Holidays in Mauritius - Holidays to Mauritius
Holidays in Mauritius, Package holidays in Mauritius, holidays in Mauritius with named accommodation. Luxury holidays in Mauritius, hotel holidays in Mauritius, and excellent cheap all inclusive holidays in Mauritius
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Holidays in Mauritius
Enjoy a holiday in Mauritius an idyllic tropical island wrapped in a fragrant blend of bourgenvillia, ylang ylang oil, British colonialism, French chic and distinctive Indian heritage. The holiday island of Mauritius is a pearl set in the warm azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean and fringed by languid palms and golden ribbons of pristine sandy beaches - Mauritius has been described as a garden the Gods have placed on the sea.
What To See on Holiday in Mauritius
Away from the magnificent beaches, a holiday to Mauritius also offers the visitor a fascinating and exotic interior. Backed by mountains, the bustling capital of Port Louis is alive with activity during the day. The snarling traffic, honking horns and traders hawking their wares with enthusiasm blend with the intoxicating aromas drifting gently in the air. Visit Port Louis Market in the heart of the city, which has sections specialising in fruit and vegetables, crafts, clothing and spices. View a replica of the dodo, extinct since the 17th Century in the Natural History Museum. The museum also houses exhibits of other extinct species. The views from Fort Adelaide, a British built fort, on the hilltop overlooking the harbour are well worth seeing.
Curepipe is a small town located in the highlands and has the flavour of an English market town. It is the centre of Mauritius' tea and model-ship building industries and a great place to pick up a souvenir of your trip. A short ride from Curepipe are the Tamarind Falls, a series of seven waterfalls in countryside ideal for hikes.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolan Botanical Gardens are a highlight of a holiday to Mauritius and it's key attraction are it's giant Victoria lilies which open white one day and close red the next. Visitors will also see golden bamboo, chewing gum trees, fish poison trees together with wildlife such as Java deer and giant tortoises.
Food & Drink
One highlight of a holiday to Mauritius is the authentic and contrasting cuisine on offer. French, Creole, Indian, Chinese or English dishes are served all over the island but delicious Mauritian dishes are available. Specialties include venison (in season), camarons (freshwater prawns) in hot sauces, octopus, creole fish, fresh pineapple with chili sauce, and rice with curry. Rum and beer are staple beverages for Mauritians but there is also good wine imported from France and South Africa. Mineral water, alouda (almond drink), lassi (yogurt and icewater) and fresh coconut milk are available everywhere from streetside vendors.
Shopping in Mauritius
The Central Market in Port Louis is full of beautifully displayed goods, including leather items, handmade clothes, wooden sculptures, spices, wicker baskets and Indian fabrics. Shopping centres are located at Quatre Bornes and Le Caudan Waterfront complex which houses upmarket boutiques as well as a cinema, restaurants and even a casino. Visitors are exempt from paying tax on a number of products, including textiles. Away from Port Louis, Curepipe is a quieter and cheaper place to shop beside the array of clothing and Indian fabrics on offer it is also the centre of the island's tea and model-ship building industry.
Airport
The international airport is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam airport which is 30 miles (48km) south-east of Port Louis.
Mauritius Climate
Mauritius has a warm coastal climate, particularly in January through to April and enjoys relatively little variation in temperatures throughout the year although they fall slightly as you move inland. The central highlands such as Curepipe and Vacoas are often covered by clouds and have higher rainfall than the lowlands. Cyclones may occur between November and February.
Clothing
Lightweight cotton and linen clothing is advisable for much of the year together with a jacket or a jumper for the cooler evenings and winter months. Waterproofs are advisable throughout the year. In the summer months sun lotion and a hat are advisable, as the tropical sun can be deceptively strong. Some of the top hotels require smart attire for the evenings.
Currency
The currency is the Mauritian Rupee (approx. MUR 52.4 to £1) which is divided into 100 cents.
Driving
Driving in Mauritius is not advised as speed limits are often ignored, headlights a rarity and pedestrians frequently weaving into the path of oncoming traffic. Cars can be hired though at the airport and in major towns on production of an international drivers license and proof that the driver is over 23 years of age. Traffic drives on the left.
Electricity
220 Volts, 50Hz. Hotels commonly use UK style 3 pin plugs.
Flying Time
Approximately 12 hours from London.
Getting Around on Holiday in Mauritius
Buses in Mauritius are reliable albeit a bit slow with extensive routes over the island. Although cheap, buses can be crowded during rush hours. Taxis are also available in the main tourist centres, however vehicles are unmetered so agree a fare in advance. Hiring a car is great for exploring the island, which has a good road network. Driving is on the left hand side. Bikes are also available for hire.
Health
Recommended: Typhoid, Polio, Hepatitis A and Tetanus.
For the latest immunisation requirements please contact your GP.
Language
English is the official language of Mauritius although French, Creole, Hindi and Bhojpuri are widely understood. Urdu and Chinese are also spoken.
Opening Hours
Banks are open Monday to Thursday 9:15am-3:30pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9:15am-11:15am (except for Bank of Mauritius). Some banks may open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. Post Offices are generally open Monday to Friday 8:15am-11:15am and 12-4pm and Saturday 8am-11:45am.
Time
GMT + 4 hours.
Tipping
All hotels and restaurants add service charges to the bill and to give anything beyond this remains a much-appreciated gesture of appreciation. In addition there is a 12% VAT on all goods and services.
Tourist Board
Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (UK): 0207 584 3666.
Visa Requirements
Visa not required for UK passport holders (up to 3 months), but an onward ticket and a passport that will be valid for at least 6 months after the return date is needed.
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