10 fun and interesting Mauritius facts

1. Port Louis: Est. 1736 by French in Mauritius

Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a bustling city that was established by the French in 1736. It is home to nearly 40% of the island's population, making it one of the most densely populated cities in the region. The city is a vibrant mix of cultures, with a unique blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese influences. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions, including the Caudan Waterfront, the Blue Penny Museum, and the Port Louis Market. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Port Louis is a must-see destination for any traveler to Mauritius.

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2. A Stunningly Beautiful Island

Mauritius is a stunningly beautiful island located in the Indian Ocean, formed by a series of underwater volcanic eruptions. Its unique shape, resembling a leaf, is a result of the volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago. The island is surrounded by coral reefs and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare species of birds, reptiles, and plants. Mauritius is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing. With its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture, Mauritius is a paradise for those looking for a tropical getaway.

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3. A Country With a Sweet History

Mauritius is a country where sugarcane is the major cash crop, planted on 90% of the country's arable land. This has resulted in the country's major exports being sugar, clothing, tea and jewellery. However, due to the lack of arable land for food production, Mauritius is forced to import most of its food, such as rice, lentils and vegetables. This reliance on imports has caused Mauritius to become increasingly dependent on other countries for its food supply.

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4. The Richest and Most Developed Nation in Africa

Mauritius is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, and is the richest and most developed nation in Africa. It is a popular tourist destination, and its primary sources of revenue are tourism and sugar production. The official currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian rupee, which is used for all transactions within the country.

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5. Mauritius celebrates its independence with a festival of culture

On 12 March 1968, the Republic of Mauritius gained its independence, marking a momentous occasion in the nation's history. This small island nation, located in the Indian Ocean, is home to a diverse population of over 1.3 million people, and is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique wildlife. The independence of Mauritius has allowed the country to develop its own unique identity, and has enabled it to become a major player in the global economy.

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6. 4 Cultures, 4 Languages

Mauritius is a culturally diverse country, with four main languages spoken: Creole, Bhojpuri, French and English. Creole is the most widely spoken language, with Bhojpuri and French being the second and third most popular languages, respectively. English is also widely spoken, and is the official language of the country. This linguistic diversity is reflective of the country's rich cultural heritage, and is a testament to the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of Mauritius.

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7. A culturally diverse nation with a unique atmosphere

Mauritius is a culturally diverse nation, with the majority of its population being Hindu, followed by Roman Catholics, Christians, and Muslims. This mix of religions has created a unique atmosphere in the country, with each faith contributing to the culture and customs of the nation. The people of Mauritius are known for their tolerance and acceptance of different beliefs, and the country is a great example of how different religions can coexist peacefully.

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8. Mauritius' National Flower: Trochetia Boutoniana!

Mauritius is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, and it is home to the Trochetia Boutoniana, or Boucle d’Oreille, which is the country's national flower. Unfortunately, the national bird of Mauritius, the Dodo, is now extinct. The Dodo was a large, flightless bird that was endemic to the island, and it was hunted to extinction by the end of the 17th century. The Trochetia Boutoniana, however, is still alive and well, and it is a symbol of the country's natural beauty.

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9. The Perfect Tropical Paradise

Mauritius is a tropical paradise, with its hottest temperatures found on the west coast. From November to May, the temperature here can range from a balmy 30 to 34⁰C, making it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the cold winter months. The climate is humid and wet, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures all year round.

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10. Diversity in its Population

Mauritius is a culturally diverse nation, with a population made up of 68% Indo-Mauritians, 27% Creoles, 3% Sino-Mauritians, and 2% Franco-Mauritians. This mix of ethnicities has created a vibrant and unique culture, with influences from India, Africa, China, and France all coming together to create a truly special atmosphere.