The island paradise of Mauritius is a popular tropical destination off the eastern coast of Africa. It is part of the Mascarene Islands and one of the more developed, and luxurious, islands in the region. With its gorgeous white sand beaches, lush virgin forests and picturesque countryside, the island is truly a feast for the eyes and provides many opportunities for relaxtion, exploration, and recreation.

Created from a series of undersea volcanic eruptions, Mauritius has long been an agricultural island. Discovered by the Portuguese in 1507 and occupied by the Dutch and then the French, Mauritius was surrendered to the British in 1810 and remained a part of the Empire until 1968. In 1992 it became a Republic within the British Commonwealth. The capital city is Saint Louis.

The beaches here are spectacular and the climate is tropical year-round. However, the best time to visit the island is May through November when the weather is a considerably drier and when the hottest months have passed. Sailing, jetskiing, diving and other water activities are popular along the beaches.

The interior of the island features beautiful forests, waterfalls, and exotic flora. Hiking through the Black River Gorges National Park or taking a horse or 4-wheel drive tour of the Moka mountains offer a wonderful view of the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.

The island has some incredible luxury Mauritius hotels as well as a variety of other accommodations available. The restaurants offer local Creole dishes as well as cusines from France, China, India, and Africa. There are a number of great markets and shops to occupy treasure and bargain hunters and several excellent night clubs featuring the séga music for which the island is famous.

Visitors will want to check out the Dutch runis at Vieux Grand Port, the Maheswarnath, and the Ile aux Aigrettes. Other attractions include the Grand Bay, the Flacq Market, and the Labourdonnais Orchards.

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