No snow, but an incredible festive atmosphere ✨
No snow here, but the Christmas spirit is alive and well.
Shopping centers such as Tribeca Mall, Bagatelle and La Croisette outdo themselves with their grandiose decorations and events, which take place throughout the month of December.
What’s more, I like to visit Christmas markets all over the island to find local gifts to put under the tree.
Summer in December
Christmas here means warmth, humidity and exotic fruits 🥭🍍. You will find lychees, mangoes, pineapple, watermelon and much more!
→ Here’s my article about the fruits of Mauritius
Be careful, though: it’s also cyclone season, so beware of torrential rain or cyclones.
Expatriates between two worlds 🌍✈️
Many return to Europe to be reunited with loved ones, but with tickets often expensive, this isn’t always possible.
And then there’s the winter gear for the kids, plus all the gifts to bring back to the family!
December = end of year vacations 📚
Children in the Mauritian or international system are on vacation, and the new school year doesn’t start until around January 13.
For Mauritian schools the holidays start very early: generally in November.
If you’re a parent, you’ll need to keep them busy!
→ Here’s a list of activities to do with kids
Vacations and a festive atmosphere 🎉
For Mauritians, December is synonymous with vacations and also January. There’s little productivity at the end and beginning of the year, so don’t expect to make any progress on your projects.
January 1 and 2 are public holidays in Mauritius.
Usually, you have many public holiday during the 2-3 first months of the year.
Hotels full, rates on the rise 🏖️
High season is in full swing.
Hotels are fully booked and resident offers are scarce and/or unattractive.
And yes, tourists come in droves to escape the cold that has taken hold in the northern hemisphere.
So if you plan to stay at the hotel, you may need to book in advance.
Here, vitamin D and a relaxed atmosphere are guaranteed!
13th and 14th bonus month: shopping frenzy! 🛍️
With the end-of-year bonuses, the shopping malls are packed, as is the center of Port Louis.
If you hate crowds, avoid them! Finding a parking space becomes a mission impossible.
Careful if you plan to order online, you are not sure to be deliver on time here.
Christmas your way 🎅
With family, friends, at the beach, in a restaurant… anything’s possible. And on the meal side, forget the turkey if you like: seafood, barbecue or even raclette, it’s up to you!
For dessert, a traditional (iced) log or, alternatively, simple lychees or bananas flambéed in rum!
Fireworks and firecrackers 🎆
Mauritians love to set off firecrackers and fireworks.
For light sleepers, you won’t be spared.
Remember to bring your pets indoors during these noisy times!
Picnic on the beach 🌊🎶
Impossible to resist the idea of breaking a crust or “kas poze” with family or friends, feet in the sand, to the tunes of sega 🎵.
It’s a pleasure shared by many Mauritians and a magical experience not available in Europe.
But you won’t be the only one, so avoid the touristy beaches and prefer more secluded spots like the South or the East.
What about you, are you team tropical Christmas or snowy Christmas?
Wish you a happy holiday season!
