When visiting relatives or friends, I have always thought about what the essentials in their kitchen, utensils and electrical apparatus aside, could be for everyone. The elements that emerge are practically the same in Mauritius, whether the cuisine is big or small: spices, spices or spices and herbs. Among these, it is unanimous there are some essentials:
Read moreWhen visiting relatives or friends, I have always thought about what the essentials in their kitchen, utensils and electrical apparatus aside, could be for everyone. The elements that emerge are practically the same in Mauritius, whether the cuisine is big or small: spices, spices or spices and herbs. Among these, it is unanimous there are some essentials:
Read moreSir Thomas Herbert, an English gentleman who landed in Mauritius on the 10th of June 1628, coming back from Persia was the first to call the dronte : Dodo, as derived from the Portuguese doudo, stupid.
Read moreDesforges street in Port-Louis is the place to be, especially for after-hour street food at the Capital city. Indeed, most of the vendors only start operating as from six in the afternoon until nearly midnight. You could find a large variety of food available at different locations, including the famous Mauritian biryani (a mix of spices cooked with rice and chicken, beef or fish), fried rice or noodles, and so on.
Read moreThe demand for seasonal fruit consumption diminished with the closure of the borders to tourism. The gardens of Mauritius soon found themselves with a surplus of fruits, some of which were formerly considered as rare or uncommon. One of these is the Pitaya, hitherto somewhat unknown, but so full of benefits.
Read moreA stone's throw from the center of the village of Moka, nestled in lush greenery, there’ s this place that can bring you back into the past in a few minutes. The small path that takes you there already arouses curiosity! This is a very original “table d'hôte”, with a garden that is well worth to be discovered: a banana tree loaded with green fruit, a guava tree, a papaya tree and many other fruit trees. Beautiful ferns that rival magnificent tropical plants.
Read moreThis song echoes the shops of yesteryear that were close to our homes, an era when supermarkets did not yet exist. Those steel metal shops were run by Chinese immigrants who came to work in Mauritius and who offered credit to families.
Read moreChinatown is just like the Chinese areas seen in the movies with its old buildings and traditional food stations at every street corner. I was looking for a specific shop well-known for its grandmother's herbs and medicinal remedies.
Read moreIn the past, Port-Louis used to be THE place to be for shopping and at that time, all shop-keepers all over the island, used to close their shops on Thursdays so they could all go to our capital city for the purchase of their stock of goods
Read moreOur guest this week is Jacques de Spéville, wildlife photographer, specialized in birds photo-shooting in nature. Their plumage, of outstanding colours have no secrets for him! Demonstrating his passion and showcasing these flying species in all their splendor are signs of his humility and authentic sharing.
Read moreWherever you may go in Mauritius, there will always be a part of history to discover. Mahebourg, a village named after Mahé de Labourdonnais, then French governor, Aapravasi Ghat, which relates the arrival of indentured labourers from India, Le Morne Heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, commemorates the Maroon slaves of Africa. Grand Baie, Poudre d´Or, Curepipe, names of towns and villages recalling the French occupation, Phoenix, New Grove, Rose-Hill, that of the British period.
Read moreMangroves grow either at great depths, in shallow water and also in dry areas. 'They are one of the most bio productive ecosystems in the world, as they are the only large species to survive on muddy shores. They act as wooden reeves that become the support and shelter of important wildlife'.
Read moreMauritius, known to many as Paradise Island, land of beautiful beaches and even lovelier people. However, one of the most pleasant surprises a visitor to the island will experience, is the level of service and dedication that Mauritians deliver to all.
Read moreHave you finally found your One and Only, your forever sweetheart ? Nothing looks great enough for your chosen person ! What could you come up with to surprise her and give her memories to cherish for a lifetime ? An island, a dream setting, a destination and our expertise : Mauritius !
Read moreNone can ignore that over and above our beautiful beaches, Mauritius has a lot more to offer! For sure it is well-known for its deep-sea fishing, Scuba diving and numerous sea activities and much more ….
Read moreFood forms an integral part of the Mauritian culture and visitors to the island are always welcome to savour the different dishes that we have to offer. From spicy curries, creole dishes to Chinese food to the much loved dholl puri, you will be sure to enjoy your meal.
Read moreMauritius has positioned itself since quite a few years now, as a destination that promotes Health and Wellness by offering quality services during your holidays when it comes to pampering yourself.
Read moreIndeed, it is one of the benefits of living on an island as we can enjoy the advantages of microclimate (it can be rainy on one part of the island while the other side has a bright blue, sunny sky).
Read moreDrinking water right from one of the waterfalls is a real treat as it was so fresh and thirst-quenching. Everything around us was so quiet except for the birds’ songs, the rustling of leaves like a soft music, the peaceful gurgling of water ... The world was at a standstill.
Read moreIt is true that a simple mention of the island of Mauritius, and one would be tempted to immediately imagine its long sandy beaches, its emerald lagoons and beautiful sun that warms the skin and hearts! But what if we tell you that our island is also a privileged destination for sportsmen….?n
Read moreThe island of Mauritius acclaimed for its togetherness attracts our visitors. From his youngest age, the Mauritian learns to respect his neighbour of different cultures. A richness which amazes many.
Read moreOur imagination flies to these beautiful ladies dressed up in Calais laces or English embroidery outfits, when we think about the charming castle life. They usually carried umbrellas matching their dresses, while they walked in these spectacular alleys of colonial mansions in Mauritius…
Read moreA nice beverage plays an important role in human culture. It can be a way for us to express our identity or share our hospitality. Beverages play an important part of the Mauritian culture. When visiting someone in Mauritius you will always be offered something to drink, be it Mauritian tea or coffee or even something alcoholic.
Read moreAs I entered her kitchen, a pleasant mix of aromas invites me to stop and try to distinguish what is on the menu of the day. All around her, displayed in well aligned small bowls, I recognized finely chopped spices, boiled dried fish already crumbled and a hand of very green bananas.
Read moreNeed to escape for your big day? Need to wow your better half? Nothing better than choosing a dream destination known for its idyllic weddings: The Island of Mauritius!
Read moreOur People, our nation. One of the greatest assets of Mauritius is, without doubt our people!!
Read moreToday, these surprising ovens, a symbol of our past remind us that our heritage and environment must be preserved at all costs.
Read moreClear aquamarine sea, pristine white sand, green coconut palms swaying gently in the breeze. Welcome to the island of Mauritius!! The contrast in colours and the exquisiteness of our beaches are something worthy of poems. By the way, Mark Twain was inspired when he said ….. : Mauritius was made first and then heaven, and heaven was copied after Mauritius.
Read moreFormerly Moringa, commonly known in Mauritius as "Bred Mouroum" or "Bred medaille" was planted along cemeteries and served as natural fences. A food plant with 92 nutrients that can reach 10 meters in height, it is among the richest nutriments on the planet.
Read moreAt the end of the French colonization there were more than three hundred of these small sugar mills and life revolved around them, especially during the sugar cane harvest. They are all unique in their structure, height, material used and layout.
Read moreCassava “cat-cat” is indeed the equivalent of a good balanced meal that can fill you up for a few hours and helps to stop food craving. A few aromatic herbs bring freshness and enhance the visual part of the dish.
Read moreThis small chapel, so different from the large cathedrals, built in noble materials, topped with cane leaves, is part of the Mauritian cultural heritage. Our Lady of Fatima in Black River is unique in the world by the landscape, the quietness and peacefulness of the surroundings.
Read moreThis crayfish chutney is a Delicatessen of our Mauritian cuisine and its scent is unique due to the ingredients added to it such as garlic, ginger, tomatoes, called here “pomme d’ amour”, chili peppers as well as aromatic herbs.
Read moreDo you remember our natural mattress-manufacturer? Until recently, our coconut fiber mattresses were made locally by craftsmen in Mauritius who came at home to sew them.
Read moreThis particular crew made the day of the children, who at this sight, shouted joyfully: "Saret bef! Saret bef!", meaning the ox cart has come.
Read moreIt is hard to imagine that before Mauricio, the metro that currently connects the city of Rose-Hill to Port Louis, our elders saw the conversion of some of our roads to a railway in the early 19th century.
Read moreHe moved from house to house in Mauritius to deliver fresh milk while activating his horn and shouting loudly: "Marsan dile! Marsan dile!" (Milk seller).
Read moreWe gradually engaged into a forest. Many varieties of palm trees were all around us: Dwarf Palm, Mexican Palm, Japanese Palm and other vines and trees with trunks as wide as we can see in the film ‘Journey to the centre of the earth’.
Read moreThis passion for the championship is surely part of the heritage that was left to us by the British.
Read moreMother Nature has reclaimed its rights, after having quietly enjoyed this quarantine season.
Read moreRRR: Three capital letters with such a deep meaning to be memorized and implemented by each and every one of us. It is a way of living we adopted years ago at Mautourco, DMC in Mauritius.
Read moreThe future of global tourism and travel will definitely change and may never be the same again. Travel Companies across the world will need to innovate and adapt to what will most probably be: the new normal. Sustainable and Responsible tourism will most certainly be the new way to go. Mauritius is actively getting geared to welcome guests from all over the world and in this respect, the after Covid-19 protocols are being set by different stakeholders.
Read moreWasn’t it the way our elders used to bring back life to old stuff, and think of how to do differently with what’s on hand? We are reminded of their precious advices and this is what we must transmit to the young generation.
Read moreWe are all well aware that there are many challenges ahead for our industry. However, Mautourco fully supports the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) statement that, “By staying home today, we can travel tomorrow.”
Read moreAt Mautourco, while being connected, we discuss and go on with our projects. Together we rediscover those human values we all share.
Read moreOur island:
Our dear little Mauritius island, you are so precious to us. We will forever honour you, for your colours shine over our rainbow nation, a haven of peace like no other.
Read moreWhat do the English Premier League and horse racing have in common in Mauritius? Both sports have a large, avid following and emphasise the British colonial heritage of our island.
Read moreChristmas under our latitudes has nothing to envy of the northern “white” Christmas.
Read moreMauritius can offer more than the familiar seaside, sun-filled getaway.
With the growing trends of green tourism and eco-conscious living, the demand for alternative holiday accommodation has been on the rise lately. In many parts of the island, new addresses offering a comfortable and yet, authentic and nature-centred experience, have sprouted.
Read moreSometimes, without notice, memories of days gone by flood into our wandering mind. Memories of our childhood ...
Read moreWhat an emotion-filled adventure I had on the east side of the island in a Buggy Vintage, rented with Hertz Mauritius.
Read more"To be a man is precisely to be responsible. It is to feel, by laying one's stone, that one helps to build the world." Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
Read moreNot too far from Beau Vallon, in the hamlet of Riche en Eau, lies a vestige of our colonial past : the ‘Château de Riche en Eau’. By circumstances, I found myself there on March 12 (one of the two days of the year this private property opens its doors to well informed visitors, the other day being Heritage Day).
Read moreThe crystalline waters of our beautiful Mauritius allow us to enjoy beautiful cruises at sea aboard catamarans, regardless of the location you embark at.
Read moreThe ability of the Noni to adapt is extraordinary at ground level, as it can grow in coral sand, like it does over here in Albion, on volcanic basalt, near brackish water ponds or even in spots with high salinity level.
Read moreThe Chamarel Fancy Fair attracts quite the crowd from all corners of the island, as that is where the best deals are at. Tasting typical Mauritian dishes, such as a brown pig Salmi (wild boar), venison stew, hare or among others, a delicious free-range chicken curry is an absolute recommendation. Chamarel is a guaranteed authenticity and it reflects a multi-cultural island.
Read moreThe breadfruit, from its scientific name Artocarpus Altilis, is commonly known in Mauritius as the Madegone. This big spherical fruit that grows on a tree which can reach 15 meters high, is used to feed families in a number of ways, and weighs between one to two kilograms.
Read moreWhat attracts runners to a Trail? First and foremost, the locations where these races are held. Nature reserves, forests, private areas, where no runner would dare to venture on their own, as the lands are so vast. Physical and mental fitness and determination are valuable assets.
Read moreOur Customer Care Department is busy attending to our guests and listening to their needs – whether it is for following up on an incident, attending to flight cancellations or delays, a surprise birthday gift, items that may have been inadvertently left behind on a tour or at the hotel, and so much more.
Read moreI, she said, seldom consult a doctor. 'I treat myself using plants found in Nature. It is such a pity that young people nowadays do not find the time or simply do not have it anymore to plant and take care of a small corner of land!’
Read moreThe ride to La Vallée de L’Est was very enjoyable, we crossed a really beautiful road along the sea. We were in absolute awe of the authenticity of the village of Vieux Grand Port. There in fact reigns an indescribable atmosphere. Could it be due to past events? Quite possibly!
Read moreMautourco carries on its winning streak with recognition at the World Travel Award as Mauritius’ Leading Destination Management Company for the fifth consecutive year. Our company has also received the award for Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination Management Company for the second time in two years and has been nominated once again for World’s Leading Destination Management Company.
Read moreThe grandmother, mother, daughters-in-law and the young ladies of the house are all up. Preparations are well underway in the family kitchen. The noise must be kept to a minimum so the rest of the family who is still asleep is not disturbed. All these women are busy making tasty meals while honoring each family member’s wishes.
Read moreHow can I describe this homemade bread otherwise than stating it has not aged in centuries? It is round in shape and weighs about a 100 grams ; it is cracked in the middle so that it more easily breaks in equal halves.
Read moreThe plant’s scientific name is 'Schinus terebinthifolius'; it is native to Brazil and has acclimatized at different altitudes. This species, resistant to insects and diseases, was first heard of from James Duncan in 1863. Its fruits are widely disseminated by birds and it has become invasive, as it produces lots of seeds that germinate fast. They are now produced as spices for export.
Read moreThis lovely tranquility spot will surprise you. At the further end of a long green path, a magnificent Creole House dating from 1872, surrounded by a sumptuous garden, awaits its day visitors. Some tables found under the veranda offer a beautiful view of the garden.
Read moreDelivering a high-quality, end-to-end guest experience requires that all our teams stay focused on meeting the ever-changing needs and wants of our partners and guests. Everything must be well coordinated, from reservation and payment to tour and transfer logistics in order to maintain our reputation for service quality and reliability.
Read moreWooden battens, glue jars and varnish cans were neatly stored on shelves, and cardboard templates hung on a nail. The man, who was in his sixties, was very friendly and very inclined to talk about his passion and experience.
Read moreOur two Wedding experts, Jessica and Nadine, have been doing this noble job for several years now and they put their experience and extensive knowledge at the service of our brides and grooms to be. Organizing a private, couple-only wedding or a wedding with a large guest list holds no secret for those two.
Read moreThe picking of ‘Goyaves de Chine’ is an exercise worth participating in at least once a year. A little advice to the uninitiated: caution! If the guavas are not picked at the right time, they will be too acidic and will consequently cause you to squint. Let’s call on the experts: the sellers who will spare no efforts to advise you!
Read moreFishing: a healthy hobby, a communion with nature. A treat for the senses. A delight that involves respect of nature, a priority according to fishermen: show respect to the sea and it will respect you back.
Read moreI am in fact a lively and long-lasting blooming decorative scrub. I provide joy and happiness to all those who stop by her garden and cast a glance at me. They call me ‘Flame of the Woods’, ‘Torch tree’ or ‘Japanese Hortensia’.
Read moreIf most of our drivers are bilingual, we also include in our team those who speak a third language, of which German, Italian .... and those ones work as driver-guides. It is with great pride that they will make you discover our island during the excursions.
Read moreAs Mauritians all around the country gather to celebrate 51 years of Independence, let us take a look at the history of tourism in Mauritius.
Read moreMautourco blends creativity with environmental sensibility to craft authentic but also sustainable experiences for our guests.
Read moreWhere do those yellow birds come from? The ones which make nests resembling upside-down flasks, with a bottom entrance?
Read moreThe old village of Mahébourg which was left unchanged and where the quietly flourishing neighborhood life could still be felt. The esplanade offered a magnificent view of the tiny island of Mouchoir Rouge (literally, Red Handkerchief) as well as of the East Coast.
Read moreAren’t there different types of love, characterized by maternal love, paternal love, brotherly love or universal love though? Should it not be celebrated every day?
Read moreKung Shee Fat Choy!! I dare you to find a single Mauritian, no matter the ethnic background, who does not know what these words mean! In fact, this is how we wish a Happy New Year to our compatriots of Chinese origin, in January or February when they celebrate the lunar new year: the Spring Festival.
Read moreOn February 01st, we remember the struggle for individual freedom, honor victims of slavery and celebrate Freedom.
Read moreThe 360° view was simply breathtaking, the shades of blue and turquoise were magical and we were all awestruck by this incredible panorama! It looked like it came straight off a postcard.
Read moreMany mangoes bear the names of women. Why? Most probably because of the landowners of the time who created new varieties and wanted to pay tribute to their wives.
Read moreWe have all heard about the holiday of Epiphany or The Epiphany Tart, celebrated on the first Sunday of January (if it is not the 01st of course). Well, at home, in Mauritius, we celebrate: Lé Rwa bwar! Which literally means: the king drinks!
Read moreThe new year, to be more locally precise, Banané (New year). Banané overshadows all cultural and spiritual festivities whatsoever, and drowns one and all in a bliss which we people of this island alone can feel.
Read moreThe end-of-year celebrations in Mauritius are the prime time for all kinds of outdoor fun with nature following suit by oozing with deliciously festive flavours and colours.
Read moreSeasons come and seasons go. With the New Year countdown come the merry days. Who could be oblivious to a Delonix Regia (Flamboyant tree) in full bloom? This tree, native to the neighboring island of Madagascar and introduced in Mauritius, brightens our landscape and nature with its clusters of red to vermillion flowers.
Read morePicturesque. That’s the perfect description of the Central Market of Port Louis, our capital city.
Read moreThe team’s know-how is sure to make the most unique and memorable MICE experiences you’ll find on the island. Whatever you are imagining right now, Mautourco can take your dream and make it a theme!
Read moreIn the beginning of the Mauritian summer, when colors and fragrances combine, the crimson glow takes precedence and takes over. Seasonal fruits compete in abundance, consistency and beauty. This is how Litchi (Litchi chinensis) trees originating from China change in appearance because they are covered with bunches of red berries. They stand tall and proud for succeeding in making Lychee lovers wait a whole year to finally savor their produce.
Read moreAn urge to stroke this piece of glistening jet black varnished wood took me back to the Dutch period. Back then, the island was replete with ebony trees - although they were very heavy to carry - since their wood is so dense it does not float.
Read moreBeing a front-liner is a rewarding, exciting and challenging profession, where our team members learn as much from our guests as they learn from them. As true ambassadors of the legendary Mauritian hospitality, they put their sound local knowledge and deep understanding of our guests’ different cultures at work to spoil the latter with the holiday that they have come for.
Read moreThis is Diwali in nature bathing the abode of man in the bliss of ongoing light from above. Diwali shares light when there is no light. Hence, open the door, open wide your heart, for Diwali awaits.
Read moreThe Aapravasi Ghat is an important part of the history of Mauritius. It is inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. This place had been the gateway for immigrants coming mainly from India from 1834, right into the context of the abolition of slavery, to 1924, to work as labourers in the sugarcane fields.
Read moreTechnology has taken over the world. Eyes are now firmly fixed on tablets and trendy smartphones. The virtual reality reigns supreme all over the world.
Read moreI was inevitably drawn to the ocean. All sails out, the catamaran glided smoothly towards its final destination, while the sky wore its best colors. It was slightly foggy and one could spot shapes in clouds that could inspire new and experienced artists alike.
Read moreLet me take you on this journey, while exciting your taste buds. These stimulating flavors and scents remind us of the debt we owe to Mother Nature, as no chemicals were added to these fruit trees, nature taking its own course.
Read moreMautourco has achieved a remarkable feat by winning the World Travel Award for Mauritius’ Leading Destination Management Company for the fourth year in a row. In addition, this year our company combining over six decades of experience has also bagged the award for Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination Management Company.
Read moreTour Guiding is first and foremost about sharing our passion for our beautiful island of Mauritius.
Read moreDriving under the open sky, straw hat on the front seat, sunglasses on, in a casual chic outfit, I took a road with multiple bends in a convertible fun car hired at Hertz. I sang my throat out, carried away by a sense of joy and a feeling of freedom. On my left, a most unexpected green space: through coconut palms one could glimpse, above recently built houses, the horizon of the cobalt-blue Indian sea.
Read moreMauritius is home to a distinctive and delicious street food culture built on layers of cultural diversity. Our island’s people have a well-entrenched tradition of eating on the run at roadside stalls serving up an array of flavours and the local markets and streets are actually the place to go for an authentic Mauritian food experience.
Read moreAt Mautourco, our success has always been defined by our ability to make our guests feel welcome and to attend to their every need at each and every moment of their stay. And this starts right at the airport, from the very moment you set foot upon the soil of Mauritius
Read moreMy Island, far from the ancient lands, but so soaked with culture and human blooming, is a small piece of land which takes pride in having all religions deeply rooted, all civilisations coexisting and in celebrating the main religious festivals with dignity.
Read moreJacques Désiré Laval, a spiritan missionary Father arrived in September 1841 on the island from Normandy, where he was born. He was a doctor dedicated to the poor and the slaves who had been freed a few years back. He evangelized, advised, treated and helped the recently freed population out of its misery, both spiritual and material.
Read moreThen I saw her: Maya !(you would have probably guessed: it was a BEE), which was peacefully twirling around a ‘Veloutier Argenté’ (Tournefortia Argentea). These shrubs, with rough barks have trunks that often take graceful curves, so graceful, that they seem to dance on Jazz tunes under the rays of the golden sun.
Read moreThus we inherited Mother’s day from the European, African dances from the continent, spring festival from China and India bestowed us Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi. A feast unique in its own, for truly speaking, it’s not a celebration but a bond, a fraternal commitment honoured annually between biological brothers and sisters, swearing the solemn vow to protect each other in brotherly love.
Read moreLike authentic Mauritians, bent on sharing and endowed with a natural friendliness, Mary’s Celebration has cut across both cultural and belief barriers. Solemn processions dedicated to Virgin Mary would swarm cities and villages after the special mass but gone are these good old days. However some old traditions do remain.
Read moreStony road, surrounded by a rich flora with the much prized chinese guavas at an arm’s length. From a small clearing on the left emerged a large herd of deer (Cervus Rusa), with the dominant male endowed with antlers trophy collectors dream of.
Read moreThe seasoned guide of the Adventure Trail welcomed me in the 7-seat 4 x 4 Pathfinder and he immediately won me over by his simplicity and humility. I had no doubt that the customer service would match my expectations as trust building is an integral part of his training.
Read moreThe temperature drop occurring in Mauritius every year, the cold which gradually begins in May, increases in July and August and slowly fades away in September. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Southern winter!
Read moreThere is something utterly compelling about seeing the island from above, especially when one can easily recognize its natural geographic features and outlines, similar to a gigantic map. The sense of fulfilment and self-exaltation one gets from travelling to high altitudes is unique.
Read moreChamps de Mars (oldest racetrack in the southern hemisphere) situated at Port Louis is at its boiling point. Saturday horse racing is in the starting block.
Read moreWhile occasionally strolling through the cobbled streets of Port-Louis, lined with basalt structured buildings, I am inevitably reminded of the French presence in the city, in the country.
Read moreLying back on a deckchair, facing the turquoise lagoon of crystal water down in the South West of Mauritius, with an outstretched arm, I liberally applied refined coconut oil on my skin
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