One of the best things about living in the UAE is being just a short flight away from some of the world’s most beautiful tropical islands. Visiting the Maldives for a long weekend is practically a UAE resident rite of passage, and it often feels like everyone on your Instagram feed is either enjoying a fitness retreat in Zanzibar, or a romantic getaway in the Seychelles. But, for some reason that I can’t quite fathom, Mauritius is a lot less popular with UAE travellers.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit this fascinating nation on a couple of occasions, and the memories I’ve made there will stay with me for a lifetime. Okay, it’s slightly further than the Maldives, and the flights are a tad more expensive. But it’s worth the effort a thousand times over.
Along with being home to the clearest and brightest turquoise seas and purest natural beaches you’ve ever seen, this untouched paradise offers far more than just endless sunbathing opportunities.
Wild, untamed and filled with towering mountains, dormant volcanoes, over 150km of coral reef and luscious national parks, it’s ideal for those who want to explore beyond the resort and experience somewhere totally different, but also indulge in a spot of pure relaxation.
Spanning just 60km by 50km, the island is refreshingly free of large and unsightly chain hotels. There’s no such thing as a major road or traffic jams, and the eco-conscious Mauritian tourism industry is extremely mindful of protecting the local landscape and culture. In fact, a recent study concluded that Mauritius is one of only seven countries in the world to have safe air-pollution levels.
While the greenery and fresh air of Mauritius provides the perfect antidote to Dubai’s traffic-clogged streets, its enchanting underwater world is arguably its most special aspect.
No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll always be just a few minutes’ boat ride away from the most amazing snorkelling and diving that you’ve ever experienced.
Or, if sea swimming isn’t something you feel comfortable with, joining a glass-bottom boat tour lets you get just as close to the vibrant corals and thousands of striped, spotted and multi-coloured fish.
Many hotels even offer daily snorkelling trips, including the exceptionally stunning and eco-friendly Constance Belle Mare Plage. Situated on a private 2km beach – one of the most impressive stretches of white sand on the island – all the chic, thatched buildings are designed to blend seamlessly into the surrounding natural environment.
Embodying the very essence of laid-back ‘island vibes’, its lofty palms are littered with hammocks, and the gorgeous, open dining room lets you feast on fresh local produce and delicious Mauritian curries just steps from the lapping waves of the ocean.
If you’re looking for a holiday that blends unforgettable adventures with pristine beaches and pure peace and quiet, Mauritius should be next on your travel wish list.
With the summer season being noticeably less hot and humid than the UAE’s, it’s also a ready-made escape for the new year.
