnicities, which includes Indian, African, Chinese, and European communities. The diversity of this nation has brought forward a wide array of traditions, cultural practices, festivals, and cuisines to harmoniously unite everyone on the island. Tourism is a large part of the Mauritian community, primarily due to the gorgeous sceneries and warm hospitality brought forward by the people of Mauritius.
Among the best things to do in Mauritius; visiting, engaging with, and participating in their festivals would elevate the overall experience by bringing in a large volume of culture and exposure to the lives of the Mauritian people. Unlike most places, the Mauritians actively promote including visitors in their festivals because they love diversifying events and gatherings by bringing in people from various ethnicities.
The Chinese Spring Festival (also known as the Chinese New Year) since it marks the beginning of the lunar new year. It is a significant celebration in Mauritius, reflecting the island's multicultural heritage. This festival consists of colourful parades, traditional dances (featuring the lion and the dragon), an amazing opportunity to have authentic Chinese cuisine, and a fireworks display to top the night off.
The Sakifo Music Festival is an annual event held in Mauritius, which is an amazing collaboration between culture and music. The Sakifo Music Festival features a collection of local and international artists who come together to perform for three days. This festival covers a large variety of genres such as jazz, reggae, rock, and world music (a collection of music that is from non-western countries).
The Mid-Autumn Festival (it is also known as the Moon Festival), is a celebration highlighting the island's Chinese heritage, it is held on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. This festival has a collection of activities that encapsulate the true essence of Chinese heritage. This festival has an emphasis on community, reunion, and gratitude, and as a result, there is a mooncake-sharing event, lantern displays, and family gatherings. When the community comes together they celebrate a cherished tradition by admiring the full moon as a sign of harmony and prosperity.
The Lantern Festival marks the end of the Chinese New Year festivities on the 15th day of the lunar new year. This event is celebrated via beautiful handmade lanterns, traditional dances (featuring the lion and the dragon), cultural/ traditional performances, and the coming together of family and friends. Families come together to release lanterns to the wind or to let the lanterns float over water, the symbolism behind this custom is the welcoming of good fortune while letting go of issues from the previous year(s). This festival highlights the rich Chinese cultural influence in Mauritius, promoting unity, cultural appreciation, and welcoming visitors from other races, ethnicities, and nations.
Holi is the Festival of Colors it is a joyous celebration reflecting the island's Indian heritage, it marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. This vibrant festival involves the playful throwing of coloured powders, singing, traditional dances, and festive foods that highlight the unique flavour palette of Indian cuisine. A particular food that stands out would be "Thandai," a cold drink that is perfect for the weather, it is prepared with a mix of almonds, fennel seeds, rose petals, poppy seeds, saffron, milk and sugar. This festival pushes cultural barriers and boundaries, bringing communities together to celebrate the colourful and vibrant nature of this festival.
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.
