Top 10 Reasons to Visit Beautiful Mauritius

Article by: Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), Mauritiusnow.com

We are thrilled that you're considering Mauritius for your next holiday trip! We can't wait to show you around our stunning island and share all of its secrets with you.

From the turquoise blue waters to the lush forests, you'll fall in love with our vibrant island! So, drop off your bags, kick off your shoes, and let us tell you about the TOP TEN REASONS why you should go ahead and book a trip to Mauritius right away!

01   The beaches are the perfect places to relax!

Mauritius has the most stunning beaches along the four coastal areas! So, you will get to relax or enjoy your favourite watersports in every part of the island!

02 Get ready for an adventure surrounded by nature!

Our flora is the blueprint of Mauritius! Come and learn about the island's breathtaking nature by immersing yourself in our National Parks and Nature Reserves!

03   A culture that is rich, colourful and beautiful!

In Mauritius, you will have the chance to experience many cultures fusing into one! Come and indulge in colourful traditions and meet our locals, who are warm and welcoming. They’ll be more than happy to show you around!

04   Our wildlife makes the island come alive!

Mauritius is home to the most fascinating animals, like giant tortoises, colourful birds and curious looking geckos. Discover our beautiful fauna, our endemic species and explore the places where they roam around freely, protected in scenic landscapes!

05   Have the adventure of a lifetime in thrilling places!

Mauritius has so many activities crafted in the best of places! Hike up the greatest mountains, discover hidden waterfalls or take part in the most fun activities amidst breathtaking sceneries. Quad biking, ziplining, canyoning and so much more await you!

06   Cozy and luxurious villas and hotels!

Along the coasts, deep into nature or in picturesque sceneries overlooking waterfalls and valleys, Mauritius offers various amazing accommodations! Places where you can unwind and enjoy including beachfront hotels, luxurious villas, lodges, and guesthouses surrounded by natural beauty.

07   Mauritius is the place to relax, recharge and renew!

Come to our island to escape the chaos and find tranquillity by spending your wellness holiday in Mauritius. From world-class spas in resorts to wellness sessions in our luxuriant forests, on our mountain peaks or simply on our beautiful beaches, Mauritius is a place of true wellbeing! 

08   The island values sustainability and protects its biodiversity!

Responsible and sustainable travel is our priority, so be considerate of the island's environment and be open to learning about the beautiful biodiversity. Discover the island's conservation projects, book a nature tour with a biologist and get involved in tree or mangrove planting during your stay!

09   Mauritius is a place to tuck into diverse cuisine!

Come and taste the rich cuisine of Mauritius perfectly flavoured with influences from Europe, Asia and Africa; the richness of our cultures! Fall head over heels for authentic, local dishes, which you can find everywhere you go on the island, from street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants.

10   Tee off on world-class golf courses!

Mauritius is one of the best places to golf, surrounded by stunning scenery and warm weather all year round! Most of our golf courses are located along the coasts, giving golfers a perfect view over the amazing Indian Ocean while hitting the links. 

Culinary Latitudes is now booking this beautiful island as a pre-stay for our Maurtitius, Madagascar, South Africa saiing … check it out!

Traveling to Iceland? Packing Tips

For a Windstar cruise to Iceland, pack clothing suitable for variable weather conditions, including layers for warmth and waterproof outerwear. Since Windstar is known for its casual elegance, focus on smart-casual attire for evenings, and comfortable, durable clothing for exploring. Don't forget essential accessories like a warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof shoes. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Clothing:

  • Base Layers: Thermal leggings and long-sleeved tops are crucial for warmth and moisture-wicking. 

  • Mid-Layers: Fleece or sweaters provide insulation. 

  • Outerwear: A waterproof jacket and trousers are essential for protection against rain, wind, and potentially snow. 

  • Warm Socks: Wool or thermal socks are recommended for keeping your feet dry and warm. 

  • Smart-Casual Evening Attire: Windstar is casual but stylish. Pack slacks or non-distressed jeans, collared shirts or blouses, and dress shoes or stylish athletic shoes for evenings, according to Windstar Cruises. Blazers are optional. 

  • Accessories: Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf are a must, says a travel blog

  • Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots are essential for exploring Iceland's terrain, according to a cruise forum. Consider bringing comfortable sandals or flip-flops for on-board wear, according to Windstar Cruises

  • Swimsuit: Even in Iceland, some ships have pools or hot tubs. 

Other Essentials:

  • Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while exploring. 

  • Camera: Capture the stunning Icelandic landscapes. 

  • Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing. 

  • Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong. 

  • Reusable Shopping Bag: For souvenirs and groceries. 

  • Eye Mask: To block out the midnight sun, recommends Saga Travel. 

  • Medications: Pack any necessary prescription or over-the-counter medications. 

  • Toiletries: Basic toiletries are usually provided, but pack anything specific you need, says Cruise Critic.

Tips for Packing:

  • Layers are Key:

    Pack clothing that can be layered to adapt to changing weather conditions. 

  • Waterproof is a Must:

    Iceland's weather can be unpredictable, so prioritize waterproof clothing and footwear. 

  • Comfort is Important:

    Choose clothing and shoes that you are comfortable walking and exploring in for extended periods. 

  • Consider Wind Resistance:

    The wind in Iceland can be strong, so ensure your hat and any other accessories stay on buy keeping in mind to purchase appropriate “anchoring” clothing.

Oceania CruiseS Packing Recommendations

You’ve booked your cruise and now it’s time to start thinking about what to pack. A little advance planning can go a long way to ensure a carefree voyage.

To help guide your packing, here is our Destination Specialists’ list of what to pack for your cruise. Note that it’s helpful to have booked your excursions beforehand so you have an idea of what you’ll be doing ashore.

Women’s Packing List

As you may know, Oceania Cruises has an elegant casual dress code. This simply means you should pack:

• Cocktail dresses or skirts and blouses for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Blouses and nice shorts for evenings at Terrace Café • Sundresses – great for transitioning from day to evening with a wrap or cardigan • Casual shirts and tank tops to pair with shorts, capris or comfortable pants for excursions • A light cardigan, pashmina or wrap, especially for dining and ashore • Small clutch or crossbody bag

Men’s Packing List

Packing for men is even easier. Essentials include:

• Dress pants, collared shirts and a sports jacket or blazer for The Grand Dining Room and specialty restaurants • Khakis or nice shorts with cotton shirts for Terrace Café • Casual shorts or pants and lightweight tops for excursions – quick-drying shirts are great for the tropics

Packing List for Everyone

• A bathing suit and quick-drying cover-up (bring more than one if you plan on swimming a lot) • Sleepwear • Undergarments and socks • Variety of shoes: dress shoes, comfortable walking shoes, sneakers and sandals • Reef sandals or water shoes for the Caribbean and South Pacific • Light jacket or fleece • A waterproof jacket for Alaska and regions with changeable climates • Sun hat or visor • Sunglasses • Sunscreen • Workout attire • Daypack or comfortable tote for excursions ashore • Dry pack if planning on boating excursions or water activities • Mosquito repellent for tropical destinations

Packing Essentials
These items may seem difficult to forget, but here are a few essential things that travelers sometimes leave behind.

• Passport • Driver’s License • Cash • Visas, if necessary • Credit cards – be sure to notify them of your travels • Cash – small bills are helpful • Copies of emergency numbers • Copies of important documents such as the front page of your passport, airline tickets and hotel confirmations • Medications • Toiletries • Necessary technology, like your phone and tablet • Charging cables for all devices • Portable phone charger • Camera, extra SD card and batteries

Travel with taste,

Rhonda

A Majestic Journey Over Trollstigen

Trollstigen, or trollstigvegen, is a scenic mountain road in Norway that's part of Norwegian County Road 63. It's considered one of Norway's most famous and well-visited attractions, and is known for its dramatic views and adventurous experiences. The road begins just outside Åndalsnes in northwest Norway and winds up the mountains, across a fjord, and down to Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The route is 35 miles long, but the section of hairpin bends known as Trollstigen is only a few miles long.

The road offers views of steep mountainsides, waterfalls, fjords, valleys, and untouched nature. It also passes by old farms and small rivers, and includes 11 turns that go over the Stigefossen waterfall. The name Trollstigen plays on the area's reputation in Norwegian folklore, where trolls are said to be supernatural creatures that can help or hinder humans.

If this sounds intriguing please join us on our adventure to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark coming July of 2025. Click here to learn more!

Cuisine for all tastes!

Memorable dining begins with open-seating, as it allows you to dine when you are ready and with whomever you choose. Regardless of which of our restaurants you select, there are no dining surcharges. Enjoy Toscana’s authentic Italian dishes, Polo Grill’s steakhouse fare, Continental cuisine in the Grand Dining Room, and made-to-order American favorites in the Terrace Café. You may also indulge in delicate pastries and freshly made sandwiches along with illy® specialty coffees at Baristas.

Please call 303-919-8627 or email rhonda@culinarylatitudes.com to book your Scandinavia ocean cruise today. We have limited availability within our group rates.

Travel with taste,

Rhonda

Anglo Saxon Byways - August 29th, 2024 - September 10th, 2024

Two options for booking: Cruise only with a base price starting at $4,399* per person. Or you can book as O’Life wish will include your roundtrip airfare, transfers, and 6 excursions per booking!

*$4,399 per person is based on availability and is subject to change. See below for all the inclusions with an Oceania Cruise.

Oceania Includes:

  • Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center provides you a blissful wellness retreat at sea that includes complimentary fitness classes and a state-of-the-art fitness center. From sunrise yoga on deck to boot camp to core conditioning, you are sure to find a class to suit your preferences.

  • From dozens of new flavorful dishes at The Grand Dining Room and Toscana to the addition of internationally inspired poke bowls at Waves Grill and a vastly expanded Sunday Brunch, this latest collection of OceaniaNEXT enhancements elevates and evolves our culinary program, making certain your experience will be better than ever. The new dishes reflect our chefs’ favorite experiences, from dishes they serve at Sunday family dinners to top emerging cuisines from around the globe that have inspired them. The sweeping new stable of recipes and enhancements showcases the creativity of our chefs and the innovative ways they channel their passion into exciting and unique culinary experiences. 6 restaurants to choose from free of additional fees.

  • Our Chef Instructors at The Culinary Center have a genuine passion for experiencing the world’s cultures through the lens of food and cooking – and for sharing it with you in destinations around the globe. Whether you spend a day at sea discovering the secrets of fish cookery or join one of our popular Culinary Discovery Tours™ ashore, our team at The Culinary Center is here to offer expert instruction while bringing the local culture to life.

  • From reading comfortably in the library to sipping fine vintages at a wine tasting, a wonderful spectrum of enriching activities awaits you on board. Join one of our esteemed guest lecturers to discover their unique cultural and destination expertise, or learn to prepare a variety of exquisite dishes at The Culinary Center, our state-of-the-art cooking school on Marina and Riviera. Embrace your inner artist at Artist Loft, where talented artists-in-residence offer inspiring workshops on Marina and Riviera as well as Insignia world cruises. Spend the afternoon with friends at a lively trivia contest or bridge tournament.

  • Evenings aboard Oceania Cruises can be anything you desire. Marvel at the continuously changing talented guest entertainers as you delight in high-energy production shows, talented vocalists, classical music and more. Perhaps stop by the lively Monte Carlo-style Casino for a rousing game or two. Unforgettable evenings are just steps from your stateroom.

Our ship the Marina

  • 1238 Guests

  • 776 Staff Members

  • Year Refurbished 2023

  • Currently At Sea

Timelessly sophisticated, Marina was designed for the ultimate epicurean. She embraces the elegant ambiance of our renowned 1,238-guest ships while also offering an array of amenities and choices. In addition to multiple open-seating gourmet restaurants, Marina features memorable food and wine experiences at La Reserve by Wine Spectator as well as the opportunity for private dining at exclusive Privée. From the sparkling Lalique Grand Staircase to the Owner's Suites furnished in Ralph Lauren Home, designer touches are everywhere, highlighting the finest residential design and furnishings. More than anything, Marina personifies the Oceania Cruises experience.

Culinary Latitudes Group Inclusions:

  • WIth the quota of staterooms in place we will be able to add free tips and $100 onboard credit per cabin. This is a value of $532.00.

  • Since Culinary Latitudes never keeps earned credits, you will also see additional onboard credit with the correct number of select cabins in place. This will be awarded prior to sailing.

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