The Indian Ocean island of Mauritius wasn’t discovered by Europeans until the end of the 16th Century.  Colonized by the Dutch, French and English., this island is a melting pot of cultures; slaves from Africa and indentured workers from India have put their cultural stamp on Mauritius along with its European rulers.  Today, you will find a volcanic, mountainous landscape in whose verdant valleys are communities that reflect this diverse heritage.  From Hindu Temples and Martello Towers to the ruins of plantation houses and old, Dutch fortifications, from pristine beaches to open-air markets, Mauritius is a captivating country to visit.  Unlike the ill-fated Dodo Bird who was hunted to extinction by Mauritius’ first settlers, the island is now home to a special sanctuary that protects some of the world’s most endangered birds.  When it comes to dining, Mauritius offers a mouth-watering cornucopia of dishes that have all the gourmet panache of French haute cuisine combined with luscious tropical fruits and vegetable and the freshest of seafood straight from the ocean.  Add to this good wines and local rums while you admire a perfect sunset from a stylish and luxurious hotel on the beach, it doesn’t get any better than this!

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Travel information for Mauritius