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Mauritius Destination Guide
Find your package online or call our reservations team on 0845 880 0248 |
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Introduction |
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Once upon a time, the islands of the Indian Ocean were virtually unknown as a tourist destination. Most people´s thoughts of palm trees and trade winds, white sands and blue seas conjured images of the South Pacific or the Caribbean. Not anymore. The seventh sea is finally coming into its own, and travellers will be cheered to note that prices are actually coming down to honour it, enticing visitors of every budget to see what they´ve been missing. Mauritius is making a name for itself as the most accessible island in the region, boasting as much tropical paradise as Maui or Martinique and, better still, offering it at a bargain. Well, a bargain once you get there, anyway. Though nestled up alongside eastern Africa, Mauritius is actually more influenced by its British and French ties and massive Indian workforce than by the African mainland. Here, you can enjoy a dish of curried chickpeas or a nice Yorkshire pudding on the terrace of a French café, sipping imported wine or a thick malty ale while listening to Créole music and the conversation of locals in any number of lingoes. Mauritius´ range of visitors´ facilities runs the gamut from pamper-happy beach resorts and organised excursions to locals who´ll put you up in their homes and rent you their cars for daytrips. If you&Acute;re looking for a lazy beach vacation, you could certainly do worse, but don´t forget the rambling interior and the multicultural capital Port Louis. |
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Climate |
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| 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 28°C (82°F) in the summer. The peak holiday season runs from October to Easter, with hotel prices dropping during over the summer months. |
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Transportation |
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Taxis:
Available outside most hotels, otherwise they can be arranged at your hotel reception. Rates may differ between drivers, so it pays to ask at reception how much they consider the journey to cost and then negotiate with the driver. Buses:
Bus services on the island are excellent, but a bit slow. There are several operators and they can get you to just about any part of the island. The main hubs are Curepipe and Port Louis. Tickets are cheap, but be sure to keep them easily accessible, as the inspectors check often. Car Hire:
Driving is on the left. Driver´s License for at least 12 months. There are many scenic drives and over 1,600 km of roads all over the island which range from smooth and firm to potholed and unpaved. There are several rental car companies and your travel agent will happily advise you. A great way to see the island is to hire a car and driver for the day. |
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