The Mauritian Culture
Located in the southwest Indian Ocean, north of the Tropic of Capricorn, Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Archipelago, surrounded by Reunion Island and Rodrigues. It’s a dream destination for a complete change of scenery: leave the cold European winters behind for the tropics, relax on deckchairs, and admire the heavenly beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters.
An Exceptional Destination
Beaches, Luxury Hotels and Water Sports
Mauritius is often associated with sumptuous sandy beaches, luxury hotels, and water sports such as catamaran sailing. Lush vegetation and relaxing atmosphere are also major attractions, especially for honeymooners.
Discovery of Local Culture
However, if you take the time to mingle with the Mauritians, to leave the beaten track, and to really discover its inhabitants and their culture, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Cultural and Historical Diversity of Mauritius
A Mixture of Mauritian Cultures
Discovered by the Arabs and colonised by the English and French, Mauritius boasts remarkable cultural diversity due to its languages and dialects. Populated by Europeans, African slaves, and Creoles, it embodies a fascinating mix of cultures. The term “Creole” refers to a person born in a colony to parents from elsewhere, but can also evoke exoticism.
A Multi-Faith and Multi-Ethnic Society
Mauritius is the only country in Africa where Hinduism is practiced. Mauritians are warm and welcoming, regardless of your religion. As you wander through the island’s various neighborhoods, you’ll hear Creole, but also Bhojpuri and Hindi. Contrary to popular belief, these languages are not dialects but languages spoken by the island’s various peoples and descendants. English, however, remains the official language.
Mauritian Gastronomy
An Eclectic Cuisine
Mauritian culture is distinguished by its cuisine, art, and clothing. The cuisine is a true paradise for the senses, with a clever blend of French, Indian, and African cuisine. Mauritian dishes are varied and reflect the ethnic diversity of the inhabitants. Typical recipes include rougail sausage, also known in Réunion cuisine. Food is often served with white or basmati rice, and dishes with sauces are rich in exotic flavours, such as mango and spices like saffron or cumin.
Flavours and Specialties
Don’t be surprised to see your scales tip after tasting the local cuisine, it is so tasty and varied.
Heritage and Activities of Mauritius
Le Morne Brabant
This small island paradise has a lot to offer in terms of landscapes, activities, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Le Morne Brabant, a spectacular mountain over 550 meters high, is a paradise for tourists and surfers. Located in the southwest of the island, it offers magnificent hikes, accessible to all, with excursions to climb to the summit. More experienced hikers will find ropes in the rock for a more challenging ascent. A metal cross at the summit recalls the history of this mountain, which was a refuge for slaves in the 18th and 19th centuries. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 6, 2008, it bears witness to the struggle against slavery.
Aapravasi Ghat in Port Louis
Port Louis is home to the second UNESCO World Heritage Site: Aapravasi Ghat. This landing site for Indian workers between the 19th and 20th centuries was founded by Franco-Mauritian planters after the abolition of slavery. “Coolies,” a Tamil term meaning wages, were immigrants who came to work for money. Aapravasi Ghat means “temporary shelter” in Indian. Remaining remains include the entrance gate, the hospital, and a stable for horses.
Festivals and Traditions
Diwali
Indo-Mauritians, of Indian origin, represent a large part of the population and have brought their traditional festivals, such as the famous festival of lights, Divali. This celebration marks the victory of good over evil. The island is illuminated with fairy lights, homes are decorated with lanterns, and new clothes are required. Cakes and sweets are shared with neighbors in an atmosphere of gentleness and sharing. The goddess Lakshmi, symbolizing wealth and prosperity, is honored, and Rama’s victory over the demon Ravana is celebrated during five days of festivities.
Thaipoosam Cavadee
Another important festival is the Thaipoosam Cavadee, a Tamil ceremony originating from southern India, marked by spiritual cleansing. Participants fast, pray, and make offerings while carrying the “cavadee,” a wooden structure adorned with flowers symbolising sacred mountains.
Other Holidays
Other festivals punctuate Mauritian life, such as the Spring Festival and the Abolition of Slavery Festival. If you travel to the southern hemisphere, you may have the privilege of attending one of these Mauritian celebrations.
Lifestyle and Activities
Home and Lifestyle
Mauritians, smiling, welcoming, and warm, will teach you simplicity. Their casual and light attire is well-suited to the island’s heat. Mauritians love to walk barefoot at home and enjoy the pleasures of their island: surfing, diving, swimming with the fish, fishing, and more.
Environment and Activities
Coconut trees, palm trees, white sand, and coral reefs invite you to an unforgettable stay in Mauritius. We invite you to come and discover this paradise island and all it has to offer.
Born in Mauritius, I have a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. I have nearly 12 years’ experience in marketing, public relations and communications. Passionate about meeting people, creativity and business growth, I am results-oriented. My goal is to guide communication to touch the hearts and minds of customers. My motto is: “Treat others as I would like to be treated.”
