Mauritius on the world map (located below the photo) can be seen in the group of the Mascarene Islands.They, in turn, are in the western region of the Indian Ocean, approximately 800 kilometers east of Madagascar.The state itself, in addition to the eponymous island (on it is about 91% of the country), it takes three - Agalega, Rodrigues and St. Brandon.The capital city and center of business life in the region is the city of Port Louis.
History of
Speaking of where Mauritius, we can not recall a few historical facts associated with it.The island was first discovered by the Portuguese in the sixteenth century.Beginning in 1638, until 1710 it was owned by the Netherlands.With its ruler Mauritius de Nassau and the associated name of the country.In 1715 it became the property of France, which has equipped its naval base here.The period of active development and prosperity here began in 1735, when he was appointed local governor François Mahé de La Bourdon.At this time, the island was erected many roads, hospitals, bridges and other facilities.In addition, to further export to Europe, where large volumes of sugar cane, as well as cotton and rice.
In 1810 the island was captured by the English fleet, which is much higher than the number of French.The British property it was until March 12, 1968, when they were proclaimed its independence and sovereignty.
state system, population and currency
In Mauritius, the head of state is the president, and the legislative body - unicameral Assembly.The country's population of nearly 1.3 million inhabitants.Official language - English.At the same time most of the population is fluent in French and Creole.The local currency is the Mauritian rupee.It should be noted that the calculated as the markets and in the shops you can only it.Currency exchange is not limited.As for religion, then about half of the local residents are Hindus, 30 percent - Christians, and all others - Buddhists and Muslims.
Geography
Mauritius on the world map is a small, almost imperceptible point.This is not surprising, since a total area of just 1,865 square kilometers.Most of the territory is flat.At the same time in the central part is a series of plateaus and low mountains.Peak Riviere Noire is the biggest rises above sea level at 828 meters.On all sides the island is surrounded by coral reefs, which protect it from severe storms.They also contribute to the presence here of a large number of species of tropical fish.Along the coast is a variety of beautiful sandy beaches, which are cut to size in small coves.In the eastern and northern part of the island nature has created conditions favorable to the cultivation of different crops.
Climate
Not everyone is capable of, I do not hesitate to indicate where Mauritius is located on the world map.Despite this, the tours are very popular here.First of all, this is due to a favorable climate, which allows travelers to relax here throughout the year.
the period from November to April falls summer.The air temperature at that time may reach a level of 33 degrees.Despite this, thanks to the pleasant wind and not very high (compared to other tropical islands) humidity, the heat is transferred easily.The duration of rainfall on the island does not happen - often rain ends in a few minutes after the start, and then again set the previous heat.With the month of May to October last winter.During his terrain where Mauritius, the temperature is in the range of 17 to 23 degrees.It should be noted that in the ocean water remains warm throughout the year.
As for precipitation, the western and northern part of them falls about 1500 mm per year, and in the east - about 5,000 millimeters.Most of them are typical for the period from December to March.During the summer, often forming a plurality of cyclones, but their destructive power is not peculiar.
Tourist attraction
From the tourist point of view, the island of Mauritius, where there is a large number of hotels, looks very attractive due to the high level of local service.That is why many here prefer to rest the rich world, including members of royal families, heads of European states, actors, businessmen and others.Absolutely all of the staff of local hotels must complete specialized training.Every hotel on the island is the kind of town where there are its beaches, shops, restaurants, bars, golf courses, tennis courts and other types of entertainment.An interesting feature is that the usual five-star classification system is not applicable.At the same time, living conditions, even in low-cost bungalows very comfortable.Cleaning of public beaches are cleaned daily, not only from dust but also from the algae and coral fragments.Photos of Mauritius is a case in point.
Transport
in the country almost all transportation is carried out by road.In all cities have their own stations.Quite common is also a form of transport, as taxis.Taking advantage of its services, it is advisable to negotiate the fare in advance, because the counter in most cars available.
on the island of Mauritius where the acts drive on the left, so for independent travel need a little getting used to.Due to the small size, it is possible to overtake in one day.One important nuance, which should be remembered is the one that at the gas station does not accept bank cards - only cash.Map of Mauritius - is all that is needed in the way.The maximum permissible speed of movement on the territory of settlements is 50 km / h and on other highways - 80 km / h.On the island there are no problems with a rental car.The main thing - is to achieve 23 years of age and the presence of a driver's license.
Prohibitions
in the country is strictly prohibited spearfishing.In addition, not be permitted to rise from the seabed of any items without obtaining permission from local authorities.According to local law, and the collection of the breaking of corals imposes strict administrative liability.It also covers the purchase of the local merchants.As for fishing, the high seas, it is permitted on the big fish (mostly - marlin) exclusively using specialized boats.
Dangers
Given where Mauritius suggests that bites from the local fauna are potentially dangerous.In fact this is not true.The worst one in most cases are only allergic reaction.Particular caution should be observed in the water, where the thorns and spines of marine life can cause painful wounds.It is undesirable is shipped out of lagoons, as typical of these places are strong currents.As for tap water, then the island it is thoroughly cleaned, therefore it can be used from the tap.It is safe and the food that sold in local markets.
