Mauritius - An Indian Ocean Island gem.
My last visit to Mauritius over 10 years ago, was to the East in March. This time, we travelled early in September and stayed for 9 nights in the North, around an hour from the airport at the stunning Meridien Ile Maurice. Set on a fine sandy beach over a km long, every room in the hotel has the bonus of an ocean view! The North is famous for its sunsets – look at my photos to see why!
Mauritius has only 2 seasons, summer and winter! September is nearing the end of winter with daily temperatures a constant 27° during our visit. Sunshine, scattered white clouds and a couple of short spells of rain. Although the evening temperatures were still in the early 20’s, with the ocean breeze and if you’re like me and love to eat dinner outdoors, I’d recommend taking a cardi.
Apart from regular beach and local walks, we took a trip into the capital Port Louis for a look at local life. There’s a local bus route nearby but with cabs easily available outside the hotel, we hired a driver for the journey who waited in the city for us until we were ready to return. Ay around 45/60 minutes each way, the return trip was great value at £40 (Driving is on the left, as in the UK if car hire is your choice)
Port Louis is a mix of old and new. Vast alleyways of traditional markets selling everything from fruit to fish and household goods to hats but also an upmarket waterfront area with modern architecture and fine dining. A hub of activity, well worth a visit and a ‘must do’ if you like to haggle! Also, interesting to hear Mauritian Creole being spoken as well as French and English.
A foodie paradise with a vast selection of fruit and seafood, I had the best octopus ever and also enjoyed spicy curries and sampled buffalo for the first time. Always something for everyone with a blend of European, African and Indian flavours, I also noticed a good selection of plant-based options. We were introduced to a Mauritian tradition ‘Alouda’ A refreshing milky drink which contains basil seeds, sugar and agar jelly. Available on food stalls throughout town but at the hotel, the chef recommended adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream – delicious.
Back to our beautiful hotel – a 5*stunner. Our beachfront ‘family’ room on the ground floor was huge, spotless and with many thoughtful extras including a straw hat and sarong! With entry from the front on the ground level, we enjoyed a garden/terrace area complete with sofa to enjoy view over the beach. The blackout curtains, perfect air con and the most comfortable huge bed made for peaceful sleep. Plenty of storage, partitioned lounge area and the biggest bathroom we’ve ever experienced in a hotel room with roll top bath, his n hers sinks, separate toilet and shower. I can imagine a family of 3 or 4 would be very comfortable in this room type. An adult only area ‘Nirvana’ is also available and proves popular with honeymooners.
The resort itself is set along the stunning beach with numerous choices of relaxing areas. 3 pools, daybeds, well-padded sun loungers, thatched umbrellas, palm trees, water sports included, outdoor bar areas, spa, indoor lounge area with live music every night, kids club and a breathtaking reception which is open to the ocean view. The attention to detail and hygiene was outstanding.
We stayed on a half board basis (Bed & breakfast, room only and all-inclusive also bookable) Breakfast was taken at the buffet restaurant. I liked the outdoor terrace area and also, we were shown to a table every day. Food was of excellent quality with fresh to order cooked options as well as the buffet choices. The fruit selection was my favourite, my husbands was the omelette, fresh breads and curry choices! Dinner was a choice of the buffet or 3 a la carte restaurants – Italian, Mediterranean or Indian. A la cartes were bookable daily or in advance. A good choice of menu options with a few payable extras to upgrade should you wish.
All staff were a credit to the hotel. Kind, always smiling and welcoming, smart and nothing was too much trouble. No request was forgotten. Would I return – in a heartbeat! Mauritius is truly a gem. Le Meridien hotel was perfect for our stay but my last tip is if you are planning a trip, choose your location to suit. If you prefer to walk to local restaurants, bars & shops, you might prefer to be a little closer to a main town.
Until next time!