NavanTravel

Good Things Come in Small Packages

There could be no more truth in the saying “good things come in small packages” than when it comes to describing the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius which is 45km in width and 65km in length.

I was very fortunate to be invited by Turkish Airlines and If Only to discover this captivating island which has so much more to offer than the well known white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

 

 

Turkish Airlines

Our check in with Turkish Airlines was quick and hassle free as we fast tracked our way through security and made our way to the airport lounge in Terminal 1 where we had lunch and refreshments before we boarded our flight to Turkish Airlines main hub, Istanbul.  It was my first time to fly with Turkish Airlines and hopefully it won't be my last with their excellent service and friendly staff it is easy to see why this airline has been voted European Airline of the year for 6 consecutive years and they fly to more countries than any other airline, impressive or what!

I was pleasantly surprised when greeted on board by the “Flying Chef” a first for me so I jumped at the opportunity to get a quick photo with the man himself.  With a short layover in Istanbul we boarded our flight to Mauritius which operates 5 days a week and with plenty of movies to choose from on board, the flight flew by!

 

4* Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa

We spent a comfortable night stay in the luxurious 4* Westin Turtle Bay Resort & Spa,  which is spread over 10 hectares. It is an ideal place to stretch out and relax. There is a variety of dining venues, 2 swimming pools, the Heavenly Spa for luxurious treatments and a kids club to keep the little ones happy.

 

 

Grand Baie

After breakfast we made our way to the north of the island of Mauritius and had some free time to explore the most popular resort Grand Baie, which has become the "holiday" capital of Mauritius. The streets are lined with boutiques and craft shops and it’s the main centre for water sports and excursions.

 

 

The Ravelala Attitude

That evening, we checked into the The Ravelala Attitude located directly on a stretch of white sandy beach with plenty of sun loungers, swings and bean bags to chill out on.  With nine restaurants to choose from there is something to please everyone’s taste. Nightly entertainment consists of live music and a nightclub for those who wish to party into the early hours. A kids & Teen club is available along with a babysitting service.  The Ravenala Attitude Resort has a real family feel to it and the staff were very friendly.

 

 

Port Louis

Next morning we put on our walking shoes and met with our friendly English speaking guide Dozia, for a wander through the historical and cultural heritage of the capital city, Port Louis. We sampled the street food in Chinatown, haggled with the locals in Port Louis Central Market and watched the world go by at Caudan Waterfront.

  

 

5* The Residence

We spent the night in the 5* The Residence which has direct access to the stunning Belle Mare beach. The reception area is very impressive with stunning sea views which will make you want to drop everything and get to the beach within minutes of arriving, until you see your room! They have 5 different room types and even the standard rooms are very spacious and maintained to a high standard and as for the bathroom you will never want to leave, it is pure luxury! In keeping with the high standards the hotel boasts facilities such as the Sanctuary Spa, along with excellent land and water activities.  This hotel has it all.

  

 

Local Celebrations

On our return from the east of the island we came across a procession of devotees happily dancing & chanting on the roads. The sound of drums, cymbals & bells filled the air. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival is celebrated all over the island of Mauritius. A statue of the beloved Hindu God with elephant head was being carried.

      

 

5* Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort

Our last day was spent in the beautiful 5* Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Spa Resort, located in the South West of Mauritus. A stunning property with direct access to the beach or you could opt to spend some time at one of their large swimming pools to cool down from the sun. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated. I got treated to a massage in there luxury spa, a real treat before our flight home.  A property I would highly recommend.

 

 

Life is a special occasion

Most people associate Mauritius as a destination for special occasions, a honeymoon, wedding anniversary or celebrating that special birthday, but isn’t life one big special occasion?

Why wait? The island of Mauritius is waiting for you?

~ Olivia