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Introduction Mauritius - The Destination Mauritius, a sparkling crystal in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, will fascinate

you. The contrast of colours, cultures and tastes makes the island so charming that the scene is set for an unforgettable holiday. Here, you have the opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury: a level of refinement that is head and shoulders above that on offer in other tropical holiday destinations. Here, you will discover the true meaning of beauty a realisation that will compel you to return to Mauritius shores time and again. Capital: Port Louis Location: Latitude 20 south of the equator, Longitude 57.5 east. Area: 1,860 square kilometres. Population: 1.2 million, including Rodrigues and the outer islands. Time Zone: +4 hours Greenwich Mean Time; +3 hours mid-European time. Port Louis, Capital of Mauritius Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, was founded by the French governor and colonist Bertrand-Franois Mah de La Bourdonnais in 1735. Situated on the north-west coast, Port Louis is the business and administrative capital of Mauritius. Packed with office-workers during the day, it quickly quietens down after office-hours allowing visitors to enjoy a night out along the famous Caudan Waterfront. Those arriving during daylight hours should head for the bustling Central Market or Champ de Mars: the oldest racecourse in the Indian Ocean region. The North The northern coast of the island is the place where the most development has taken place in recent years. Thanks to this work, Grand Baie has an abundance of restaurants and discotheques. If you like to party to the sound of good music, you will find plenty of options to choose from here. The north isnt only about night life, however. It also boasts some of Mauritius bestloved sights, including the charming red-roofed church that overlooks the lagoon at Cap Malheureux. South & South-East The south reveals a dramatically different landscape from the rest of the island: one typified by high cliffs in places that are battered by waves. These are created where the protective barrier of coral reef that surrounds Mauritius falls away on the seabed, so leaving the coastline exposed to a punishing Indian Ocean.

But the south is not singularly about cliffs and rough waters. Further round the coastline, heading westwards are an array of beautiful beaches and top-rate hotels and resorts, in up-and-coming areas such as Bel Ombre. East - The Jewel in Mauritius' Crown A coastline comprised of exquisite coves and emerald lagoons, permanently enhanced by a cool sea breeze: life goes by at a slow pace in the east whether youre a member of the fishing community or a holidaymaker. Situated between the mountains and the sea, the east is characterised by charming little villages with poetic names like Petite Julie, Mare dAustralia and Queen Victoria. It also plays home to some of the countrys best beaches, including Belle Mare, where you will want to spend hours basking in the sun, glorying in the sight of the long stretch of white sand. West & South-West Off Tamarin Bay or Flic en Flac, heading in the direction of le aux Benitiers, you can see the dolphins that come to these waters to rest and breed. The Morne Mountain, with its historical links to slavery, can also be found in this region as well as some fine hotels known for their wide choice of watersports. Slightly inland, in the hills around Chamarel, is the rum distillery that bears the name of the village. Here, you can learn about rum production and taste some of the delightful produce. Inland & Central Plateau In the highlands you will discover the islands four other towns. In Quatre Bornes, head for the local market if you want to do some bargain-hunting. In Curepipe, where it is generally cooler than elsewhere on the island, try visiting the botanical gardens. In the early evening the gardens of the Plaza the municipal theatre of the town of Rose Hill fill up with families who come to relax and enjoy an icecream. This is a heart-warming sight definitely worth beholding! Vacoas, meanwhile, is most renowned for its Gymkhana Golf Club the oldest in the southern hemisphere.

The tourism sector

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