Festival Ile Courts (Short Movie Festival) 2015: Travel by Elephant

If there’s one event that’s highly anticipated by movie lovers, it’s most definitely the Festival Ile Courts (Short Movie Festival). The 8th edition organized by the association Porteurs d’Images is scheduled from October 6th to 10th, 2015.

Since 2007 Porteurs d’Images’s mission has been to develop the Mauritian cinema. This is why the association launched in 2009 the Mauritius International Short Film Festival. Again this year, the festival will be a real window on the 7th art of the Indian Ocean. Creation, production, dissemination ; everything is in place to encourage and promote the Mauritian cinema and more broadly the cinema of the Indian Ocean.

With a known agenda to entertain, educate and train, Ile Courts is devoted to the discovery and promotion of cinema in all its aspects. During the festival, you can enjoy contemporary movies, access training workshops of the various cinema trades and also participate in discussion forums between professionals and the public.

For your enjoyment, screenings of feature films are planned in towns and villages across the island: Réduit, Bagatelle, Chemin Grenier, Moka, Rose Hill, Tamarin and Port Louis, the capital. In Tamarin such projections will be on the beach. With your feet in the sand, the lapping waves as background noise, you can watch movies on an ephemeral screen installed for the occasion. Can you imagine a more pleasant environment to watch a movie? We can’t !

All fictions and documentaries programmed during the festival are Indian Ocean productions. You will discover films from South Africa, Comoros, India, Madagascar, Mayotte, Mozambique, Reunion Island, Seychelles, Tanzania and Mauritius of course. This should open up a whole universe (for many still unknown) and allow the discovery of a totally different film culture.

This year, Ile Courts is illustrated by the Elephant, an animal symbolizing longevity, strength and travel. This demonstrates the willingness of the association Porteurs d’Images to perpetuate the Mauritian 7th Art.

The Address Boutique Hotel: Your New Address in Mauritius

Still looking where to spend your next vacation? Look no further! We have a new address for you: The Address Boutique Hotel. This is the place for you, the place where you will feel at home. This four star hotel is located in the beautiful setting of Port Chambly, northwest of Mauritius, between Port Louis and Grand Bay. Cozy, friendly and cosmopolitan: those are the key words that best describe this hotel, the key words that make The Address Boutique Hotel a great address for your next holidays.

Freshly renovated by the Indigo Group, The Address Boutique Hotel aims to be the ideal place for all types of residents. Whether you are in Mauritius for holiday or business, the resort offers the perfect balance of comfort and tranquility. The hotel offers 40 standard and superior rooms and 2 suites ranging from 28 to 42 m2. All offer direct views of the lagoon or the charming village of Port Chambly. The bright and spacious rooms offer all the necessary equipment for the comfort of the residents: air conditioning, satellite TV, king size bed, mini bar, room service 24/24 and even bathrobe with slippers for you to feel at home. The international phone and Internet access with Wi-Fi are perfect for residents on business travel. Over and above all these amenities, the suites have a terrace to enjoy the wonderful views of the sunsets or sunrises.

For you to discover new flavors, two restaurants are at your disposal. La Fourchette offers Mediterranean cuisine. With every bite, your taste buds will be delighted by these southern and warm flavors. The Chef enjoys giving a new twist to some of the best dishes of this warm and welcoming region. At Izumi restaurant, the chef offers genuine and traditional Japanese cuisine. In addition to the teppanyaki, the restaurant has a superb sushi bar with a wide selection of sushi, maki and sashimi. Guests can choose to dine on the terrace and enjoy the stunning views of the local landscape.

Two bars are also available for you to relax between two activities or after dinner. The Piano Rouge is a modern lounge bar that offers a jazzy ambiance. It will set the tone for a lively evening. As for the Aqua Bar, by the pool, it offers an impressive selection of cocktails that the bartender will be happy to make for you.

If you care to stay in shape during your vacation, we recommend the Spa & Wellness Club, which is open every day. If you value your relaxation time and are an adept of the Zen attitude, the spa should be your ideal getaway. It offers wellbeing sessions, where massages and treatments are scheduled. For athletes, the annex gym is open for coaching sessions and intensive sports. Many activities and excursions are also organized to help you discover the island. The Address Boutique Hotel, certainly the address of your next vacation...

The Bridge Tamarin Eco Arts Festival

This is a first in Mauritius! And it looks like the Bridge Tamarin Eco Arts Festival will be awesome! Just imagine a multicultural festival for which the theme is environmental protection! Doesn’t this sound awesome? The goal of this festival, scheduled for October 2nd, 3rd and 4th in Tamarin, on the west coast of the island, is to raise awareness about the environment and protection of the planet. With the support of the Mauritius Commercial Bank, this festival will definitely be an innovative showcase for art, creativity and ecology. 

During these three days, artists from all the artistic and cultural fields will be communion in Tamarin. Music, dance, theater and street art, painting exhibitions, photography, sculpture... These are all the Mauritian, regional and international art scenes which will be present. The participation of several well-known personalities of the local public, such as Zulu, Mister Love or Catherine Yoan is to be noted.

Nearly a hundred artists from different backgrounds will come together so you can experience a unique festival in the Indian Ocean. The festival will happen in four different locations in the heart of the village of Tamarin, an emblematic location in Mauritius. The performances and exhibitions will be held at Riverland Sports Club, at Big Willy's Bar, on the Place Cap Tamarin and in Tamarin Bay.

For the organizers the “the aim of the festival is to create a bridge full of creativity and respect for others and for nature. Values ​​which are at the heart of the beauty and strength of (our) island”. Everything will be set up in a very specific spirit, that of “ecological well-being and healthy eating”. All decors of the festival have been made from recycled objects. Over 200 hours of information sessions and workshops of creative, ecological and welfare training will be offered to the public, so as to help them discover healthy ways of living, in order to better preserve the planet. A dozen booths will be installed on the different spots of the festival to offer awareness sessions on the wealth and destruction of terrestrial and marine ecosystems to those who express interest on these matters.

Preserving the planet and bringing this idea in people's minds become a priority for all. With this type of operation such as the Tamarin Bridge Eco Arts Festival, Mauritius shows its involvement in this action.

ETIHAD AIRWAYS : LA COMPAGNIE AÉRIENNE AJOUTE LA «CONCIERGERIE » POUR SES PASSAGERS HAUT DE GAMME

"La compagnie aérienne vient d’annoncer un accord avec Ten Group, une entreprise spécialisée dans la conciergerie. Plusieurs groupes se partagent le gâteau de ces services devenus indispensables aux VIP et aux entreprises.

Pouvoir trouver des billets pour un spectacle à Broadway, des invitations dans une exposition, réserver une voiture de luxe avec chauffeur … Leshommes au Clefs d’Or des grands palaces ne sont plus les seuls à rechercher le service impossible.

Etihad choisit un des plus grands groupes de conciergerie

Les services de conciergerie se développent

Nous avions évoqué déjà un service de conciergerie à Maurice : http://www.concierge-hotels.com/. Arnaud Bilquez, son directeur, évoquait les nombreux services offerts sur l’Île Maurice dont l’aide à l’achat d’une villa.

C’est une excursion qui est proposée par la société qui permet non seulement d’avoir toutes les informations sur la fiscalité mais également la possibilité de visiter plusieurs propriétés. On le voit les services de conciergerie sont appelés à se développer sur terre et dans les airs !"

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Voilà Hotel, Bagatelle

Whenever you hear Mauritius being mentioned, you think of white sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons. This postcard image is surely inviting but when you are planning a business trip to Mauritius, you might want a place to stay that’s more functional and maybe less ‘tempting’. If this is indeed the case, this is an address that should suit you: Voilà Hotel. It’s a three star hotel in Bagatelle which offers another vision of the Mauritian hotel industry. Sure, there’s no pool or beach nearby, but the Mauritian spirit, the exceptional service and the unrivaled Mauritian hospitality will be waiting for you. And all this at an affordable price.

 Unlike most hotels on the island, Voilà Hotel is not located on the coast but in the heart of the country. It became in no time a must, offering businessmen and tourists, a typical Mauritian urban lifestyle. For all those on business, and who generally stay only for a short period of time, Voilà Hotel guarantees a peaceful stay, one conducive to work. Adjacent to the Mall of Bagatelle, the hotel is located near Port Louis, the capital. Not only will you be at your appointments in no time but those who wish can also easily go and meet the Mauritians, learn and enjoy their culture.

The hotel, which focuses on the well-being and comfort of its customers offers different categories of design and innovative rooms. Many services and facilities are offered: queen size bed with high quality mattress, linens and pillows for a restful sleep, personal refrigerator, flat screen TV with satellite channels, air conditioning, soundproof rooms, safe and 24h/24 room service. Also note that the hotel offers rooms for disabled guests. Located on the ground floor, they are larger and have a particular turning radius for storing the wheelchair and a large shower.

Moka'z, the hotel’s unique restaurant is a blend of premium coffee shop, sandwich shop and bar. The atmosphere is a relaxed and pleasant one. Moka'z offers exceptional breakfasts, enough to make a culinary world tour in the early morning. For example you can opt for a French kind of breakfast and enjoy delicious French baguettes and freshly brewed coffee. Or, if you have a strong appetite, a traditional English breakfast may be what you need to start the day. The menu ? Eggs, sausages and baked beans. Moka'z offers various local dishes for lunch and dinner. The menu is different every day. Moka'z lounge also has a Wi-Fi zone with significant speed.

The least we can say is that this hotel promises a quality service at competitive prices. No surprises or surcharges in rates, pay only for what you used. Although Voilà Hotel does not offer activities or excursions, the Conciergerie, the major service of Concierge Hotel, will be there to satisfy all your needs for outings, excursions and everything else you may need.

Voilà Hotel offers what’s best about the Mauritian hotel industry: impeccable service. It’s the ideal hotel for business trips or tourists wishing to be closer to cities and Mauritians.

Ask for your FREE quote!

Kitesurfing in the Indian Ocean

You might not know it but in recent years, kitesurfing has become more and more popular in the Indian Ocean region. A strong community of kitesurfers, both local and international, has indeed developed. Mauritius, especially Le Morne, is known amongst kitesurfers worldwide to be an excellent spot. That does not mean that you should disregard the other islands in the region. They are equally accessible and also offer great spots to indulge in kitesurfing. Here’s a brief overview of some “kite worthy” spots in Madagascar, Zanzibar and Sri Lanka.

The largest island of the Indian Ocean is the perfect destination for all kitesurfing addicts. There are many spots, mainly up the north coast of Madagascar, which are accessible for all levels; beginners, as well as confirmed kitesurfers. Most clubs are located in the Antsiranana region, more specifically in the province of Diego Suarez. You will find there excellent conditions for kitesurfing. As one of the top five windiest spots in the world, this region enjoys an extremely steady trade wind, the Varatraza, and the water temperature is around 25°. The trade winds blow between 20 and 40 knots, which is a must for progress in kite. Freestyle lovers be prepared for happiness. The lagoon, a beautiful clear blue, only makes kitesurfing in this region more wonderful. We recommend the protected lagoon of the Emerald Sea, the Babaomby lagoon next door and also the bays of Sakalava and Andovokonko. This is a quiet area with little kitesurfers, ideal for some quite time.

Sri Lanka is also a dream destination for all kitesurfers in the world. With winds of 15 to 20 knots and a suitable temperature, the conditions are exceptional for kitesurfing. It is better to go to the northwest, toward the Kalptiya peninsula, Pattalam or Kandakuliya where winds can even reach 30 knots. If you are a confirmed kitesurfer, we also recommend the Dream spot and the Donkey spot who both have impressive waves. You are in for some beautiful jumps.

As for the Zanzibar Archipelago, off the east coast of Africa, it is not necessarily the first destination one would think of for kitesurfing. That does not mean you should neglect it. The best spots are located on the east coast. Paje, a small area east of Unguja, the main island of Zanzibar is one of the best spots. Its magnificent beach hosts some clubs but it remains quite unknown, even amongst the kitesurfing community, so you will often be alone to indulge in your favorite sport. Here, the area is perfect for beginners with shallow water, sandy bottom and constant but moderate winds. In Jambiani located a little lower than Paje, the beaches and weather conditions are also perfect for kitesurfing.

Le Domaine de l'Orangeraie

Le Domaine de l'Orangeraie. Just the name of this four star hotel, nestled in the heart of the island of La Digue in the Seychelles archipelago, is an invitation to dream. But beyond its exotic sounding name, Le Domaine de l'Orangeraie is the perfect spot for those looking for tranquility and an authentic experience.

The estate offers 63 luxurious villas, all located near the beach of Anse Sévère. Divided into five categories, the villas of 60 to 485 m2 can accommodate up to six people. The villas have been designed and decorated to obtain a Zen environment like the one prevailing in the local houses. The goal is to offer the tourists a typically Seychellois experience. The villas are fully equipped for the comfort and enjoyment of customers: telephone, flat screen TV, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, large dressing room, mini bar and tea/coffee. The generous private terrace has a beautiful view of the beach. The most luxurious and charming villas offer, in addition to these basic amenities, a Jacuzzi nestled in nature itself. As for the presidential villa, the least we can say is that it is the most luxurious of all. A personal butler is available to customers of the villa with access to a private pool. 

At Le Domaine de l'Orangeraie, tourists won’t be rushed, their daily routine will be quiet and calm. And of course, the proposed activities also go along those lines. Everything is done for you to relax. On the island of La Digue, not a single car in sight. You can borrow bikes to go explore the island and meet the Seychellois people. Obviously, with an ocean and wildlife as exotic and unique, diving activities are available with the possibility to rent snorkeling equipment. Enjoy the scenery and sunbathe on the beach of Anse Sévère.

Embark on the O'Plezir catamaran for a fantastic cruise. This is an original and unique way to discover the Seychellois landscape. If you would rather see the island from above, helicopter trips are regularly organized. And last but not least, the Eden Rock Spa opens its doors every day for you to enjoy multiple treatments, massages and also the hammam. Eden Rock is the perfect place to relax while being pampered.

The dishes on the menu of the restaurants of Le Domaine de l'Orangeraie are inspired by Creole, Mediterranean and Asian specialties and traditions. The Combava located on the sea front offers a wide selection of à la carte meals. The Santosha, facing the ocean, gives an exceptional view of the island of Praslin. Are offered in this restaurant an open buffet with a different theme each night around the local or international cuisine. As for the Alambic Bar and Infinity Pool Bar, respectively close to the beach and the swimming pool, you will most definitely have a good time there, enjoying delicious refreshing cocktails in a chic tropical atmosphere.

The unique Beach Club experience

For the past years, a new trend has been getting more and more attention in all the major destinations. Whether in France, the U.S, Bali, Mauritius, the Maldives and even more surprisingly in Quebec, it’s now a must to stop by the Beach Club. Tourists but also locals get to enjoy the beaches in a different way. In this little tour of Mauritius, you’ll get to discover the trendy Beach Clubs of the region : C Beach Club and La Plage.

The Beach Club La Plage, nestled in Trou aux Biches on the north coast of Mauritius is a private beach club open only to owners and tenants of Evaco group residences. Directly located on one of the most beautiful beaches of the island, La Plage offers a wonderful idyllic setting where you can enjoy delicious gourmet dishes in the restaurant overlooking the lagoon. Relax on the sun loungers with parasols available to you and take the time to nap. Sports activities are also available for children and adults. The must is undoubtedly the massage area near the water. Relax in the expert hands of professional masseurs. Sofas available here and there are the ideal setting for conversations between friends.

Very popular, the C Beach Club is located on the grounds of the Domaine de Bel Ombre in the south of Mauritius. Open since December 2010, the club quickly stood out to become the trendy address of the island. Relax in a unique environment, typical and tropical. Live the ‘’sea, sand & sun experience’’. On the beach, feet in the sand, the turquoise lagoon a few meters away, the year-round sunshine shining high, this is the "C Beach Club experience". Soak up the chic atmosphere and make your choice in terms of entertainment and catering. There is a little something for all tastes and all ages. You can choose between two restaurants offering, among other cuisines, Mediterranean meals, either by the pool or the beach. The Chill Lounge Bar, welcomes you to…chill in a simple, relax atmosphere, a cocktail in hand. Finally, various water sports are offered in the Cabana. Icing on the cake? Many concerts and parties are organized at the C Beach Club. You will most definitely never get bored there, be it during the day or at night.

“Festival du Goût” (Festival of Taste): A little something for everyone

As we say, it’s all a matter of taste! And in Mauritius, the least we can say is that there is a little something for everyone. With its cosmopolitan cuisine, the country is known as one of the best destinations in the Indian Ocean for those wishing to discover a multitude of flavors until then unknown to their palate.

The French, in particular their gastronomy, have always had an important place in Mauritius. The French gastronomy is therefore regularly honored. Mauritius hosts many events on the matter throughout the year. The exchanges around different flavors and cuisines are the highlights of these get-togethers, which always have a lot of success.

If you are planning a trip to Mauritius during the second half of August, you will be spoilt. We are, of course, talking about food, good food, great food. In a word; gastronomy. From August 20th to 22nd is scheduled the “Taste Festival”. This event is an initiative of the Tamarina Hotel and Casela Nature Park with the support of the Tourism Office of Mauritius. You will spend three exceptional evenings with Florent Boivin. This three Michelin stars Chef will offer guests wonderful meals demonstrating his extraordinary culinary skills. Florent Boivin used to work for the famous Troisgros restaurant. Having obtained the title of “Meilleur Ouvrier de France” in 2011, he is today, amongst other things, an instructor at the Paul Bocuse Institute.

Well known and respected amongst his peers, the Chef will prepare for the festival, gourmet menus that should delight the taste buds of the guests. On the menu: Thursday, August 20th will be served a gourmet meal at the restaurant Dix-Neuf at the Tamarina Golf Club; the next day, the Chef will offer a cocktail evening on the Safari platform of the Casela Nature Park and a dinner that you will most definitely remember for a long time and finally; Saturday, August 22nd guests will be offered a “Sea Breeze” evening on the beach of the Tamarina Boutique Hotel.

For more information or reservations, call (230) 433 05 60 or ask your free quote.