Mauritius Unveiled: A Journey Beyond the Paradise Postcard
As the palm-fringed beaches of Mauritius unveiled themselves outside my window, an elderly gentleman in seat 25B whispered, “It’s paradise.” Despite a language barrier and an armrest dividing us during the 12-hour flight, the shared gleam in his eye and the grin on my face conveyed an unspoken understanding of the beauty unfolding below. Little did I know, this African island nation, celebrating fifty years of independence, held more enchantments than the expected white sands and azure waters.
Exploring the Unexpected:
Mauritius, ranked as the 26th smallest country globally, defied expectations with its surprising depth and diverse experiences. The journey began with a visit to Bois Cheri, the island’s oldest tea producer. Amidst tea fields on the fertile plateau, low-hanging clouds danced, and the scent of vanilla tea permeated the air. Handcrafted with pride, the tea production process was a testament to the island’s traditions. A cup of signature vanilla tea amidst the plantation provided a refreshing mid-morning break, complemented by the playful presence of deer and the serene beauty of an eco-bubble lodge hidden in the forestry.
Nature’s Revival:
A recent encounter with a cyclone had rejuvenated the landscape, restocking waterfalls that dotted the island. Hiking trails, some accompanied by monkeys, led through the rugged expanse of Black River Gorges National Park. While the towering Chamarel waterfall drew crowds, a hidden gem emerged down a dirt track amid sugar-cane fields – Rochester Falls. The morning adventure, rewarded with freshly hacked coconuts, epitomized the essence of Mauritius: coconuts over coffee, waterfalls over showers.
Botanic Gardens and Natural Wonders:
The Sri Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Gardens showcased giant tortoises and lilies reminiscent of “lilies on steroids.” Although barriers now protected the gentle giants due to tourist interference, the towering palm-lined pathways captivated visitors. The Seven Coloured Earths, a unique natural attraction, displayed mineral-infused sands in varying hues. A testament to the island’s diversity, this geological marvel left an indelible impression.
Rum, Food, and Cultural Fusion:
A British affinity for tea seamlessly transitioned to rum, with Chamarel Rhumerie offering a taste of the island’s golden nectar. Tastings and mojitos unfolded into a delightful lunch at Chamarel restaurant, where the view rivaled the culinary experience. The blend of Mauritian, French, and Indian influences permeated the island’s cuisine, from breakfast at bustling markets to fusion feasts at beachside resorts.
Southward Bound:
Leaving the northern Trou Aux Biches resort, we ventured southward to Outrigger, a resort committed to reef conservation. Snorkeling through vibrant coral reefs and savoring fusion cuisines, the southern beaches of Le Morne Brabant epitomized the dreamy postcard image of Mauritius. A boat ride around the imposing mountain, a toast with local beer, and witnessing the island’s 50th year of independence celebration added to the rich tapestry of experiences.
What began as a blissful stay at a resort unfolded into a journey of unexpected adventures, cultural immersion, and natural wonders. Mauritius, with its familial bonds evident in daily life, became more than just a tropical escape. As I savored one last rum mojito, I realized that the gentleman on the flight had perfectly described his home – a postcard-perfect paradise that I wished to linger in, not send back to reality.
Practical Tips:
For those seeking their own Mauritius adventure, Air Mauritius offers direct flights from London Heathrow, with new A350s set to serve the route from early 2019. The ideal time to visit is from May to December, offering drier days with perfect temperatures for exploration and enjoyment.
