Like much of the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is unrivalled in natural beauty, with the most brilliant of waters surrounding it. But as one of the larger islands, it offers so much more to explore and experience. Along with the usual water sports, Mauritius is famous for its kitesurfing scene. Its interior is very lush, with flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth, which you can get up close with while hiking through the famous Black River Gorges National Park. Foodies also love Mauritius, with its unique fusion of African, Indian, Chinese and French flavours.

Mauritius uses the rupee (MUR). Credit cards are accepted at most establishments, but it would be useful to have some cash on you for tipping or buying goods at markets.

Mauritius has two seasons: winter, from May to November, is warm and dry, with average temperatures of approximately 21-26°C, while summer, from November to May, is hot and humid, with peak temperatures of 31°C and rain showers.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is the island’s main port of entry. There are direct flights from Europe, the Middle East and Asia as well as Africa and other Indian Ocean islands.

Mauritius has a beach for every type of traveller. For those who like to stay active, Grand Baie in the north has great shopping and nightlife. Le Morne on the west coast is famous for wind sports while Tamarin Bay is the chosen spot for surfers. Then there is the tranquil south, still rugged and untamed, with especially beautiful waters in the Blue Bay Marine Park.

Mauritius is small enough that you can day trip across it from your chosen base. Nature lovers will enjoy not only the Black River Gorges National Park, with its 60 km of trails, flying foxes and the island’s famed ebony trees, but also Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden and its giant water lilies, and La Vanille Nature Park, home to giant Aldabra tortoises. There is also La Vallee des Couleurs, one of Mauritius’ most unique attractions, with six-million-year-old coloured dunes that are surreal.

Mauritius has its own unique flavour, a delicious fusion of Creole, French, Indian and Chinese. Seafood is of course plentiful, as are tropical fruits and vegetables, herbs and spices. A typical meal might include rougaille, a fiery Creole tomato stew, margose bitter melon salad, and dholl puri, a popular Indian-style flatbread

Foodie tours can be found all around the island, including in quaint Mahebourg, one of its oldest villages. We also recommend a visit to Chateau de Labourdonnais for rum tasting – a must for any visit to Mauritius.

Celebrations in Mauritius are as colourful as its cultures, with traditional Christian, Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim holidays. For Maha Shivaratri, pilgrims in their thousands flock to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin carrying colourful kanwars and chanting prayers. Paques, or Easter, takes on a particularly island feel, with big family picnics all along the beach. And during Chinese New Year, Chinatown in Port Louie lights up with firecrackers, lanterns and lion dancing.

Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas is an eco-sanctuary within the protected Blue Bay Marine Park. It blends into the landscape of white sands and native veloutier trees, its spa is a natural paradise, and the hiking in the surrounding forest is magical. All this only 10 minutes from the airport.