F&P Guide to Mauritius
In the west of the Indian Ocean lies the subtropical island of Mauritius. Well known for its lagoons, beaches and reefs as well as its forested and mountainous interiors there is something for everyone on this diverse and friendly island.
We know the key to a great holiday is a personal recommendation, and our Sailing and Islands expert Clare has just got back from an incredible week exploring this beautiful country thanks to Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (in conjunction with Air Mauritius). She’s been topping up her knowledge and getting under the skin of this beautiful island, visiting a total of 18 different properties. She is now poised and ready to share her knowledge and answer any questions you might have, before sending you on a dream holiday to Mauritius.
Read on to see the questions we asked Clare below, including her recommendations and insider tips.
WHO WILL LOVE IT?
Everyone! Mauritius is perfect for families with both young and older children as the climate over our summer months is lovely and resorts have so much going on, both on and off the water. It’s also a dream destination for couples who like to explore, or couples who like to relax and single travellers who like to do a bit of both!
WHEN TO GO AND HOW TO GET THERE?
Mauritius is the ideal year round destination, with two distinct seasons. In summer, between November and April, it’s warm and humid, whilst winter, from June to September is cooler and drier. There is no ‘best time’ to visit, but if we had to pick, we’d go in April or between September and November.
Fly with BA and Air Mauritius on their direct flights from London. Alternatively Emirates, Air France and Turkish Airlines all have indirect flights.
WHERE TO STAY?
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FOR FAMILIES There’s a number of family friendly options, with the highly coveted Kids’ Clubs, Clare’s top picks are: LUX* Belle Mare, LUX* Grand Gaube, Paradis Beachcomber, Sugar Beach and Constance Belle Mare Plage. |
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HONEYMOONERS For that ‘once in a lifetime’ holiday, a hotel with all the trimmings is essential. Clare’s top picks are: Maradiva Villas, LUX* Grand Baie, 20 Degrees Sud & Paradise Cove (split stay), LUX* Le Morne and O&O Le Saint Geran. |
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EMPTY NESTERS Without kids you can choose a hotel that works just for you. Clare’s top picks are: Oberoi, Maradiva Villas, LUX* Grand Baie, Constance Prince Maurice, O&O Le Saint Geran and the Four Seasons at Anahita. |
CLARES’ FOODIE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Mauritian curry is a must and the street food is amazing. If you’re out and about try and pick up some gateaux piments (deep-fried chilli cakes), boulettes (Chinese-Mauritian dumplings), roti served with a choice of toppings from rougaille (tomato based Mauritian creole sauce), cari gros pois (butter bean curry) and satini (raw chilli chutney – either green with mint and coriander or red with chilli and tomato). When you’re not enjoying the delicious food, try a rum cocktail – the Mauritians have a large range of rum which is made from the sugar cane that is grown over the island – try a Royal Mojito, or a Rum Punch!
THINGS TO DO, SEE AND EXPERIENCE
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MEET CLARE With over 25 years of experience, excellent contacts and fantastic understanding of tailor-made travel in the Caribbean and Indian Ocean, Clare is the perfect person to plan you a bespoke trip to a paradise island. |