Mauritius holiday reviews

The hotels were luxurious, Maradiva Villas and Spa outscoring The Residence on many fronts.. The Residence seemed to offer a great package but after a few days some aspects seemed bit average. The beach was better than Maradiva's and the Spa was excellent. The place needed some more varied relaxation space which became apparent as the fast changing weather often drove us inside. WE went looking for nearby bars/hagout spots and found one in LUXE Belle Mare next door, but local village spots were rare. Mara diva had so much more. Less obviously flashy, its garden setting was special (See the giant Madagascan bats at sundown), the private villa arrangement meant something different and exclusive. Food was terrific and the staff were individual and friendly rather than trained with fixed smiles. One could walk along the beach to the public beaches and enjoy a bit of the world beyond the privileges of staying at Maradiva. The Spa was also exceptional. Would we go back to either? To the Maradiva without a second thought. There are plans to make the place more exclusive, more appealing to celebrities. It would be disappointing if such an exceptional establishment were to become less accessible for us . determinedly non-celebrities!

Quatra Bourne market on Thursdays is like being in India, fantastic! Rodrigues takes you to developing Africa, people rely on the boat coming in and empty shops if it doesn't arrive.

we saw very large fruit bats in Chamarele, which came to visit us about 6 pm every day!