Mauritius Paradise 2013

I flew with Air Mauritius on 09 November 2013 Heathrow-Mauritius economy class and returned home on 16 November business class. Flying time 12 hours and 30 minutes. I decided to treat my wife to Mauritius, as her birthday present as we both never been to this destination. When we arrived at Mauritius airport we are booked car hire with Avis. The great news the drive on the same side as us in the UK, the minor point not many signpost around the islands. We got lost several times when we ventured out, but manage to make it back. I was told it was cheaper to hire a driver for the day then you can choose the sights you want to visit with less hassle of finding the places. Next time I think I will take that option. There is also a bus service outside the hotel to Grand Baie and Port St Louis (The capital) the times are not displayed, so I would check with hotel reception before venturing outside especially if it’s a hot day, as there is not much shelter around at the bus stop.

We stayed at Lux Grand Gaube hotel 5* for 5 nights on all inclusive basis. I was greeted by the general manager on our butler for the duration of our holiday. I was given a great surprised by being upgraded to the best villa in the hotel, which came with private beach. Butler, Jacuzzi, 2 bedroom villa. The hotel facilities at this hotel are excellent. I rate this as one of my best stay holidays ever. It felt like paradise.

LUX* Villa The stylish Villa offers unparalleled views over the shimmering blue lagoon and its own private beach. Lounge in the two spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms or take a dip in the swimming pool and whirlpool amongst the private landscaped gardens. There's even a barbecue area and gazebo for romantic outdoor dining, along with a personal butler to see to your every need.

I would recommend this hotel for honeymoons, couples and families, My favourite restaurant for lunch was Banyan Tree...

Banyan - The Island Kitchen Sheltered under the graceful boughs of one of the islands' oldest banyan trees, Banyan - The Island Kitchen invites you to sample our take on traditional Mauritian street food. All the classic flavours, colours, tools and techniques have been retained to bring you an authentic taste of island living.

There are plenty of other restaurants and bars at this hotel...

The Kitchen Set against a breath-taking lagoon backdrop, The Kitchen is LUX* Grand Gaube's main gastronomic attraction, offering everything from fresh, healthy and bountiful breakfast buffets to lively themed evenings and flavourful Chef's Specials throughout the week.

The Beach Kick back with some relaxed Mediterranean cuisine as you gaze out over the lagoon and the many beautiful islands scattered like jewels across the Northern coastline

Abalone Located right on the beach, facing the blue lagoon, Abalone entices with a blazing barbecue set up on the sand. Enjoy a tasty array of light dishes in a laid back island environment for lunch. When the stars come out, so does Abalone's incredible selection of fresh seafood platters. Create your own or get some advice from the Chef for a meal you won't soon forget.

The Bar Located right next to the main swimming pool, The Bar is a lively hang out for guests to quench their thirst throughout the day while lounging on comfortable sofas and bar stools facing the lagoon. At night, The Bar offers a simple yet tasty menu with an extensive range of drinks, along with live music and entertainment.

A tip for you when you arrive, make sure you book the speciality restaurants as they get booked quickly and you are only allowed one visit per stay.

Another of mine was Lux café and Lux Ice cream truck. Ice cream was made with fresh waffles cones and fresh homemade ice cream. Yummy! Café LUX* Nothing beats a really great cup of coffee. That's why at LUX* we only serve our very own delicious Island Blend of certified green organic beans. Roasted on the island and prepared for you with passion by our trained baristas.

Hotel also offers daily challenges, where you can win free gifts like a bottle of rum, free spa treatment, Candle light dinner for two,etc. To get the challenge you have to find one of the hotel bottle messages which lets you know what gift you have won. This is held daily in the mornings. I would get up early for this one, if you want to win a prize!

You can call home free of charge from their red phone box. I thought this was a brilliant idea.

I manage to sample a spa treatment after winning the daily challenge. I felt totally relaxed after spa treatment. On site at the hotel there are three beaches with a golf course. This hotel offers various packages from bed and breakfast to all inclusive basis. They also offer water sports.

During my stay at this hotel. I also visited Sands Resorts and Spa 5* for lunch and The Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa 5* site inspection. I have to say from the outside nothing special, but when you entered in, It had the wow factor for me. All suites have private pools. I certainly want to come back and stay at this hotel when I return to Mauritius in the future.

After my stay at Lux Grand Gaube I thought I was truly spoilt. Well, I was in for more surprises with the next hotel! I stayed at Le Prince Maurice Hotel 5* half board basis for two nights in a Double Junior Suite. The hotel entrance to this hotel is truly amazing. I look at all hotel room types at this hotel and I would be happy to stay in any of the room types.

Junior suite on stilts, I would suggest for honeymoon couples as they are intimate and very secluded. I had breakfast and dinner at Archipel and I also ate at Le Barachois they food was divine at both restaurants especially at Archipel.

At the beach they offering free bottles of cold water which comes with a cooler bag, whilst you are laying on your sunbeds. I thought this was a nice touch. You must visit the floating bar for a drink whilst staying at Le Prince Maurice it's a great experience. I certainly want to go back to Le Prince Maurice hotel and spend a longer time. This hotel suits a honeymoon couple. Families with older children and couples.

The beaches are amazing. The people in Mauritius are very friendly people. I would recommend for this destination half board or all inclusive basis. I also suggest you explore the whole island as there is so much to do and see. The standard of accommodation in Mauritius is very high. Mauritius has something for everyone. My dream would be that I return to Mauritius soon. My wife loved her present, and now wants to go back soon.

This holiday certainly ranks in my top 10 as best ever holidays I have ever had.