UNADULTERATED ISLAND LUXURY AWAITS
Mauritius is Southern Africa's favorite island destination and the motivations for visiting this wonderful French-speaking Indian Ocean nation are numerous. A notable selection of truly fine, world-class hotels, spas and beaches await.
Once famed as the home of the Dodo (now extinct), Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, a predominantly Francophone region 560m (900km) east of Madagascar. Before being colonized by the French and English respectively, the Dutch grew sugarcane here nearly four centuries ago. Following independence, the country has benefited from significant economic growth (in the order of 5% to 6% per annum) and subsequent improvements in local infrastructure although large parts of the main island remain delightfully undeveloped. The result is an accessible and highly enjoyable island environment with all the comforts that more sophisticated travelers have come to expect. In addition to the more obvious leisure options (such as water sports and beach-hopping), there are excellent diving and deep sea fishing opportunities as well as yacht and even submarine cruises. On land, we'd recommend spending some time getting to know the local cultures and foods (amongst them: Chinese, Indian and European). For the bold: mountain-biking, excellent kite boarding and zip lining are also on the cards.
regional travel info for south africa 
Mauritius highlights
- Visit the tiny offshore island of Ile aux Cerfs for particularly beautiful beaches
- Uncover a wealth of cultural diversity form China Town to the Maheswarnath Hindu temple (circa 1819)
- Hike or mountain bike through the Labourdonnais Orchards and discover exotic local fruits and perfumed flowers
- For kite boarders and sailors there are a number of spots to enthrall
- Explore some of the various ruins that can be found on the main island
- Sample local rums
- Shop for handmade crafts and international labels at Grand Bay
Mauritius accomodation
St. Geran
The Grande Dame of Mauritius this One and Only resort is a true classic. Distinguished and graceful, the recently remodeled hotel occupies its own private peninsula. Each terraced room and suite is positioned facing the Indian Ocean and with guest privacy in mind. Manicured lawns and lush gardens guide guests onto the white coral sand beach, which stretches for over half a mile (1km). Stately spa, 9-hole golf course and a variety of water sports are all on offer here.
