Trip to Mauritius - Part 1........

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 Grand Baie which is in a great location, right on the beach, with a couple of good sized swimming pools so it was great for chilling out during the day and then hitting town for a good restaurant and bar in the evening. The hotel was small and friendly with great staff and really great food. The rooms have a nice, beachy feel and are bright and airy.

My room at the Veranda Grand Baie

From Grand Baie we travelled to Port Louis for a spot of shopping. Port Louis is the busy, bustling capital of  Mauritius and fully embraces all the different cultures and ways of life. Le Caudan Waterfront has a good number of shops, bars and restaurants and a great place for a spot of retail therapy.

The Waterfront at Port Louis

We had lunch in a lovely little cafe overlooking the port and a fried rice and coke only set my back about £4...pretty reasonable. 

Across the main road you enter the old town with numerous little stalls offering everything from the latest kids toy to herb teas designed to cure any and everything. There is a large fruit and veg in door market which is well worth a wander round, taking in all the sights and smells. 

The huge fruit and veg market in Port Louis

All in all the start of the trip was looking pretty promising, I had already encountered friendly people, great bars, lovely hotels and a great culture. 

Next stop Papplemousse Botanic Gardens........ 

Darren
Escape Worldwide - Home of Long Haul Holidays
http://www.escapeworldwide.co.uk