Mauritius
More than just a beach holiday
Sian Pages – Travel Planner
Mauritius is hot for 2019, so if you’re looking to try a new destination, I highly recommend this luxurious island. Located in the Indian ocean, Mauritius may be a long-haul flight, but when you step off that plane, you’ll be on your own little paradise island with a variety of things to see and do and worth mentioning too that there’s no jet lag!
Whether you’re looking for sun, sea and spa getaways or an action-packed holiday that’s fun for all the family, Mauritius really has it all. Still not convinced?
Then here are my top reasons to visit Mauritius in 2019…
More than just a beach holiday
Unlike other luxury islands such as the Maldives or Seychelles which are very much about sun, sea and sand, Mauritius offers so much more than that. More than just a beach holiday, you can take part in a variety of water sports and land activities that will get you off the sun lounger and exploring everything the destination has to offer.
And the best part is, most resorts include many of these activities for free. Try your hand at jet skiing or scuba diving or play a spot of golf at one of the islands many golf courses. Head out on a boat tour or spend the afternoon snorkelling in the bay, the list is endless!
There are also some incredible excursions which can be organised in resort, or prior to travel. I took part in an early morning mountain climb, a treasure hunt which involved asking the locals for help and spent time with Giant Tortoises – one off my bucket list!
We had an amazing time.
The perfect weather
Those who like to holiday in the Caribbean but want to try something a little different this year should opt for Mauritius. Because they have opposite seasons, Mauritius offers a lovely hot climate while the Caribbean is experiencing their hurricane season, so this is a great alternative.
Weather remains deliciously warm all year round though, with their hottest months being between January and April where temperatures tend to sit in the low thirties. May to August is a little cooler with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees which can be a lot nicer for families with children.
Your overseas wedding…for free
If you are considering tying the knot abroad, you can find excellent value for money when planning your wedding in Mauritius. A lot of the hotels will offer a free wedding package on the basis that a certain number of guests will be staying at the hotel.
Not only will you save pennies on the wedding without compromising on a dream location, but you’ll already be in the perfect romantic setting for your honeymoon, too. The staff do a fantastic job at making you feel extra special, and the beachfront honeymoon suites on offer at the resorts will make you feel like you’re on your very own paradise island.
Discover marine life
Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is home to an array of marine life. As well as many different species of tropical fish, Mauritius is known for its sea turtles that nest on the island between November and March. You’ll have the opportunity to go on a sea turtle spotting trip where you can witness the sea turtles being fed, and you can even choose to go swimming with them.
I set sail on a catamaran to look for Wild Dolphins and although we only saw them in the distance, it was a moment that I will never forget.
Sipping champagne, whilst enjoying the sunset onboard the catamaran was a fitting way to end the day
Great value for money
Believe it or not, Mauritius is great value for money. It’s cheaper than visiting somewhere like the Caribbean and it’s just as, if not more luxurious. When you choose one of the all-inclusive resorts, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to food, drink and activities which often makes it much better value for money than a family trip to Europe!
The level of customer service was second to none. My needs were anticipated, before I even knew I had them and you genuinely feel that your happiness is paramount.
Deliciously exotic food and drink
The cuisine of Mauritius is a delicious fusion of Chinese, Indian and European, so if you like spices and a variety of flavours, you’ll certainly enjoy trying everything Mauritius has to offer. If you aren’t a fan of this style of cuisine, you don’t have to worry. Many of the resorts in Mauritius offer an endless choice of dining options from a variety of countries. French cuisine has also become increasingly popular on the island over the years.
In addition, you’ll be able to try some authentic Mauritian rum during your stay and learn a bit more about the history of the drink. You will even be able to visit some of the sugarcane
fields from which the drink is distilled
Friendly locals
It is an incredibly laid-back island, with a rich and diverse culture. The locals are more than happy to speak to tourists, suggest things to do, and even show you around.
On our last day, we were given the task of driving across the island with nothing but a map and some check points. Some found it a little challenging, I however loved it and found it quite freeing. Whenever we thought we were off track, we would stop and ask for directions and one local even came with us for part of the journey to make sure we got to our next check point in time.
A couple of years ago, whilst looking for inspirational photographs for my Instagram feed, I came across this picture. Something about it just made me feel at peace.
Quite by chance I found myself walking past the very spot that this was taken and decided to recreate it for myself.
It felt like serendipity that I should come to Mauritius. It was a truly perfect moment.
I will never forget this holiday and I am currently planning my next visit so I can spend even longer next time.
Want More Information?
If you’d like more information on any of the trips noted above, or would like to discuss other travel plans you have in mind, get in contact with our in-house travel consultant, Sian Pages, on sian@longhurst.co.uk.
Sian will be more than happy to spend time talking you through your options; remembering her service is delivered at no cost to clients and professional connections of Longhurst.
Happy Adventures!
