Discover our family’s journey to Mauritius, with stunning views, sugarcane fields, and peaceful roads.
Table of Contents
- Main Journey
- Key Events
- Tips for Traveling with a Baby
- Local Travel Tips for Mauritius
- Travel Reflections
Main Journey of Arriving in Mauritius
After landing at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, we hopped into a private taxi headed for our new temporary home in the northwest corner of the island, in Grand Baie. What we didn’t expect was that even the drive itself would be a mesmerizing introduction to Mauritius.
The Scenic Drive to Grand Baie
Sitting in the back seat of the taxi, we couldn’t take our eyes off the view. The island welcomed us with a sky filled with dramatic clouds, rolling fields of sugarcane, and unique volcanic peaks scattered across the landscape. Even with minimal effort, every photo we took out of the car window looked breathtaking.
The Beauty of Sugarcane Fields
The fields stretched endlessly, filled with tall sugarcane plants swaying gently in the humid breeze. Some of them had flowered, creating a delicate, feathery look that felt almost like the island’s signature bloom. We joked about how Mauritius might just be the most photogenic place we’d ever visited.
Key Events
A Humid Welcome
Coming from India, where the humidity rarely exceeded 40%, the 85% humidity in Mauritius was a sharp contrast. Though the temperature was cooler at around 26°C, the sticky air was something we had to get used to. When the taxi stopped for gas, we felt the full force of the tropical atmosphere—sultry but somehow soothing.
Volcanic Peaks and Endless Beauty
The island’s volcanic origins were evident in the rugged, towering peaks that rose dramatically across the landscape. At one point, we spotted a jagged summit with an odd formation at the top, wondering if it was rock or something else. It felt like every bend in the road revealed another view more stunning than the last.
First Glimpses of Port Louis
As we crossed the central hills and descended, the view opened up to reveal the city of Port Louis and the sparkling sea in the distance. It felt magical, almost too perfect to be real. Sweetie, our 28-month-old, was quietly staring out the window, likely taking it all in just as we were.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
1. Plan for Humidity
Bring breathable clothing and plenty of hydration options for your little one. Sweetie adjusted quickly, but we noticed the humidity could be challenging at first.
2. Use Private Transportation for Comfort
The hour-and-a-half drive from the airport to Grand Baie was much more manageable in a private taxi. With a toddler, having control over stops and the climate inside the car was a lifesaver.
3. Keep Snacks and Distractions Handy
Although Sweetie was captivated by the views, having her favorite snacks and small toys made the journey even smoother.
Local Travel Tips for Mauritius
1. Consider Renting a Car
Mauritius is larger than you might expect—bigger than Jeju Island. Renting a car will make it easier to explore the sugarcane fields, volcanic landscapes, and serene beaches at your own pace.
2. Enjoy the Peace
Unlike the honking chaos of other places we’ve visited, Mauritius is surprisingly quiet and serene. Embrace the tranquility as part of the island’s charm.
3. Map Out Your Route
From the southeastern airport to the northwestern Grand Baie, it’s about a 90-minute drive. Along the way, you’ll pass lush valleys, small villages, and scenic viewpoints. Take time to soak it all in.
Travel Reflections of Arriving in Mauritius
- Falling in Love Instantly Even before setting foot outside the car, we were smitten with Mauritius. The calm, beauty, and simplicity of the island felt like a balm for our travel-weary souls.
- A Dream of Living Here Julie joked about how we should find a way to live on this beautiful island. Looking at the sugarcane fields and peaceful roads, it didn’t seem like such a bad idea.
- Appreciating the Journey As we drove past endless natural beauty, it reminded us why we embarked on this world travel journey in the first place—to discover and fall in love with places like Mauritius.
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