• Plaine Magnien

The island of Mauritius was discovered by the Portuguese in 1505 and attained independence in 1968. Located in Southern Africa in the Indian Ocean it is a truly exotic and beautiful setting for any holiday. Almost completely surrounded by reefs, the main island, from which the country derives its name, is of volcanic origin. Tourism, a rapidly growing market, is becoming one of the country's mainstays as people discover that this exotic paradise has so much to offer. With a tropical climate, flamboyant flame trees, colourful fresh fruit and excellent diving sites to enable you to observe the diverse marine fauna and flora, the whole place is heavenly beautiful. The beaches, where many weddings are held, are some of the most stunning in the world with fabulous white sand and water so clear that you can see the fish swimming. Beach huts have become an upmarket type of accommodation which blends in beautifully with the surrounding landscape. Mauritius, though, like most other tropical islands, has a lot more to tempt tourists than just the beaches (although in this case they are enough of a temptation on their own). Indian Temples, small fishing villages dripping with traditional charm, exotic and fascinating towns and the Black River Gorge National Park (with its ancient jungle and colourful birdlife) compete with the crowded, loud and multi-faceted capital city Port Louis for a share of your attention. Of course, if you prefer a flutter, you could always try your luck at the island's superb race course. Or shop ‘til you drop in the bazaars and markets (duty-free of course) or if you like to include a little culture, why not take an afternoon or two to meander around Port Louis' Museum of Natural History, it will really give you a feel for the diversity of this wonderful country.