That image we all have of a glistening white beach being lapped by brilliant blue waves most probably stems from a photograph originally taken at Mauritius' tourist magnet - Grand Baie. Grab a Long Island iced tea as we take you on a 360 degree flip of the city. 

Where to stay... Being the island’s IT place means you’re slightly spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation. The place is dotted with bed-and breakfast cottages, self-catering apartments and luxury resorts. Le Tousserok is lauded by many an intrepid traveller – but be warned its super expensive, although you do get a perfectly dressed butler pandering to your every whim. Paul et Virginie is not as exuberant as Le Tousserok and for a more affordable price you have to carry your own towel to the beach, but that’s okay seen as its practically on your doorstep.

 Pros: Luxury resorts are often subject to packages which come with a whole range of benefits, including unlimited water activities. Yes, I said unlimited! All those contenders for your annual bonus or hard-earned cash, translates into pretty competitive prices. Check our listings for the latest deals

Cons: This tropical climate keeps temperatures in the mid twenties - even in winter – and you may have to start planning well in advance to ensure you find accommodation suited to your tastes and your pocket.

 Calling all beach bandits... Mauritius was formed by ancient volcanic activity, meaning that it is now almost entirely surrounded by coral reefs acting as breakers to inviting lagoons. All conceivable superlatives have already been used to describe the natural tanning bed of Mauritius, admittedly because it is so beautiful! (Sand is so much better than a can and SPFs were invented for a reason) Have a look at our gallery and you’ll get the picture. The northern coastline is the star of the island. Pointe aux Piments, Trou aux Biches and Choisy are ideal bathing spots of Grand Bay. Pereybere is considered the playground of the young and rebellious. This is where you’re most-likely to run into a spontaneous beach party.

 Pros: Those unlimited activities include water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkelling and kitesurfing. Yachts abound as the bay is the Indian Ocean home away from home for the rich, even if they’re not that famous.

Cons: The northern coastline is a big tourist attraction meaning it a constant hive of activity. If you’re looking for seclusion you’re on the wrong end of the coast. A more relaxed holiday would see you in the south at Le Morne, which also has a national park with trails through the rainforest.

 Delicious Mauritius by day... We’ve already mentioned the water-sports. But you can also indulge in the hidden treasures of Grand Baie with a blue safari. You’ll get to see the coral barrier, the wreck of the Star Hope and the anchor of a 17th century vessel. Take a trip in a glass-bottom boat or interact by taking an undersea walk. Spending a day on a catamaran is also quite popular but do take some seasick tablets along just in case. Or if you need a little respite from doing absolutely nothing there is an abundance of restaurants, shops and markets in Grand Baie. When we say abundance, we’re really not exaggerating.

Pros: Beach and shopping therapy to ease away the stress of your normal life, who could ask for more? Bikinis and board-shorts thankfully take up very little space, which means all your holiday shopping can be accommodated.

Cons: With all the choice when it comes to activities and shops – do try to restrain yourself from maxing out your credit card. Customs may also be a bit of a problem and keep tabs on that luggage weight.

 Delicious Mauritius by night... Grand Baie, in comparison to the rest of Mauritius is definitely the place to be if you want to get your groove on. Royal Road, like Durban’s Florida Road or Cape Town’s Long street, simmers long after the restaurant kitchens have closed. Need a refill on your cocktail yet? Stardance and Godz discothèque have built up quite a reputation with the quality of their sound systems but the music is purely commercial. Open-air bars such as Banana Cafe, Zanzi Bar and Buddha Bar can also be found on Royal. N-Gyone Nightclub, described as classy, sexy and ahead of its time, is a must if you want to experience local talent and big events. And make an effort to learn the local dance known as the Sega, which will see you doing a lot of shuffling and hip-swaying to traditional ravannes (drums) and percussion.

Pros: Whether you’re simply looking to enjoy a few cocktails, or perhaps some fine dining with a bit of traditional music, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here.

Cons: Being the buzziest part of Mauritius at night, you may find yourself partying until the early hours, which may leave you completely exhausted and in need of an extended break.