Photo by Toro Tseleng

MAURITIUS

Mauritius is a stunning island nation in the Indian Ocean, located about 2,000 kilometers off the southeast coast of Africa. It is part of the Mascarene Islands, along with Rodrigues and Réunion, and is known for its breathtaking beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.

The capital city of Mauritius is Port Louis, which serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country. Other major cities include Curepipe, Vacoas-Phoenix, and Quatre Bornes.

The primary languages spoken in Mauritius are English, French, and Mauritian Creole, reflecting its history of colonisation by both the French and the British. The island is a multicultural society with influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe, resulting in a unique blend of languages, religions, and traditions.

 Mauritius has a fascinating history that includes periods of Dutch, French, and British colonial rule. The island gained independence from Britain on March 12, 1968. The influence of these colonial powers is still evident in the architecture, language, and cultural practices of the country.

Mauritius operates as a parliamentary republic, with a President serving as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government. The political system is known for its stability and democratic values.

Its diverse and thriving economy is driven by sectors such as tourism, textiles, agriculture and financial services.

 

Sugarcane has long been a major agricultural product, while tourism has become increasingly important as Mauritius markets itself as a top island destination renowned for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and coral reefs. In recent years, Mauritius has worked to diversify its economy, promoting sectors like banking and information technology.

Mauritian culture is deeply rooted in a blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. This cultural melting pot is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and music, which include sega—a lively dance with African roots—and Bhojpuri music influenced by Indian traditions.

 

The Sega dance, characterized by rhythmic music and energetic movements, is a significant cultural expression on the island. Mauritius also celebrates a mix of religious and cultural festivals, including Diwali, Eid, and Chinese New Year.

Mauritian cuisine is a delightful blend of Indian, African, French, and Chinese flavors. Popular dishes include dholl puri (flatbread filled with split peas), rougaille (tomato-based sauce served with fish or meat), and gateaux piments (spicy lentil fritters).

Hidden Insights: Uncovering Mauritius 

  1. Île aux Cerfs: This is a popular island resort off the east coast of Mauritius, known for its white sandy beaches, lush greenery, and water activities such as snorkeling and parasailing.

2. Aapravasi Ghat: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aapravasi Ghat is a historical site that served as the immigration depot for indentured laborers brought to Mauritius after the abolition of slavery. It offers a profound insight into the island’s colonial past and cultural evolution.

3. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden: One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, it is famous for its giant water lilies, spice garden, and a wide variety of tropical plants.

4. Grand Bassin: Also known as Ganga Talao, this sacred lake is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus in Mauritius. It is surrounded by temples and shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities.

Photo by Mohau Mannathoko

Photo by Toro Tseleng

Capital City: Port Louis

Population: 1,310,504

Nationality: Mauritian(s)

Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean

Languages: Creole 86.5%, Bhojpuri 5.3%, French 4.1%, two languages 1.4%, other 2.6% (includes English, one of the two official languages of the National Assembly, which is spoken by less than 1% of the population), unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)

Religion: Hindu 48.5%, Roman Catholic 26.3%, Muslim 17.3%, other Christian 6.4%, other 0.6%, none 0.7%, unspecified 0.1% (2011 est.)

Area Total: 2,040 sq km

High Commission of Mauritius

32, 33 Elvaston Pl
South Kensington
London SW7 5NW
United Kingdom

Website
https://mauritius-london.govmu.org

 

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