Posts Tagged ‘Mauritius’

Mauritius honeymoon tours – Enjoy the Unbelievable Charm of Mauritius

Honeymoon in Mauritius will captivate you, and raise your soul, while you honeymoon in the island of colors and tastes. Set in its turquoise sea, Mauritius is an oasis of peace and tranquility. Beaches, coral reefs, crystal blue waters, rich marine life and lot of water sports adventure options are the key attractions of Mauritius. Mauritius honeymoon will provide many adventure options and access to beautiful locations within the country.

There are certain eye catchers in Mauritius like Cosmopolitan Island variety of influences mean that Mautitius has grown as a cultural hotpot. Slew of culture influences are obvious in Mauritius – English, French, Creole, African, Indian and Asian. This is the reason Mauritius is referred to as “the most cosmopolitan island”. This also means that a person from any part of the world would not find completely stranger in Mauritius

White Beaches :
Pristine white beaches are most prized asset of Mauritius. An amble on the white sand of these beaches can be very refreshing for a couple who is for honeymoon in Mauritius. Many resorts are there to serve the visitors with all kinds of possible facilities. Watching sun set in a Mauritius beach is an exhilirating experience. Programmes of traditional Sega dancing are regularly organised on the beaches. You can also indulge in all kinds of water sports. 

Blue Safari
Blue Safari is tourist submarine which can make your realize your dreams of a nice trip under the sea. The submarine is air-conditioned and equipped with fully transparent-glassed cabin at atmospheric pressure. One can enjoy exceptionally clear panoramic views of the extraordinary underwater world. Combination of fish life and coral seems very impressive.

Paragliding:
Anyone who wishes to paraglide should not miss the opportunity to fly above Le Domaine du Chasseur, on the south-east of the island, where those rare birds reside.  

Fishing:
Mauritius is the best place to introduce yourself or hone your skills in deep sea fishing. Regular visitors on the island come just for this acitivity. On open seas, depending on the seasons, you could fish for marlin, swordfish, tuna or even bonito or barracuda.  

Diving:
Diving in the waters of Mauritius coast offers unforgettable experience. Under the supervision of professionals, you can throw yourself into the sea surrounded by coral lagoons, fish and thousands of colourful shellfish. Diving is included into the activity of all major hotels. The sea encircing the island has more than a thousand species of fish.  

Shopping:
One can travel to the market in Port-Louis (Le Bazar central de Port-Louis), for tablecloths and fabrics, basketwork as well as a wealth of spices. Port Louis also hosts colourful Indian and Chinese ’boutiques’ putting forth an improbable variety of household articles. T-shirt shopping is a must, nowhere else will you find such a wide variety of export-quality T-shirts at such a low price.

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Get to Know Mauritius – the Perfect Family Beach Vacation in Africa

Mauritius is a perfect beach destination for any serious holiday maker – whether as a couple on honeymoon or a family with children. Please get to know your destination.

Nestling some 3000 km off the east coast of Africa, just above the Tropic or Capricorn, is the beautiful tropical island of Mauritius. This jewel of the Indian Ocean boasts 160 km of beautiful coastline surrounded by coral reef, a breathtaking central plateau and dramatic picturesque mountains.

The Brief History of Mauritius

Mauritius was originally discovered by the Arabs in AD 975. Although they named it Dinarobin – meaning Silver Island – they left no evidence of their presence. In 12507, the Portuguese discovered it and gave it the name Ilha de Cerne, or Island of the swan. The Dutch, en route to their colonies in the East Indies – discovered it in 1598, naming it Maurits, after Prince Maurice of Nassau. In 1715 the French landed, calling it Ile de France. For years, pirates and bounty- hunters under French protection plundered the British vessels travelling to and from the spice and silk markets of the East. In 1810, the British launched a surprise attack against the French and conquered the islands, along with nearby Reunion. In 1968, Mauritius won her independence from Britain, remaining within the commonwealth. Today, Mauritius has little unemployment and a thriving economy, based mainly on sugar, tourism and textiles.

The Climate of Mauritius

The seasons can be divided broadly into a hot, wet season from December to April, and a pleasantly cool, dry season from May to November, making Mauritius a perfect year-round destination. Coastal air temperatures range from 22 degrees Centigrade in winder (72 degrees Fahrenheit) to 31 degrees Centigrade (88 degrees Fahrenheit) in summer. Water temperatures vary between 22 degrees Centigrade (72 degrees Fahrenheit) and 27 degrees Centigrade (81 degrees Fahrenheit)

Population and Languages

The population numbers just over 1 million consisting of Hindus, Muslims, Chinese, Creoles and Europeans. English is the official language and French is also spoken alongside Hindi, Creole and other oriental languages.

The Currency

The currency is the Mauritian rupee, divided into 100 cents. Notes are issued in denominations of 25, 50, 100, 200, 1000 and 2000 rupees: coins as 5, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 5, and 10 rupees.

Passports, Visas and Health

A valid passport is required by all visitors to Mauritius, as well as a return air ticket. Visa and vaccination requirements differ from country to country, please consult your nearest consular office or travel agent. There are no endemic diseases in the country and any poisonous insects or dangerous animals.

Packing – what to bring

Beachwear and informal clothing are perfect for daytime – cotton is ideal. The sun in Mauritius can be very strong so sunglasses and suntan lotion with the necessary sun protection factor should not be forgotten.

Dress cord in the evening is generally smart casual, and a light wrap can be useful.

The time zone

Mauritius time if fours hours ahead of GMT.

Getting there

Mauritius is served by a number is international airlines. Please consult with your travel specialist for further information. It is essential to reconfirm onward flights 72 hours prior to departure either with a ground operator or the airline direct.

Transfers

There are a number of options, from helicopters, through private transfers in chauffeur-driven air-conditioned limousines or 4×4 vehicles to minibuses and taxis. Several car hire companies are represented at the hotels.

Inter Island Transfers

Flying time to Reunion is 40 minutes and Rodrigues 90 minutes. Scheduled boat services operate to both islands.

Shopping

Mauritius is a shopper’s paradise. There are several different shopping areas, as well as bargains with can be found at the various local markets and independent vendors. In Port Louis, there is a large and colourful market, specializing in clothing, hand-embroidered linen, stunning Indian fabrics, souvenirs and spices. Nearby is the brand new Caudan shopping precinct offering intricate model boats, clothing, jewellery, books, Persian rugs, beachwear and souvenirs. Curepipe is the main residential town and specializes in model boats, clothing and beautiful knitwear. Cosmopolitan Craned Bay on the north coast of the island also offers some great shopping opportunities as well as some interesting restaurants.

Sightseeing and excursions

Port Louis, the capital city and the world’s latest Freeport, is a kaleidoscope of colour and activity, sights, smells and sounds. Scour the market for bargains, take a drive to the top of La Citadelle for the marvellous view, admire the grand 19th Century buildings, and see the re-constructed dodo and rare artefacts and the fascinating Natural History Museum.

Pamplemousses Royal Botanical Gardens, a short 15 minutes drive from the bustle of Port Louis houses, and astonishing array of rare indigenous flora as well as a small deer and some giant Aldabra tortoises from Seychelles, where they are an endangered species.

Grand Bay offers intimate art galleries and a wide variety of boutique clothing and fascinating souvenir shops.

Eureka House is a beautiful restored Creole-style house situated in Moka. Reputed to be one of the largest houses on the island, it has 109 doors and windows. Tea is served on the wide verandah.

Domaine les Pailles is a gracious estate which will delight nature lovers, gamblers, gourmets and horse-riders alike. Ten minutes drive south of Port Louis, the architecture is in traditional style.

Ile aux Cerfs, is five minutes on a taxi-boat from Le Touessrok, this idyllic tropical island has restaurants, bars and numerous water sports.

Domaine du Chasseur, a privately owned nature reserves nestles in the Bambous Mountains offering spectacular views down to the sea. Wild boars, hares, guinea fowls and monkeys abound. There rare Mauritius Kestrel can be seen by visitors at this naturalist’s haven.

Maheboug, once the capital of the island has an unspoilt, rural atmosphere and a visit to the Naval Museum is well worthwhile. Relics from shipwrecks and battles, portraits and the bell of he renowned Saint Geran are housed here. Admission is free.

Black River Gorges, Grand Bassin, Plaine Champagne, Chamarel

The black River Gorges carve dramatically through the Black River National park, where the rare Paille-en-Queue and pink pigeon thrive. Marvellous place for a nature ramble through the park. An extraordinary phenomenon is the seven coloured earth at Chamarel on the Plaine Champagne. The sacred lake at Grand Bassin is a place of pilgrimage for the Hindu people of Mauritius.

Casela Bird Park allows visitors the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful stroll through beautiful gardens where some 2000 birds of 150 different species live in 85 aviaries.

South Africa, Zambia and Mauritius – A Perfect Safari/ Beach Itinerary

Day 1

Depart at 1920 from London’s Heathrow Airport on the British Airways flight BA255 travelling in Business Class to Lusaka.

Days 2 and 3

Arrive at 0630 and connect with a scheduled flight departing at 0800 to Livingstone. On arrival at 0900 you will be met and transferred to the Royal Livingstone Hotel where you stay for two nights (bed and breakfast).

The Royal Livingstone, on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls brings a new level of luxury and sophistication to this world-famous region. This comfortable modern, well equipped hotel is an excellent base from which to see the waterfall and enjoy the many activities on the river and around the Falls.

The bedrooms are two-storey clusters inspired by the grand estate houses of a bygone era. Each cluster comprises ten en-suite air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and terraces that offer spectacular views of the Zambezi river and beyond.

Each room offers a quiet retreat from the ruggedness of Africa, with large shaded verandas and open spaces cooled by swirling fans and tall shutters. The travellers bar and lounge is a place where guests can relax under thatched shade, decorated in greens, creams and ebony. There is a large pool and the restaurants are very good, serving international cuisine.

While you are at Victoria Falls, you can enjoy a wide range of activities, including flights across the waterfall by helicopter and light aircraft, white water rafting, canoeing, sundowner cruises and safaris. Guests can also walk to the mile wide waterfall, which can be viewed from several vantage points along the network of pathways.

Days 4 to 6

In the late morning you will be returned to Livingstone Airport where you board a scheduled flight departing at 1300 to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. Arrive at 1440 and connect with a further scheduled flight departing at 1600 to Cape Town’s International Airport. On arrival at 1810 you will be met and transferred to the Cape Grace Hotel where you stay for three nights in a luxury double room (bed and breakfast).

The Cape Grace is quite simply one of the finest hotels in Africa, set in a superb private position on Cape Town’s Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with views towards the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the immense flat-topped expanse of Table Mountain to the other. The atmosphere at the hotel combines genuine warmth and friendliness with a very high standard of service and efficiency and while you are here the hotel will be pleased to arrange any excursions in and around Cape Town, either on a private or shared basis. Surrounding the hotel is the Cape Waterfront complex with entertainment, shops and attractive restaurants in an area which is safe to wander around during the day and in the evening.

The Cape Grace is privately owned and not part of a large chain and this is reflected in the comfortable elegance of the furnishings and décor of the rooms, suites and public areas. There are eighty one spacious luxury rooms, ten superior rooms which have balconies with fine views, and eighteen luxury loft rooms which are a located on the top floor, each with terrace and access to their own private lounge facilities. In addition, there are ten suites and two penthouses.

The hotel has a library and lounge, two restaurants and a bar, and on the top floor a fully equipped spa and heated swimming pool. Guests also have complimentary access to a conveniently located health club.

In 1652, Jan van Riebeeck sailed into Table Bay on the north Cape Peninsula and laid the foundations of South Africa’s oldest settlement, Cape Town. Three hundred and fifty years of history have been preserved in much of Cape Town’s architecture, which combines attractively with the more functional demands of the 21st century.

The Houses of Parliament, National Gallery, Museum and Planetarium are all within ambling distance of elegant shopping malls and colourful markets, which entice shoppers to browse and buy everything from souvenirs to African art, gems and antiques. In the last ten years, the restoration of the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront dockland area evokes images of 19th century seafaring activities and provides a superb setting for an array of cafes, restaurants and bars. From here, you can take boat trips round the harbour and out across Table Bay.

Dominating the city’s skyline and flanked by Devils Peak is the looming mass of Table Mountain, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to ascend Table Mountain by cable car. The view of the City and the south Atlantic from the summit is quite magnificent.

There is a wide range of excursions and activities in and around Cape Town including visits to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner, visits to Townships where you can enjoy lunch and exposure to Africa’s vibrant urban culture. To the south lies the scenic Peninsula with its attractive sandy bays and pretty little towns. There are remote penguin colonies which can be visited by boat and canoe, and from July to November you can set off further afield in search of southern right whales. The more adventurous can even go looking for sharks in special “caged diving” facilities.

An hour’s drive to the east of Cape Town lie the Cape Winelands where you find beautiful undulating scenery covered in ancient vineyards and fruit orchards. There are literally dozens of ancient wineries, many of which are open for tastings and lunch and which have magnificent estate houses. For the golfer there are several beautifully maintained championship golf courses, and the attractive little towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are each worth a visit.

Days 7 to 10

In the morning you will be returned to Cape Town’s International Airport where you board a scheduled flight departing at 1000 to Kruger’s Mpumalanga Airport. On arrival at 1235 you will be met and transferred twenty minutes by light aircraft to Londolozi’s Founders Camp where you stay for four nights (inclusive of meals and activities).

Londolozi Founders Camp is one of South Africa’s finest safari lodges, situated on the prime Sabi Sands Game Reserve, bordering the Kruger National Park. On this reserve the open savannah, woodland and riverine bush supports an amazing range of wildlife. There are large herds of elephants, buffalo and giraffe, many types of antelope ranging from timid impala to great kudu with their great majestic curved horns. Prehistoric looking rhinoceros can be found, while in the rivers there are hippopotamus and crocodiles. Londolozi is also an excellent place for spotting predators – lion, leopard and cheetah are all regularly seen.

Founders Camp comprises just five chalets and one suite, set in thickly forested bush overlooking the Sand River. Each of the chalets is beautifully designed and air conditioned with large beds, elegant furniture and en suite bathroom with bath, shower and twin hand basins, while outside is a large viewing deck.

The guides at Londolozi are among the best in South Africa with great knowledge and love of this exciting reserve. They will take you game viewing by open vehicle, during the day and at night, when you might spot nocturnal creatures such as aardvark, civit and leopard, with a spot light and they will also take you on walks where the guide will be armed, demonstrating his amazing tracking skills and give you an opportunity to enjoy the excitement of feeling Africa under your feet, learning a huge amount about the bush as you go.

Founders Camp has a good sized swimming pool and there is a covered lounge area. You will find the standard of cuisine and management excellent.

Day 11

In the morning you will be returned by light aircraft to Kruger’s Mpumalanga Airport where you board a scheduled flight departing at 1425 to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport. On arrival at 1530 you will be met and transferred to the Safari Club where you stay for one night (bed and breakfast).

An oasis of calm just four minutes from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, the Safari Club offers superior accommodation and warm hospitality. Opened on the 1st November 2007, with seventeen luxury en-suite rooms for the safari traditionalist, designed for both the foreign and local traveller in Southern Africa.

The Safari Club is privately owned and run by renowned hotelier Emile Muller, offering his guests a true African experience on the doorstep of Southern Africa’s gateway.

Every room has been carefully decorated to a specific area eg. Kalahari room, Etosha room, Okavango room etc. There are a number of lounges for relaxation as well as a bar, breakfast room and a newly installed swimming pool for those hot summer days. The bar theme has been dedicated to the famous Nguni cattle and covered with beautiful memorabilia.

Days 12 to 15

In the morning you will be met and returned to the airport where you board flight BA6399 departing at 0900 to Mauritius. On arrival at 1510 you will be met and transferred to Le Telfair where you stay for four nights (half board).

Le Telfair is a superb five-star property located on the south west corner of Mauritius, occupying a beautiful site with a 2km beach frontage and luxurious tropical gardens. The hotel is adjacent to its own 3500-acre nature reserve where you find birds and small mammals including deer.

Le Telfair accommodates guests in twenty very spacious two-storey plantation style villas, each having between six and eight rooms and suites, all of which are constructed and furnished in light shades of wood to a very high standard and with attractive light-coloured décor. The hotel has a very large pool and a separate children’s pool, an 18-hole championship standard golf course, floodlit tennis court and a spa.

The 2km long beach leads to a large turquoise lagoon and you can enjoy the full range of watersports including waterskiing, wind surfing, sailing, fishing, snorkelling and many more. The property has five restaurants including one at the golf club, another beside the pool and another in an attractive 18th century ‘chateaux’ which is a five minute buggy ride away from the hotel and where you can enjoy fine dining.

The hotel’s rooms are elegantly furnished with dark timber floors, cream-coloured walls and mahogany furniture and floor-to-ceiling French windows open wide onto a veranda, which in the case of most rooms face the sea. All rooms have individually controlled air-conditioning, safe, tea & coffee making facilities and satellite TV. The superior rooms are 54m² with a 12m² balcony. There are eight senior suites, which have a bedroom and a separate private dining room and lounge area, a DVD/CD player and an area of 81m² with a 23m² terrace.

Day 16

In the morning you will be returned to the airport where you board flight BA122 departing at 0915 travelling in Business Class to London’s Heathrow Airport, arriving at 1805 (local time).