I just got back from  Mauritius  yesterday and I have to say, what an amazing place. I was on a bit of a flying visit, only 4 nights but I managed to fit in the odd Spa treatment, went shopping in Port Louis, a cookery class and even went Quad biking. We flew with British Airways which offers a direct service from Gatwick to Mauritius  ( Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport - which was named after the first Prime Minister)  My trip started off in Grand Baie which is a lovely little place at the North of the island, about an hour and a half from the airport. The area has a good range of shops, bars and restaurants, as well as a lovely little beach. The area has a great relaxed laid back vibe with really friendly people. Just off the beach you have street stalls selling local food and locals play French Bowls as the sun sets over the bay.   On of the great bars in Grand Baie I stayed at the Veranda G...

Darren and Mark from our office met up with TV presenter and explorer Simon Reeve this week, chatting about his BBC2 programme 'Indian Ocean' and his adventures in this beautiful part of the world. If you want to follow in Simon's footsteps then catch the next installment of his programme this Sunday on BBC2 at 8pm, or visit the destinations yourself by visiting  www.indianoceanescapes.co.uk  or calling Escape Worldwide on020 8989 0970 today. Snorkelling in the Maldives    " Before I went I presumed the brochures must have been airbrushed or photoshopped, but the Maldives really is that beautiful! When we went snorkelling, I found myself surrounded by 8 giant manta rays swimming in formation - it was so mesmerising I forgot to breathe and my snorkel fell out of my mouth!" Our Top Tip At the Kuramathi Island Resort , guests can visit the Eco Centre to get involved with the coral reef research and to learn about the programme to improve environmenta...