Take A Holiday In Port Louis in Mauritius
Mauritius, and Reunion and Rodrigues form the Mascarene Islands. The climate is tropical, with a warm, dry winter from May to November and a hot, wet and humid summer from November to May.
Since being made independent in 1968, Mauritius has experienced significant growth. It has changed from a low-income, agriculturally based economy, to a middle-income, diverse economy with growing financial and tourist sectors.
The Island’s residents are largely descendants of those from the Indian subcontinent, but also substantial populations from continental Africa, Madagascar, France, Great Britain and China.
The most spoken language of the country is Mauritian Creole, which has close ties with French, but the official language is English. All government documents are drawn up in English, but French dominates the media, broadcast and print, as well as business.
Rum production is widespread in Mauritius, after sugarcane was introduced by the Dutch in 1638. Mauritius was the fifth location in the world to create postage stamps. The two types of stamps issued were the Red Penny and Blue Two Pence in 1847, and they are now some of the most famous and sought-after stamps in the world.
Mauritius is the only known home of the Dodo, which was named by the Portugese when they visited the island. The capital city is Port Louis, in the northwest. Other major towns are Curepipe, Phoenic, Rose-Hill and Beau-Bassin.
The capital, Port Louis is also its main port, which borders the Indian Ocean. It was named after King Louis XV by the French, who used Port Louis from 1735.
It has many historic and colonial buildings, including Fort Adelaide, built by the British in 1835. Port Louis is surrounded by a mountain range called the Moka Range, with famous mountains like Le Pouce and Pieter Both which peak at 800 metres above sea level.
The central market in Port Louis continues to be a meeting point for Mauritians looking for authentic local ingredients. Built in 1844, the market is currently being renovated.
One of the most popular attractions is Mauritius’ national derby, called Champ de Mars, which is the oldest race course in the Indian Ocean, and second oldest in the southern hemisphere, dating back to 1812.
The flora of Mauritius is made up of hundreds of species of indigenous plants, many which are threatened with extinction, due to the lack of appropriate habitat available.
Whether it’s sun, sea and sand you’re after or mountain ranges, rum or historical significance, Mauritius has it all.
Africa Collection is a comprehensive website featuring bespoke holidays in Mauritius and travel advice for those wishing to explore Africa.
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