Mauritius August 2009

mauritius

101

Your guide to the indian ocean’s tropical paradise

hotels shops sights activities restaurants

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Embraced by the gently swaying sugar cane fields and the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, The Grand Mauritian, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, invites you to experience the magic of Mauritian hospitality in a truly luxurious setting.

This Luxury Collection resort, recognised for its culinary excellence and supreme standards of service, provides an idyllic setting that is unrivalled on the paradise island of Mauritius.

With a design influenced by traditional Mauritian architecture, the resort stretches through tropical gardens and is bordered by a natural coastline, allowing guests a chance to explore at first-hand the island’s natural textures and harmonies.

A Voyage of Experience

More Than Just A Promise

If 'grand' and 'relaxing' are two adjectives that can go hand-in-hand, they would indeed be appropriate in describing Mauritius' latest luxury resort, The Grand Mauritian, A Luxury Collection, Resort & Spa at Turtle Bay, Balaclava.

Sounds too good to be true?

Unlike the rhetoric often attributed to holiday destinations, The Grand Mauritian delivers.

If the hotel is stunning, then its location is certainly breathtaking. To the rear of the property are the lush, green sugar cane fields that sway in the sea breeze and cascade down the slopes of the extinct volcanic mountains to embrace the rear of the hotel.

To the front of the resort a natural marine reserve, a myriad of subtle tones blues and greens, gently laps against the natural shoreline of the Grand Mauritian.

Stroll around the gardens and beach that border the marine nature reserve - one of only two on the island - and you will discover why the resort is indeed a shimmering pearl of the Indian Ocean.

‘Season By Stephane’ Restaurant

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With a choice of three international restaurants, three bars, a world class Mandara Spa and fully equipped conference and meeting facilities, The Grand Mauritian delights, enthrals and entertains in the tranquil splendour of the tropical island of Mauritius.

With water sports and diving, a luxury private catamaran available on request, and a superb children’s club, there are innumerable memories waiting to be borne. If should your feet wish to stay firmly on the ground, the island is not only welcoming but full of spectacular sites, all within easy access from the hotel.

Welcome to The Grand Mauritian A Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, your gateway to new and unforgettable experiences.

Executive Chef Stephane Brallet

Mandara Spa

8/4/2009 6:59:06 PM

Doub

Some Hotel Features and Facts

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ra Spa

Life is a collection of experiences.

Let us be your guide.

The Grand Mauritian A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Double Deluxe Family Room

Untitled-2 3

Reflections Restaurant

info.thegrandmauritian@luxurycollection.com thegrandmauritian.com

8/4/2009 6:58:16 PM

Welcome to

Mauritius 101 Mauritius has long been the destination of choice

the British, before Mauritius achieved independence

for travellers seeking a slice of paradise. This

in 1968 and embarked on a more sensible tourism

beautiful dot in the Indian Ocean, comprises of lush

drive that still shows no sign of slowing.

green land, majestic waterfalls, stunning mountains and postcard-perfect turquoise waters.

It all kicked off for the island commonly dubbed

To give you the edge over your fellow visitors, we’ve pulled together 101 must-know locations in Mauritius, ranging from the pick of the hotels to

‘magical’ in 975 AD when some enterprising Arab

the top tables to dine at, and the things you simply

sailors discovered the place and named it Dinarobin

have to experience while there. And to make it

- The Silver Island. But having sunned themselves

simple, we’ve divided the 101 recommendations

on the beaches and gorged on the unfortunate

into sections. All you need to do is circle your

Dodo, the Arabs vacated the island and it was a

favourites, book your trip and pack for the holiday

further 500 odd years before its next claimants, the

of a lifetime. What’s more, simply turn to page 24 of

Portuguese, showed up. It was then wrestled into

this guide and you can even win yourself a free stay

the hands of the Dutch, then the French and lastly

on the island. Enjoy.

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Mauritius 101

Mauritian Icons

0

The number of dodos left on Mauritius. The flightless bird was eaten into extinction.

Robert Surcouf The swashbuckling King of the Corsairs, who used Mauritius as a base for capturing no fewer than 47 ships. His reputation as a tough nut was so great that by the end of his career, British vessels would drop their flags in defeat as soon as they realised they were facing him. Legend has it that he once took on twelve Prussian soldiers in a fight, armed with nothing but a snooker cue and later beat eleven of them in duels, leaving one alive just so he could tell the tale. He evaded capture till his eventual death.

31

The Dodo The island of Mauritius is the birthplace and final resting ground of the Dodo, that flightless, hapless beast-cummetaphor. Distantly related to both pigeons and doves, its Achilles heel was its thick-headed fearlessness in the face of hordes of hungry sailors; despite their apparently unpleasant taste, dodos were munched into extinction in the late 17th century not only by humans but by the rats, cats and boars they brought with them on their ships. The poor dodo.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam The island’s first postindependence PM, Ramgoolam was a huge admirer of Gandhi, and used the same tactics of non-violent protest to help ease Mauritius out from British control in 1968. He was educated at UCL and was something of a renaissance man, splitting his time in London between medicine, poetry (he was great friends with TS Eliot) and politics. Once in power he introduced things like universal education, pensions, and electricity.

Annual dates for your diary

November

May

Every November, Mauritius’ crystal clear lagoon, Mahébourg, fills with all types of sailing vessels, including the country’s traditional wooden fishing boats, Pirogues, for the annual regatta: a lively affair that always draws a good crowd.

An event for gourmets to sink their teeth into, Crossroads of Flavours sees the best chefs on the island get together to cook up a storm of delicious food for tourists.

December

August

The island’s colourful celebration of creole culture includes country-wide events ranging from poetry readings to night-long parties. An event guaranteed to put you in the holiday mood.

This wonderful watersport of kite surfing enjoys its own annual festival in Mauritius, filling the sky above the island’s coast with a riot of neon colour

La Regatta

Festival International Kreol

Crossroads of Flavours

Kiteival

2

The number of million dollars Mauritius paid to return a Blue Penny Stamp to its home on the island.

4

The number of individual names that the island was given before being named Mauritius in 1814. The Arabs named it Dinarobin, the Portuguese Swan Island, The Dutch Prins Maurits van Nassaeuiland and the French L’Ile Maurice.

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The number of colours that form the multi-hued sands known as the Earths of Chamarel, one of the island’s geological wonders.

1,000

The height in metres that the towering Black River Piton – the highest mountain on the island – rises up above sea level.

Mauritius 101

3

The Hotels

Mauritius is the archetypal paradise island, a verdant, sunsoaked land ringed by blindingly-white sand beaches and sparkling, warm waters. It’s also dotted with a wealth of superstylish resort hotels, comparable to the best hotels on earth.

Mauritius is home to the world-famous Le

Mauritius, where you can sail, windsurf, water-

Touessrok, which has long been a magnet for

ski or dive. But exertions aside, this is arguably

well-heeled sun-seekers. It packs in a plethora of

the most tranquil resort on the island – absolutely

outstanding attractions, everything from a superb

ideal for the romantically inclined. Here you’ll find

championship golf course – Bernard Langer

meandering flagstone pathways amid lush gardens

was the brains behind its design – to a serene

and beautiful rooms, too – we love the thatched-

spa – Givenchy lends its name to this – and an

roofed Luxury Pavilion. An acclaimed spa and the

award-wining line up of restaurants led by Vineet

outstanding Restaurant – at night its terrace is

Bhatia’s magnificent eatery Saffron. But we’re

illuminated by flaming torches and its tables look

particularly fond of the resort’s own private island,

out onto the calm sea – are other notable pulls.

Ilot Mangenie, which you’ll access via the briefest

Another hotel geared up for honeymooners is

of boat rides and where you’ll find nothing but a

Le Meridien Ile Maurice, where the Royal Suite is

sprinkling of secluded sun loungers and frothy

the ultimate abode. We’re talking an immaculately

waves lapping at the shore. Idyllic.

dressed duplex apartment with heart-tugging views

On the northwest coast of the island you’ll find

of the ocean and its own in-house Jacuzzi. Privacy

the equally stunning Grand Mauritian Resort &

at a more wallet-friendly price can also be had in

Spa, which stands close to the city’s entertainment

the ‘Nirvana’ wing of the resort, which has a private

hub, Grand Baie, on a fine stretch of beach that’s

pool and beach and a no-children policy. Not that

lined with hammock-strewn trees. It houses the

this should deter families: the main part of the hotel

largest swimming pool in Mauritius, a superb spa,

is very family friendly and has a dedicated kids’ club

award-winning restaurants (Season is a must-dine)

to boot.

and typically grand rooms: we prescribe a stay in

If you’re looking for somewhere steeped in

the fabulously outsized Grand Mauritian Spa Suite.

Mauritian tradition, head to Sugar Beach Resort.

It’s also a good bet if you have the family in tow as

It enjoyed a major overhaul – to the tune of some

it boasts an excellent kids’ club for tiny tots and all

$22 million – at the end of 2008 and is now one

manner of water-based activities for teens to enjoy.

of the finest five star properties on the island.

You’ll find plenty of aqua-based activities on

Spanning twelve hectares, the resort’s plantation-

offer over at the wonderfully elegant The Oberoi,

style architecture celebrates the island’s heritage,

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Mauritius 101

Le Touessrok, Mauritius Le Touessrok is one of the world’s truly great resorts – the essence of cool, modern elegance, imbued by the cultural warmth of tropical Mauritius. It is set upon a beautiful stretch of white – sand coastline overlooking the tranquil Trou d’Eau Douce bay. Across the water are two exquisite islands, including the spectacular championship golf course by Bernhard Langer. A wonderful array of restaurants and bars have been designed to cater for all tastes, moods and occasions. And in order to indulge in a real rejuvenating cure, the glamourous Givenchy Spa is the ideal refuge.

Three private villas, designed for maximum privacy and comfort, offer the highest level of service with a dedicated chef and a team of waiting staff to make sure that all the special wishes of guests are met.

For more information contact your local travel agent www.letouessrokresort.com

Mauritius 101

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This page: The Oberoi, Mauritius

‘You’ll find plenty of aquabased activities on offer over at the wonderfully elegant Oberoi, Mauritius, where you can sail, windsurf,water-ski or dive’. which adds considerable weight to the resort’s

thatched-roof cottages fashioned from volcanic

undoubted charm. But while its architecture is

rock and splendidly decorated.

a nod to the past, its amenities are every bit the

Outstanding accommodation is also the order

epitome of modern splendour. You’ll be particularly

of the day at the plush Four Seasons Resort

impressed by the super-sized spa, which boasts

Mauritius at Anahita, an all-villa resort that also

the island’s only hammam – it’s excellent - and a

lists among its many amenities an Ernie Els-

clutch of sublime spa suites replete with flotation

designed golf course and an over-water spa that

pools and manicured gardens.

arguably trumps all rivals on the island. This is also

Neighbouring Sugar Beach Resort on island’s

a fine venue for gourmets: indulge in excellent Italian

west coast is the ever-popular La Pirogue. Like

fare at the oh-so-romantic open-air Aquapazza,

its neighbour, La Pirogue celebrates Mauritius’

which stands atop a lagoon on the resort’s

heritage – pirogue is the name of the traditional

beautuful private island.

fishing vessel – but this is also a resort with a rich

Another pristine golf course supported by superb

history of its own, having opened over thirty years

dwellings – think chic, African-themed, ocean-

ago. Here, levels of service are exceptional. And

side rooms – awaits visitors to the Heritage Golf

given the fact that a number of staff have worked at

& Spa. We’re fans of the super-spacious villas,

the hotel since it first swung open its doors, there is

which have a specially-decorated children’s room

a warm and welcoming family feel about the place.

in addition to two large bedrooms – all en-suite – a

The rooms are particularly charming; nice-sized

private swimming pool and peaceful gazebo, where

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Mauritius 101

Mauritius 101

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Right: Le Touessrok Below and below right: Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anihita

you can sit and soak up the sounds of the sea.

On the south west coast, an area of rich pickings for nature lovers, is the Mövenpick Resort and Spa. It’s a resort defined by the ten acres of tropical gardens it stands in and rooms that are sprinkled around coconut trees and blooming bougainvilleas.

lagoon. Another sand-strewn escape is Veranda

The food doesn’t disappoint either: we enjoyed a

Palmar Beach. But this is also a resort for those

great meal at Le Grand Caze.

seeking aqua adventures, with the full gamut of

When planning your trip to Mauritius you’ll almost

water-based activities on offer – if you don’t hold

certainly come across the name Veranda Resorts.

a PADI, you should definitely take the chance

It operates four hotels across the island under

while here to learn how to dive. Veranda Pointe

the Veranda banner and a further two via affiliated

Aux Biches is a real family favourite – nearly half

brands. As such, its resorts cater for the full range

the rooms are family-sized – with children likely to

of visitors. Honeymooners – or those simply seeking

take an instant shine to the resort’s promotion of

a romantic escape – should head to Veranda

a barefoot policy, while slap bang in the heart of

Paul & Virginie on the island’s north coast for a

the lively Grand Baie you’ll find the colonial-style

wonderful thatched-roof-dotted resort possessing

Veranda Grand Baie: perfect for those who like to

postcard-perfect views across a sun-soaked

explore beyond the confines of their hotel.

Getting Around...

When booking your hotel you’ll almost be certainly be asked if you want to be collected from the airport, and though this may be the preferred choice of the majority, others prefer to hire a car so that they’ll be mobile throughout their holiday. This is something we recommend - Mauritius is a relatively small island and you can explore its rich offerings very easily by car. There are ten car hire companies at the airport and Avis, Hertz and Sixt have all got decent fleets. We suggest a cool little drop-top Mini. Just be mindful that though plentiful, petrol stations tend to close at 6pm on the dot across the island.

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Mauritius 101

Mauritius 101

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The Shopping A holiday’s not a holiday unless you buy a few presents for yourself and the people back home. You’ll find that Mauritius has a wealth of souvenir-stocked stores, where you can pick up everything from local artworks to discount designer garb.

Unlike the Middle East, Mauritius isn’t big on glitzy

is K.N.E. Rayinale where you’ll find D&G, (with

malls or cutting-edge designer stores. There are a

a particular emphasis on handbags and wallets),

few Parisian-style boutiques in some of the smarter

Chanel, Versace and Armani. A couple of hundred

hotels, but in the main shopping in Mauritius

metres down the road you’ll find the slightly

is a laidback, bargainous affair involving lots of

lower-key Designer Paradise, which specialises

locally-produced goods. Artisanal specialities

in GF Ferré, Abercrombie & Fitch and upmarket

include diamond jewellery, glassware and incredibly

bikinis. The neighbouring Designer Depot sells

detailed model ships. You’ll also find lots of highly-

a similar range of names, plus miniature sailboats

discounted factory outlet clobber on offer, much of

and, somewhat oddly, bongo drums. Once you’ve

it seasons out of date: it’s well worth a browse as

stocked up on discount clothing you might like to

there are some real gems dotted among the dross.

swing by interiors emporium Piment Rouge, which

Grand Baie’s central drag has a dedicated Shopping Village, where you’ll find a series of fun

does a nice line in stylish lamps, bowls, stenciled pots and pillows.

little stores in which to abuse your credit card.

A medium-sized mall in downtown Port Louis,

There’s River Woods for preppy beach wear,

Caudan is home to lots of homegrown stores and

motto-ridden Ts and light summer jackets - ideal for

a scattering of international names, spread over

slinging over your shoulder in case of a downpour.

a series of boulevards. Hit up Out of Africa for

Then there’s Hemisphere Sud for handmade

dresses, Indya Vogue for brightly-coloured saris,

leather bags, wallets and diaries, and Equateur for

Koki for big, loud shirts for men and Billabong

tasteful tropical shirts (yep, it is possible). Finally,

Girls for outlandish jewellery. If you’re in need

don’t miss out on Montali for stylish womenswear

of beachwear, you’ll find a bunch of good value

and Kavanagh for diamond jewellery set in

offerings from Billabong, O’Neill, Rip Curl and

platinum and gold.

Quicksilver. Then there’s the Mauritius Glass

The factory outlets of Route Royale in Arsenal –

Gallery for ethically-conscious trinkets made from

in the North of the island, not far from Grand Baie –

recycled glass heated and shaped using recycled

sell designer products off at greatly-reduced prices.

cooking oil. There’s also a dedicated Craft Market

There are ten or so stores here, all selling a similar

of some forty stalls, featuring rugs, bags and

mix of stuff. The biggest and best of the bunch

pashminas, plus a surfeit of carved wooden dodos,

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Mauritius 101

Left: Port Louis Below: Adamas

coconut knickknacks and bottles of coloured sand

with a smarter bunch of stores. Work your way

from Chamarel. And don’t leave without checking

around, stopping off for regular refueling sessions

out Tea Route, home to scale models of 17th

at Le Kiosk Café, with its pleasant outdoor terrace

century sailing ships, proper three-masted beauties

- if you’re there for lunch, the gourmet paninis

equipped with rigging, flags and miniature cannons.

are a sound bet. At Delire you’ll find a barrage

Where Le Caudan is slick and westernised, Port

of colourful bikinis and sarongs, at Villebrequin

Louis’ Central Market is unabashedly no-frills

there are racks of upmarket swimshorts and at

and local. Huge piles of spiky fruit, vibrant chilis

Altitude they’ve got cool, original Ts and pretty

and dried vanilla are enthusiastically hawked from

cutaway summer dresses. Visit Passion for delicate

tiny stalls and the air is filled with noisy banter. You

necklaces and rings, featuring diamonds, zirconia

may well be picked up by a salesman from the

and local shells and the small but imaginative

spice shops which line one side of the market,

Xxbelle for Euro-style fashion. You can pick up

and persuaded over to look at their tiffin tins and

some local art from the gallery and buckets of

presentation cases of saffron – expect lots of

cashmere and Abercrombie & Fitch from the

football chat and a free print-out of a curry recipe to

factory outlet. The real standout for souvenirs is

loosen you up, followed by feigned consternation

Manshree, where you’ll find gorgeous light Indian

and teeth-sucking from the owner when you start

dresses, kaftans, pashminas, elaborately-decorated

to haggle.

pillow cases, rich swathes of silk, bolts of velvet,

Le Ruisseau is a lovely, low-rise complex of 60 boutiques, more chilled out than Caudan and

wood carvings and outsized solitaire kits with speckled marbles.

Diamond Geezers...

Buy jewellery in Mauritius and you won’t be charged VAT – just bring your passport and air ticket with you to prove you’re a tourist, or else collect the VAT back at the airport. The biggest jeweller is Adamas – visit them in Floreal (686 5246) and Grand Baie (269 1609).

They cut and set the diamonds themselves, which helps keep the prices highly attractive.

Mauritius 101

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The Sights

Once you’ve settled into your resort you’ll want to inspect the best attractions - both natural and manmade - and museums Mauritius has to offer. Helpfully, the island’s size means it’s possible to see its sights in a single visit.

Once you’re done with your shopping you’ll want

and yellow cerulean damsels, the ruffle-wearing

to check out the island’s sights. And while there are

devil firefish, Jurassic era yellowmouth moray,

few architectural wonders to marvel at in Mauritius

luminous palette surgeonfish and vicious-looking

there is still plenty to see. Alongside places of

ribbon morays. By the time you get to the Picasso

amazing natural beauty, there are a set of museums

triggerfish, a wonderful multicoloured beast with

and exhibitions which showcase the island’s

eyes halfway down its back, you’ll have fallen

history and heritage. Head to Black River Gorges

in love with the Indian Ocean and its glamorous

national park in the south west of the island, and

inhabitants. Weave your way past the tank of

you can check out the geological wonder that is the

frenetic silver moonys and you’ll hit the pièce de

Earths of Chamarel. The volcanic rock in the area

resistance – a supersized tank housed in its own

has been eroded and weathered over the millenia,

hut where green sea turtles, white tip reef sharks

producing an amazing array of multicoloured

and understandably nervous-looking mermaid eels

sands – as you stroll along you’ll see seven colours

shimmy about to a backing of aquatic mood music.

including yellow, blue and green, which create

Over in Port Louis, on Rue du Vieux Conseil,

an appealing, alien landscape. Just nearby is the

you’ll find the kooky Musée de la Photographie.

imposing Chamarel waterfall, an 83-metre beauty

It’s crammed with ancient cameras (of the old

where you can take some fantastic snaps.

school, ‘head under a blanket, hand holding up a

The Aquarium, on Coastal Road, Pointe Aux

flash’ style), plus thousands of photographs (and

Piments, claims to offer visitors a unique experience

even some daguerrotypes) of Mauritius. The island,

‘without the fear of being eaten’. It’s only one

it seems, has always been in love with photography:

of many advantages of a trip to this low tech

one of the first people to buy a camera when they

attraction, a key stop-off on any tour of the north.

went on sale in 1839 was a Mauritian, Fedinand

There are no bells or whistles here – it’s all about

Wöhrnitz. The glimpse into the development of the

the fish, housed in simple tanks, adorned only with

island and the life of its inhabitants is fascinating.

earnest missives about their genus and habits.

For a chilled afternoon of strolling in the sunshine,

But what fish! To a soundtrack of crashing waves

hit the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical

(slightly superfluous given that the beach is directly

Garden, better known as Pamplemousses

opposite) you’ll check out the humbug-esque blue

Garden. It’s a 37-acre plot in Pamplemousses, in

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Mauritius 101

Below: Pamplemousses Garden Below right: Chamarel waterfall

to mention the decommissioned heavy machinery and steam engines which dot the grounds outside.

The gift shop is good fun too – pick up some natty sugar t-shirts, homemade lollies and no fewer than twelve types of sugar, from the lightest demerera to thick, dark muscovado brun.

The Blue Penny Stamp Museum, next to Le Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis, gives you a good overview of the country’s social, artistic and stampy history, with lots of old maps, paintings – check out the drawings of Port Louis when it was little more than a pair of sheds – and etchings of the island through the ages. The centrepiece exhibits

the north of the country, and features rolling hills,

are the one and two penny stamps, the first issued

tranquil lakes, and an onslaught of tropical plants.

in Mauritius, bought back for the nation at a cost

You can take an organised tour (guides wait in a

of two million dollars. There’s a nice little museum

special hut by the entrance and call out as you pass

shop, too, for all your mug and postcard needs.

by), or simply make your way around on your own,

Down on the south coast at Rivière des Anguilles

checking out the 80 different species of palm trees,

you’ll find La Vanille Reserve des Mascareignes,

the pond filled with tyre-sized water lilies and the

a captivating nature sanctuary filled with exotic

aromatic spice plantations. There is also a small

animals. First stop is the insectarium, where you’ll

enclosure filled with ultra-cute deer and a score of

find 23,000 species of butterfly and creepy-crawly

giant turtles – although in contrast to places like La

– some live, some mounted. Next up are the

Vanille Reserve you can’t go and pet any of them.

water-filled network of pools containing 2,000 Nile

History buffs keen to learn about the island life

crocodiles: you can pick up and play with baby

of yesteryear should try L’Aventure du Sucre.

crocs and, if you visit on a Wednesday, you can

Normally the prospect of visiting an attraction

watch them tucking into their weekly helping of

entitled ‘The Adventure of Sugar’ would have you

chicken. The whole site is a joy to walk around,

making a legitimate dash for the hills. Overcome

filled as it is with monkeys, deer, geckoes and a

this natural impulse if you can, because this place,

whole army of tropical plants.

located at Beau Plan near Pamplemousses offers a great introduction to the history of Mauritius. Sure, there’s a fair amount of technical information, plus some slightly tenuous connections – Nostradamus is pressed into the service of sugar promotion at one point –and feeble games – a ‘spot the sugar’ cartoon for kids marks a particular lowpoint. But in the main, it’s a well thought-out museum which takes you through the whole rambunctious history of the island, with its corsairs, epidemics, rats, refinieries, slaving and sugar booms. Anyone who likes ancient engineering will love the big main room filled with tugboats and distilling contraptions, not

Mauritius 101

13

The Restaurants Brace your tastebuds: you’re going to love the food in Mauritius. As with the rest of the island’s culture, it’s a winning mix of French, Indian, Chinese and Creole – a heady fusion of haute cuisine, spice and blistering tropical flavours.

Part of Mauritius’ gastronomic appeal is the intense

There are plenty of places to enjoy dinner by the

taste of the ingredients used, particularly the

beach. At La Goélette, in the Beachcomber Royal

seafood – you’ll not find fresher octopus, prawns or

Palm Hotel, you’ll find a Eurocentric menu tinged

langoustines anywhere in the world. Once you’ve

with exotic spices and a head chef whose pedigree

tried a local pineapple, you’ll never look at an air-

includes manning the kitchens at La Tour D’Argent,

freighted, plastic-encased supermarket number in

Paris’ most prestigious restaurant. You can’t go far

the same way again. Chances are you’ll be on half

wrong with your choices – make sure to include

or full board at your hotel, so you may not want

the exquisite marinaded lamb with green gnocchi

to eat out a huge amount. When you do, though,

on your order. Don’t leave without getting properly

you’ll find a host of wonderful independent and

stuck in to the cheeseboard, knocking back

hotel restaurants – read for our pick of the best.

wedges of fine fromage with slabs of black olive

While you can always get a table at an independent

and onion bread and lashings of fruity olive oil.

place, hotel restaurants can be a little trickier,

Another unfathomably lovely spot that has

and you’ll need to phone in advance to make a

everything you want for soaking up an Indian

reservation and get your name on the security

Ocean sunset is The Restaurant, at The Oberoi,

gate. If you’re staying at a sister hotel (i.e. one in

Mauritius. Head to your table on the edge of a

the same chain) you’ll have no problem getting in,

palm-thatched, open-sided restaurant lit by flaming

but if you’re not they may not have space as they

torches dotted about the grounds. The service is

prioritise inhouse guests. Still, if you book a few

among the best on the island and the menu offers

days in advance you should be fine. If you’re in the

a delightful spread of local and European food. The

towns or on the beach, you’ll have the opportunity

stillness of the evening is broken only by murmured

to try some Mauritian street food. By and large

chat from neighbouring tables and croaking frogs in

this is good and very cheap but you should always

the middle distance.

make sure to take your cue from the locals and only

Over at Le Barrachois in the Constance

go for stalls and vendors which have drawn a line

Prince Maurice Hotel you’ll find a restaurant with

of customers – the quieter vendors are less popular

a difference. This place is fabulous – reached by

for a reason and their nibbles may leave you with an

means of an elongated boardwalk, it sits out in the

upset stomach.

Belle Mare bay, floating on a series of pontoons.

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Mauritius 101

Clockwise from left:Le Château Restaurant, Le Barrachois, The Restaurant, Spoon des îles

You’ll enjoy the slight rocking of your table and the easy access to the starry night sky, but better than all this is the teeming Mauritian sealife that swishes around the bottom of the restaurant, lured by the bright spotlights that pick them out. Shoals of fish chase each other, jump up for bits of your

Le Saint Geran is the tropical outpost of Alain

delicious bread, and generally lark about much to

Ducasse’s culinary empire (and the first of his ever-

the amusement of the diners. The food is light, tasty

growing brigade of international restaurants), Spoon

French with a smattering of Creole and the seafood

is a beautiful spot decked out by design guru

is wonderful.

Philippe Starck. Unlike Ducasse’s more traditional

Another place for sensational offerings plucked

bistrots in Paris, Spoon has a modern, international

from the ocean is Tides Restaurant at Sugar

menu, featuring intriguing cooking methods and

Beach. Here the finest catches of the day are

a wide-ranging set of influences, including local

presented on decorative slabs of ice, giving you

Creole. This is a spot for serious foodies: perfect if

the opportunity to select your own platter from a

you’re looking for some international genius from

stunning selection of oysters, shellfish and mussels.

France’s favourite chef.

We heartily recommend the super fresh sashimi.

A sophisticated spice experience orchestrated

Global gourmet heavyweights are also on the

by Vineet Bhatia, the creator of London’s acclaimed

menu in Mauritius. Spoon des îles at One&Only

Zaika, Safran at Le Touessrok is a romantic, softly-

Mauritius 101

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Left: La Goélette Below: Safran

‘The mix of Mauritian ingredients and Indian cooking methods used at Vineet Bhatia’s Safran results in dreamy dishes like palm heart koftas and tiger prawn masala, shot through with seams of exotic flavour. Delicious’ lit restaurant built around a central tandoori oven and a show kitchen. Outsized picture windows give

particularly if the chef’s on form.

If you’re determined to remain health-conscious

you a view out over the Indian Ocean while you eat,

on your holiday, you can always opt for the

and unintrusive music and slick service complete

innovative dishes on offer at Seven Colours

the package. The mix of Mauritian ingredients and

Energy Cuisine, which you’ll find housed in

Indian cooking methods results in dreamy dishes

Heritage Golf & Spa. Here, chefs infuse dishes with

like palm heart koftas and tiger prawn masala, shot

edible essential oils, floral waters and hydrolats

through with seams of exotic flavour. Delicious.

to produce truly unique flavours. You’ll also get to

For something incredibly romantic and more than a touch special, head to Le Château Restaurant at Domaine de Bel Ombre. It’s housed in a 19th

sample a huge selection of the finest local-grown fruit and vegetables.

Here’s a swift factoid for philately fans: the

century mansion surrounded by ancient gardens,

Mauritian Blue Penny stamp is one of the most rare

a mountain and a golf course. You can book up

and valuable in the world. It was the first British

for high tea or lunch, but it’s loveliest at dinner:

Empire stamp to be produced outside of Britain

enjoy a note-perfect French meal in the main dining

and is made yet more valuable by the fact that

room, decked out with antique wood-paneled

it was produced with a printing error – they put

walls, and then head out to the veranda to check

the words ‘post office’ rather than ‘post paid’ on

out the stars. It’s the ideal spot for suitors to pop

it – which apparently makes thousands of pounds

the question – none but the steeliest of hearts

of difference to collectors, who go misty-eyed at

could refuse a post-dinner proposal made here,

the very thought of it. Equally exquisite – although

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Mauritius 101

significantly easier to gain access to – is the Blue

hot), is a real winner. The local curries and lobster

Penny Café, at Constance Belle Mare Plage Hotel.

dishes (surprisingly cheap considering the size

It’s a restaurant that sticks up for local Creole food,

of the portions) aren’t half bad either. Meanwhile,

presenting it gourmet-style in glorious, regularly

for delicate, toothsome homemade gnocchi and

updated degustation menus which zip you through

pastas try Zucca (Ruisseau Creole, Black River,

the best the cuisine has to offer before depositing

483 7003), a sleek, attractive trattoria run by

you on the other side, sated, smiling and in need

bustling, charismatic Italian restaurateur Paola.

of a delicious stogie from their cigar cabinet. The

Moving further afield, if you’re into your Central

waterfalls which surround the restaurant, filling it

American treats, you should make sure to order the

with the sounds of falling water, are definitely a nice

sabana at the Iguana Lounge (Royal Road, Grand

touch, too.

Baie, 263 5758), a cheap and cheerful Mexican

Looking for a good value bite outside of the hotel

restaurant with a homey atmosphere. Sabana is

restaurants? We’ve scoured the island to find the

Mexican-style sliced beef with rice and melted

best signature dishes on offer: make sure not to

cheese: fantastic stuff.

miss out on these gourmet highlights. Let’s start

Mauritian food is all about just-landed fish, and

things off with something spicy. We’re big fans of

you really can’t beat the freshly-prepared catch

the delicious and wonderfully-named angry duck at

of the day at La Langouste Grisée (Main Road,

Thai Foon (Topize, Royal Road, Grand Baie, 269

Pointe aux Canonniers, 263 1035), a charming

1110), a tender, spicy delight that’s perfect for a

restaurant with a focus on top Indian Ocean

tasty lunch after a morning’s spree over on Sunset

seafood. If you’re down in Flic en Flac on the west

Boulevard. Then for lovers of Indian food there’s

coast, there’s the excellent sweet and sour fish at

the subtly-spiced murg makham wala at Salaam

Domaine Anna (Medine, Flic en Flac, 453 9650),

Bombay (Royal Road, Moka, 433 1003), a saucy

a waterside Chinese restaurant that’s good for

chicken dish best served with a side order punnet

families.

of cheesey, spinachy palak paneer. If you like a bit

Equally adorable is the simple but delicious

of a show with your lunch, you should definitely

crabmeat and apple salad at Auberg’inn (Main

make the effort to head over for the teppanyaki

Road, Poste Lafayette, 410 5354), a lovely little

at Sakura (Royal Road, Grand Baie, 263 8092),

place near the beach, which also does a very good

prepared with flamboyant abandon by the chef,

line in pizzas, pastas and grilled fish. Last but not

who whips diced veg and strips of tender chicken,

least, we strongly urge you not to miss out on the

beef (or, for an extra charge, lobster, calamari

delicate risotto and tuna tartare at Le Pescatore

and prawns) about on a hot plate, creating a host

(Route Côtiere, Trou-Aux-Biches 265 6337), where

of zingily fresh dishes. For a taste of the island,

you can eat outdoors on the terrace, looking out

the authentic Creole rougaille at Cooleen (Royal

over the pretty beach. Their grilled fish is another

Road, Grand Baie, 263 8569), served with rice

good option. - it’s always plucked fresh from the

and relishes (warning, some of them are extremely

ocean, so tastes divine.

Tropical Tastes...

The traditional food in Mauritius can be utterly brilliant but a little baffling. Where to begin? We advise starting out with a helping of cari cerfs – that’s deer curry, don’t you know. It’s an intenselyflavoured stew of venison and lilva beans, with lots of tomatoes, bay leaves and an undercurrent of coriander. Heavenly, if done well. You should also try rougaille. It’s the Mauritian national dish and comes in many forms, the best of which is the saltfish version, a top concoction of fish, tomatoes and herbs, served with lots of pickles and dal.

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17

The Activities

This island is abuzz with activities – head out and enjoy its beautiful waters, wander up its gorgeous mountains, meet some of its highly exotic animal inhabitants and make sure to leave time for a round or two of golf on its pristine courses.

The raft of activities offered to tourists in Mauritius

equipment is provided) and a barbecue lunch is

tend to fall under the management of White Sand

prepared and served by the crew on board.

Tours – you’ll probably find one of their reps in your

A trip out in a glass-bottomed boat is rather

hotel – and they’re your best bet for heading out to

like snorkelling without the work and without getting

sea, offering a couple of great catamaran cruises.

wet. You just cosy up in the boat and stare in

The first is Eastern Sailing Magic, a full day’s jaunt

slack-jawed wonder at the parade of tropical fish

along the east coast including a stop-off to check

and kaleidoscopic coral that whizzes by beneath

out Ile aux Cerfs and the Grand River waterfalls.

your feet as you bounce along the waves. The only

The second is Northern Islands Sailing, another

downside is that the glass makes it tough to take

full day’s outing, including stops at Les Palisades

good photos. Your hotel may well lay on glass-

and the sheltered parts of Flat Island and Gunner’s

bottomed experiences for guests: if not, you can

Coin Island. Both cruises include opportunities for

arrange a trip through Fragawills (453 8897) in Flic

swimming and snorkelling (flippers and masks are

en Flac.

provided), drinks, transportation to and from your

But if you’d rather swim with the fishes, there’s

hotel, and an onboard barbecue lunch prepared

some fabulous snorkelling all over Mauritius,

and served by the crew. For a super-romantic

starting just a few yards from the beach. Anywhere

evening cruise, consider a trip down the Black River

it’s unsafe to take the plunge will have an obvious

aboard the spacious catamaran O’Plezir. You can

Dangerous Bathing sign – everywhere else is prime

watch the breathtaking sunset while gliding past the

snorkelling territory. Expect to see exquisitely-

awe-inspiring Rempart Mountain and Black River

coloured corals, angel fish, lionfish, clownfish,

Range. Drinks, snacks and canapés are served on

bonefish and surgeonfish among dozens of

board during the 90 minute cruise.

others. Snorkelling off the beach at Flic en Flac is

You can also hop aboard O’Plezir for a visit to

particularly brilliant. You’ll find that the majority of

the home of a pod of dolphins in Tamarin Bay.

the big hotels have snorkelling excursions by boat

The dolphins are a delight, although sadly you

to reefs further out at sea: if yours doesn’t, you can

can’t swim with them as they leg it as soon as you

organise a trip through Tropical Dream Tours in Flic

get in the water. There is also the opportunity for

en Flac (453 8480) who will take you by speedboat

some spectacular snorkelling during the day (all

to the Aquarium site on the west coast.

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Mauritius 101

Clockwise from left: The O’Plezir catamran, helmet diving, the incredible sealife

‘If you’ve got your PADI you can dive in at some of the terrific sites off the island, where you’ll see a whole new world of wondrous sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays and strikingly coloured fish’ Helmet diving is a brilliantly bonkers way of

White Sand Tours’ underwater scooter rides.

seeing the sea. A big, round, see-through helmet

Charge around the watery depths for 30 minutes,

is placed over your head and some law of physics

at 9-10 feet below the surface on a scooter with

traps the air inside so that you can breathe normally

a transparent dome covering your head and

even when walking along the ocean floor 20 feet

shoulders. The scooters seat two so you can also

under the surface. If you’re scared of diving or

talk to your partner as you zoom about.

snorkelling, this is a great way to overcome your

If you’ve got your PADI you’re all set to dive in at

fear – the divers accompanying you are excellent

some of the terrific sites off the island, where you’ll

and walk you through the process. Once at the

see a whole new world of wondrous sea creatures,

bottom you wander around, marvel at the fish,

including sharks, stingrays and strikingly coloured

feed them with some bread and have your photo

fish. If your hotel doesn’t organise trips, try Sea

taken. You can set up a helmet dive through White

Urchin Diving Center (913 0208) in Flic en Flac, who

Sand Tours at Trou aux Biches on the north coast.

can take you to around 30 dive sites on the west

If that all sounds like a bit too much effort, you can

coast. Each dive lasts around 30-35 minutes and

arrange a similar viewing of the ocean floor with

their prices are very reasonable. You can also take

Mauritius 101

19

Left: Marlin fishing Below: The coloured sands at Chamarel

‘If catching fish is more your thing, Mauritius is home to the Annual Marlin World Cup International Competition and is considered one of the best locations for marlin fishing in the world. Other sealife to snag include tuna, wahoo and sharks’ your beginner’s PADI certificate with them, which will take you from swimming pool to ocean and includes four dives.

If catching fish is more your thing, Mauritius is

is open for tours.

A different sort of swim – one involving super-fast slides – can be had at Le Waterpark (415 2626).

Located near the Constance Belle Mare Plage

home to the Annual Marlin World Cup International

Resort on the east coast of the island, it’s a small

Competition and is considered one of the best

but fun affair – a couple of swimming pools, a gently

locations for marlin fishing in the world. Other

winding lazy river, a pirate ship to clamber about

sealife that can be snagged includes tuna, wahoo,

on and a bunch of giant slides: try the 80-metre

sailfish and sharks. White Sands Tours offers half-

‘multilane’, which four people can slip down at the

day fishing excursions on the west coast.

same time and the Black Hole – a whizz down a

Most sightseeing tours will include a trip to the waterfalls at Chamarel or Tamarin. But the very

darkened tunnel on a rubber raft.

Back on dry land, horseriding can be organised

best one for swimming in is at Eureka (433 8477)

at various places around the island but the pick of

in Moka in the centre of the island. Here you’ll find

the bunch is Domaine de L’Etoile (433 1010/729

four smallish waterfalls in a ravine that you can

1050) on the east coast. You saddle up and head

visit with a guide before jumping in for a swim. An

out with a guide on Boerperd ponies for between

extra bonus is the magnificent neighbouring Creole

90 minutes and two hours, taking in the lush

colonial house and garden (now a museum) which

scenery as you trot along. There are both morning

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Mauritius 101

and afternoon sessions and children between 7 and

The best quad biking on Mauritius is at

12 years old can join in as long as they have some

Domaine de l’Etoile (433 1010/729 1050) on the

previous riding experience. The rides can get quite

island’s east coast, where you zip about among

dirty so you’re advised to bring a change of clothes

an extraordinary array of flora and fauna, including

and a towel so you can take a post-trek shower on

ebony, banana and cinnamon trees, Java deer, wild

site.

boars and monkeys. There are two trips every day

Head to Domaine de l’Etoile (433 1010) and you

– morning and afternoon – and each lasts between

can make your way down one of three archery

two and three hours followed or preceded by lunch.

trails where you’ll be confronted by a series of

Make sure to bring a change of clothes (as things

3D animal models. The longest trail takes around

can get quite mucky), sunblock and a camera to

three hours and sees you loosing off arrows at 20

capture the beautiful scenery.

fake beasts, while the shortest trail, with just five

There are a couple of ways to enjoy a bird’s eye

targets, takes only 45 minutes. Children under

view of Mauritius. Helicopter tours of the island

seven are not allowed and those over seven must

are available for 15, 30, 45 or 60 minutes. The Air

be accompanied by an adult. Rates include your

Mauritius choppers seat up to four. Tours can be

bow and arrows, assistance from a coach and

taken from a series of helipads around the island

lunch. You can shoot arrows at targets elsewhere in

so there’s no need to travel to the airport to catch

Mauritius but it’s nowhere near as much fun as this.

your ride. It takes an hour to see the whole island,

Over at Casela Nature Park (452 0693, on

but even with just 15 minutes you can expect to

the west coast near Cascavelle) you can embark

see mountains, jungle and picturesque swathes of

on a 4x4 tour which whips you through the park

coastline. But if you posses an even bigger head

and then on through the Yemen Nature Reserve.

for heights, make a beeline for the factory site of

Along the way you’ll see zebras, deer, African

Saint Felix sugar estate in the south of the island

antelopes, wild pigs and billions of birds. This

for an adrenaline-fueled two-kilometre trip along

safari-style trip takes two hours in a ten-seater

eleven swift ‘zip-lines’ – cables which you clip

vehicle. Casela Nature Park is the proud owner of

yourself onto and slide down – at heights of around

a clutch of lion and cheetah cubs. You can stand

30 metres. The route takes you over the Rivière des

on a viewing platform and watch them at play, walk

Galets with stunning views of sugar cane fields,

in their enclosure with a guide and touch them, or

banana plantations, verdant forest and waterfalls.

go for an hour’s walk around the reservation with

Halfway along there is a rest stop where you can

two or three lion cubs. Kids who want to walk in the

take a cooling swim before recommencing your

enclosure or round the reservation with the cubs

treetop adventure. The tours finish with a lovely

must be a minimum of 1.5 metres tall for the lions

Mauritian lunch, and both can be booked through

and 1.2 metres for the cheetahs.

White Sand Tours.

Spa Trek...

There are some superb spas in Mauritius where you can get scrubbed down, kneaded up and pampered silly. One of island’s finest is undoubtedly The Oberoi Spa, at The Oberoi, Mauritius.

It lists a swimming pool, steam baths and a beauty parlour among its top-notch amenities, but our favourite element is the magnificent private spa suites, complete with their own plunge pools. Elsewhere, The Seven Colours Spa at Heritage Golf & Spa Resort houses no fewer than 20 treatment rooms, offering a smart concept based on the seven chakras and the seven-coloured earth at neighbouring Chamarel. Over at Le Touessrok you’ll find the quite beautiful Givenchy Spa, which almost relaxes you on sight alone.

Mauritius 101

21

Left: Tamarina Golf Estate Below: Paradis Golf Club

‘Mauritius takes its golfing extremely seriously - the island is dotted with courses – a frankly farcical number, considering the size of the population – and if you’re into your game you’ve got to try some of them out as they’ll blow you away’ Mauritius takes its golfing extremely seriously -

ruggedly beautiful course. Our favourite hole? The

the island is dotted with courses (a frankly farcical

beautiful par four 6th, which plays down a narrow

number, considering the size of the population),

valley surrounded by jungle on one side and rocky

and if you’re into your game you’ve got to try some

scrub on the other with a magnetic stream crossing

of them out as they’ll blow you away. You’ll always

the hole just in front of the green.

have to call in advance to book, and be warned

Le Touessrok Golf Course (Ile aux Cerfs

that if you’re calling from outside the hotel which

402 7400) was designed by two-time US Masters

hosts the course then you won’t necessarily get a

champion and Ryder Cup captain Bernhard Langer,

booking on the day you want as they give priority to

and is a breathtakingly beautiful but fiendishly

inhouse guests.

difficult course that everyone should play at least

A Peter Matkovich-designed course, Golf du

once. Those who have strode its fairways include

Château (Bel Ombre 623 5600) rises up from sea

Nelson Mandela. This is the only course on the

level into the foothills of the Black River Gorges

island that can’t be reached by road, meaning

nature reserve, giving players awesome views of the

that you have to take a helicopter or a ten minute

Indian Ocean from many holes, while several holes

boat ride over to the delightful Ile aux Cerfs. Holes

play by the Château de Bel Ombre, a magnificent

11-13, consisting of a par five, par four and par

colonial building. Other eye candy includes a welter

three, all play right beside the white sandy beach

of brightly-coloured flora and fauna which lines the

and turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. They

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Mauritius 101

Below: Golf du Chateau: Right and belolw right: Le Touessrok golf course

are tough - but not too tough - and by far the most beautiful holes on the course.

Tamarina Golf Estate and Beach Club (401 3000) is home to the first independent course on Mauritius. Set in the shadows of Mount Rempart, its fairways are framed by seas of natural grasses including purple pampas, lemongrass, red grass,

beauty centre and a Big Easy grill.

Paradis Golf Club, Le Morne, is the oldest 18-

citronelle and vetiver. Tamarina is very welcoming

hole championship course on the island and lies in

to visitors and a real joy to play. The great views

the shadow of the magnificent Le Morne mountain,

of Mount Rempart from virtually every hole and

a World Heritage site. Though it can be the easiest

the troop of monkeys that lurk around the club’s

course on Mauritius, when the wind blows it can be

signature 13th hole make every round a pleasure.

a beast. We love the par four 12th and 13th holes

The Four Seasons Golf Club at Anahita (202 2250) was designed by the ‘Big Easy’ himself, Ernie Els. Though the course is still relatively new, it’s

which play parallel to each other down one side of the lagoon.

Links Course, Belle Mare Plage Resort

not far from being Mauritius’ best, so play it if you

(402 2999) is beautiful, with some really wonderful

possibly can.

holes played around outcrops of volcanic rock. All

Its best points? Six oceanside holes, four

buggies are fitted with the latest GPS systems and

different terrain elements (tropical ocean, forest,

the locker room facilities are truly luxurious. The top

Scottish links and mountain), large fairways and the

holes? The par four 13th and par three 14th, which

fact that it’s the only USGA course on the island.

both require long carries over water to reach the

Plus it has a bunch of other facilities including an

greens, are absolutely great. The dog-leg par four

air-conditioned gym, a Mauritian style clubhouse, a

18th is also a fantastic finishing hole.

Mauritius 101

23

WIN

Competition Win! A luxury break at the ultimate island resort, The Oberoi, Mauritius Finished planning your trip to paradise? Then take

chance to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime. To be in

time to answer just one simple question and you

the draw, just email the answer to the following

could snag yourself a complimentary three night

question to easywin@hotmediapublishing.com

stay for two people (including breakfast) at the

by September 15th, 2009.

stunning Oberoi, Mauritius. One of the world’s great resorts, the Oberoi, Mauritius is the epitome

How many luxury villas with private pools does

of style, with luxury pavilions and private villas – 16

The Oberoi, Mauritius have?

of the villas have private pools, while the pavilions, where you’ll stay, open onto beautiful gardens

Note: The prize validity is from 15th September 2009

just a stone’s throw from the beach – and a spa

to 31st July 2010, excluding 20th December 2009

that’s been voted the best in the world by a team

to 10th January 2010. All bookings are subject to

of industry professionals. It is, quite simply, your

room availability.

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Mauritius 101

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La Pirogue, Mauritius Fringed by a superb white-sand beach graced by the most glorious sunsets, La Pirogue revisited remains true to its traditional values of authentic Mauritian hospitality, romance and tranquility.

More than ever La Pirogue reasserts its vocation as a resort dedicated to the sea and to its pleasures, shared with a loved one, family or friends.

For further information, please contact your local travel agent.

www.lapirogue.com

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Sugar Beach, Mauritius An elegant blend of plantation lifestyle with a contemporary buzz provides the new 5-star Sugar Beach with a panoply of innovative sensations.

Combining a variety of activities to suit all tastes, be it diving in the pristine blue of the lagoon, sandcastle competitions for the little ones, complete relaxation at the Spa hammam or just indulging in the sensual tastes and flavours of one of several ‘World Cuisine’ restaurants, the Sugar Beach has something for everyone.

For further information, please contact your local travel agent. www.sugarbeachresort.com