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.

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 ?

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 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.

“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.

Kite Surfing equipment FREE of charge with Air Mauritius

For the period 18 June - 30 September: 

Air Mauritius will allow carriage of 1 piece of Kite Surfing equipment (not exceeding 23 kg & subject to dimensions) FREE of charge outside the normal baggage allowance as shown on the ticket. 

In case the dimensions exceed 200 cms or the number of pieces or weight exceeds the baggage entitlement, the rate applicable (one way) will be at 50% off the normal applicable rate.

See dimensions and applicable rates on www.airmauritius.com. Offers applicable to/from Mauritius only. 

The Westin Turtle Bay in Mauritius

The five-star Westin Turtle Bay hotel is located in the Balaclava area, on the north coast of Mauritius. You'll find there a safe haven, perfect to relax, perfect for a dream vacation. In the heart of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by sugar cane fields, in a bay of warm turquoise water, the Turtle Bay Westin Resort & Spa Mauritius invites you to discover the magic of Mauritian hospitality in an incredibly sumptuous setting.

Spreading over no less than 10 hectares of land, the resort has 190 rooms and suites, all luxurious. Ranging from 63 to 195 m2, they offer all the comfort and services necessary to meet the needs and expectations of customers. These residences are equipped with a flat screen TV, a cordless telephone, a tea and coffee maker, safe, iron and ironing board, a minibar and Wi-Fi. And to enjoy the first sun rays, depending on the rooms, you will have at your disposal either a balcony or a terrace. We suggest taking a beachfront room to enjoy the beautiful view on Turtle Bay, a unique marine park in the world.

The hotel offers guests a multitude of activities. You only want to spend your days sunbathing ? Deck chairs are available on the beach. Need to cool off a little? A dip in the bay or the pool, anyone? If you prefer a fresh drink to cool off, it will be offered. You hope to take advantage of your holiday to let off steam ? The hotel offers two tennis courts to its clients. They are open every day by appointment. If you wish to use the services of a professional for some advice, it is possible. The grounds are lit so that you can play at all times, even at night. Water activities are also available. Water skiing, sailing, pedalboating or outings in a glass-bottom boat ; take your pick. Enjoy what Turtle Bay has to offer ! Did you know you can find there some wonderful and unique aquatic life ? You can also book a catamaran cruise to admire the northern islands, which are actually quite close. A great way to create lasting memories.

The Turtle Bay Westin Resort & Spa Mauritius restaurants and bars offer Mauritian and international gourmet meals in a unique tropical environment. Seasonal Tastes is ideal for dining with an exceptional view of the bay. It offers international food variety. Discover Indian specialties revisited at Kangan. The Fusion Restaurant offers Mauritian specialties, while the Beach Grill offers… grilled specialities directly on the beach. Relax at The Retreat bar with a refreshing aperitif. Finally, at Mystique, the contemporary lounge bar you can enjoy tapas and sushi as well as delicious martinis while listening to the Resident DJ.

Discover our Promotions 2015 at the Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

Le Saint Géran or the Unique Elegance of the Mauritian Hotel Industry

On the East coast of Mauritius, in the picturesque coastal village of Belle Mare, we find one of the finest hotels on the island; The One & Only St Geran. This beautiful resort is known to the public thanks to the novel ‘’Paul and Virginie’’. The resort is in fact close to the historic shipwreck of St. Géran, a site accessible diving. The lush gardens and thousands of palm trees that are found scattered on the property give the hotel an atmosphere of tranquility so unique to Mauritius.

Elegant and unique, the Saint Geran offers serenity and absolute calm. The dedicated staff anticipates your desires. At the pool, at the spa or in your room, there will always be someone who will be there to satisfy your every wishes. The staff will accompany you during your stay in the hotel, with many small but significant gestures: cocktail and welcome gift, local rum and fresh fruit in your suite, bedding comfort and a variety of toiletry products. In addition to this, guests enjoy butler service, unpacking and packing of their suitcases, laundry service and of course the preparation and cleaning of the room.

Le Saint Geran offers a variety of suites and 166 luxurious villas ranging from 65m2 to 622m2 with ocean views in front and opening on the tropical gardens at the back. They can accommodate up to six people. All rooms are equipped with flat screen TV with satellite channels, DVD/CD player, hair dryer, mini bar, a Nespresso machine, safes and various professional equipments such as adapters, connections for fax/computer modem plugs, a communication system with three phones and Wi-Fi.

The KidsOnly club offers a dynamic, rich and diverse program to occupy your children aged 4 to 11 years old during your stay. One sure thing is that your kids will not be bored. Water games, treasure hunts and walks will be organized for them. Discovery activities are also offered such as : cooking classes, mosaic, sega dancing or gardening... For those a little more athletic, it is possible to learn surfing, kayaking or diving. No need to worry; your children will always be supervised by competent and qualified professionals. The club also has loads of games and video consoles: Wii, Playstation or Xbox, among others.

Adults, there’s no need to be envious ! A wide choice of activities is also available for you. The resort has tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course available to guests free of charge. In addition to this, you can hire a pedalo, do water skiing, enjoy trips in a glass bottom boat, diving or yoga. They also have access to the spa for health treatments, massages and other body scrubs. In addition, many excursions are offered to guests so they can discover the wonderful Mauritius and its unique landscapes.

Three restaurants are available so you can enjoy excellent gourmet cuisine full of flavors and colors. The Indian Pavillion offers Indian specialties, classics revisited in a modern way. The restaurant has an exceptional natural setting, overlooking the lagoon and the mountains covered with sugarcane. La Terrasse restaurant, near the pool, offers local and international menus: Creole, French or Chinese dishes, amongst others. Finally, for grilled meat lovers, the Prime offers an impressive card.

The least we can say is that the One & Only St Geran has multiple assets to please, even the most demanding customers...

The AXYS Mauritius WCGC 2015

Over the years, Mauritius has gained a worldwide reputation in the golf world, to the point of becoming the preferred destination for golf enthusiasts.

If today, the destination has emerged as one of the best in the world to play golf, it is because Mauritius is recognized by tournament organizers as an idyllic, even perfect, destination offering outstanding game framework. Located between mountains and pristine beaches, the island’s golf courses welcome many amateur and professional tournaments.

June 6 will start AXYS Mauritius World Corporate Golf Challenge (WCGC) 2015. This event, the largest corporate golf event for amateurs, will be held at the Heritage Golf Club. This Bel Ombre green is one of the best maintained course on the island. This golf course fits so perfectly in the natural landscape that it’s the perfect place to host this competition.

AXYS held a press conference this week in Port Louis. In the end, out of the 250 invitations sent, 36 teams of two members each have been selected to participate in this unique competition of which Concierge Hotel is a partner. This will be for everyone an opportunity to gather around the same passion in a relaxed atmosphere.

Next Saturday, players will evolve according to the "stableford" formula, three-quarters of their disability. "They will have to play in teams of two and their scores will be added at the end of the day," explains Loïc Bax, of Axys. Several prizes will be awarded to the players during the day. The first to do a "hole-in-one" on the 8th hole (par 3) will receive the keys to the latest BMW 1 Series. Those who pass a "nearest to the pin"  for 13th and 15th holes will be awarded a prize by Swan Group.

The organizers will also offer two awards for "longest drives" in the 18th and 6th holes. "We want to offer a special day to all golfers," says Loïc Bax, while specifying that the competition is open to amateurs only.

Didier Peten, Communication Manager at AXYS, explained that "this is the first time that we give the chance to two golfers to represent Mauritius in the finals of this international tournament. We would like to make this competition an annual event."

The winners of this competition will have the chance to participate in the finals of the World Corporate Golf Challenge, which will take place from June 30th to July 5th  in Carcais, Portugal. The World Corporate Golf Challenge is "the place to be" for golf enthusiasts. More than forty countries compete each year in this high level tournament. This tournament takes place in different countries around the world. Mauritius will participate for the first time.

The Maritim

Five-star hotel in Balaclava, in the northwest of Mauritius, the luxurious Maritim Resort & Spa is nestled in the heart of a private property which extends along Turtle Bay, one of the most sunny and beautiful places on the island. Designed as a natural park of over 25 hectares, Balaclava has many surprises in store for the residents of the Maritim Hotel. 

In addition to the incredible view of Turtle Bay, the resort has a tropical and colonial architecture that blends perfectly to offer the ultimate refinement of the Mauritian hotel industry. The attentive staff will warmly welcome the guests. One sure thing is that the service is exceptional.

The Maritim Resort & Spa has 215 rooms and exceptional suites. They are classified into eight categories ranging from 34m2 for the smaller standard rooms to 160m2 for Maritim Luxury Villas. One of the features that distinguishes the hotel is its themed suites: the romantic Honeymoon suite is ideal for… honeymooners; the Savannah suite will transport you into an African universe; the Namaste suite will make you live in an Indian setting; while the Victory suite offers a trip to the English colonial times. All rooms have air conditioning, satellite TV, telephone, minibar, digital safe and a terrace to take advantage of the extraordinary view of the bay. On request, the hotel also offers butler services.

As for the meals, the hotel has several restaurants where you can taste the cuisines of the world. The Château Mon Désir is located on an old pirates cache called the Ruins of Balaclava. In this historical colonial setting with ocean view, the restaurant offers international gourmet cuisine. The Belle Vue offers local and international cuisine. At dinner time, you can watch the food being prepared by the chefs. A culinary show, while waiting for your food... The Banyan offers a menu that showcases the many delights of Asia. The Tide, set on the beach, surrounded by palm trees, offers seafood specialties and other grilled dishes. Three bars are also open to guests: The Beach Bar, the Filaos Beer Garden Pub, for German beer lovers, and the Quarter Deck where you can enjoy delicious cocktails and snacks.

At the Maritim Resort & Spa, all the conditions are met for a stay where finesse and absolute relaxation mix perfectly. Many facilities and activities are available to satisfy all customers. For the most athletic ones, the hotel provides a fitness center, three tennis courts and a jogging trail. You can also enjoy water sports such as skiing, sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving and canoeing. You are most comfortable with both feet on the ground? Why not try your hand at archery, horse riding with a stroll in the forest or enjoy a game of football or volleyball. For those who prefer to lounge, quieter activities are available: golf, snorkeling, a stroll in the lagoon in a glass-bottom boat to admire the colorful fish and corals without getting wet, paddle, yoga and even a giant chess game.

The Maritim also offers a spa by the sea, the Tropical Flowers Spa, whose setting is most relaxing. You can enjoy many and varied treatments such as relaxing body massages or therapeutic face treatments.

Music Festivals: Move it in the Indian Ocean

When we talk about vacationing in the Indian Ocean, people very often - almost always actually - think of postcard images combining beaches, turquoise lagoons and coconut trees. But holidays not only resume to sunbathing. The Indian Ocean is also "the place to be" for partying. Many, many, parties and festivals are held throughout the year on all the destinations of this part of the globe. To make it easy for you, we have listed the upcoming musical events that will take place in Mauritius, Reunion Island, Seychelles and Madagascar in the coming months.

Whether musical or not, Reunion Island highly values ​​its cultural heritage. That is why many festivals are organized throughout the year. Early May was held the 7th edition of Electropicales in the heart of Saint-Denis. An annual event that gathered on three stages over a dozen electro-techno DJs. The 8th edition of the festival is already scheduled for 2016. Next month, from June 5th to 7th, is scheduled Sakifo Music Festival in St. Pierre. This festival brings together more than 30 artists from all backgrounds and musical worlds. Amongst them are artists such as Artur H, Cats On Trees, Fauve, the Wampas, Skip the Use, Julien Doré, Tiken Jah Fakoly and Zulu. Next September will be held the Manapany Festival in St. Joseph. This original gathering combines surfing and climbing competitions together with concerts of local artists.

Mauritius also hosts several musical events during the year. May 16th was scheduled at the Château de Labourdonnais an evening for all techno-trance fans with Dash Berlin. The famous DJ Jeffrey Sutorius was there to set the dance floor on fire. In a completely different genre, from May 19th to 24th, the Festival Passe Portes in Grand Bay subtly mixes theater and music. It offers a variety of plays and concerts including those of Zulu and Amaury Vassili. On June 4th, will take place the Seggae Zwe Festival at the stadium Germain Comarmond in Bambous. This important musical event will welcome local artists such as OSB Crew, Ras Minik and Linzy, all Seggae specialists. Seggae is a typical Mauritian music style, a mix between Sega and Reggae. And finally, for fans of the genre, the Colmar International Festival is scheduled from July 3rd to 14th. This classical and jazz music festival will bring together some 50 artists and orchestras.

In Seychelles, from October 25th to 31st will take place the Festival Kreol of Mahé. Various artists of all Creole-speaking islands will perform in Victoria Square. Their commonality ? Their Creole music. So if you want to discover creole music and its culture and move your body to the rhythms of creole music, you know where to go in October…

This overview of the region's festivals ends with the Donia festival of Nosy Be, in Madagascar. This is one of the oldest festivals in the Indian Ocean region. The 22nd edition began on May 16th and will end on May 24th. It showcases mainly Malagasy and African artists.

One sure thing is whatever the time of year, you will undoubtedly find in the Indian Ocean, a festival where you can move it, move it, shake it, shake it…

Private Luxury at The Cardinal Exclusive Resort

The northern region of Mauritius is one of the most touristy areas of the country. You can find in this region many hotels of different standings and definitely one for everyone’s budget. There is however one that stands out. For those looking for an unusual place to stay during their holiday, we suggest The Cardinal Exclusive Resort. You will find no gigantic complex there, quite the contrary actually. Located on the beautiful beach of Trou aux Biches, this new "Boutique Hotel" of 13 suites redefines "Luxury". This unique and stylish complex offers customized services for clients looking for tranquility and privacy.

The Cardinal Exclusive Resort offers three categories of suites, all designed and decorated in a modern and refined style. The junior suites with a surface area of ​​51m2 have a seating area, a bathroom and a spacious bedroom. They also have a small balcony. The 84m2 Duplex suites are ideal for families. They have two terraces, a children's corner, lounge, and two bedrooms with bathroom. Finally, the Penthouses are the "must" of this hotel. The penthouses spread over an area of ​​87m2, to which needs to be added 42m2 of terrace! They offer a breathtaking panorama on Trou aux Biches bay.

The hotel provides a high standard and quality service where listening to the customer’s need is a priority. The Cardinal Exclusive Resort offers a 24h/24 assistance, currency exchange, laundry and postal service. On request, the hotel can also take care of all your trips and transfers. Other than sunbathing by the hotel's pool, several activities are available such as kayaking, pedal boating, tennis, fitness, diving and a trip in a glass bottom boat. You need something more relaxing ? Massages by professional therapists are available.

As for dining, the gourmet restaurant offers various and varied local menus. One thing for sure is that you will always be in for an exotic treat ! You can even see the chefs at work as the kitchen is open towards customers. You can choose whether you want to eat indoors or on the terrace admiring the beautiful lagoon. Romantic dinners on the beach are regularly organized for couples, as well as cocktail parties around the pool. Enjoy the background music of the piano bar. Enjoy your vacation in this beautiful setting where the team is committed to responding to all of your most extravagant wishes.

The Baystone or Mauritian Modernity and Elegance at its Best

The Baystone is an extraordinary place in Mauritius. With its Boutique Hotel status, it offers outstanding service to satisfy your every need during your stay. Centrally located near the Grand Bay Lagoon, north of the island, the hotel is committed to quality and excellence to make your stay unforgettable.

The Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa has 21 rooms and spacious suites divided into several categories. Deluxe rooms available for one or two people, are between 21 and 55m2. These rooms are equipped for the comfort of their residents: King size bed, telephone, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, massage bath or rain shower and balcony overlooking the palm trees. All suites have a sea view. The junior suites of 60m2 and Senior suites of 95m2 which can accommodate two people are ideal for couples. In addition to equipment similar to those of the deluxe rooms, they feature an iPod dock and a coffee maker. The "must"? The unique Baystone Suite of 280m2. A true palace for customers as it overlooks a private pool on the hotel roof. From there you have a magnificent panoramic view of the beach and coast. 

Feel like eating a refined meal ? The unique bar-restaurant and its chef are waiting to help you discover traditional Mauritian and international specialties. Check out the local specialties with improved Mauritian style cocktails such as "ti punch" or "Mai Thai" made with local rum. All dishes are prepared with fresh produce and fish caught the same day. A gourmet "lobster and seafood" menu can be prepared on request. The menus change daily so as to surprise the customers.

The Baystone provides many activities to occupy their guests during their stay. Admire the beautiful Mauritian landscape, from the sky. Either by ULM or if you can cope with it, by doing a tandem parachute jump; thrills guaranteed. You have a preference for the sea? Well, know that you can enjoy extreme sports with waterskiing and kitesurf sessions organized every day. For tourists who want something calmer ; paddle, sailboat or kayak are available. You can also admire the beauty of the seabed during a boat trip near the coral reef. Or admire the dolphins, do scuba diving or big game fishing. To discover the heart of Mauritius ; quad excursions, mountain bike rides or even horseback rides can be organized so that you can see up close these places in the wild. Ideal for couples, the hotel will take very good care of you and guarantee absolute tranquility. Imagine yourself and your loved one admiring the sunset while eating a delicious dinner aboard a catamaran. Finally, for the curious, the Baystone offers classes in the restaurant’s kitchen. The chef will reveal some manufacturing secrets to make a mean cocktail and will introduce you to the art of Mauritian cuisine. 

The least we can say is that you will not get bored for a second during your vacation. At the Baystone Boutique Hotel & Spa, you will be very well taken care of…

Mauritius: The Green Island

The reputation of Mauritius in the world of golf is now well established. Over the years , the island has become one of the top tourist destinations for golf enthusiasts. Because of its colonial history, Mauritius has indeed kept a regular practice of Golf, and has continued to develop its infrastructure to attract those who love this sport of exception.

Today, Mauritius has a multitude of golf courses located all over the island. Open to all, they provide an exceptional environment. The mountains and beautiful beaches that surround the golf courses make the practice of this demanding sport even more so enjoyable. Golf enthusiasts, whether amateur or professional, or just tourists curious to discover something new should not hesitate to go to the discovery of the multiple golf courses nestled in an idyllic environment.

There are courses for all levels scattered over the island: from the 9-hole course for beginners to the 18 holes championship green for experienced amateurs or professionals. For the curious who want to try golf, Maritim Hotel located north of the island is the perfect course for you. This 9-hole layout offers a very special combination, which spreads over a 25 hectare park, surrounded by palm trees and other tropical plants unique to this area of the Globe. Also a 9-hole layout, the St. Geran golf course, located east of the island, is reserved for more experienced players. This course which spreads over 2500 meters offers an extraordinary setting. Just imagine golfing surrounded by over 5000 coconut trees and the lagoon in eyesight. One sure thing is that many golf balls could surely be found at the bottom of turquoise lagoon of Belle Mare.

Also on the east coast of the island, the Constance Belle Mare Plage hotel, offers one of the best courses on the island. Designed by a former South African professional player, the Golf of Legends is at the heart of an old hunting reserve. Spanning over 6000 meters, it is the home of two well regarded international championships. Finally, we would advise you to try your hand at one of the finest courses in the world. Offered by the hotel Touessrok, the course located directly on Ile aux Cerfs is spectacular and accessible only by crossing a fantastic turquoise lagoon. 

Mauritius hosts many recognized golf championships, where the best players in the world compete. Amongst the most famous, the Johnnie Walker Classic and the Mauritius Open Championship. They both take place at the Gold of Legends Belle Mare. The next appointment not to be missed is scheduled for June 6 with the qualifications of the World Corporate Golf Challenge (WCGC), one of the most important and exclusive corporate golf tournaments in the world. The event will happen at the beautiful Heritage Golf Club in ​​Bel Ombre. Concierge Hotels is one of the sponsors of this prestigious event and will offer the second prize.