The Island
Officially known as the Republic of Mauritius, the tropical island of Mauritius is located in the Indian Ocean about 900 kilometres east of Madagascar. The tropical climate ensures that the winters are dry and warm while the summers can be hot, wet and humid. The capital city of Port Louis is also the largest on the island.
Culture
While English has remained the official language of Mauritius, French is also used in instruction in the educational system. French is predominant in the media as well as with business and corporate affairs. The most widely spoken language in Mauritius is Mauritian Creole, an expressive language originating from slaves of different origins, which has close ties with French pronunciation. Sugar Cane is now grown on about 90% of the cultivated land area and accounts for about 25% of export earnings. The production of rum is widespread on the island with the original Dutch settlers cultivating sugarcane for the production of "arrack", a precursor to rum.
This tiny country, which became a republic within the Commonwealth in 1992, also has the distinction of being one of the most stable countries in the developing world attracting considerable foreign investment. Tourism is the islands third highest employer with more than 1000 hotels on the island.
Location Map
History
Although known to Arab and Malay sailors as early as the 10th century, Mauritius was first explored by the Portuguese in the 16th century and subsequently settled by the Dutch - who named it in honour of Prince Maurits van NASSAU in the 17th century. In 1715 the French assumed control of the island developing it into an important naval base overseeing Indian Ocean trade. The British captured the island in 1810 and became a strategic naval base and later air station until Mauritius gained independence in 1968. Mauritius was the only known habitat of the now extinct Dodo bird which is featured on the islands coat of arms.
Mauritian Attractions
Deep Sea Fishing, Scuba Diving and Boating
Mauritius is a paradise for deep sea and game fishing as the ocean is 70 meters deep one kilometre from the coast. Species found in these waters include the blue or black marlin, all types of sharks, yellow tuna and barracuda. Huge fish like the Blue Marlin roam these seas and hunt around the island from November to April. The most prestigious deep sea fishing competition is the Marlin World Cup which is hosted in December by La Pirogue Hotel. Fishing boats can be hired from almost all hotels.
The island is almost entirely surrounded by thriving coral reefs hosting a diverse array of marine life creating a diver's dream destination. The protection of the reef creating an ideal environment for the beginner diver, with many of the hotels offering diving schools and equipment rentals. For the more experienced diver, there is certainly no shortage of adventure.
Leisure boating, be it a gentle sail within the reef or a cruise on a deap sea motorised cat, thrives almost around the island. For the boating enthusiast there is no a shortage of opportunities. And for the property investor who wants to 'live on the water and launch there boat from their private mooring at the end of their garden', La Balise Marina is the first truly international Marina Property Development on offer.
Restaurants
The local cuisine of Mauritius is a blend of Creole, Chinese, European and Indian influences and it is common for a combination of cuisines to form part of the same meal. But beyond the local influences there are restaurants to satisfy any palate, from romantic sea shore settings to traditional African, Indian or Chinese and even family orientated steakhouse's. Some establishments may require a booking so you may wish to keep that in mind when deciding on what's for dinner.
Golf
Mauritius is fast becoming a golfer's haven with a number of spectacular courses in existence and more on the drawing cards. The island has attracted the attention of many of the top golf course designers in the world, such as Bernard Langer, Ernie Els, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Peter Matkovich. Villas Valriche is built around the spectacular Matkovich designed Le Golf du Chateau, a true championship offering and one that will keep the avid golfer coming back for more.
Natural Wonders
Due to the remarkable work accomplished by the Mauritius Wildlife Fund, the island has become an international standard for the protection of natural resources and endangered species. Some of the world's rarest birds including the kestrel and Pink Pigeon can be found here as well as the Green Gecko Phelsuma and the Aldabra Giant Tortoise. Activities such as trips on mountain bikes or hiking are possible in some parts such as the Labourdonnais Orchards.
Shopping
With an ever increasing number of duty-free tourist-only shops the island's reputation as a shopping paradise is richly deserved. These tourist-only shops will require that you present either your passport or air ticket to make a purchase. Prices are very reasonable for such quality and diverse shopping opportunities. Mauritius has an enviable reputation for its textile products such as pull-overs and knitwear.
Island Images
Useful Mauritius Links
Information on accommodation, travel and attractions - www.mauritius.com
Information on the Mauritian government - www.gov.mu
Information on the Mauritian Board of Investment and associated policies - www.investmauritius.com
Employment opportunities - www.myjob.mu
