This small island paradise is full of treasures of all kinds and has everything to please: its lagoons, sandy beaches, culture, colors … Well, fortunately, this is not bound to stay a dream, for you vacationer. Instead of lazing all day on the beach, we have concocted a list of activities to enjoy! Visit those magical places to discover all the beauty Mauritius has to offer. You will absolutely no longer want to leave this little paradise!
1. Valley of the Colors
One of the most incredible places on the island is the Valley of Colours! You will be able to admire this place where the earth is of 7 different colors, due to the presence of volcanic ash containing mineral oxides of different colors. This place is located in the Chamarel area, right next to the national park. Often visited on foot, this site becomes grandiose when you go higher up! This is why we recommend that you give a try to the zip line circuit in the nature park, in the middle of the cliffs, waterfalls, vegetation and park of animals. You will embark with the team in a 4 × 4 to go up a part of the park while getting the opportunity to say hello to the harmless beasts of the forest. Arriving on site, you will get your equipment and a safety brief will be given to you. Then it’s all up to you to let yourself slide along the line, over the pristine landscapes.
2. Via Ferrata on the West Coast
To stay in a sensational activity, the Via Ferrata is a climbing route, that is to say a cable is hung all the way to the rock, and so you can climb safely. At the heart of the Yemen Nature Reserve, this park is home to the two longest rivers of Mauritius (Rivère du Rempart and Tamarin River) and extends over 4,500 hectares. The first part of the route consists of climbing the mountain “Mamzel Zabeth” to the summit. At the top, the panorama is breathtaking since you will have a full view over the entire west coast. The route then continues with a trek of thirty minutes to the suspension bridge, for a little adrenaline-push. Cherry on the cake, the circuit ends with zip lines ending directly in the pond, allowing you to end the journey with a little swim!
3. Belle Mare
Everywhere on the beaches of Mauritius, you have the possibility to indulge in parasailing. But for a more spectacular view and fewer tourists for the same, it is advisable to go on the beach of Belle Mare. Parasailing involves a parachute flight pulled by a boat along the coast. At over 60 meters high, like a bird, you will discover an incredible view of this beautiful island. All your senses will be alert and you will feel light and free. A good alternative to parachute jumping, as you get off the boat and climb as the boat moves slowly. But for those who want more sensations, it is possible to unhook the parachute for a gentle free fall in the water.
4. Casela Adventure Park
Casela is the main adventure park of Mauritius hosting various species of animals living in quasi-freedom in the heart of 14 hectares of vegetation. By taking a shuttle, you can safely roam among wildlife and get in touch with it. For an hour, walk in the heart of the forest, surrounded by these kings of animals, the lions. A walk that looks like a canine ride, with the exception that the animal weighs 200 pounds and could kill you in a stroke. Despite some fears that some may have, the animals are not drugged or beaten, nor tied. An experience, which is yet again incredible to do.
5. Grand Bassin
Mauritius is strong in its Hindu culture and Grand Bassin remains a sacred place for their pilgrimage for Maha Shivaratree. Located in an ancient volcanic crater in the Savane region this lake is surrounded by a temple dedicated to Shiva, Hanuman and Lakshmi. Once a year, around February / March on the occasion of the Maha Shivaratree (Great night of Shiva), thousands of pilgrims walk from their home for a grand ceremony in Grand Bassin which lasts all night. Ten days before this night, believers refrain from drinking alcohol or eating meat. A place that exudes a true mystical and relaxing atmosphere, a haven of peace and well-being. Also, one will certainly not miss one of the tallest statue of the Indian Ocean at the entrance of the sacred place – Mangal Mahadev.
6. Port Louis Market
It is impossible to go to Mauritius without visiting its capital and its incredible market. It is also called the bazaar and contains the wealth of Mauritian culture. Located on Queen Street and being one of the oldest markets, Port Louis Market offers a large selection of fresh and typical products, grouped by category. On one side the color palette of fruits and vegetables: pineapples, mangoes, turmeric, calabashes, passion fruit … but also plants to make herbal teas. On the other hand, the meats and seafood. And finally an exclusive part where you can find souvenirs with artisanal products: Embroidery, tablecloths, teas, jams, clothes … A walk to do late in the morning, to awaken your taste buds and taste, quietly on the go local produce!
7. Meet the dolphins
An excursion generally made early in the morning (around 7 am), where you start by having breakfast on the beach. Then embark on boats on the beach of Black River for a gentle awakening with the dolphins in their natural habitat. Fins and snorkels are provided to see these magnificent creatures. Be careful not to get too close, do not forget that these are wild animals moving in schools and can have impulsive and violent behavior. The day is followed by a barbecue, followed by another dive called the Natural Aquarium, we let you guess how much it will make you dream!
8. Gabriel Island
From Grand Baie, embark in the early morning on a Catamaran destined for the Ilot Gabriel located at 17 kilometers from the Mauritian coast. During this excursion, you will pass by the Coin de Mire, a whale-shaped island that houses the famous Paille-en-queues at the top of its cliffs. It will not be surprising during the journey to cross groups of Dolphins playing in the water. Once you arrive at Ilot Gabriel, you can walk around and bathe for an hour or two before enjoying a good barbecue on the Catamaran. Then in the beginning of the afternoon, you will make the opposite way to get back to Grand Baie around 16/17.
9. Blue Bay Marine park
The dreamed place of the divers, Gunners coin has the paradise of the seabed. The question is why diving in the South East rather than elsewhere? Simply because this area is subject to wind, which means that diving is not ideal every day, and therefore no boats in the water, but when the weather is fine, the marine fauna is more important, a veritable garden of Eden (turtles, clown fish, barracudas, morays, rays …)
10. Tea Route
This time a trip of three stages, of another nature since it is based on the Mauritian gastronomy. You will start by the Domaine des Aubineaux, a typical colonial residence of the 19th century located on the high plateaux. On the program, the visit of the gardens, the old stables transformed into distillery and in the shop of essential oils but also a break in its tea room. Then, direction Bois Cherie, an area known for its tea. You can visit the manufacturing plant by following the various stages of manufacture. The visit is continuous in the tea museum of the estate and ends with a tasting. Finally, stop at Saint-Aubin, north of Souillac to discover an old colonial estate specialized in sugar. This place, today has been transformed into a table d’hôte and will offer you typical dishes based on local products. But also visit the distillery of agricultural rum from which you can follow its manufacture, as well as a small sugar factory that has been recreated for visitors to follow the manufacturing steps.
Enjoy your trip in Mauritius by renting a car with Avis to discover all of these gorgeous places!
If you are travelling to the Secyhelles, and looking for the ideal compromise then Praslin is the perfect choice. More developed than La Digue but less than Mahé, Praslin offers the best opportunities for your next holidays on the Seychelles archipelago.
Praslin is found 36 km north-east of Mahé. The island can easily be reached from there. Whilst you can reach Praslin from Mahé by boat, the best option is to book a charter flight with Air Seychelles. The flight is only 15 minutes long.
Take the boat and you’ll be there in 45 minutes. Praslin comes just after Mahé, in terms of area and population.
Being the Second largest island of the Seychelles, Praslin is home to the most exotic wonders of the archipelago. Praslin is an epitome of tropical splendour. One of the best examples is the Valley of Mai, a world heritage UNESCO site. This green oasis shelters endemic fauna and flora. Some of its plants grow not only nowhere else in the world but also nowhere else in the Seychelles! Her Panadol-white beaches makes her one of the best beach destinations in the world.
The 7500 inhabitants of this garden of Eden makes life on Praslin very peaceful. Like Mahé, Praslin is also a granitic island but with a less mountainous landscape. The highest peak on it being only 370m high.
Whilst the roads are in perfect conditions for driving cars on the island, the best option not to miss a spot during your visit is to rent a bike. The island is relatively small and can easily be toured by bike.
Brief History
It was in the year 1768 that a French vessel landed on the eastern coast of the island, on the beach of Anse Possession.
The island was then named after the Secretary of State of that time who was the duke of Praslin.
This was the third time that the island was being renamed. The first time, it was names “Isle de Palmes” for obvious apparent reasons by the French navigator Lazare Picault.
The then “Isle de Palmes” was then later renamed “île Moras” in hounour of François Marie Peyren de Moras.
Geography
Praslin is the second largest island of the Seychelles archipelago. It makes about 12km in length and an average of 4.6 km in width. The island covers a total surface area of about 38.5km2.
Praslin is covered in lush vegetation and is home to some endemic species of the Seychelles. The Seychelles Bulbul and the Black Parrot of the Seychelles can be observed on the island.
Praslin is so enchanting that it was stated that General Charles George Gordon of Khartoum (1833-1885) was persuaded that Vallée de Mai was the Biblical “Garden of Eden”.
Accommodations
Since a large area in the south of the island has been designated as National Park and Bird Area, the number of hotels are limited and hence making of the island an exclusive one for holidays. If peace and tranquility is what you are looking for, then Praslin is the perfect place.
The hotels are mainly found on the eastern and western coast of the island.
Since the majority of accommodations are coastal, you will have no problem to enjoy the Panadol-white sand for sunbathing, taking a dip or snorkeling in the crystal clear waters.
Beaches
Anse Petite Cour
Delimited on its periphery by a marine park, Anse Petite Cour is a gorgeous sandy beach. Protected by a coral reef, this beach is perfect for swimming and for diving. That is where the hotel “Domaine de La Reserve” is located, one of the finest hotels in Praslin. In an idyllic setting and cut off from the world, this place invites you to a relaxing holiday.
Anse Georgette
Located northwest, this small deserted beach is one of the hidden treasures of the Seychelles. Anse Georgette is rather special, because you can only access it by foot. If you are passionate about hiking, this beach is definitely worth seeing because it really gives a sense of lost paradise.
Anse Lazio
Another wonderful beach on Praslin is Anse Lazio. It features a lagoon with crystal clear water and a long deserted beach. The sound produced by the waves over there are relaxing. In this already spectacular scenery, you can shade yourself under huge coconut trees, Takamaka trees and splendid granitic elevations.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Similar to the beaches, Seychelles has benefited from a more than abundant fauna and flora, especially on the island of Praslin. Vallée de Mai gives an idea of what Praslin looked like over two hundred years ago. Talking about biodiversity, Vallée de Mai is a very important reserve for all the plant and animal life of the Seychelles as it shelters all its indigenous species.
Of all the different species of plants sheltered in Vallée de Mai, the coco de mer is by far the most outstanding. They have a life expectancy of an average of 400 years and on average it takes 20 years before producing its first fruit.
The famous coco de mer is also known as “coco fesses” since one will be astonished to discover that its nut has the shape of a woman’s buttocks while the male part has the shape of a phallus. A real wonder of nature.
The park is located in the heart of Praslin and is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. This park is the nucleus of Praslin. To visit without hesitation.
Praslin Airport
Praslin airport is located in Grande Anse on the western coast of the island. The Airport is also known as Ile des Palmes Airport. The best way to island hop in the Seychelles is through charter flights. Book your flights with Air Seychelles to move from Mahé to Praslin or from Praslin to other islands.
The west coast of Reunion Island is by far the most popular and popular area for tourists and locals alike. The city of Saint-Gilles is often referred to as the little Saint-Tropez of Reunion, a destination that enjoys tropical climate and its proximity to other attractions, the resort offers a relaxing holiday atmosphere. Not far the beach of Boucan Canot has become the trendy corner that appeals to both youngster and elders alike.
The area is described as the leeward coast, as it receives much less rain thanks to Le Piton des Neiges which blocks cloud masses from the eastern trade winds. The microclimate of the island makes the western region receives more sun and this coincides with the presence of the most beautiful beaches. If you are looking to stay near the beach, we recommend the region of Saint Gilles and also the south. Here are some of the most beautiful beaches of the region:
Saint-Gilles-les-Bains
With its many pretty beaches, Saint Gilles les Bains is the most popular beach resort in Reunion Island. There are many hotels, villas and vacation rentals to welcome visitors and to enjoy its unique sunshine. For a long time, Saint-Gilles remained a small fishing village, and today even if a lot has changed, we still find this atmosphere of being connected to the ocean.
The General de Gaulle street which crosses the city shelters many inevitable addresses and leads to beaches like l’Ermitage, Roches Noires and the beach of Boucan Canot. If you want to enjoy sunbathing and other aquatic activities, do not miss Saint-Gilles-les-Bains.
Saint-Gilles is also an excellent starting point to discover the other colorful landscapes of Reunion Island. If you want overflights discoveries to places like the Piton de la Fournaise by helicopter or ULM, you will most likely want to visit one of the heliports located north of the city.
Saline les Bains beach
The public beach of Saline les Bains is very popular with locals and tourists alike. Protected by a coral reef, the beach offers swimming in shallow but very pleasant warm water. The beach is a famous place for water sports enthusiasts. The area contains a wide variety of fish and corals. Also, you can practice activities such as paddle boating and kayaking.
Saint-Leu
If Saint-Gilles is the capital of tourism in Reunion, Saint-Leu is the capital of paragliding. Thanks to its geographical and climatological conditions, Saint-Leu offers more than 300 days of paragliding per year. This is the place and experience to try for thrill seekers. The paragliding baptisms cost on average between € 80 to € 100, depending on the duration of flights and the many tour operators who offer this unforgettable experience.
Saint-Leu also has a very special place, Kelonia, the sea turtle observatory on the island. You can see sea turtles in huge tanks, which are cured before being released into the ocean. An excellent attraction for children and a good activity in case of rain.
Le Piton du Maïdo
Located a few kilometers from Saint-Leu, le Piton du Maïdo is really a natural balcony opening on the caldera of Mafate. This natural site is accessible by car from then Saint-Gilles and can be visited at any time of the year. The third circus of Réunion is Mafate, and unlike the first two circuses Salazie and Cilaos, Mafate is accessible only on foot.
It is one of the most isolated areas of Reunion Island and one can appreciate all its splendor since Piton Maïdo. With the Pas de Bellecombe (Piton de la Fournaise), Maïdo is the most visited panoramic observatory on the island. That says a lot about the dazzling views that awaits you at Maïdo. We advise you to visit early in the morning, the display of clouds is breathtaking.
Saint Paul Market
Saint Paul is the second largest municipality in the department of Reunion and if you are looking for the most colorful and friendly place full of life, it is the fairground market of Saint-Paul. Market days are Fridays and Saturday mornings. It’s a range of colors that opens up to you. Fruit, vegetables, spices, and crafts, there’s everything you could need.
The market is regularly visited by locals, and if you want to mix with the local population, we recommend you visit the Saint Paul market and its lively atmosphere. Also, take the opportunity to taste the many exotic dishes and donuts like the very popular bonbon piment (chili candy).
Eden Garden
Enjoy a stroll in a tropical garden near La Saline les Bains. This place enables discoveries to be made because it is a botanical garden which includes 700 varieties of plants. With a booklet, you will take the colorful and scentful paths. Take your time, there is a lot to see and maybe you will have the chance to cross the famous chameleons.
The aquarium of Reunion Island
If you want to discover the great biodiversity of the waters of the Indian Ocean then go to the aquarium of Reunion, located in Saint-Gilles-les-Bains. You will have the chance to see more than 500 different fish and shellfish species living around natural corals.
This giant aquarium is also an opportunity to introduce children to aquatic life, there are several workshops for children and adults alike. So, if you go through Saint-Gilles, do not hesitate to stop at the aquarium of Reunion Island.
The west coast of Reunion also offers other surprises to its visitors. Basin Aigrettes located not far from Saint-Gilles or the Souffleur hole in Saint-Leu, it’s really a region that will make the happiness of the whole family. On foot, by car, helicopter or free flight, everything is good to enjoy this tropical island.
Happy holidays in Reunion!
Mauritius is best known for its beautiful luxury hotels, with their private beach and high quality spas, making the island the perfect place to get away from it all and let yourself be pampered with care and relaxation.
For the more curious and nature lovers, the island also offers various landscapes that are worth a visit. The southwestern region is home to the Tamarin Falls, Chamarel and its land of 7 colors, the island of Benitiers, the seaside village of Flic en Flac and the Black River Gorges National Park. Organize a hike to the summit of Le Morne Brabant at over 550 m altitude, take a boat to Île aux Cerfs known for its water sports and golf course and spend a day in the small village fishermen of Grand Bay with its restaurants and bars.
For your heavenly trip to Mauritius, you can choose from the best hotels with the luxury Spa in different corners of the island:
Shanti Maurice – South Coast – Saint Félix
“Shanti” means peace in Sanskrit. At this luxury hotel, you’ll find your inner balance with luxurious wellness treatments and Ayurvedic treatments in an idyllic setting on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Listen to the sound of the wind in the palm leaves from your deck chair at the edge of your private pool.
Maradiva Villas Resort & Spa – West Coast – Flic en Flac
At this magnificent hotel with Asian architecture on the bay of Tamarin, you will feel completely out of place. Whether you want to relax in the heart of a tropical garden, recharge your batteries or detox in a luxurious setting, the Ayurvedic cures of this hotel will make your wishes for well-being a reality.
LUX * Grand Daube – North Coast – Grand Daube Bay
This hotel will transport you to another world. With a spa offering various treatments and massages and a beauty salon, you will feel pampered from head to toe. Lie down on its private sandy beach or go to discover its turquoise lagoon with the diving school located in the hotel. Lovers of sensation will also be seduced by the many water activities available on site.
Outrigger Mauritius – South West Coast – Bel Ombre
Whether you are alone, in love or with your family, the Outrigger will give your stay a true taste of paradise. In the heart of a huge tropical garden and by its private beach, you can relax by the ocean, walk in the middle of nature, entertain the children with the various activities on offer, enjoy traditional Mauritian dishes and even take cooking classes given by the chef to test new recipes at home.
The Mariannes Wellness Sanctuary – North of the Island – Congomah D’Epinay
The secret to get rid of the stress of everyday life and to find a light and positive spirit is revealed in this hotel of well-being and health. Specialized in bioenergy and neurotherapy, the care is practiced by qualified personnel in the middle of a panorama of green nature. Finish your well-being day by watching the sun set behind the mountains by the pool.
Mauritius
Mauritius also known as the paradise island is a tiny island situated in the Indian Ocean. It is one of the three Islands of the Mascarene. In the paradise island resides a number of tourist attractions that will fill up your schedule in Mauritius. You have the opportunity to visit museum, go on an adventure or even visit cultural places. It all depends on what you would like to fit in. The island is mostly known for its beaches, lagoon and reefs. The best time to visit the island is between May and December where the island is sunny and typically tropical.
Here are a few tourist attractions which you should not miss while in Mauritius:
Vallee des Couleurs
The mesmerising Vallee des Couleurs is home to a variety of flora and fauna, where many activities are proposed. It is a great place to enjoy an adventurous journey among families and friends. Nature lovers are bound to adore this place. Unique in its own way, the Vallee des Couleurs owns mountain valleys, plateaus, hill, waterfalls and lakes. It is a purely natural place where visitors are treated with 23 coloured Earth, a green valley, kid garden and a restaurant.
The visit of Vallee des Couleurs starts at the very beginning itself which is at the Exhibition room and this will give you an outline of how your journey is going to you. Throughout your visit to the fern garden you will spot some wild orchids, Bouquet Banane and many other types of flowers. The bouquet Banane is the most mesmerising flower of all the others but unfortunately it only blooms at the end on the year. Hopefully you get lucky enough and get the golden opportunity to watch the blooming of the Bouquet Banane.
Take the most perfect picture of the unspoiled beauty of the 23 coloured land of the Vallee des Couleurs. The 23 coloured earth was formed by a volcanic eruption of the Bassin Blanc. There are many activities including the Tyrolienne and quads which are proposed by the Vallee des Couleurs. The duration of the total visit to natural reserves is around 3-4 hours. There are many packages that you can choose. Each of them has their own price.
Citadel Fort Adelaine
The Citadel also known as the Fort Adelaine is ideally built up on a 100 metres hill which is actually known as ‘’Petite Montagne’’. The monument is named after the wife of William II back in the time where the British were ruling over the capital of Mauritius, Port-Louis. The Citadel was cleverly made to protect the British from enemy in the 19th century. It was designed by Colonel Cunningham and built by Indian and African slaves.
The building, made of giant blocks, is now a National Monument. At the top of The Fort Adelaine includes views of the entire town of Port-louis including the port, Caudan and champ de mars. You have to walk about a hundred stairs to get at the top of the citadel but you may also take a taxi to get at the top of the citadel. The place is always open and you may also go at night as there is light all over the place. However the best time to visit the Fort Adelaine is on Saturday from noon to around 4 to 5 PM. You may watch the horse race at the champ de mars from atop of the hill. The citadel is worth for at least a visit, you will surely enjoy the beautiful scenery of the port- Louis and you may also take some memories. So if you are in Mauritius and wondering where to go, we recommend that you rent a car with Avis Car rental Mauritius or just pay a taxis and it will bring you to the citadel mall.
Seychelles
The island of Seychelles is an archipelago which is made up of 115 islands in addition. There are 41 granite islands and 75 of them are coralline islands, all of them unique in their own way. Actually, no one can get bored in the Seychelles as there is always a new thing to discover, whether it is on land or underwater.
The Seychelles is as well a major tourist attraction. Besides its mesmerising beaches, lagoon and coral reefs the island also have wonderful attractions including its lush rain forests, its natural reserves, its museum and most importantly all the activities that the islands offers to all its visitors.
Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Garden is made up of more than 15 acres of exotic and endemic plants and lies in the heart of Victoria which is the capital of Mahé. Being over 100 years old, it is an outstanding attraction in the Indian Ocean deserving a mention in this list. While it was initially introduced as an experiment for the cultivation of several species of plants, it has now become a park where nature lovers would kill for an opportunity to visit this exotic place.
The Vallée de Mai National Park
The Vallée de Mai National Park is one unique attraction in the Seychelles which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to the largest amount of the endemic plant coco de mer fruit palm (around 4000 samples). The reserve also contains several rare bird species such as the black parrot.
Vallée de Mai was first established in 1966 and later listed as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1983. This tropical forest includes many species of animals and plants that are threatened to extinction and are protected by the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF). Nature lovers and photographers would love The Vallée de Mai National Park.
Cap Malheureux is a historical village in the sense that the British in 1810 had already lost the battle of Grand Port to the French.
The history behind the name
The British sailing along the coast since quite a long time knew a bit about the topology of the island and some vantage points as well, helping them in their bid to capture the island which was their leitmotiv as the French were doing a lot of harm to their commerce. They landed in 1810 at Cap Malheureux with a force as big as 20,000 men and marched towards the capital and forced General Decaen who capitulated in the impossibility of rallying an army capable of confronting the enemy. The name may be suitable because the place spelt the doom of the French. Malheureux also because of arid and unproductive land in the area. It was at first covered with forests, teeming with all sorts of plants and bushes. Hoe plants grew profusely and they were used for sack and rope making and construction purposes.
Why Malhereux (Sad)?
Malheureux also because legend wants it that the corpse of Virginie was swept to the beach of Cap Malheureux following the wreck of St Geran in 1744. According to Rene le Juge de Segrais, Cap Malheureux got its name from the shipwreck of St Geran which broke on the reefs off Amber Island, nearby. It lies in the extreme north about five miles from Grand Bay. It can be reached either by car or boat. The latter is more interesting as it enables to enjoy a spectacular view of the hinterland from the sea. There is also the possibility for admiring the grand bleu that lies open to the action of the wind and monstrous waves in stormy weather.
While the name can represent sadness, there are amazing villas situated in this coastal village of the island. Exclusive Villas Mauritius has superb waterfront villas in Cap-Malheureux.
A vivid and beautiful Village
Cap Malheureux is not as sad and dull as the name suggests. It does not disappoint visitors or tourists for it always has something to offer. It has a very beautiful beach, made attractive by its lukewarm water. There are points from which the beauty of the sea can be admired. Nothing stands in the way of the eyes.
The sea looks a sky blue, with at times emerald water sparkling and simmering in the bright sunny weather. Mirages are not lacking. The eye mistakes objects for boats, leaves for fish and so on and so forth. Therein lies the beauty of it. There is no dearth of real boats operating sea trips sometimes going as far as the horizon or to the Serpent Island and Flat Island. Landing nearby is dangerous as big waves wash the rocky shore. The very sight and the roaring sound of the sea make the flesh creep and freeze. Landing can be effected with the help of expert boatmen habituated in the task. However it needs a lot of courage. The wild nature no doubt invites a stepping onto the island. It really caters for man’s wild and savage instincts just as in Coral Island and a Pattern of islands by Grimble. Perhaps with a bit of luck one may catch the glimpse of a shark or sharks, it is said, swim as far as the island. It is a big risk but not worth taking. It involves loss of life. Some young inspired by dare devils or just to impress girlfriends or excite envy in friends take the risk.
The trip enables watching the water in its various shades and at the same time coming across several types of fish and creatures. Some choose glass bottom boats enabling viewing the water below with seaweeds, corals, shells and a lot of treasures hidden below.
The sea trip also fulfils the dream of witnessing a glorious sunset. From the beach a similar sensation is felt but from the boat it is something entirely different. One feels to be a part of it participating in the festival and riot of colours. Boating around, fishing in the lake, swimming, competing with friends, diving, surfing, playing water polo and indulging in other aquatic games are the highlight of the marvellous time spent there. Nobody can deny the adrenaline rise once in the vicinity of the village. Those who pass by cannot refrain from stopping a short time in the vicinity of the church Notre Dame de l’Auxillière to Indulge In the sheer simple pleasures. The environment, the church cosiness, its red roof seen especially from afar arouses a certain ineffable ecstasy. It conjures up the exotic picture of a building In a Swiss village or Lake District in England. On Sundays, the atmosphere is sheer fantastic. The faithful of both sexes mostly the ladies smartly dressed in multi coloured outfits steal the hearts of many a visitor. Some stay put till the ceremony or mass does not end. On the other hand, the beauty of the beach dotted with children, holidaymakers, vendors are no less luring. One cannot but admire the idyllic beauty of the surrounding and the magnificent panorama that unveils itself here and there and then. The waves hissing towards the shore and kissing It and the rocky shore a few yards away with the Islets of the North cutting their proud silhouettes in the far distance. It really creates a wonderful snap. Many art students turn up with their canvas, paint, brush and easel and spend hours painting the fascinating and captivating scenery that Is Indeed the hall mark of the village.
The name Is a misnomer as the village abounds in natural surroundings and a whole gamut of Interesting activities that can be practised. The small forests, plantation and the new buildings beside the fishermen’s huts, the bars and smack eating outlets dispensing palatable and tasty dishes arid even dainty nightlife replete with songs and dances leave no one insensitive to its charms. Returning again and again and relishing the countryside pleasures Is the cherished wish of all.
The history of Cassava
Cassava, a root consumed by our ancestors – the slaves, was once surface in the 18th century. In various forms – pancakes, puddings, soup, kat kat or biscuits, cassava remains an integral part of Creole cuisine.
Originally from South America and discovered by the Portuguese in the year 1500, cassava produces large tubers which is then transformed into flour or semolina. In 1735, Mahe de Labourdonnais, who stopped in the Indian Ocean, transported the first cuttings to Mauritius and three years later, The East India Company sent some by the Griffon sailboat to the island of Reunion.
Description of Cassava
How is it developing? Cassava has a system of tracer roots about 100 cm long which follow with a swelling marking the preliminary tuberization. Did you know that Cassava was poisonous? And yes, tubers and cassava leaves contain cyanide, so be very careful. Therefore, it must be reduced or eliminated before consumption.
Referring to Manioc, we tend to think that it is reserved for the poor because it was the easiest food and the most available in the time of the slaves. Nevertheless, this one offers a rather interesting nutrition. Vitamins B and C, fibers used to improve digestion, cassava is an alternative food, especially for people with diabetes and for athletes.
Cassava recipe
If you want a good cassava dish for lunch or dinner, we offer you the famous Kat Kat de Manioc below:
Kat Kat de Manioc (Cassava Daube)
Ingredients:
- 50g smoked salmon cut into small cubes
- 100 g grated cheese (cheddar cheese)
- A tomato cut into cubes
- Onion cut into cubes
- 500g peeled Cassava
- A cup of chopped watercress
- Two tablespoons chopped garlic
- A tablespoon of thyme
- Two tablespoons chopped parsley
- Three tablespoons of oil
- 100ml of liquid milk
- Salt and pepper according to your taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 50g of half-salted butter
Preparation:
- Start by peeling the cassava. Cut them in half and boil in a casserole with salt water for 5 minutes.
- Remove the cassava and cut into small cubes.
Note: Be careful not to overcook or cook the cassava enough. This will allow the cassava to be able to keep their farms texture.
- Put oil in a pot and heat it over medium heat.
- Add chopped garlic and onions and let them brown for a few seconds.
- Take the thyme, pepper, salt, parsley, tomato, and cassava and add them to the pot.
- Stir it for a few seconds and add a little water. Then, cook for a minute without covering the pot.
- Add watercress and stir for 10 seconds.
- Next, stir in the smoked salmon and butter while stirring slowly just to prevent the cassava from mashing.
- Pour in the milk, nutmeg and cheese.
- Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes before removing from heat.
And behold, serve yourself while it is still hot with slices of plain bread or slices of garlic bread.
Why not a dessert or a small dish to taste?
Cassava Pudding
Ingredients for 4 persons.
- 4 eggs
- 1 kg of cassava
- 150 g of brown sugar
- 200 g of butter
- 500 ml of milk
- 3 tablespoons rum (optional)
- 1 sachet of baking powder
- 1 sachet of vanilla sugar
Preparation:
- Peel the cassava and wash it
- Then take the cassava roots and grated them very finely
- Take the cassava and macerate twice in a pot filled with water for 20min. It is especially important to be careful with the residue that will be at the bottom of the pot. This is the cyanide that was present in the tubers and leaves of cassava. By simmering in water, the amount of cyanide present in cassava is substantially reduced and becomes fit for human consumption.
- Take a dish towel and squeeze the grated cassava.
- Take the eggs and beat them with the sugar until this mixture whitens.
- Stir in the softened butter while continuing to beat the mixture.
- When the mixture is well mixed, add the milk, rum and vanilla sugar.
- Finally, add the grated cassava with the yeast packet.
- Take some butter and put it in the cake mold so that it does not stick to the mold at the end of cooking. If you have parchment paper, you can also spread it in the mold instead of the butter.
- Pour in the dough and put it in the oven for 45 minutes.
- Take a sheet of aluminum and cover the mold. When the cassava cake is sufficiently cooked inside, remove the paper so that it can brown a little. You can turn off the oven as it is still hot and the gilding will only last a few minutes.
- When it is golden enough to taste, remove it from the oven and let it cool.
If you want to discover more cassava recipe, come spend a holiday in Seychelles, Mauritius or Reunion. If you visit Seychelles, there are fabulous hotels in Mahé while in Mauritius, the hotels of Flic en Flac will make you dream. Finally in Reunion, there are beautiful residences in St Gilles.
Il n’est pas la peine de dire que nous voulons tous le visiter. Notre soif de voyage et notre constante envie de découverte nous pousse à faire des voyages et faire des découvertes surprenantes à travers le monde. Mais parfois, nous avons besoin de quelques conseils pour savoir ou aller et que découvrir pour nous aider à étancher cette soif.
Que découvrir en 2018 ? Indian-Ocean.com vous propose une liste de pays à ne surtout pas manquer en 2018.
Les Seychelles
Les Seychelles est la destination de vacances par excellence de l’océan-Indien. Cet archipel idyllique offre plus de 115 îles de pure merveille. Le meilleur est le fait qu’un bon nombre de ces îles sont exclusives et donc quasiment désertiques. Vous aurez la chance d’avoir des plages et des lagons à vous tout seul. Réserver un vol pour les Seychelles avec Air Seychelles.
L’ile Maurice
L’ile Maurice célèbrera ses 50 années d’indépendance de la Grande Bretagne en 2018. L’occasion parfait pour visiter ce petit coin de paradis. Durant les dernières années, une panoplie d’activités nautiques et terrestres ont vu le jour sur l’ile, de quoi vous occuper durant vos vacances. L’avantage avec l’ile Maurice est son large choix d’accommodation à différents prix. Le concept « touriste chez l’habitant » prend de l’ampleur sur l’ile. Donc, si vous voyagez avec un budget assez restreint, vous serez quand même excellement bien loge et nourri. De quoi vous incruster dans le quotidien des habitants de l’île. Vous pourrez profiter de nombreuses plages.
Afrique du Sud
C’est la célébration du centième anniversaire de l’icône anti-apartheid et du président sud-africain Nelson Mandela. Pour célébrer le centenaire de Madiba, il y aura de nombreuses expositions, des programmes, des événements sportifs, des défilés et des événements qui plongent dans la vie, l’histoire et l’héroïsme de cet homme remarquable.
Chili
Séparé de l’Argentine et de la Bolivie par les Andes, ce pays possède une biodiversité, des paysages et des phénomènes naturels remarquables. Du plateau aride du Désert d’Atacama (le desert le plus aride sur terre) aux volcans coniques du Lake District en passant par les glaciers du Parc National de Torres del Paine, la destination est un rêve fou pour les amateurs de plein air. Plus encore : dix millions d’hectares de nouveaux parcs nationaux, dont des glaciers, des forêts et des côtes sauvages, viendront s’ajouter à la région déjà immense des aires protégées et préservées grâce aux dons de terres sans précédent de Tompkins Conservation et du gouvernement chilien.
Malte
Son nouveau titre de capitale européenne de la culture met en lumière l’archipel méditerranéen, en commençant en janvier par une cérémonie d’ouverture dans les rues de La Valette. Les visiteurs viendront pour 7 000 ans d’histoire, des temples préhistoriques, l’architecture médiévale préservée, les eaux bleues étincelantes avec des criques cachées, et 300 jours de soleil par an.
Norvège
Le pays le plus heureux du monde de 2017 fait plus que quelques petites choses. La combinaison gagnante de la nature, du commerce et des vibrations décontractées en fait un endroit idéal pour passer du temps et rencontrer de nouveaux amis. Avec un accès facile et sans entrave à son centre-ville (Oslo), aux voisins Scandinaves (Stockholm, Copenhague), aux îles préservées (Lofoten) et au cercle polaire arctique (bonjour, aurore boréale !), Il n’y a aucun moyen de s’y perdre.
Le Nord de la France
Le nord de la France commémore le 100e anniversaire de la fin de la Première Guerre mondiale avec un calendrier chargé d’événements incluant les célébrations de l’offensive des Hundres, les événements sur les champs de bataille historiques de Dunkerque et du circuit du souvenir de la Somme, une route de 40 kilomètres conduisant les visiteurs à travers les monuments commémoratifs, les cimetières et les tranchées préservées. Au-delà de l’histoire de la guerre, la région est riche en sites du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO (comme le remarquable Mont-Saint-Michel), villes charmantes et villes côtières, et une excellente cuisine.
Le Japon
L’île est presque toujours tendance. Alors que les Jeux olympiques de 2020 suscitent un nouvel intérêt, c’est maintenant le moment pour visiter le japon, tandis que les destinations et les événements culturels sont encore sous-le-radar pour la plupart des voyageurs occidentaux. Au-delà de Tokyo et de Kyoto, les points forts à ne pas manquer comprennent Numata (où les gobelins défilent dans les rues), Morioka (où l’on entend le tambour taiko) et Hokkaido.
Le nord-ouest Pacifique
La nature est roi dans cette poche de l’Amérique du Nord (Oregon, Washington et Colombie-Britannique). Les citadins de Portland, Seattle et Vancouver peuvent rapidement s’évader vers les parcs nationaux pour des randonnées, faire du VTT et des trail en pleine nature sauvage. La zone est moins fréquentée que Zion et Yosemite mais pas moins magnifique. Une autre raison de célébrer le nord-ouest pacifique : La Loi sur le système de sentiers national, qui a contribué à la création du célèbre Pacific Crest Trail, célèbrera ses 50 ans en 2018.
Singapour
La petite île-nation, surnommée la « ville dans un jardin », est l’un des environnements urbains les plus verts au monde. Prochainement: une politique de croissance zéro pour les voitures et les bus sans conducteur. Vous regardez le futur.
