Mauritius Hotels & Resorts

Situated on the west coast of the island, Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius. Economic institutions stand next to colourful markets, churches and cultural sites and it is home to an array of historical sites that are easily explored on foot. The island's humid climate and colonial history combine to produce uniquely Mauritian architecture.

English is the official language with French, Creole, Hindi and Bhojpuri also used. Hotel employees are fluent in German, Italian and Spanish. Festivals are celebrated annually in the spirit of harmony and appreciating diversity.

The sights
Domaine Les Pailles in the Pailles Valley recaptures the ambiance of an old estate, with an ox driven sugar mill and horse carts trotting along the alleyways. Famous for its red roof, the Notre Dame Auxiliatrice is worth a visit. Look out for the intricate woodwork of its interiors and holy water basin using a giant clamshell. Experience a free tasting of special sugars and the local rum at the 'Village des Arts/Maniglier Art Gallery', where history, art, culture and gastronomy meet. A museum of contemporary art has been set up within the walls of an old sugar factory.

Food and entertainment
While Mauritian cuisine is distinctive, locals are adventurous with their food, eating Creole, Muslim, Chinese and Indian cuisines. Restaurants are plentiful at Domaine Les Pailles, with food courts along the Port Louis Caudan Waterfront offering live entertainment nightly. Pereybere Beach in the north is pop-ular for numerous restaurants and pubs. Mauritians like to head to Grand Bay for a night out complete with restaurants, bars and discos. Old Port Louis theatre is a must-see, hosting concerts of jazz, gospel and blues.

Activities
The most hiked mountain is Le Pouce the thumb-shaped peak overlooking the capital. It is an easy climb with glorious summit views. The second-highest mountain Pieter Both is popular and the gigantic "rock" at its summit is a drawcard. At the Trou Aux Biches beach in the north, novice snorkellers enjoy colourful reefs reached from the shore. Grand Bay is one of the best areas for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing. Kite surfers can head to Cap Malheureux and Anse La Raie and there are modern boats available that are equipped for deep-sea fishing.

Explore the ocean bed on board the Blue Safari submarine or the sub scooter for an encounter with marine life. See various wrecks and a semi-submarine, on a safe and comfortable discovery trip under the sea.

Trou D'Eau Douce is a fishing village and the main jumping off point for the islet, Ile aux Cerfs. Mauritious is a sun-worshipper's paradise, with miles of beaches on the east coast, from Belle Mare to Trou d'Eau Douce.

Labourdonnais Orchards showcases a variety of tropical fruit trees and colourful, exotic flowers and the Botanical Garden is also a must-see. In the south, short guided tours are available to the public on Ile aux Aigrettes, showcasing rare, endangered animals. In the centre of the island is the Black River Gorge National Park, one of the rarest forests in the world.

Getting around
Buses are inexpensive and regular, connec-ting every part of the island, but some attractions are harder to access by public transport. With no operational railways, there are many taxis, but agree on a price before starting your journey. A great way to explore the island is by renting a bicycle, scooter or car, which are available from many hotels or shops.

Shopping
The Port Louis Caudan Waterfront includes international fashion brands and jewellery shops. At the market discover local crafts as well as those of neighbouring countries. Also local delicacies, remedies, bright sarongs, vegetables and spices are available. China-town's entrance can't be missed. Pereybere Beach is known for its shopping facilities. Try the major shopping centres in Grand Bay and the Comptoir des Mascareignes in Pamplemousses where the eye-catching architecture hosts shops that sell handicraft, gifts and local fashion.

Climate
The wettest months are February to March, with cyclones occasionally occurring, the climate is mild throughout the year with occasional rainfall. The best times to visit is between April and June or September and December. Wear casual light clothing. During June – December light woollen clothing is recommended for the evenings. When visiting Hindu religious places, wear appropriate clothing and remove leather shoes and belts when entering temples.