Mauritius

No one will judge you if you decide, upon arrival in Mauritius, that you just want to lie on the beach, order rum punch to your lounger and enjoy some good old-fashioned do-nothing downtime. But it would be a shame to miss out on everything this natural paradise has to offer. Why not take a day just to embrace nature? See the famous giant water lilies at Pamplemousses' botanical gardens, head beneath the waves to the coral reefs teaming with life or hike Le Morne for stunning panoramic views of the island.

Embark on a journey through the island's interior to discover breathtaking waterfalls nestled within the lush landscapes. A charming village nestled in the Southwest, Chamarel is a jewel of wonders. Wander the treetop walkways of The Ebony Forest and uncover native flowers and rare endemic birds. Watch the cascading tundra of Chamarel Waterfall. Visit the quirky Museum of Illusions high in the hills. Or see The Seven Coloured Earths, a natural phenomenon where sand dunes showcase seven distinct colours, a must-see marvel.

A trip to Mauritius is a luxury in itself. So why not embrace the opulence of the island and live a life of luxury for a day? Begin your morning teeing off among the palms and tropical plants at the Île aux Cerfs Golf Club and browsing the designer labels that line the Instagrammable Umbrella Square of Le Caudan Waterfront. As the mid-day sun peaks, take to the skies for a breathtaking helicopter flight. See extinct volcanoes, tropical forests, and the famed underwater waterfall optical illusion as you glide over the island's diverse landscapes.

Mauritius, surrounded by the bounty of the Indian Ocean, is a seafood lover's paradise. Taste the freshness of local catches, from succulent octopus curry to grilled marlin, in beachside shacks or upscale restaurants. Away from the shores, immerse yourself in the island's rich culinary heritage by sampling the delights of Mauritian street food. Indulge in dholl puri, a delicious flatbread filled with yellow split peas, chutneys, and pickles, or savour the spicy kick of samosas. Mauritius has a long-standing tradition of rum production. Take a tour of a local distillery to savour the rich flavours of Mauritian rum, from dark and spiced varieties to light and fruity blends. Or quench your thirst with the island's exotic fruit juice infusions. From refreshing lychee and passion fruit to the unique flavours of tamarind and golden apple, Mauritius offers a vibrant array of tropical drink options.