Mauritius

Its name conjures up all that is romantic; an island of beautiful beaches fringed with palm and casuarina trees, protected by a coral reef forming lagoons of crystal clear water. A fertile island where waving fronds of sugar cane dominate the landscape; where there are large forested areas, huge craters, gorges and spectacular waterfalls all with a backdrop of mountains whose jagged profile indicates their volcanic origin. Its climate is idyllic with sunshine all the year round, temperatures varying little from summer to winter; the only disturbing factor is the rare cyclone which descends to disturb the peace. Its name is Mauritius.

This tiny island, only 36 miles long by 25 miles at its widest point, is situated in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean, 1,265 miles from the coast of Africa to the west, and with nothing between it and Australia to the east, Although modern life has brought sophistication and prosperity, there is much that remains unspoilt. The lagoons, surrounded by beaches of silvery sand, a holiday maker's dream, have nowadays some of the best hotels in the world on their shores. The forests are home to rare birds and provide opportunities for hunting the wild boar and deer. Botanic gardens proudly display their huge variety of tropical trees and shrubs, while nature reserves and bird sanctuaries allow the visitor a closer view of some of the rarer inhabitants of the island including the pink pigeon.

Good roads ensure accessibility to all parts and public transport is both cheap and efficient. The wealth of produce of tropical fruit, vegetables and seafood enable the restaurants to provide cuisine of the highest standard. Each year the number of restaurants of different ethnic origins increases, but French influence remains dominant. Its people, mainly from India with minorities of Creole, Chinese and European are warm and friendly and although English is the official language, French and Creole are the most widely spoken. The climate is tropical; the constant south east winds temper the heat of the summer, October to April, and provide that vital ingredient for sailing and wind-surfing, two of the most popular water sports.

Port Louis, the capital, is a thriving port, centre of commerce and extensive shopping centre, much of it duty free. It is also a living history of Mauritius - its many statues tell the story of its past, while the mosques, temples, pagoda and cathedrals are a testament to its multi-ethnic heritage.

There is everything here to provide the visitor with the perfect holiday; the tranquil atmosphere, an abundance of day-time activities from water-sports to golf, evenings of pleasure and entertainment with night clubs and casinos. Mauritius has it all.