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Floating
peacefully in the Indian Ocean, 1240 miles off the south-eastern
coast of Africa is Mauritius, a beautiful, volcanic and
mountainous island. The island-state stands on what was
once a land bridge between Asia and Africa called the Mascarene
Archipelago. From the coast, the land rises to form a broad
fertile plain on which sugar cane flourishes as well as
other fascinating flora and fauna. Mauritius truly is a
tropical paradise designed for pure relaxation. Lounging
in the sun, taking advantage of the water sports available
and swimming in aquamarine lagoons top any Mauritian agenda.
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Similar to Madagascar and
the Seychelles, the flora and fauna of Mauritius is out
of this world. With over 900 plant species, many of them
indigenous to Mauritius, botanists would have a field day
here. The fauna is equally as spectacular, however, in recent
years, due to a lack of conservation efforts and sustainable
development, many animal and bird species have disappeared. |
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Perhaps the jewel
of Mauritius is the water surrounding it, housing a kaleidoscope
of outstanding marine life. Surrounded by coral reef, Mauritius
has become an admired diving spot. The west coast around
Flic en Flac is perhaps the best area for snorkelling and
diving, especially since it's home to the famous underwater
Cathedral Cave. Diving isn't the only activity made popular
by the fertile waters; deep-sea fishing is topping the charts
as a favourite water activity around the island as well
as surfing and under water sea walks. Of course, if you
don't want to get your feet wet, explore the drier side
of Mauritius - check out some of the wonderful walks or
cycling routes around the island. |
Although most of Mauritius
is made up primarily of beach resorts and small villages,
Port Louis , the country's capital, resembles a displaced
city on a tiny island. Port Louis can easily be described
as the centre of action. It is a far cry from the secluded
beaches scattered on the fringes of the island. The city,
discovered by a French Governor, holds evidence of the French
colonial days, best illustrated in it's architecture, especially
around Place d'Armes, off the main square. |
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Port Louis is
no doubt the commercial centre of the country but also carries
a certain charm with it's waterfront cafes, beautiful mosques
and cathedrals plus the intriguing Chinese Pagoda teeming
with Chinese astrologers. Finally, a must-see if visiting
Port Louis is a stroll through the bustling market. Open
daily (except for Sunday); the Port Louis Market is alive
with everything under the sun from potent aphrodisiacs to
smelly ol'chicken feet. If wishing to make a purchase, be
prepared to drive a hard bargain. Market vendors are all
but ready to rip off the unassuming tourist.
So whether you decide to crash out on one of the islands
many dazzling beaches, explore the underwater world or discover
the islands cultural mix, you will soon learn that there
is something for everyone in Mauritius. |
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