Mauritius Holidays

Mauritius, known for its exceptional service and accommodation, lies in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Discovered by Europeans in 1505 by a Portuguese navigator, the island was occupied successively by the Dutch and the French, then ceded to Great Britain in 1814 before gaining independence in 1969. Today the one million plus population consists of Hindus, Muslim, Chinese, Creoles and Europeans. And it is this integrated, exotic pot-pourri of languages, customs, cultures and cuisine which makes Mauritius so vibrant and appealing. The coastline is almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs and white-sand beaches.

If you are looking for that very special place to spend your luxury holiday, then Mauritius is the ultimate destination. Whether you’re looking for a romantic luxury getaway or an activity-filled adventure holiday, Hi Traveller’s Mauritius holiday deals can cater for all your needs. We have sifted out some of the high end, must-see resorts in the Mauritius: Grand bay, The Triolet Shivala, Balaclava Ruins, Pereb`ere and the Labour Donnais Orchard to name a few. Experience Mauritius luxury holidays with Hi Traveller and experience the holiday of a lifetime.

Best Time To Visit: Mauritius is warm all year-round. December to April brings hot summer temperatures followed by a cooler drier period from May to November. The winds are at their strongest in July and August and the east coast can be a bit cooler, through this can be pleasant.

Time Difference: GMT +5 hours.

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa but you must have an onward or return ticket and your passport should be valid for at least six months on your date of return.

Language: French and Creole (English is widely spoken).

Currency: Mauritian Rupee.

Flight Information: Air Mauritius offers up to 3 non-stop flights a week from London Heathrow. Other non-stop carriers include Virgin Atlantic (seasonal) and British Airways. Emirates also have great connections through Dubai and from regional airports within the UK.

Flying Time: Approx 12 hours.

1. Ultimate Experience
Cruise to beautiful Ile Aux Cerfs for the day, return to your resort for a spa treatment, then finish your day enjoying the amazing cuisine.

2. Cuisine
Mauritian cooking is in a class of its own. It is a combination influenced by people of different cultures and cooking traditions and dishes are a mixture of Creole, Chinese and Indian. Many leading chefs visit and work on the island so you will find the food of exceptional quality.

3. Where to go for adventure
As well as hiking and biking through Black River Gorges National Park, you can take a 4WD off road adventure in Bel Ombre or play golf at one of Mauritius's world-class golf courses.

4. Water Paradise
Diving, deep sea fishing, snorkelling, kite surfing and parasailing are all available, however a perfect way to enjoy a sunny afternoon is to sail around the islands of the north with a fresh fish BBQ.

5. Shopping
Mauritius is a duty free paradise. Pick up watches, leather, and jewellery or seek out some designer outfits in the boutiques along the Caudan Waterfront in Port Louis.

6. Dates For Diary
Cavadi - this festival is celebrated in January/February. Divali - The Festival of Lights - occurs during October or November. Father Laval - every September 9 Mauritians of all faiths walk or drive towards the tomb of the Blessed Jacques Desire Laval, the 'Apostle of the Black People' at Sainte Croix, Port-Louis. Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated on the 4th day of the lunar month of August/September by Hindus in honour of the birth of Ganesha, God of wisdom.

7. Best For Kids
Many hotels feature fantastic facilities to keep the little ones occupied. The Waterpark Leisure Village is a great day out for the whole family and older children can enjoy the rope bridges and assault courses.

8. Best For Couples
The perfect destination for a honeymoon, not only is it one of the most romantic destinations in the world, honeymooners also receive fantastic discounts from hotels. Some of the best spas in the world can be found in a number of the island's resorts.

9. Splash Out
Diamonds are a favourite purchase. Poncini duty free boutique in Port Louis or the Adamas diamond boutique in Floreal are two of the most popular shops.

10. Live Like a Local
Visit Central Market in Port Louis for a great insight into daily local life.