Overview
The beautiful Mauritius is essentially a tourism-based economy with some of the finest places of interest along with world-class facilities on offer in bountiful. Though a tiny island republic, Mauritius offers much more than any other island in the region. Some of the activities that the visitors would surely love to indulge in include, Ocean-diving, mountain climbing, trekking, golfing, and gorging sumptuous seafood in the choicest hotels and restaurants.
The sunny sandy beaches are a treat when you are tired after watching the world’ third largest coral reef around a turquoise lagoon. In fact, the beauty of this island is no less than paradisiacal.
Mauritius was a rather late discovery, as it remained uninhabited till the 16th Century due to its location, which is off major shipping routes. Resultantly, it became home to pirates before Dutch occupied it. However, Dutch rule was short-lived, as French soon brought African slaves for the work at sugar plantations. In 1810, the British captured the country and remained there till 1968, when Mauritius finally attained independence.
Though a large part of Mauritian economy depends on tourism, the country has also developed textiles, telecommunications, and financial services to augment the nation’s economy. Its stable multi-cultural society has added to the Mauritian charm among travellers from different parts of the world.
After abolition of slavery in 1835, the British brought Indian labourers to work in Mauritius. At present, this work force forms 70% of the total population of the country. Chinese and Muslim traders complete the Mauritian population, enriched by Indian, French, and Creole cultural legacies. The visitors will relish this cultural potpourri in the mixed Mauritian food and grand Indian temples along side the French colonial mansions.