About 560 miles off the coast of Madagascar, the island nation of Mauritius offers visitors a
glimpse of paradise. Covered in stunning beaches and lush rain forests, it has earned the right to be a premier destination for those in search of fun in the sun. Discovered by Arab, Asian and Portuguese over the course of six hundred years, no colonization happened until the Dutch established the first permanent settlement in 1638. They abandoned the area in 1710, but French ships arrived and took control five years later. The colony then traded hands again in 1810, when Mauritius was ceded to the British. Though these origins can be perplexing, the wide variety of cultural influences is one of the country’s best assets: in addition to beautiful scenery, it has developed a unique blend of cuisines and architectural styles.
When you make your trip, be sure to visit these seven Must See Places in Mauritius:
- Port LouisThe capital and chief harbor of Mauritius, La Citadelle, a British fort dating to 1835, dominates the Port Louis skyline. Travelers tour Caudan Waterfront for the tremendous selection of shops and restaurants or head Kadafi Square for a selection of local food. This city is a true melting pot, as European, Asian and Indian cultures intertwine within Port Louis’ city limits. And, with modern skyscrapers rising in the city center and Port Louis Moka Mountain Range outside of town, it’s a great place to see the civilization springing up alongside beautiful nature.
- Grand BayThis village and beach on the island’s northern coast was the first area on Mauritius to become known as a tourist destination. Filled with many of the island’s top-rated clubs, it draws visitors looking for a more accurate experience of the vibrant local culture. Despite having people arrive from all over the globe, Grand Bay is a popular spot for residents, too.
- Black River GorgesIf you consider yourself a nature lover, you’ll want to go to Black River Gorges, the only designated national park on Mauritius. Rare bird and plant species line both sides of the trail, giving tourists a first-hand encounter with the island’s trademark verdant rainforests. Fantastic views are almost guaranteed.
- Ile aux CerfsThis island just off the eastern coast of Mauritius is the place to go if you are a water sports fanatic. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on its sugary-white beaches, then relax in the sun until you give into the temptation to go snorkeling or scuba diving in the clear turquoise waters. If you’d like to do something different, Ile aux Cerfs offers parasailing for a bird’s eye view and speedboat trips to a lovely waterfall on the island’s northwestern edge.
- Casela Bird ParkOn the southwestern corner of the island, just outside of Flic en Flac, Casela Bird Park contains is more like a zoo. In addition to 90 aviaries containing a number of rare birds (including the endangered pink pigeon), there are habitats for monkeys, ostriches, turtles and even big African cats like the cheetah. Perfect for families, it’s mountainside location makes it a great spot for views of the ocean, as well.
- MahebourgSomewhat like a combination of Grand Bay and Port Louis, Mahebourg is a business community looking for a revival. Originally built by the Dutch as their main port, it shrank when the French arrived and made Port Louis the commercial center. The recent redevelopment of its waterfront means more is on offer for tourists than the National History Museum and beaches.
- The Chateau de LabourdonnaisIn the mood to spend a day diving into history? This huge 19th century sugar cane plantation has several things to do in one location: a museum, fruit orchards, a rum distillery and restaurant. Located in Mapou, it is a Must See choice for visitors and they are invited to wander the grounds and enjoy the magnificent gardens. Stop at the tasting bar to sample mango jam and then eat a mouth-watering lunch in the restaurant’s open-air dining room.



August 9th, 2011
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