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Escape to Paradise
Mauritius · Travel Guide
Islandwize Travel Mauritius 6 min read
Do you picture your Mauritius holiday with everything you need within the resort, or do you want to step outside and experience more of the island?
This is one of the first questions I ask my clients because it changes what you should look for in a hotel.
If you plan to spend most of your holiday at the resort, its beach, restaurants, facilities and activities become especially important. The location may matter less because the resort itself is the heart of your holiday.
If you enjoy local restaurants, markets, shopping, excursions and nightlife, your hotel becomes a comfortable base. In this case, staying near Grand Baie or another active area can give you more freedom to get out and experience Mauritius.
There is no right or wrong choice. The key is knowing what type of holiday you want before selecting your hotel.
Do you want your resort to be the holiday, or your base for exploring?
If your idea of the perfect island escape is to arrive, unpack, slip into your flip-flops and settle into a slower pace of life, then your resort becomes much more than just a place to sleep — it becomes the heart of your holiday experience. For this type of traveller, the hotel’s location may not be the deciding factor. Being within walking distance of shops, restaurants or public transport may matter far less, because your days will be spent enjoying the resort itself: the beach, pools, restaurants, activities, spa and the little moments that make a holiday feel effortless.
On the other hand, if you love exploring, trying local restaurants, visiting attractions and experiencing the island beyond your resort, then location becomes much more important. Staying in an area such as Grand Baie in the north, or Flic en Flac along the west can give you easier access to restaurants, nightlife, shopping and excursions. Or you can even hop onto the local bus. There is no right or wrong choice — it simply comes down to the type of holiday you want.
Below, I share my Islandwize matches for both travel styles.
Islandwize Matches
Best for: Families and travellers who want space, comfort and easy-going relaxation
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Ideal for travellers who want a comfortable, classic Mauritius resort where everyone can enjoy their own pace — from pool days to water sports and family activities.
Not ideal for: Travellers looking for a small, intimate boutique resort.
Best for: Ocean enthusiasts who want a full resort experience
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Perfect for travellers who want the feeling of being away from it all, with the bonus of incredible marine life on their doorstep.
Not ideal for: Travellers who prefer to be in the heart of the action or who plan to spend most of their evenings exploring restaurants, shopping, and nightlife outside the resort.
Best for: Active travellers
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Great for couples, families or active travellers who want a beautiful luxury resort but still enjoy having plenty to do.
Not ideal for: Travellers who prioritise sightseeing across the island and want to be constantly out and about, as many of Mauritius’ main attractions are a longer drive away and the resort itself is often the main draw.
Islandwize Matches
Best for: Travellers who want resort comfort with easy access to island life
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Perfect for travellers who like having a resort base but want the freedom to step outside and explore.
Not ideal for: Travellers looking for a secluded, quiet escape away from restaurants, nightlife, and the buzz of Grand Baie.
from R22 025 per person sharing
Inc ludes:
– 5 Nights + flights
– Breakfast & dinner daily
– Travel 22 Jul 26 – 31 Aug 26
– Book by 15 Aug 26
Save Up To 20% + Repeaters Get An Additional 10% Off!
Best for: Casual travellers wanting local atmosphere
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Perfect for travellers who want the feeling of being away from it all, with the bonus of incredible marine life on their doorstep.
Not ideal for: Travellers who prefer to be in the heart of the action or who plan to spend most of their evenings exploring restaurants, shopping, and nightlife outside the resort.
from R18 340 per person sharing
Includes:
– 5 Nights + flights
– Breakfast & dinner daily
– 22 Jul 26 – 31 Aug 26
– Book by 10 Jul 26
5% discount + 1st Child Free of Charge
Best for: Easy-going travellers wanting value and a local feel
Why it works:
Islandwize match: Ideal for travellers who want a comfortable hotel, but plan to spend time discovering Mauritius rather than staying poolside every day.
Not ideal for: Travellers who want to be directly in the heart of the action or within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and nightlife or direct beach access.
Let’s find your match
Tell me what matters to you, how you enjoy spending your time and what you expect from your holiday. I will use my first-hand knowledge of Mauritius to recommend the right area and resort for you.
I’m Kerstin, founder of Islandwize Travel. With many years in the travel industry and more than 30 visits to Mauritius, I share first-hand knowledge and expert advice on Indian Ocean getaways. I help South Africans travel with confidence, guided by my motto: “Nothing is ever too much trouble.” Let’s plan your dream island holiday together.
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