The Island Nation of Mauritius
Mauritius, a spectacular island in the Indian Ocean, is a relatively new nation. As far as we know, it was discovered by Europeans in the early sixteenth century and has been colonized by various European nations since then. It gained independence in 1968, and the beautiful island has attracted travelers and nature-seekers ever since.
History
Although Arab sailors were most likely the first to discover Mauritius in the Middle -Ages, the island was not colonized until the Dutch settled it in the mid-1600s. The Dutch introduced sugar cane and deer to the island, legacies that live on today. Sugar cane plantations are prominent on the island, and although no deer exist on the Ile aux Cerfs, the name means “Island of the Deer.” The French took control of the island after the Dutch left but surrendered to the British in the early 1800s. After that, there was an influx of Indians to the island, as well as Muslim and Chinese immigrants. The Island became independent in 1968.
Language
Because the people who colonized Mauritius came from many different countries, the island has a rich and varied culture. The languages of the island are complex. While there is no official language, the majority of the citizens speak Mauritian Creole, English, or French. People often speak a different language depending on the situation with which they are presented. Mauritian Creole replaces many words with numbers. Thirty-five means “girlfriend,” twenty-nine means you have to use the restroom, and twenty-seven is a police officer.
Cuisine
Food in Mauritius is a lively mixture of Indian, African, European, and Chinese influences, which are often combined in one meal. Delicacies like crab soup, lentil soup, and Mauritian dhal, a fragrant combination of spices served over rice. Street vendors and restaurants serve traditional Mauritian cuisine, as well as more traditional European fare.
Sports
The most popular sport in Mauritius is soccer, or “football,” as it is called on the island. Mauritius has a local soccer team, but most people prefer to watch European soccer. Boxing is another popular sport on the island, and Mauritian boxer Bruno Julie won a bronze medal in the 2008 Summer Olympics. Horse racing is another popular sport on the island, and eight races are held annually.
Tourism
Tourism helps drive the Mauritian economy. The island is a popular vacation spot for Indians and Europeans, as well as people from other countries. Although people flock to the island to go snorkeling, scuba diving and just sit on the beach, the island is also popular for water sports. Surfers take advantage of the few spots that offer powerful waves, and wind and kite surfers travel to the island to harness the ocean breeze. Kayaking is a popular activity on the island. In fact, many private lagoons and beaches can only be accessed by boat, and kayakers can take a tour or go out on their own to explore the seemingly untouched areas of the island.
Ecotourism is becoming common on the island as well. Zipline tours take you through the garden of Chazal, where you can soar over lush, green canyons and experience the sounds of the wildlife. Join a tour to take you to the base of one of the many waterfalls, where you can swim in the cool, gurgling ponds.
Mauritius is an island unlike any other. Although the now-extinct dodo bird no longer nests on the island, visitors can see a variety of unique wildlife. The natural beauty and intricate mix of cultures make it a fascinating vacation destination. The beautiful beaches, pristine lagoons, and opportunities for more extreme sports make it appeal to just about any traveler.
Everyone loves a warm and friendly culture. Sonya Neal is no exception. She shares experiences from her many travels. One of her favorites destinations is Tamassa Mauritius. Images by Selene Weijenberg
