With a whole new year ahead, there’s no better time to start planning your next luxury getaway – and if all of these grey, cold and rainy days have got you craving a little bit of winter sunshine then you’re not alone.
The paradisiacal Maldives and Mauritius are two of the most popular destinations when it comes to jetting off for some much-needed winter rest and relaxation, and with their pristine white sand beaches, azure waters and array of opulent hotels and resorts, it’s easy to see why.
Online searches for ‘Maldives holidays all inclusive’ and ‘luxury resorts in Mauritius’ are known to spike each time January rolls around once more, and this year, they’re at an all-time high. But choosing between the two can be a difficult task, particularly if you’ve never been to either destination before – so here, we take a look at what each has to offer to help make the decision-making a little easier.
Resorts and attractions
If your main priorities are seclusion and privacy, then the exclusivity of the Maldives’ many luxury resorts is hard to beat. Each one is located on its own private island, which means other than guests and staff, there’s nobody else around – so if you’re keen to escape from prying eyes and completely relax, then there’s no better place.
On the other hand, most top-end resorts in Mauritius enjoy acres of private land but are also well located for anyone wishing to explore the island – so if you prefer to see the sights and immerse yourself in the local culture, then it might be a better choice for you.
Food and culture
Mauritian culture is rich, vibrant and interesting, and this multi-ethnic and multi-language island has plenty to offer those eager to immerse themselves in it. Combining both Indian and Creole influences, the food is a fusion of mouth-watering flavours and are best sampled at one of Mauritius’ bustling markets. And there are a host of intriguing temples, museums and other intriguing attractions to fill your schedule with, too.
Due to their privileged and secluded paradise locations, the majority of luxury resorts in the Maldives are more about eating, drinking and relaxing than immersing oneself in the local culture – but Maldivian influences can be seen throughout the decadent cuisine that is served up in many of their high-end restaurants and offer a great chance to sample some traditional flavours. Plus, you’ll have the chance to chat to the staff, many of whom are local to the Maldives – and many resorts also provide the option to take a cultural tour to the capital city of Male, or visit some of the nearest inhabited islands.
Nature
The Maldives is a snorkeller’s and diver’s paradise, with many resort islands offering guests privileged access to colourful house reefs teeming with vibrant marine life ranging from fish to sea turtles and black tip reef sharks, all directly off the beach. Most luxury resorts also run regular boat trips out to sand bars and to snorkel or dive with dolphins, manta rays and even whale sharks, depending on the time of year – so if you’re an ocean enthusiast, then you’re certain to be in for a treat.
Although it’s hard to beat the biodiversity of the Maldives’ underwater paradise, Mauritius, too, boasts some pretty coral reefs, as well as some breath-taking natural landscapes comprising towering mountain peaks like the imposing Le Morne and verdant forests, botanical gardens and spectacular stretches of coastline. The natural phenomenon that is the Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel is a must see, and an example of just how diverse and beautiful Mauritius’ natural environment really is – so if you’re after a varied experience that takes in both land and sea, then it’s a great choice.
So, Maldives or Mauritius?
If you’re still struggling to choose between these two breath-taking paradise destinations, then consider what you want to get out of your break, and allow it to be your guide. If you’re looking for peace, quiet and ultimate relaxation then there’s nowhere quite like the Maldives – but if you’d like a little of that mixed in with some sight-seeing and immersing yourself in the local culture and nature, then Mauritius ticks all the right boxes and more.
Still not sure? Then you’ll just have to visit both. It’s a tough life, but someone’s got to live it.
