When you think of Mauritian travel you probably envisage white sand beaches, turquoise water and palm trees fluttering their fronds in the breeze. And this would be correct. But did you know that you can actually travel via Mauritius to a whole host of other fascinating destinations all over the world, many of which don’t have a palm tree in sight?
Here are five destinations you can reach via Mauritius with the national carrier, Air Mauritius, plus why you should visit each glorious one:
- Perth
Flight time from Mauritius: 6 hours 30 minutes
With some of the sunniest weather in the country, be sure to pack your sunscreen as you explore Perth’s vibey streets and art culture. Immerse yourself in nature at Kings Park, which at 400 hectares is one of the world’s biggest urban parks and the most popular tourist destination in Western Australia. A mix of grassed parklands, botanical gardens and natural bush, Kings Park also hosts Australia’s biggest wildflower show and exhibition each year. You can also learn more about the country’s indigenous art, food and history on a walking tour of the city with an Aboriginal guide, or visit some great wineries along the Margeret River region and sample award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay varietals.
- Singapore
Flight time from Mauritius: 7 hours 10 minutes
Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, this thriving financial global hub comes hand in hand with a tropical climate and a fascinating cultural mix. Known as one of the most expensive cities in the world, it’s easy to see why when you gaze upon sparkling clean streets, or make your way around its dazzlingly futuristic architecture. If you’re even a bit of a foodie, then you have to visit its famous food market, Lau Pa Sat, where you can sample delights such as hearty beef noodles in thick gravy, creamy prawn laksa, or delicious sticky dim sum.
- London
Flight time from Mauritius: 12 hours 30 minutes
Corgis and curry, teapots and trainers – London is a heady mix of old and new, and there is something in it for everyone. If you’re travelling with young children they’ll delight in a visit to the Madame Tussauds wax museum, or to Legoland in Windsor (a short train ride away). If you can find a babysitter then explore London’s heady mix of nightclubs, bars and world renowned Michelin-starred restaurants. Music, art, fashion, literature – London really is a cultural global hub, and your only difficulty will be deciding what to do with your precious holiday time.
- Delhi
Flight time from Mauritius: 7 hours 30 minutes
India’s historic capital is fast paced and fairly chaotic, but it’s packed with plenty of interesting things to see and do. Start at The National Museum to get your head around India’s ancient civilisation, and then head to the Lodi Gardens to soak up some peace and enjoy a quiet meal. Or, take a walking tour around the original walled city of Old Delhi, including visiting historic gems such as the Red Fort. If you’re feeling energetic, get on your dancing shoes and attend one of the many dancing schools in the city, where you can learn salsa, belly dancing, Bollywood dancing and more. The food is also notable here, including delectable street food such as paranthas, a flat bread that you can stuff with potatoes, cauliflower, eggs or bananas.
- Nairobi
Flight time from Mauritius: 4 hours 20 minutes
Kenya’s capital city combines growing urban sprawl with its world famous wildlife. The Nairobi National Park is set on the city’s outskirts, making this one of the world’s only capital cities with a national park bordering it. Imagine glimpsing the silhouette of a giraffe against the shadow of a skyscraper?! Also stop in at the Karen Blixon house and museum where the writer of Out of Africa lived from 1914 to 1931, and read more about her inspiration and life in general.
Whether you’re travelling with laptop packed and ready to do business, or a batch of novels ready for poolside reading and relaxing, reaching these destinations from Mauritius has never been easier!
