The Republic of Mauritius
Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean, an idyll of white sand beaches, luxurious hotels and crystal clear waters. This is paradise at its best, with a warm, relaxed vibe and some of the friendliest people around.
Although small, covering only 1,865 sq km, Mauritius is one of the most densely populated places in the world and supports some 1 million people, although it is actually most heavily influenced by its French and British ties and predominantly Indian workforce.
And with such a mix of cultures and nationalities, there's almost always a festival or special event going on in one of the temples, mosques or Churches.
Spend time on one of the breathtaking championship golf courses that can be found here, be pampered at a world class spa resort or head to Port Louis' market, with its intoxicating smell of spices and fresh tea leaves. A trip to Trou aux Cerfs, an extinct volcanic crater, is another must during your visit to the island.
Most of the beaches are found on the north, west and east coasts, which are fringed by coral reefs making them ideal for snorkelling and diving, and its here that most of the hotels and resorts lay too.