Mauritius lies in the Indian Ocean, 2000 kilometers from the African coastline. Its favorable distance from the African and Asian continents made it a sought-after strategic base for the colonial French, British, Dutch and Portuguese. In fact, at the port town of Mahebourg, the British and French fought a major battle over the possession of the island. Due to the many cultural and colonial invasions Mauritius underwent, it is a sort of cultural melting pot, where one can find people of African, European and Asian ancestry. This is very clear if you visit the cities of Mauritius, each different from the other.
Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius, and is probably the only city in Mauritius that suffers prolonged traffic jams. All the major businesses of Mauritius are located in Port Louis, though in the older parts of the town, you may find quiet boulevards and paved walkways. The city is well connected to other parts of Mauritius, and had direct air links to major European capitals. Mahebourg, on the other hand, is a quiet fishing town, with none of the bustling streets, shopping centers, malls or business districts of Port Blair. However, the unhurried pace of life here allows the visitor to get a glimpse of the authentic Mauritian life, laidback, peaceful and simple. At the quaint bazaars of Mahebourg, you can pick up souvenirs and handicraft items. Grand Baie, again, is a bustling city known for its entertainment options, adventure sports facilities and a vibrant nightlife. You can visit the Casela Bird Sanctuary, the abode of the rare pink pigeon, or the Botanical Gardens with red water lilies. From Grand Baie, you can visit the nearby islands on a speedboat trip.
For more information on the cities of Mauritius, please click the links below
