The Republic of Mauritius is an island nation located off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean approximately 900 kilometers east of Madagascar. Largely uninhabited until the 17th century, the island passed through several governing bodies until the British took control of it during the Napoleonic Wars and finally in 1968 Mauritius became independent of the United Kingdom.

English is the official language on the island, though a mix of Mauritian Creole and French are also spoken and the island has the remarkable distinction of being the only known home of the famous Dodo bird.

Simply put, the island of Mauritius is a tropical paradise largely unspoiled by over-commercialism or excess development. The result is a tropical, exotic holiday destination that caters to rest, relaxation and enjoyment of all the natural beauty that surrounds you.

Mauritius is a must for avid sports fishermen. Black marlin, sharks, tuna, barracuda and more swim the seas around Mauritius and the island holds several world records for largest fish caught. The Marlin World Cup is hosted every December by La Pirogue Hotel, though boats can be chartered from any of the larger hotels for those who are less competitively inclined.

Mauritius is establishing itself as the perfect romantic getaway for honeymooners or even those looking to get married in a tropical setting. The larger hotels on the island offer myriad wedding or honeymoon packages and their staff is friendly and eager to help you plan the perfect moment be it in a lush tropical garden or barefoot on the sand under the stars.

Spa holidays are also becoming very popular and the island has met the challenge of providing world-class services and facilities to those who wish to partake. The spas at the One & Only Le Saint Géran, The Residence, Beau Rivage and more are leaders among the island’s spas.

Golf is an important activity on the island and many hotels offer their own golf courses offering both recreational play and championship links. They also offer club houses with equipment rental and many also offer lessons. The most stunning golf course is the One & Only Le Touessrok Golf Course that is on its own island. Each of the 18 holes has a view of the ocean and the course is bordered by the white sands of the beaches on one side and the green mountains on the other.

Mauritius offers a variety of public beaches that offer silky white sands in addition to the private beaches of various resorts. The Grand Bay beach is one of the best for sailing and other water sports, while the beach at Pereybere is arguably one of the best for sunbathing. No matter the beach you choose, rest assured that you’ll be surrounded by tranquil azure waters and fine silky sand.

From mountain climbing, splashing in a waterfall, fair game culling, cycling, kayaking or just hiking, there is no end to the myriad ways in which to enjoy the stunning scenery of this paradise island. Whether enjoying the SSR Botanical Garden by foot on a lazy afternoon or getting up close and personal with sea life aboard the Blue Safari submarine, no part of this island should be missed.