QUATRE BORNES

While you will encounter a number of cultures during your stay in Mauritius, it is safe to say that Quatre Bornes has the energy and the charm of the French. In fact, the city name "Quatre Bornes" is French and translates roughly to "four boundary stones."

The locals have another name for this quaint marketing town - Ville de Fleurs or Town of Flowers. Quatre Bornes is jus ten miles south of Port Louis.

A Little Local History

Settlers from France found their way to what is now Quatre Bornes in the 1720s and slowly began developing the forested area which sits at the base of a mountain. In the early 1800s, the area was turned over to British rule. The development of a railway line resulted in faster growth than many other places.

However, it wasn’t until the 1890s that Quatre Bornes was declared an official village. Villagers often refer to themselves as Quatrobornians. Sugar cane has long been an important cash crop in the area and in fact, played an indirect part in the town’s name. Quatre Bornes was named for four actual boundary stones, each one located at four individual large sugar plantations, mapping out the village limits. Today, the town continues to grow thanks to various attractions, nature activities and therobust market place.

The Market Place … The Place for Shopping and Deals

Quatre Bornes has some excellent shopping opportunities with several malls and centres with quality local goods. You will discover a great flower market as well as an extensive fruit market with plenty of options to suit your tastes. The many shopkeepers with stalls in the general marketplace make for a lively environment where you can find a number of goods such as clothing, fabrics, food, and native handicrafts and jewellery. The clothing marketplac , open on Thursdays and Sundays, is the main shopping draw, not only for tourists but also for the locals. You’ll find some superior quality clothing, textiles and other garments, including designer names, at great prices. Energy and activity bustles throughout Quatre Bornes which is often as busy as nearby Port Louis.

Gambling Fun

The night activities Quatre Bornes has to offer are dining and dancing. However, if you are in the mood for the slot machines, roulette or card games, you can satisfy your gambling fever with a visit to a local casino called Ti Vegas. Ti Vegas is the most famous casino on the island of Mauritius. It was designed and built with the latest technology in gambling, so you can bet that the slot machines are top of the line in quality. Play roulette or chance the dice with the ancient Chinese game called Sic Bo. Of course, there is blackjack and everyone’s favourite, Texas Hold’em.

Festival for Local Colour

If you’re ever here in January or February, you’d have an opportunity to witness the colourful festival called Cavadee. Indian temples at the base of the Corps de Garde Mountain host this Hindu celebration and the local Tamils celebrate for days in honour of the God Muruga. The Tamils are fervent in their worship of Muruga. This is very apparent as during the festival, they fast, parade to the temples carrying a cavadee ( a type of wooden yoke), and even pierce their bodies with skewers and needles.

Nature Lovers Have Options

Surrounded by forested area as well as its location at the base of Corps de Garde,
Quatre Bornes has a number of nature activities to try. Exploring nature trails observing the local flora and fauna is quite fun. Hiking and mountain climbing on the Corps de Garde is quite rewarding too, as the highest point is about 720 metres. The Corps de Garde Mountain resembles a sentry man lying down, thus the mountain’s name translation “body of soldier.” This hulking mountain has a basaltic rock face and the sunrise is quite spectacular from it. If you decide to explore the mountain on your own, be prepared for quite a trek. It is best if you seek out a guided tour as a tour professional will know the best and safest trails to follow.

Get an Energy Buzz

Quatre Bornes may not have the beaches other areas do but it certainly has the lively energy of a market town. You will have a lot of fun meandering through the streets, popping into the shops and discovering great restaurants and nightlife. Shopping, gambling, and nature activities – the area covers something for just about anyone.

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

Dolswim

Mauritius is an ideal destination for those who dream of discovering nature’s mysterious secrets. The island particularly promotes exclusive encounters with the wild, in ways which value proximity and for the wonders of nature. Dolphin and whale watching, proposed by the renowned Mauritian company Dolswim Ltd, is one such grand opportunity for adventurous souls to commune with nature in a unique and an unforgettable way.

The dolphin (from the Greek “Delphys” meaning “womb”) is a marine mammal which evolved about 25 million years ago. As an epitome of beauty, intelligence, and freedom, it has carved a special place in human culture. Poets, scientists, philosophers and artists worldwide describe the dolphin as a highly social animal, taking loving care of their babies and displaying friendly attitudes towards humans. Tales abound as to how these graceful and wise mammals have rescued humans and helped endangered ships in treacherous waters.

It’s no wonder that the Greek Sun God Apollo portrayed the dolphin as the quintessence of peaceful virtue, undisguised joy and as a guide to another world. Dolswim Ltd, registered in 2003, gears all its efforts towards realizing one’s dream of cruising on the wild side. Operating on the west coast of the island, in Rivière Noire, the company offers various recreational activities which allow visitors to behold the inspiring marine mammals as they engage in their daily routine of hunting, playing, courting, and socializing in the bay and beyond. The expeditions vary from two hours to a full day.

A typical full day excursion starts at 8:00 and includes a two-hour encounter with the dolphins as well as lunch on Benitiers Island where one may laze on the beach, admiring the splendid view of Le Morne Mountain. The adventure begins once you step in one of the three speed boats, each covered by insurance and properly equipped with life jackets and other safety gear. Indeed, one of the strong points of the company is its professionalism and uncompromising attitude towards safety. In each boat there are two highly experienced skippers whose expertise and knowledge of first-aid ensure a safe and enriching trip. The day begins with a briefing on the types of dolphins that you’ll encounter, their habits, security measures and swimming procedures.

Guidelines for sustainable dolphin watching are also emphasized. Indeed, Dolswim Ltd adamantly promotes the protection of these fascinating creatures and their natural habitat. The company encourages guests to come to an encounter in a spirit of respect, consideration and sensitivity. The dolphins are not harassed in any way; they are free to come and go as they please, choosing whether they want to make contact
with humans or not. Watching them frolic freely in their natural environment amidst their family makes us aware of the negatives of captivity. The excitement aboard is palpable once the wild dolphins appear in the clear open sea. Scanning the surface for the small dark fins, guests are thrilled when they spot the mammals.

As they glide gracefully, unfettered and serene, visitors cannot help but reflect on the wonders of nature. The high point of the journey is undeniably the swim with the dolphins. With the help of the skippers and the snorkeling equipment aboard, guests may dive in the warm water to be closer to the playful and curious animals. Being in their element, right next to them, as they dance, swim in synchrony, twist, turn and spin is an exceptional experience to cherish forever. The species observed are the Bottlenose and the Spinner dolphins.

During a trip you may observe from 15 to 100 Bottlenose Dolphins as they move in groups called pods. Spinners congregate in groups that vary from just a few dolphins to great schools numbering in the thousands. They are acrobatic and keen bow-riders. As for the whales, the two species that can be observed are the Humpback Whales and the Sperm Whales. Both species move away from the poles to warmer seas near the equator, to reproduce, give birth and breed, before getting back to the Arctic.

The Humpback Whales can only be observed between July and November. The Sperm Whales can however be observed all year round along the west coast of the island. (Whale watching is a different outing as one has to go further out to sea and the excursion will depend much on weather and sea conditions.) Dolswim Ltd organizes memorable trips which blend excitement and relaxation. While guests are often overwhelmed by the soothing magnificence of the marine mammals, they are also made aware of the need to protect them from extinction. Swimming with dolphins is a unique experience which uplifts the human spirit; their songs echo in our hearts long after we’ve left them behind in their world of freedom and innocence.

The excitement aboard is palpable once the wild dolphins appear in the clear open sea. Scanning the surface for the small dark fins, guests are thrilled when they spot the mammals. As they glide gracefully, unfettered and serene, visitors cannot help but reflect on the wonders of nature.

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

Mahebourg

Mahebourg is a delightful blend of the old and new, with some buildings originating back to the 1800’s interspersed with modern island architecture. This historic port city was once the capital of Mauritius and is an excellent home base for your island vacation. This laid back, friendly city is a main fishing centre on the island but fishing is not necessarily the primary draw for tourists and other visitors.

The allure of Mahebourg’s attractive waterfront lies with views of the majestic Lion Mountain and its pristine blue lagoon in the distance.

A Brief History Founded originally by Dutch colonists around 1805, Mahebourg was named after a popular French governor Ber trand-Francois Mahé de La Bourdonnais during the French colonial period in history. The Dutch chose to colonise the site because of its proximity to abundant water supplies, namely nearby streams and rivers. It served as an excellent port city for trade. However, it was the Battle of Grand Port in 1810 that truly defined the port of Mahebourg.

The British tried to take over the entire island of Mauritius and failed, thanks to the French efforts to protect it. Eventually, the French chose Port Louis as their primary port, relegating Mahebourg to a small town with fishing and tourism as its primary commerce. Still, this historic city boasts the best of its founding fathers with the wide streets and hints of the Dutch and French influence in the architecture, particularly in the old areas of Mahebourg.

The waterfront, while not boasting beaches, has been developed and is now a huge draw for visitors. It is perfect for a stroll at sunset and there is even a pavilion to rest and enjoy the view. Things to See and Do Perhaps one of the most interesting draws to Mahebourg is the Naval Museum housed in a restored colonial French mansion that once served as a medical base during the 1810 war. Two of the three floors of the mansion house artefacts from historic battles
on the island.

View the cannons, swords and other weaponry from the war in addition to wreckage from ships. There is even a restored village settlement on site so that you can see the lifestyle of the settlers from several centuries ago. Biscuit Factory, dating back to 1870 has been in the Rault family since its inception and produces square, crispy cookies using a secret recipe without the implements of modern technology.

You can tour the factory located on the outskirts of Mahebourg and even sample their wares! History and architectural buffs can visit the Notre Dame des Anges Church, built in 1849. The timbers of the roof are quite grand and the statues are interesting too. Some of the locals even present offerings to the statues. The view from the tower spires provides a picturesque look at Mahebourg and the waterfront.

Another popular draw is the longest spanning bridge on the island which connects both banks of the La Chaux River. There is also the maritime monument on the coast of Mahebourg which honours those fallen in the naval battle in 1810. And thanks to the progressive development of the tourism industry, the new casino near the beautiful waterfront offers bright lights and entertainment.

There are also a number of nature activities to consider when visiting Mahebourg. You can take rides in glass bottom boats to neighbouring islands or snorkel in the clear waters to check out the sea life. Coral diving is popular as are visits to the Grand Waterfall nearby. The Lion Mountain area offers exploring such as hiking and nature tours. You can also witness additional local wildlife and flora at the Airgettes Bird Sanctuary. To see the sights of the area, you can walk to most destinations or hop on one of the buses that travel throughout the small city. If you want to see the sights on your own, you can hire a car or even rent a motorcycle or bicycle. Of course, you can also explore nearby waters and islands by boat.

If you want a Mauritius home base during your vacation, then Mahebourg can be a great choice. Because it is not a beach town, you will not have to fight crowds but you still get to enjoy the sea thanks to its beautiful waterfront and clear blue lagoon waters. Mahebourg offers a blend of cultures present in the population and in the entertainment and eateries in the city.

You can find Indian, Creole, Chinese, Dutch, German, French and other European influences. The city also boasts some great shopping, thanks to the local shops and weekly flea market where you can get some excellent souvenirs.

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

LE CAUDAN WATERFRONT

Le Caudan Waterfront is the Mauritian hot spot for shopping. Sitting right on the Port-Louis harbour, in the island’s capital, Le Caudan Waterfront offers a lively atmosphere and full range of services, varying from restaurants to casinos. It allows tourists and locals to fully embrace nightlife, outdoor events, unique shopping experience, entertainment and cultural opportunities.

More than just another modern commercial centre, Le Caudan Waterfront carries part of the local history. Named after the French explorer Jean Dominique Michel de Caudan, Le Caudan Waterfront started out as a saltpan near Port-Louis in 1726. The peninsula where its is situated was first known as a powder magazine, before hosting the island’s first meteorological observatory as well as warehouses and quays used as a sugar terminal. The former salt pan area has become today the Robert Edward Hart Garden.

The Port-Louis Cultural Walk

The Walk is a journey through Port-Louis’ cultural landmarks including an old marketplace, past historical buildings, the gate to China Town and the main gardens of the city. Le Caudan Waterfront was chosen as the starting point of the Cultural Walk, with two main features, the Blue Penny Museum and the Observatory.

The Blue Penny is a must see for all. Its walls of origin are still standing, from the time that the site hosted the New Mauritius Dock Company Head Office in 1930, bearing an authentic touch to its purpose. Indeed, the museum’s exhibits include artefacts and possessions from the island’s historical heritage, including the famous and very rare Blue Stamp of 1847, after which the museum was named.

Another main attraction of the Cultural Walk, the Observatory was built in 1832 as a powder magazine. It was taken over in 1866 by the New Mauritius Docks Company. Given its ideal view over the harbour, the building became the first meteorological observatory in the Indian Ocean; the weather forecasts issued were essential for the ships and the Observatory played a major role part in navigation at the time. The tower was razed in 1880 but the remaining building still standing today dates back from the original 19th century construction.

The information kiosk inside Le Caudan Waterfront provides the full itinerary of the Port Louis Cultural Walk.

Bassin des Chaloupes

Le Caudan Waterfront offers a sheltered mooring area for a certain number of yachts and other boats. This marina, named Bassin des Chaloupes has already made a name among organ-isers of sailing events. It is also very popular among mariners and visiting foreigners, as it caters for their needs during their stay, including fresh water supply, bathroom facilities and all other necessities at quay. The marina is also an attraction for the locals and tourists.

Le Caudan Waterfront also hosts two hotels on its premises for the more demanding mariners. The Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel and Le Suffren Hotel & Marina provide easy and quick access to the shopping centre and a practical location, close to the quay and the city.

Things to do Shopping is the most prominent activity at Le Caudan Waterfront which has built a reputation of excellence in this sector. The centre’s 170 stalls and boutiques offer an amazing variety of products and customers will love to stroll around casually and enjoy this enthralling experience.

Throughout the galleries, from the Barkly Wharf and the Pavillon to the most recent Dias Pier, the shopper discovers international brands as well as local designers’ collections in fashion and textile, jewellery, leather products, luxury fabrics while others shops offer sports equipment, cosmetics, books as part of the innumerable goods available at Le Caudan Waterfront.

Hunger and thirst will be quenched at the Food Court, with its breathtaking view of the harbours under the sun; rom full Chinese cuisine, Indian delicacies or Italian specialities to pastries and coffee for a snack, the restaurants and food stands of Le Caudan Waterfront will satisfy anyone’s taste.

Children are not forgotten at Le Caudan Waterfront! The Magic Entertainment arcade is open everyday, offering games suitable for children and teenagers. These include video games, simulation games, snooker and other fun activities. For a family experience, the Movie Theatre’s three rooms have a varied program changed every week
on average. The casino will welcome adults for their entertainment, with its peculiar design. Indeed, the casino’s doors open in a ship’s hull, guarded by a fearsome golden carved lion. The casino is a fantastic spot for late entertainment, with its two bars and its dress code for eveningwear.

All this busy activity is often highlighted by exhibitions, live concerts, art displays and other cultural entertainment, for the delight of all visitors. You have heard of it, now go ahead and experience it! Le Caudan Waterfront will provide you with a full day’s enjoyment with guaranteed fun!

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

BLACK RIVER GORGES NATIONAL PARK

One of the most beautiful, awe-inspiring natural spots in Mauritius is the Black River Gorges National Park. This World Heritage-designated site is home to the rarest flora and fauna found only on this island, making it a must-see destination for tourists and residents alike. Nature buff or not, the wondrous vistas afforded by a hike through the park are well worth the exercise.

About the Park

Black River Gorges is the only national park of Mauritius, located on the southwest portion of the island in a district of the same name. Surprisingly enough, this district receives the least amount of precipitation throughout the year, hence the name of “Black River”.

The park comprises over 6,500 hectares, a total of 3.5% of the island’s surface land. There’s enough to see here to make a whole day out of the trip, so plan accordingly. More than 300 species of plants and nine birds endemic in Mauritius can be spotted within the confines of the park. It is the only place where you will find a pink pigeon – a bird that was once facing extinction but is now strengthening in numbers due to its protected status. Birders will be ecstatic about all the unique species available for viewing.

The rare pink pigeon is joined by the island’s native kestrel, parakeet, bulbul, grey white-eye, fody, and olive white-eye. There are more than just avian species calling the park home. It is also the preferred habitat of Mauritius’s unique flying fox – actually a fruit bat – and macaque monkeys, wild pigs, and rusa deer. Aspiring botanists will surely be excited to identify Bois de Natte trees draped in orchids and fern fronds, Colophane Ebony, Tambalacoque, and Mauritius’s national flower, Trochetia, amongst the dense foliage of the Macchabee and Bel Ombre Forests. Wild sugarcane grows throughout, along with Chinese guava trees and numerous other plant species.

There are three ways you can view what the Black River Gorges Park has to offer: on foot, driving through, or via bus tour. The best way to experience this nature preserve is by hiking one or more of the trails that crisscross the park’s expanse. Le Pétrin Information Center provides maps for hiking or driving, and you can also hire a personal guide through the facility if you desire.

The most popular attraction in the park is the gorges. Created millions of years ago by volcano eruptions followed by rivers of water cutting through the landscape, rich red, brown, purple, violet, green, blue, and yellow hue colours the visible layers of earth. Plaine Champagne is one of the higher points on the island and a viewpoint near Chamarel provides a spectacular view of the gorges, the sea beyond, and Alexandra Falls. Throughout the park majestic waterfalls and deep, clear pools abound.

Getting There You can drive to the Black River Gorges National Park via La Marie from the town of Curepipe and Mare aux Vacoas from Vacoas. At the visitor’s center, a boardwalk leading to the dwarf rain forest and a conservation area fenced off from visitors are viewable. The hiking trails, ranging from 7 km to 828 meters long, can also be accessed from the boardwalk. Camping areas are provided within the park with drive-in access from the coast road. Be aware that due to the slightly higher elevation of the Black River Gorge plateau, the temperatures will be lower than that of the surrounding plains which make up the majority of the island’s topography.

There are no food or drink facilities available within the park itself, although there is a small café located along its edge featuring spectacular views of the surrounding green valley. Remember to take plenty of water and a few snacks along on a hike. Binoculars, insect repellant, sturdy shoes, and wet weather gear are also recommended. There are picnic areas within the park’s confines if you want to bring along your own food and enjoy a repast amongst the natural beauty.

The Pétrin Information Center is open Monday through Saturday while the visitor’s center operates daily from 9 am to 3 pm during the week and from 9 am to 4 pm over the weekend. September through January are recommended as the best months to visit as that is when the numerous flowering foliage show off their magnificent colors.

If you have not visited the Black River Gorges National Park, then you have not truly experienced the unique plant and animal life and awe-inspiring geographical features of the island. No matter if you prefer riding in the comfort of your own vehicle or taking an up close look at nature on foot, the spectacular scenery is not to be missed.

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

LAMBIC BEER SHOP

It can be sour or sweet, creamy or crisp, hazy, tangy, fruity or even flowery. This high and mighty liquor (in Julius Caesar’s words) has delighted millions if people across centuries and continents. Indeed, the art of brewing is as old as civilization. It is said that, some 6000 years ago, the Sumerians accidentally discovered the fermentation process, when a piece of bread became wet and began to ferment to form an inebriating pulp. This pulp was then used to make beer, the “divine drink” believed to be a gift of the gods.

Today, many types of beer exist and there are hundreds of styles to choose from. Each country produces its own special types of beer, but you don’t have to travel around the world to discover these: a wide variety of this exhilarating drink is available right here in Mauritius, at Lambic gastro- pub and beer shop.

Lambic, situated in the heart of Port-Louis, is a beer shop, restaurant, café and lounge combined. The concept developed as a result of Oscar Olsen’s passion for beer. His interest in the brewing process, the ingredients and flavours was aroused during his numerous trips around the world: he visited pubs, breweries, famous beer bars and attended diverse beer festivals to deepen his knowledge and experience of the drink. As an avid beer hunter, he is always on the lookout for new tastes and aromas. His ultimate aim is to share his blind love for beer with Mauritians and foreigners.

The name of the place reflects the owner’s quest for what is exceptional: Lambic is a distinctive type of beer which is produced by exposure to wild yeasts (as opposed to cultivated ones). Lambic is special in many ways. The setting comprises a carefully restored colonial house which promotes local craftsmanshipand allows guests to appreciate the vestiges of a distinct colonial past. . Second hand material from old structures has been used for renovation and the architecture has been preserved. Indeed, the ancient stone walls, the wooden furniture, the antique lightings,the shuttered windows and large porch immerse guests in a unique atmosphere that embodies the charm and cheerfulness of a bygone era. And as they sip the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage, they get the instant feeling of being brought back in time.

Comfortably seated in the lounge and lulled by smooth jazz in the background, one may choose between a vast array of beer from Mauritius, England, Germany, Belgium, America, Australia and France amongst others, each one carefully selected for your drinking pleasure. Not less than 130 different types of imported beer are available and new ones are constantly being introduced.

Around 4400 bottles are present in the shop, and our beer specialist ensures that each beer is stored at the specific temperature required. Lambic is especially proud of the specialty beers it proposes. It represents, in exclusivity, several brands and has been the first one to introduce a beer menu in a Mauritian restaurant. One may enjoy a Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier (a smoked beer whose flavor is imparted by using malted barley dried over an open flame) or Malheur 10 (a refermented, gold coloured beer with a rich honey-like texture).

Oscar claims not to have a favourite, but he did reveal a penchant for Kriek - a style of Belgian beer (made by fermenting Lambic with sour cherries) which would definitely awaken your senses. The drinks menu also includes 46 whiskies and some 43 teas from Sri Lanka.

The restaurant is another high point at Lambic. The cooks emphasize creativity and the menu reflects a fusion of Mauritian and European cuisine. In the morning one may appreciate a traditional English breakfast, while at lunch and dinner time a range of appetizing specialties are available:

deer cooked with Belgian St. Bernardus abbey beer, wild boar roasted with red fruits beer (Red Bocq) as well as fish and mussels with wheat beer (Hoegaarden). Moreover, the salads proudly sport 5 varieties of local lettuces and vegetarian dishes have recently been added to the menu. Above all, one cannot leave without tasting Lambic’s chocolate barrel with raspberry beer mou-sse for dessert.

Guests may also savour their meals outside under the centenary trees in the garden. Furthermore, two private rooms and a conference room are available for exhibitions, trainings, business lunches, night functions, meetings or product launches. These rooms are air conditioned and equipped with an Internet connection and a projector.

Lambic is, in Oscar Olsen’s words, designed “to bring to people flavours they never knew existed, revive memories from overseas studies or trips and bring expatriates a little closer to home”. It is a peaceful retreat for those who wish to unwind and enjoy a real beer experience with family or friends after a hard day’s work. Oscar’s dream would be fulfilled if we were to share his joy and passion for this age-old drink.

Lambic - 4, St Georges Street, Port Louis

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved

PORT LOUIS-THE CAPITAL CITY OF MAURITIUS

Many visitors arriving on the beautiful island of Mauritius head straight to the capital city of Port Louis.

As the largest city and main port, it is the economic center of the island and includes the boroughs of Chinatown, Plaine Verte,Vallee Pitot, Tranquebar, and Ward IV.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, an avid shopper, or someone who craves cultural pursuits, you will find enough attractions and entertainment options to keep you busy and fill several days or even weeks. The History of Port Louis Port Louis originated during an era of pirates and adventure on the high seas.The city was founded in 1735 as a French port where ships sailing around the Cape of Good Hope could resupply. It is named in honor of King Louis XV, who appointed the first governor, Count Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais.

In recognition of his contribution to Port Louis' reputation as a vital French naval base, a statue of La Bourdonnais' likeness graces the entrance at Place d'Armes. When the British came along in 1835 they built Fort Adelaide, also called La Citadelle, to fortify Port Louis during their governance which spanned the period from the early 1800s until 1968.The fort still stands today and is a popular attraction. Slavery was officially abolished shortly thereafter and laborers from India and China were hired to cultivate sugar cane, which was made into rum. Port Louis' World Heritage site, Immigration Depot, commemorates this time period and the immigrants who are the ancestors of many of today's Mauritians.

What to See and Do

The best place to begin sightseeing in Port Louis is the Place D'Armes entrance.As mentioned, the statue of first governor La Bourdonnais can be found here along with the remains of a few original structures.


Entering through the Place D'Armes will take you on a northsouth route through town and directly past the first government building, the cathedrals of St. Louis and St. James, the covered stalls of Port Louis Bazaar in the city's bustling center, and several museums. With a city so rich in diverse heritage, it is not surprising to find that Port Louis contains a thriving China Town.

What is surprising is the number of descendants of the island's original labor force who still dress and peak in the traditional Chinese manner. China Town is home to dozens of tiny shops crowded into the buildings lining its streets. Shoppers can find everything from fine artwork to medicine and kitschy souvenirs.

Port Louis is surrounded by mountains. Popular with visitors is a hike up the 300-meter high Signaux mountain. From its apex, there is a fantastic view of the ocean, the Port Louis Waterfront, and some of the remaining historical architecture that graces the city.

Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to The Mauritius Institute, which showcases native plants and animals of the island. A stop at the Mauritius Stamp Museum, the Mauritius Natural History Museum, and the Blue Penny Museum will also delight anyone wanting to learn more about the island, its culture, and its istory.

The Caudan Waterfront offers modern entertainment. This is the place where the famous and semifamous choose to hang out during their stay in Mauritius. Featuring a luxury hotel and a casino along with its own restaurants, bars, and stores, there is little need for the elite to venture further into the city.


The Caudan Waterfront is a great place to people-watch and enjoy a bit of nightlife. Visitors to Port Louis July through November will surely want to make plans to attend a Saturday horse race at the Champ de Mars racecourse, established in 1812. The best local eateries can be found along busy Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Street. A wide range of cuisines will tempt any palate.

While July through September are favored months,weather-wise, the city sees travelers year round. Warm, clear days beg visitors to take advantage of the many activities and magnificent views around Port Louis.

© Mauritius in your hands - Islandinfo. All rights reserved