Mauritius might not be the most obvious choice when you think of photo-perfect tropical holidays. Many will cast their minds to the Seychelles, or the Maldives, and their luxe ocean properties.
Of course, these islands are beautiful in their own right – but amongst all the glossy videos you’ve probably seen on social, there’s one island that may not have been on your radar. Mauritius is a place I didn’t know much about before visiting. And while it may not be as small and remote as the other islands, the relaxed atmosphere this island emits is infectious. With its white sandy beaches, calm crystal blue seas and romantic sunsets, the spirit of the island really is something unique; the Mauritians care not only about the island’s sustainability and ecosystem, but they really do care about the people that come to visit the island, too.
Walking out of the airport, you are greeted with that striking tropical heat that screams ‘holiday mode’ – but that's not the only warm welcome. Our transfer driver is the first friendly face we engage with on our trip; he explains to us the complex history of centuries of colonialism, how the sugarcane quickly became the island's main crop and points out the Moka Mountain Range en route. There’s a lot of history to unpack here, and there’s bucketloads of beauty too. Driving through the all-year-round lush greenery instantly takes you into a different world, and so do the people who live here.
Where to stay: Le Méridien Ile Maurice
When we arrived at our first hotel, the incredibly spacious and relaxed Le Méridien Ile Maurice, we were welcomed with a refreshing grapefruit juice and cool towel – always needed after a 12-hour flight. Our beautiful room featured gorgeous copper bronze touches, suitcase looking drawers and modern techy touches – but the vibe of the hotel is distinctly relaxed. We stayed in a Junior Suite (note: all rooms feature a sea view here as standard) which has a balcony so you can stargaze in the evening – and trust me when I say, you haven’t seen as many stars as this before (especially if you live in a city, like me).
Walking around the resort, the Mauritians are incredibly welcoming and friendly, with everyone stopping each guest to say ‘Bonjour’. It actually feels like a second home rather than some resort where you’re just seen as another customer. Of course, I’m under no illusion that it’s their job to treat you well and look after you, but the genuine nature was really felt and it honestly made the holiday.
After wandering through the resort, we booked ourselves in for a quick 45-minute massage which made all the difference post flight. The spa is also mega-equipped with a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, which makes for an ideal past-time during any tropical showers. Outside, there's three pools available at Le Méridien Ile Maurice, from family-friendly to adults-only.
The resort features four different spots to eat and drink at, with all cuisines covered thanks to the diverse Mauritian culture. If you want to start your evening right, then you must head to the beach bar near the main pool, where you can grab a beanbag (tip: get there 30 mins before sunset so you can nab one), select your favourite cocktail and enjoy some live acoustics as the sun sets. It's one of those simple, special pleasures that you can enjoy each evening, thanks to the hotel's dreamy location.
For dinner, I highly recommend at least one night at sushi restaurant Jade to enjoy a colourful platter, and another evening at Kumin where you have to try the Biryani (the spices can’t compete with the UK!). The next morning, do make sure you head back to the Jade bar for breakfast; it’s a lot more relaxed and has a much more personal touch compared to the main buffet breakfast (where there's ample choice, if that's what you prefer).
Prices at Le Meridien Ile Maurice start from £500 per night. Book here
Where to visit: Port Louis
The capital of Mauritius, Port Louis, is situated not far from the hotel, and is ideal to break up your holiday if you don’t fancy staying in your resort the whole time. It’s a great way to get a taste of the culture and vibrancy of the people that care about this beautiful island. Visit the Central Market to feel the real buzz of the city, or try the the Craft Market near Umbrella Square – which is less crowded with more freedom to browse.
Where to stay: The Westin Turtle Bay
After we visited Port Louis, it was onto our next hotel, The Westin Turtle Bay. If I were to compare it to Le Méridien Ile Maurice, I'd say it felt more like a wellness campus. Families are welcome, just like our first accomodation, but the Westin Turtle Bay feels a little more grown up, somehow. With dark woods and understated premium luxury design, the hotel gives off the feeling of a small village where you can get lost and really isolate yourself from everyone else.
Guests are taken to their rooms on golf carts, which are used around the resort. We stayed in the Heavenly Junior Suite – and when I say it was heavenly, I'm not exaggerating. If you can, book a room that walks straight onto the beach; have a glass of wine on your balcony in the evening, then enjoy a walk down to the Indian Ocean just as the sun is setting.
The Westin feels a lot more secluded, shrouded in tropical greenery. Out of the two pools on offer here, I particularly loved the ‘Whisper Zone’ pool – an adults-only infinity pool which is picture-perfect against the backdrop of the sea. You can also break up your day with an activity, if you’re spending most of your time at the resort. You can try everything from Sound Healing Therapy to Pottery; or try Floral Art Arrangements with the local florist, Annelise, which was a very tranquil way to start the morning.
Out of all the restaurants, Fusion was our favourite, serving fresh takes on sushi right next to the main pool. If there’s a group of you, make sure you book a seat for the live Teppanyaki to really get the night going. It’s also worth noting that all the in-house sommeliers are accredited wine experts. They’re headed up by the incredibly welcoming Tony, and will take the time to advise what drinks would go best with your meal – just make sure you try the Mauritian lychee wine, too.
If there's one thing I'll remember about Mauritius, it's the people. They really do seem to care immensely about their home, their guests and the sustainable impact on their surroundings. Out of everything, that was what I felt the most on this beautiful island.
Prices at The Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa start from £423 per night. Book here
How to get there
Since it's a 12-hour flight, we thanked ourselves for booking Premium Economy on BA; especially for a once-in-a-lifetime holiday. The flight is direct, and we were glad of the extra legroom, wider seats, glass of fizz on boarding (with added bar service) and larger telly screen (we watched The Holiday, in case you're wondering - who said you can't watch it all year round!?). The complimentary amenity kit will finish things off nicely, if you do actually manage to fit sleep in…
Return flights from London to Mauritius in World Traveller Plus (premium economy) start from £1,465. Book here
Top tips for travel to Mauritius
- Before you even arrive at Gatwick, do make sure you’ve filled out the pre arrival form here: https://safemauritius.govmu.org. The BA staff will need to check this as you check in and it is mandatory to enter Mauritius.
- Book your massage in advance at both hotels so you’re not disappointed when you arrive.
- At Le Méridien Ile Maurice, grab a beanbag early near the Waves restaurant, so you can enjoy the music and sunset in comfort.
- Make sure you try the local Mauritian drink of Alouda at breakfast. It’s divine!
