Where to stay: north, west, east or south
Mauritius is small, so you can see most of it from one base. The region you pick decides the feel of your stay.
- NorthLively and easy: Grand Baie, Pereybère and Trou aux Biches. Many restaurants, shops, nightlife and boat trips to the northern islets.
- WestSunsets, a calmer sea and the driest weather. Flic en Flac and Tamarin suit swimming, surfing and dolphin trips, and Black River is close for hiking.
- EastLong beaches, big lagoons and many resorts around Belle Mare and Trou d'Eau Douce, with trips to Île aux Cerfs. Breezier, especially in winter.
- SouthWild coastline, cliffs, tea country and Black River Gorges national park. Quieter, with beaches such as Blue Bay and Bel Ombre, and Le Morne in the south-west.
- Centre and Port LouisCurepipe and the central plateau are cooler and greener. Port Louis, the capital, has markets and museums, and is best as a day trip.