JĀ and I recently spent 7 nights at Solana Beach Resort on the East Coast of Mauritius. Our intention was to simply relax in the sun and of course, eat and drink as much as we possibly could. We’ve never been to Mauritius before, so the whole tropical vibe was sublime. Solana Beach is picturesque, a lush 4 star resort with a long stretch of crystal clear tranquil water.
What to do when you first arrive? Get stuck right in! Slip on your cozzie and park on the beach with fresh coconut water – a refreshing, cool and hydrating drink.
It doesn’t take very long to get into relax mode.
J with cocktail in hand. Life is good.
And when it’s too hot at the beach, chill at the pools.
And drink lots of “Solana Coladas”
And when the mood strikes, go para-sailing. We did it for the first time. It was beyond amazing. Ā Do give snorkeling a go, we literally swam in the shallow areas and it was fascinating to see all the different types of tropical fish. Ā There are paddle boats, canoes, SUP boards and lots more to keep you busy.
Peaceful evenings moon gazing from our balcony.
When in Mauritius.
Oh, what’s this? Freshly caught local “captain” fish, tiger prawns and squid. Was too tempting not to enjoy for lunch.
Our fresh seafood platter at Solana’s Coco Bar served with savoury rice, salad, lots of bread and aioli. What a view.
And our deluxe room was spacious with an extra length king size bed, mini bar, satellite tv (not that you need it) and a brilliant aircon. We had our own balcony with a spectacular view. Ā Since we recently celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary, they made it extra special with this cute turn down, a candlelit meal and 20 minute massage.
Mod bathroom with large shower and separate toilet.
Did we mission anywhere else? Of course, we rented a car for the day and drove around Belle mare, Flacque, Pamplemousses and Port Louis. We didn’t get to the South. Next time.
We were amazed to see so many beautiful Hindu temples throughout the little towns.
Walking through Flacque is such a cultural experience. Ā The locals are so friendly. This lady is selling freshly dried shrimp which is used in spicy stirfries, rice dishes and even salads.
This dude makes a living selling fresh chillies and dried mango.
You will see mobile vendors everywhere selling fresh roti and a variety of dhal. Awesome.
A local biryani and curry eatery. Love it.
Fried bread (oily bread) is a staple here. It is almost like vetkoek but with spices. You will also find fried aubergines in a spicy batter too.
Remember to slow down and get some coconut water.
Beautiful produce. Bitter gourd and Okra (a favourite here)
Bags and bags of spices and grains
Every shop has colourful powdered paint for Hindu Holi Festival
Seeing these giant Lily pads at Pamplemousses gardens was a highlight for us. Breathtaking.Ā
So that was our divine holiday. We tried to do as little as possible but glad we explored Mauritius a little. Ā It is worth taking a drive and getting lost a bit š
We had an all inclusive package which included:
3 buffet meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Specially marked cocktails
Specially marked wine
Specially marked bubbly
Local beer
Spirits, soft drinks, mineral water
Coffee, tea, hot chocolate
Room mini bar refilled daily
Most water sports are included but you pay for para-sailing.
We also had 20 % off all spa treatments excluding the free couples massage for our anniversary.
Our travel agents were STA travel and Thompson’s tours.
P.S Apparently end of Feb is nearing the end of Monsoon season. Ā The first 4 days were perfect sunny skies and the remainder was a tad stormy but still hot and humid so it didn’t phase us.
Read a bit about my thoughts on theĀ Mauritian cuisineĀ and check out my Mauritius inspired dessert,Ā Coconut & Lime Creme bruleeĀ with pineapple and mint salsa.
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