EASY LIVING
Peel off many magical layers of Mauritius
Waves break far out over the barrier reef, just within sight. Only light ripples of crystal clear water make it to the golden shore, as the sun glows overhead. A steward appears out of nowhere and places an umbrella- shaded brew on the side table and a wistful sigh escapes my lips. Here, nestled in the middle of the Indian Ocean, lies the island paradise of Mauritius. As eyelids threaten to seal in blissful slumber, you remind yourself the day’s not to be wasted. There’s much to do, and there will never be enough time. Not if you want to swim with the dolphins, climb the mountain, parasail, kite- surf, taste exotic rums, imbibe colonial architecture, or pet a lion.
It’s this polar duality that makes Mauritius both a destination for leisure and adventure; a hint of home for the Indian traveller; and a gateway into the boisterous and carefree lifestyle of the Caribbean. The third smallest country in Africa is its most developed economy.
A rich mixture of Asian and European cultures defines the essence of the island in its food, language, attitude, adventure seeking and, most visibly, in its generous hospitality. Your porter’s name may be Ashwin or Kamlesh or Ramgopal and he may speak perfect Hindi but French is his first tongue and he’s probably never been to India. Half of the island is made up of Hindus, but there are others as well. This year, Mauritius introduced a carnival celebration modelled on the fewer- theclothes- the- better gay abandon that Rio wears so well. In this case, the carnival saw the whole island break into samba. Admittedly, Mauritians, Hindu or not, do know how to party. Today, the island seeks to evolve its identity towards a gas-