Mauritius has a very distinct Indian feel to it – over half the population is Hindu, and you’ll notice a wide variety of Hindu temples throughout the island.Interestingly, Mauritius has been at the hands of several owners throughout its history. The first European settlers were the Dutch who arrived in 1598 and claimed ownership of the island. They are blamed for decimating the local dodo and giant tortoise population for food and by introducing competing species and pests, sometimes involuntarily.

Mauritius became a French colony in 1715 and it was the French who started real development of the island. During the Napoleonic wars, the island was captured by the British, who ruled until Mauritius gained indepence in 1968.

Today Mauritius is a content and productive country. While there have been some economic issues over the past decade, the tourism trade now thrives – with close to a million tourists enjoying the delights of Mauritius every year.While English is Mauritius’s official language, French is nearly as popular, as is Mauritian Creole. The latter is the most widely-used language amongst the general population of Mauritius and differs from the Creole language spoken in some parts of the United States.

The percussion and metal instruments which are the base of Mauritius’s folk music must be heard to be fully appreciated. The folk dances are sure to capture your interest and leave you with wonderful memories.

Whether you are more interested in the fact that Mauritius was one of the world’s first producers of postage stamps, or that this island was the sole home to the now-extinct dodo bird, there are many fascinating little bits of information that will show you precisely how unique Mauritius has been throughout history. Its heritage has made this island the very special place that it is today. It’s fullest effect cannot be attained simply by reading history books; seeing it in person is the only way to truly appreciate Mauritius.

While you’re in Mauritius look out for some of the interesting architecture on show – there are some splendid colonial buildings to look at. It’s an intersting history.