Mauritius - Tropical Island on our doorstep

Helen Aitchison on 15 May 2012
After being in the travel industry for over 15 years, it is hard to explain why Mauritius has eluded me until now. Thanks to our annual travel conference being hosted on this beautiful island, I can now see why it is such a popular travel destination for anyone.

Mauritius is a mere 4 hours away by flight with Air Mauritius, SAA or BA Comair. One minute you are in the routine of your busy, stressful life and the next you are walking along white sandy beaches, sipping a cocktail and enjoying the laid back nature of an island paradise.

With a moderate to warm climate all year, Mauritius is a year round destination. Hotels are in abundance and are dotted around the coastline and in the capital, Port Louis. There is indeed a hotel to suit every individual. It is important to take note of transfer times from the airport to the hotels. On average most hotels, except those in the South East, are 45 minutes to 1 hour away.

Grand Baie is the tourist hub in the North and I was able to visit this area, staying at Beachcomber’s Le Mauricia Hotel. The location is perfect for Grand Baie – 5 minutes’ walk along the beach and you are in the heart of the bustling town. Don’t miss the Grand Baie Bazaar but make sure you have your bargaining shoes on. This is a shopper’s paradise and the perfect place to pick up gifts for home. If self-catering, then a visit to Super U is a must. This is a large supermarket where you can get pretty much anything you would require for your holiday. Le Mauricia’s staff is friendly and helpful and although the beach is small, the 2 large swimming pools are lovely and ideal for families and couples alike. Rooms are light and bright and for those looking for the ultimate in relaxation, the wellness centre is tranquil and calming.

From the North of the island, we then ventured South East to the beautiful Shandrani Hotel. This resort is large and open, offering 3 amazing beaches, a marine reserve and the incredible all inclusive serenity plus package. I don’t think you could ask for a more perfect location to hold a conference. However, it is not just a conference venue. There is a myriad of activities from glass bottom boats, water-skiing and snorkelling to tennis, a 9-hole mashie golf course and not just one but two amazing spas! The rooms are currently undergoing a soft refurbishment which will bring a modern update and this should be completed over the next 4-5 months.

Mauritius wins on every front. For honeymooners or couples it is a romantic paradise where you are treated like royalty. For families there is something for the entire family and many hotels offer extremely well equipped kids clubs, helping parents to get some time off. For singles or friends travelling together, there are not only the activities at the hotels and the beautiful beaches but also shopping, sightseeing to rum distilleries, zip-lining, quad biking and many other excursions.

I look forward to helping you plan your holiday to the beautiful island called Mauritius.