This volcanic island, situated 1,242 miles off the coast of S.E. Africa, covers an area of 720 sq miles and its 93 miles of sandy beaches are protected by the world's third largest barrier reef. It is the island's volcanic origins, coupled with the barrier reef, that makes Mauritius such an exciting place to visit with your dive gear. With caverns, caves, grottos and drop-offs, a healthy reef system and the occasional wreck to keep you occupied during your stay. Popular sites include The Cathedral; a vast cave, penetrated by shafts of dancing light which can be reached through a small opening, 35 metres down a steep coral encrusted wall. The wreck of the Sirius, a 19th century British frigate is teeming with marine life thanks to the strict enforcement of the marine conservation policy, which has drastically improved the marine environment surrounded the island.
The history of Mauritius is almost as interesting as the diving. Appearing on ancient Arabian maps dated from 1500 as ?Dina Arabi?, the first European to land was the Portuguese sailor Domingo Fernandez Pereira in 1511. It was the Dutch, though, who first settled here, and the island was given its name in honour of Prince Maurice Van Nassau of Holland. The Dutch left in 1710 and the French established a naval base in Port Louis, launching many successful raids against British ships during the Napoleonic wars. 1810 saw a successful British attack, and the 1814 Treaty of Paris ceded Mauritius to Britain. Under Governor Robert Farquhar there were rapid social and economic changes, not least the abolition of slavery in 1835. Landowners sought indentured labour from the India and Africa and, along with settled Chinese traders, built the foundations for the rich diversity of religion and culture that exists in perfect harmony today. Christian, Islamic, Hindu and traditional Chinese celebrations are embraced by the whole island and barely a month goes by without a vivacious and colourful festival taking place. With over 100 resort hotels tending toward the luxurious, the traveller is spoilt for choice. For divers and non-divers alike, Mauritius is a gem just waiting to be discovered.
Health At present there are no notifications of any vaccination requirements, although Malaria exists in the vivax variety in some rural areas. It is advisable to check with the relevant authorities before travelling. The water is untreated and unsafe to drink, dairy products are un-pasteurised and should be avoided. Fresh fruit and vegetables should also be peeled before consumption. Money: Mauritian Rupee (mre) ="100" cents approx: ?0.20 All major credit cards are accepted. Traveller?s cheques, preferably in US dollars or pounds sterling, can be exchanged at banks and most hotels. There are over 125 ATM locations so access to cash should not be a problem.
