VIBRANT JEWEL SHADES
This slice of paradise in the Indian Ocean is more affordable than you think
Give your living space a makeover with bold colours and luxurious finishes, to create a room that’s perfect to cosy up in. Mix rich velvet furnishings and cushions, then introduce metallic touches in lighting and smaller accessories, for an indulgent edge. Finish off with a hint of greenery – faux plants are great if you’re lacking sunlight.
Loved by families and honeymooners alike, this idyllic island lies more than 1,000 miles off the east coast of Africa. Its subtropical climate means you can expect temperatures in 20Cs and 30Cs all year-round – making it well worth the 12-hour direct flight from the UK. With sunshine every day, even during the rainy season (January-march), it’s hard not to come back with a smile and a tan.
Hit the beach
With powder-soft white sand and swaying palms, Mauritian beaches really are postcard (and Instagram) perfect. And as they’re all public, there’s no need to pay for loungers – just bring a beach towel and plenty of water. Flic en Flac on the west coast is the place to go for golden sunsets; it’s packed at the weekend, but it never gets too noisy.
For a spot away from the crowds, go for Mont Choisy in the north – it has one of the longest stretches of sand on the island, which means room for everyone. Don’t be tempted by the touristy beachside restaurants, though. Instead, queue up with the locals at one of the street-food stalls where you can get freshly made roti wraps or piping-hot chips for as little as 50p – bargain!
Watch the wildlife
Mauritius’ rich flora and fauna makes it a dream location for wildlife lovers, as you’re never very far from something interesting, whether it’s the flying fox (a fluffy fruit bat) or the ornate day gecko. Best of all, you can do it all for free – just keep your eyes peeled.
On the west of the island, picturesque Tamarin Bay is protected by an outer reef, forming a sheltered lagoon where a pod of spinner dolphins have taken up residence. At sunrise and sunset, you can often spot them right from the beach. Inland at Grand Bassin, a holy lake for Hindus, who believe it was formed when the god Shiva spilt drops of India’s River Ganges, there are tribes of crab-eating macaques in the lush forest by the shores. Look from a distance, but be careful not to approach them as they can get aggressive.
Take a hike
Despite the tropical heat, hiking is one of the most popular activities in Mauritius. Le Morne Brabant is the quintessential trek, offering incredible views of an ‘underwater waterfall’ (an optical illusion caused by shifting sands) at the summit. The half-day trek is best tackled with a guide, and you can learn about the island’s fight against slavery at the same time.
Make a splash
Diving and snorkelling are both popular but can be pricey. For a budget-friendly alternative, try surfing or kayaking. Tamarin Bay has a beachfront surf school where you can hire boards from Rs400 (£7.50) an hour or kayaks from Rs500 (£9.38).
Pack a breakfast and go early in the morning if you want to catch the resident dolphins at their most active. Or if they’re not around, you’ll still be treated to a stunning vista of the bay and misty mountains behind it.