LUX* South Ari Atoll: An extraordinary island-hotel

The LUX* South Ari Atoll is a five star hotel located in the heart of the Maldives archipelago. This beautiful resort occupies the exclusive private island of Dhidhoofinolhu on South Ari Atoll. This luxurious island-hotel offers services of exceptional quality in a preserved and wonderful environment. 

The LUX* Maldives offers different ranges of villas on stilts located directly on the beach. Guests enjoy great views of the lagoon. The sunsets will, for sure, leave you speechless. The bright and spacious villas, measuring between 65 and 365 m2 have all the necessary amenities for the comfort of the guests. The decor is not too sophisticated for you to experience a natural and simple environment. Relax in the privacy of your very own garden with pool or on your large wooden terrace equiped with deckhairs and outdoor shower. The rooms have king size beds for you to be comfortable at night. The unique Luxury villa of 365 m2 has its own private pool by the lagoon pool and 24h/24 butler services.

The Maldives is one of the most wonderful destinations in the world with beautiful endemic fauna and flora, a tasty blend of unique colors. The hotel, which can easily be considered as paradise on earth, offers a variety of activities for the delight of the customers. With 4km of beach at their disposal, guests will have ample space to sunbathe. Outdoor film screenings, concerts and performances are regularly organized. The ocean lovers can observe whales, snorkel or even dive in to watch the small species in their natural environment. You will undoubdtely catch a glimpse of different fish, rays, tuna, barracuda or dolphins. The Maldives are also a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. More than 37 underwater diving sites are available.

Water sports sessions are scheduled every day for your pleasure: kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing and jet skiing are available for seasoned athletes. Catamaran excursions and picnics can be arranged on the nearby islets. On land, enjoy table tennis, volleyball or tennis. The hotel also has a pool table and foosball for some indoor games in the evening.

All restaurants and bars offer the best cuisine, combining local flavors and textures. Traditional grilled meats, fish and seafood, pizzas or salads and local dishes: there is something for everyone as (almost) all nationalities are being represented. Discover the local cuisine, Maghrebian, Indian, Lebanese, European, Italian and even Chinese... The chefs will reinvent traditional dishes with a twist for the utmost pleasure of your taste buds. The bars will offer you cocktails and appetizers in a fun and relaxed musical atmosphere. Special mention for the Allegria, which can be reserved for a private and intimate diner and has a wide selection of wines and cheeses.

What to do in Mauritius?

Why are you choosing Mauritius as a holiday destination ? You like its warm weather, beaches and coconut trees ? That’s nice ! But Mauritius is so much more ! You want to get off the tourist tracks and experience the real Mauritian culture? Here’s a list of things to keep you busy during your stay. Especially if you want to wander outside your hotel and discover this beautiful and unique Indian Ocean island. There are obviously some places you can not miss. They are included in all the guides: Ile aux Cerfs, Seven Color Earth in Chamarel or the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. But beyond that, there is so much more to see in Mauritius. Places that are less known yet equally interesting.

The Tea Route (La Route du Thé) is a wonderful tour that will take you to the heart of the colonial history of Mauritius. It will lead you through three extraordinary places in the south of the island. For starters, the Domaine des Aubineaux, an old colonial house built in 1872, now a museum dedicated to the history of the Mauritian tea. A guide will offer you a cultural tour of this area located in the higher Plaine Wilhems. You will also discover the importance of the Mauritian tea industry throughout history. Strolling in the Garden of camphor, observe the variety of exotic plants and some endemic trees of the island. The visit will end with a tea tasting. The tour continues in the Bois Cheri tea plantation, the first tea plantation of the island. You’ll go back in time, in 1892 to check out the tea plant and the different stages for the production of tea. Bois Cheri offers beautiful panoramic views of the south of Mauritius. The last step is located in Saint Aubin where the colonial house has been transformed into a guest house. The sugarcane on the domain is used to make sugar but also delicious rum. You can watch the production at the distillery. At the Maison de la Vanille, you will discover the transformation process of the flower-flavored clove.

In the several parks scattered around the island, you can enjoy the local fauna and flora. Amongst which : Le Domaine de l'Etoile, located south of the island. In this huge park where the fauna and flora have been preserved, many activities are offered, including: quad or horseback rides and various games for the whole family. Next door, not far from the airport, Ferney Valley is a beautiful nature reserve you must see. The Lagrave Domaine is ideal for hikers who want to explore the wild Mauritius. After your your hike, you can enjoy deer or a whole roasted pig.

In a completely different genre, discover the Curious Corner of Chamarel, a strange and funny place. You will most definitely have a good time and take surprising pictures. This house, full of crazy and amazing illusions, is ideal for a rainy day if you're in the Chamarel area. The Curious Corner was built with the aim to surprise the curious imaginative minds. With nearly 40 exhibits, the least we can say is that your senses will be on alert. Just across the Curious Corner, discover the best rum on the island. Surrounded by plantations of sugarcane and tropical fruits, the Rhumerie of Chamarel is a complete experience in the heart of rum production. We recommend that you stop there between September and January, during production period, so that you can see all the machines in action.

One thing for sure: If you follow our advice, you will see Mauritius as few tourists have the opportunity to see it, off the tourists tracks…

Haute Rive Resort & Spa Mauritius

Nestled on the northeast coast of Mauritius, in Haute Rive, near Poste Lafayette, the Haute Rive Resort & Spa is ideally located. You will encounter a warm welcome if you choose this five-star hotel. Its high quality service honors the Mauritian hospitality and its excellent location allows guests to reach very easily the most famous tourist sites. This should facilitate your discovery of the island. The Haute Rive Resort & Spa offers a luxurious and natural environment. As a couple, a family or with friends, you will live a magical experience in Haute Rive. 

The resort features over 100 rooms and villas facing the sea, ideal for a relaxing, peaceful holiday in Mauritius. Classified into three categories, the rooms and suites can accommodate two to four people. The Deluxe and Premium Deluxe rooms feature stylish decor with King Size beds to sleep comfortably, and large windows that allow access to a big balcony with a panoramic view. The suites are equiped with a swimming pool, perfect for relaxing facing the ocean. Guests staying in suites with pool will also have exclusive benefits such as access to the Club Lounge where five menus are served daily, private check-in and check-out as well as a concierge service and assistance.

Haute Rive Resort & Spa is the perfect place to stay for travelers seeking elegance and comfort in Mauritius. The five-star hotel offers a rich program of leisure activities, sports and discoveries. Enjoy the beach, the tennis court, the climbing wall or quads available. Canyoning trips are available on request. The sea is your playground. Take a dip in the ocean or plan a fishing outing to observe aquatic life. You can also opt for kayaking, sailing or paddle boating. The Spa Cenvaree is a sports and treatment center where guests can let off steam on the fitness machines or relax in the hands of professional masseurs.

Both Kids Club, one for children under 11 and another one for teens offer age-appropriate activities. Swimming and water sports are on the program. Younger guests can play pirates during a treasure hunt supervised by specialized instructors.

Five restaurants and bars offer delicious local and international meals in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Le Comptoir serves colorful buffets, along with Asian dishes which can be enjoyed by having an unobstructed view of the ocean. If you enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, opt for Lazuli. Meat lovers will be in heaven at the Black Pepperest specializing in barbecues and grills. And finally, Cyan and Zing bars will serve you refreshments and delicious cocktails.

SERVICES PERSONNALISÉS : Répondre aux besoins de Mauriciens et d’expatriés

Article paru dans le mauricien | 20 octobre, 2015 - 03:00

Créneau porteur ailleurs, en europe comme aux états-unis, les services personnalisés haut de gamme sont nouveaux à maurice. Que ce soit pour les expatriés souhaitant s’installer dans l’île, acheter une résidence ou monter une entreprise ou pour les mauriciens souhaitant organiser un mariage, une fête de fin d’année, un anniversaire ou accomplir un geste aussi simple qu’offrir un bouquet de fleurs… la conciergerie a été créée en décembre dernier pour répondre à de telles demandes

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National Holidays

Experience Unforgettable Moments in the Indian Ocean Islands

Wherever you are around the world, whether you are there for a few days or a few months, the National Day remains an important day for both the locals (living there full time) and yourself who are visiting. The commemoration of this special day in the year, a very emotional one, can help you better understand the history of the country. That should be enough to convince you to take a tour of the Indian Ocean islands during these periods of festivities; this could well be the opportunity to live unforgettable moments and stock up on memories...

In the Indian Ocean islands, huge parties and shows are organized to celebrate the National Day throughout the country. Whether in Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar or the Maldives, the islanders are proud of their country, their origins and their history. Most of the time, the major parties are organized in the larger cities. But the villages are not left out either. Smaller events - but just as friendly - are organized in the villages and bring together families and friends. Pretty much all of these islands being former colonies, they mainly celebrate the date they got their independence.

The authorities organize for the general public a national high-profile show including dance, music and light effects. But that's not all… In Mauritius for example, the multicolored flag is displayed all over the streets (shops, homes, schools, buses, restaurants...). Local communities gather for more modest celebrations in towns and villages. Many hotels also celebrate this day by offering customers special menus and events on the theme of Mauritius. Wherever you are, you cannot miss out on the festivities. In the Maldives, when you walk in the streets (mainly in Male, the capital), you can see magnificent dance performances or music shows, impromptu concerts which delight the youngsters as well as the elderly.

Military parades, traditional music concerts and DJ nights are also scheduled. In Seychelles, Maldives, Madagascar or Reunion, the military parades (both from the army and the naval forces) are not to be missed; though smaller, they are just as impressive as those of the French metropolis. Beautiful fireworks that will leave you speechless are also scheduled around the country.

Some of those countries have not one but two or even three National Days. In Zanzibar, the Feast of the Union on April 26th (the anniversary of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar) and the Independence Day on December 9th are two major events in the history of the country that are celebrated every year both in Tanzania and Zanzibar. Planning a trip in Seychelles in June might also be a good idea; it’s a busy period with three days of historical commemoration: June 5th, Liberation Day; June 18th, National Day (adoption of the new Constitution) and; June 29th, Independence Day of the country.

All these national holidays are truly an opportunity to see another side of these islands and its people, through cultural and sporting events. With the atmosphere of friendliness that emerges from these celebrations, we strongly encourage you to live this at least once in your life. 

Brief Summary of National Holidays in the Indian Ocean Islands:

- Madagascar: Independence Day on June 26th

- Maldives: Republic Day on November 11th

- Mauritius / Rodrigues: Independence Day on March 12th

- Reunion: National Day on July 14th

- Seychelles: Liberation Day on June 5th

         National Day on June 18th

         Independence Day on June 29th

- Sri Lanka: Independence Day on February 4th

- Zanzibar: Union Day onApril 26th

       National Day on December 9th

Relax, Manta Resort Welcomes You…

Nestled on the northern tip of the still unknown island of Pemba, the third main island of the Zanzibar Archipelago, the Manta Resort, a 4 star hotel, enjoys a prime location.

With an accommodation capacity of only forty people, Manta Resort is a small, discreet luxury hotel, with assured privacy and usability. Its 18 rooms provide all the necessary comfort to customers with King size beds, Internet, telephone and air conditioning. They are perfect for family vacation or holidays amongst friends. The Manta innovates with its original room, the Underwater Room. Unique in the world, it is built on three floors, 4 meters under water. While the upper deck allows sunbathing during the day and stargazing at night, the lower floors bring you closer to the fish. The room offers a 360 degree view. The four anchors used to secure the room are actually artificial reefs which attract a wide variety of fish; squid, octopus and fish trumpet.

Many activities are available in and around the hotel: scuba diving, deep sea fishing, kayaking, amongst others... The diving is fantastic around the island. The variety of endemic fish is impressive and underwater coral remained almost intact, the hotel doing everything to protect the environment of the island. Small western islands as Njao or Fundo are excellent diving spots. Breathtaking some may say. The water temperature is regularly around 26 degrees, Pemba is one of the nicest places to dive. If you prefer to visit Zanzibar by land, excursions are organized daily. The hikes and tours are very interesting to discover the local culture. Finally, the Kipepeo Spa is open daily for guests in search of calm, relaxation and wellbeing. Massage and treatments can be scheduled.

The pool and the veranda are where you should meet to enjoy delicious meals with ocean views. Reinterpreted local recipes based on meat or seafood are served. The beach bar allows you to spend some quality time savoring delicious fruit platters and tropical cocktails while eating small snacks.

Dodo Quest, the New Attraction of Mauritius

You like games ? You dream big ? Well, you will be over the moon with Dodo Quest, the latest available attraction in Mauritius. Created about ten years ago in Asia, the concept of Escape Rooms has gradually spread throughout the world and has finally arrived in Mauritius.  

Dodo Quest is a team game around strategy. In groups of 2 to 4 people, you are locked in a cell, in prison. The objective is simple: Successfully get out of there in less than 59 minutes. This game is a brain teaser ; you’ve got to use your brain to get out of there, you cannot just break everything around. You must stay calm and observe your surroundings to find the clues, keys, codes or numbers, that will lead you to the exit!

If you're lost or stranded, do not panic. Cameras are filming you for your safety and a microphone is available if you want to ask for help to advance in the game. Do not forget that you have less than an hour to succeed in your mission, so do not hesitate to ask for help if you see the time fly by.

Located in Moka, Dodo Quest offers three rooms with completely different universes. For now, only the Prison Break part, the one we just described, is available to the public. But the other two rooms should open to the public shortly.

The second room, Adventurer Cabinet: Mystery of Pierre Poivre, presents a rather historical universe in which you are part of a team of explorers close to Pierre Poivre (botanist and French colonial administrator from the 18th century). You must find the golden nuts and seed them to start the planting of the Isle of France. The third and final room, Hunter's Hut: Save the last Dodo! gives you the unique opportunity to save the dodo of extinction. Find the last Dodo egg before the return of the crazy hunter.

Are you interested in these challenges? Then, what are you waiting for ?

The Savoy: Seychelles Hospitality at its Best

The Savoy is a must in terms of Seychelles hospitality. This huge 5-star resort, located by the sea, offering services of impressive quality, represents the excellence of Seychellois hospitality. One thing for sure is that customers who choose this hotel on the paradise island of Mahé will only be satisfied.

The 163 rooms and suites of the hotel offer a unique decor and a guaranteed comfort. As spacious as 40 to 190 m2, the residences have all the equipment necessary for the well being of the guests. The rooms which can accommodate from 1 to 4 guests offer very comfortable extra large king size beds, mini bar, TV, telephone and Internet access. On the spacious balcony or private terrace with views as varied as ocean, mountain or garden, one can admire the magnificent sunsets. The largest suite, the Savoy Penthouse has, besides a Jacuzzi on the terrace, a full fridge and a fully equipped kitchen.

The hotel offers 6 bars and restaurants specializing in all types of cuisines. The main restaurant, the Grand Savoy offers a cuisine mixing the Creole, European and Asian flavors as a buffet. The Pescado, located by the pool, offers traditional recipes with seafood caught the same day. Finally, the last restaurant, Mahek, offers typical Indian cuisine. Here, customers can even see the Chef at work since the kitchens are visible to all. The three bars are nice and entertaining places where you can drink tropical cocktails while listening to local bands live. The Ocean Deck Pub is the only place where you can find draft beer.

Through the hotel, guests can enjoy an exceptional experience: a helicopter tour over various islands of the Seychelles. They will be able to observe a spectacular and unforgettable landscape. Various water activities are available such as wind surfing, body boarding, scuba diving and snorkeling. Catamaran tours are organized every day and guests can see an impressive and unique aquatic ecosystem by diving into the ocean. A kids club is available to keep the children busy and give the parents a little breather. Finally, the spa and fitness center and health club are open daily. Guests can enjoy massages and wellness treatments.

Kilindi Zanzibar

Nestled on the northwest coast of the main island of Zanzibar, the Kilindi Zanzibar, 5-star luxury hotel, offers exceptional service in an extraordinarily relaxing setting. The least we can say is that the Kilindi Zanzibar lodges located on the seafront are gorgeous. These luxurious residences offer privileged guests a private retreat, a haven of peace. Tranquility, privacy and comfort are the key words that punctuate life in Kilindi Zanzibar. The 15 villas of the resort are surrounded by nature with the sea on one side and tropical gardens on the other. It is precisely this spirit of harmony with nature that customers seeking a relaxing holiday want.

A private pool and huge shower are available in each lodge. A butler service is also at the disposal of each hotel guest. A specialized ventilation system provides an ambient temperature at bedtime. The wooden shutters of the main rooms certainly provide privacy for residents but also protect from the sometimes scorching sun.

The Kilindi Zanzibar offers many water activities like scuba diving, water skiing or fishing, allowing guests to discover the unique wildlife of the region. Catamaran outings and excursions are organized daily. Rest assured that land-based activities have not been forgotten. The Kilindi Spa welcomes guests in its sanctuary located in the heart of the tropical gardens of the resort. There, you can relax with the help of professional masseurs who will offer you the best care. You will no doubt feel well rested after a treatment. That’s a promise. A wide range of treatments is available, from gentle massage to deep tissue therapy but also body scrubs and refreshing facial treatments…

Several dining options are available. You can opt for a private dinner in your lodge or a romantic diner on the beach or by the pool.

This hotel is perfect for a honeymoon, for a couple getaway or simply for those who need a break to breathe and rest. The Kilindi Zanzibar wants to be a refuge for anyone who wishes to reconnect with nature.

La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® announces partnership with myconcierge in Dubai

Leading Dubai-based concierge service, myconcierge.com, has been selected by La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® to offer local luxury and personal experiences, to travelers on their way to Indian Ocean. Dubai is the hub for airline passengers flying for leisure and holidays towards Indian Ocean destinations thanks to the extensive Emirates Airline route network. myconcierge delivers high-end services to guests seeking the best experiences in the destinations they visit and reside within – offering a sophisticated online platform and back-office concierge team. The partnership has been secured to enhance the guest experience Concierge & Hotels will deliver to its travelers arriving in the UAE from Europe and to conciergerie members in the Indian Ocean. Expanding VIP guest experiences from departure to holiday destination VIP guest experiences are provided by La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® (sister brand of Concierge & Hotels) that operates throughout Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Reunion Island and Seychelles before it opens Zanzibar and Sri Lanka Q4, 2015. Expanding outside the region to offer a unique experience from departure to arrival in the region is actually being built with strategic conciergerie partners around the world in famous capitals of Europe, USA, Africa, Asia and Australia. “Dubai is the 1st half way destination towards Mauritius that we are releasing with a partner, myconcierge, as we already operate in La Reunion, that stands for our VIP guests as the second stop for travelers flying to Indian Ocean and mainly for Mauritius”, said Arnaud BILQUEZ, CEO. myconcierge presence on La Conciergerie mobile app As exclusive partner for La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® in Dubai and the UAE as whole, myconcierge will be integrated in the mobile app of Concierge & Hotels in the restricted access area reserved to visiting guests in Indian Ocean and local members. These members will be driven directly to myconcierge to book online activities in Dubai or call their usual personal concierge to organise special treats on their behalf. The mobile application and Concierge & Hotels networks reaches monthly over one million visitor from Europe and 600,000 from Indian Ocean looking for exceptional and unique services. “Dubai is receiving an increasing amount of guests from the Indian Ocean and we are very pleased to ensure that they will receive only the very best experiences and services while they are here with us in the UAE. Partnering with La Conciergerie is an important moment for us as it is the first time we have established such a cooperation anywhere in the world,” said Founder and Managing Director of myconcierge, Rob Nicholas. About My Concierge MyConcierge curates the best experiences available in the UAE and offers an online platform where these can be viewed (often accompanied by professionally shot video) and booked. A more personalised service is offered through online chat or direct contact with the concierge back-office team who can make all arrangements based on specific guest requirements/preferences. Contact: Ankur BAGGA – Chief Concierge – ankur.bagga@myconcierge.com  About La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® La Conciergerie Indian Ocean® offers the Key to Indian Ocean Lifestyle for local privilege experiences. Its philosophy is to be in the heart of bringing its guests and members, serenity, happiness and peace by providing them with a complete offer of Concierge Services from Zanzibar to Sri Lanka. LA CONCIERGERIE is powered with love by Concierge Hotels® wide Indian Ocean hotel reservation platform, established since 2010, that developed its own concierge services to serve its hotel guests at destination and bring special services to local brands, individuals and corporates. Contacts: Arnaud GLANNES – Conciergerie Manager – arnaud@concierge-hotels.com Clea VEDRINE – Communication and Marketing – clea@concierge-hotels.com

The Eiffel Tower in France, the Piton de la Fournaise in Reunion Island!

The beautiful Reunion island, sunny most of the year, is famous for its mountains and hiking, in short, for its unique landscapes in the world. But the island is also famous for its volcanoes. Today, we count between 50 and 70 volcanoes erupting each year worldwide and the Piton de la Fournaise is still amongst the most active ones.

Emblematic of Reunion Island, the volcano rises to 2631 meters. With its large columns of smoke, its sparkling jets in the night and its lava flows coming down the mountain and illuminating it, the Piton de la Fournaise offers every year extraordinary shows for those who have the chance to be present during an eruption. This is something that must be seen at least once in a lifetime.

Prime attraction of the island, the Piton de la Fournaise, like its neighbor Piton des Neiges, is a classified UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. The volcano erupts on average every eight months. Note however that some years are more active than others. As demonstrated by the year 2015: the Piton has delighted many by erupting in February, May, July and August; and the year is not over yet...

Obviously, these are scenes to admire from afar. For example you can observe the volcano from Grand Brulé or Bois Vert. The risks are very minimal for local people. The eruptions are usually known weeks in advance by the Volcanological Observatory. Security measures are taken at the first sign of eruption, but often the authorities prohibit access to the public only in the early days, in order to give time to the volcano to stabilize. The magnificent lava flows are still visible by flying over in an helicopter or if you’re lucky enough, on board of a motorized ultralight glider. That’s for sure an unforgettable memory, for both locals and tourists.

The Piton, whether active or not, remains a sensational Natural Heritage site, with its incredible lunar landscape of lava rocks and its land covered with orange-brown slag. If you travel to Reunion Island during a period where the Piton de la Fournaise is not erupting, you can still see these sensational traces everywhere on the island, especially in the south where the successive lava flows from the volcano came down to the ocean to form black sand beaches such as the one at Etang-Salé. That’s for sure an exceptional landscape to be seen.

"Footgolf" in Mauritius

Why settle for a single sport when you could practice two at once? In recent years, the creation of hybrid sports has become more and more popular worldwide. Back in 2009 the Dutch had the idea, a weird idea admittedly, to mix two very popular sports in the Netherlands: Football and Golf. The "footgolf" is a precision sport whose principle is quite simple: You need to send a soccer ball into a hole with the fewest strokes possible. That’s actually how the rules are similar to traditional golf. This new sport has grown popular very rapidly throughout the world.

Introduced in Mauritius more than a century ago by the British, golf is an extremely popular sport here. There are no less than ten golf courses across the island nowadays. If you add to that the passion of Mauritians for football, there’s no way "footgolf" will not be popular. It will most definitely generate interest amongst Mauritians and tourists.

The Heritage Hotel Group will be the first one to take a try at "footgolf" at the Heritage Golf Club. One could not ask for a more perfect spot to launch "footgolf". For it to be launched at the Domaine de Bel Ombre, in the south of the island, is just awesome. Nestled between mountains and ocean, this is where one of the most beautiful golf courses in Mauritius is located. The variety of the landscape makes each hole exceptional, providing residents of the domain and golf aficionados an unforgettable experience.

The first "footgolf" course in Mauritius will be accessible to all residents of the three Heritage hotels of the island. This course will be used for both traditional golf and "footgolf". The establishment will transform its green so that both sports can be practiced without disturbing each other.

Whether you are already a fan of "footgolf" or simply curious, this is one sport you need to try. You will not regret it !

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.