Did God Create Mauritius First?

Historically, the country was ruled by the Dutch in the 16th century, the French in the 18th century, and the British in the 20th century. The colonial era continued until independence in 1968. After the abolition of slavery in the 19th century, many Indian immigrants settled here, and today, people of Indian descent still make up nearly 70% of Mauritius's population.


Creoles, a mix of Black Africans and White Europeans, account for just under 30%, with Chinese, Arab, and European people also residing here, contributing to a diverse religious landscape. However, unlike many multi-religious nations, Mauritius is characterized by its harmonious coexistence. Temples, churches, and mosques of Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam are found throughout the island, coexisting remarkably well.

A Chinese temple discovered in Port Louis

A visit to the market in the capital, Port Louis, offers a renewed sense of multi-ethnic harmony. Colorful vegetables, fruits, seafood, and meats are displayed, and all the ingredients and spices essential for Indian, African, European, and Asian cuisine are available. Furthermore, vanilla, cloves, and pepper from the neighboring island of Madagascar are abundant, alongside daily necessities like small goods and clothing. It might also be a convenient place to buy souvenirs. Perhaps influenced by the French and British colonial eras, Port Louis boasts the Champ de Mars Racecourse, which is remarkably the second oldest racecourse in the world, making it a fascinating sight.

The Central Market, the kitchen of Mauritius

A highly recommended activity when visiting Mauritius is the "Walk with Lions" at Casela Nature & Leisure Park. Lions orphaned due to parental abandonment in Africa are brought here and raised. As they are essentially "foster parents," you can safely walk with them under the guidance of keepers, and photography is permitted. You can touch their bodies, except for their heads, offering an unparalleled experience.

Casela Nature & Leisure Park, located in the western region of the island

Keepers provide instructions before the walk

Feature: The Island "Closest to Heaven" Floating in the Indian Ocean

Savoring Mauritius (2)

The Hospitality of the "Lady of the Indian Ocean"

Mauritius boasts beautiful natural white-sand beaches in various locations. The beaches on the Belle Mare peninsula, situated in the northeastern part of the island, are particularly exquisite. Located on this Belle Mare peninsula is One&Only Le Saint Géran, a premier, long-established resort that opened in 1975. Having been cherished by affluent Europeans and celebrities for nearly 40 years, half of its guests are repeat visitors.


It's not just "going to Mauritius," but "going to One&Only Le Saint Géran." It is truly a destination resort. Here, we will delve into the charms of Le Saint Géran. How does the Lady of the Indian Ocean entertain her guests?


Incidentally, the resort's name is derived from the ship Saint Géran, which appears in the 1787 novel "Paul et Virginie" by French writer Jacques-Henri Bernardin de Saint-Pierre. The ship is said to have sunk near Mauritius after encountering a storm and now rests on the seabed.


Maldives,DubaiMuch like its counterparts in the Maldives, Cape Town, Los Cabos (Mexico), and the Bahamas, One&Only Le Saint Géran promises the brand's signature "luxury" through its spaces, privacy, and tailor-made services. Indeed, it could be argued that this resort, the very origin of One&Only, is what forged the brand's DNA.

The entrance to One&Only Le Saint Géran

A private pathway leading to "La Villa," which was also used by the late Nelson Mandela

The resort spans a vast 60 acres and comprises 163 rooms: 14 Ocean Suites, 148 Junior Suites, and the "La Villa" (a single villa) where the late Nelson Mandela is said to have frequently stayed. The lobby area, extending from the main building's entrance, features striking Mauritius-style architecture with white-plastered walls built from volcanic rock and a high, open ceiling.


The guest room wings, branching left and right from the main building, are colonial in style. All rooms feature a balcony overlooking the cobalt blue sea (on the second floor) or a porch with garden access to the beach (on the first floor), and are complemented by 24-hour butler service. The interiors incorporate Dutch and French colonial designs, offering an elegant and comfortable European ambiance. The presence of walk-in closets, spacious enough to store two weeks' worth of luggage, caters to the needs of European guests who typically enjoy extended vacations.



Many guests find their entire vacation experience complete within the resort grounds, thanks to the abundant dining options and activities. The all-day dining restaurant, "La Terrasse," offers a diverse buffet that never grows tiresome, even with daily visits, and includes a Japanese corner. La Terrasse is situated by the pool, allowing guests to dine while enjoying the pleasant sea breeze from the Indian Ocean.

Modern Indian cuisine at "Rasoi by Vineet"

Vineet Bhatia's cuisine, enjoyed with the sea breeze, is exceptional

At "Rasoi by Vineet," savor modern Indian cuisine by Michelin-starred chef Vineet Bhatia. In this tropical setting by the sea, the tasting menu of Indian-style tapas, best enjoyed with wine, is a must-try. The shisha (Arab-style water pipe) corner within Rasoi is also popular. Spicy food and shisha seem to be a perfect pairing.


The signature restaurant, "Prime," offers an exquisite gourmet experience featuring premium Australian Angus beef, fresh seafood, and organic produce. Prime also boasts the distinction of being Mauritius's first high-end steakhouse, attracting local guests from afar. A hidden gem is the "Prime Box," a special bento box from Prime, available for delivery to your preferred location, such as the beach or your room. This stylish lunch box comes complete with proper cutlery. The recommended meal is the hamburger, served with French fries, salad, and dessert.

The "Hot & Cold Tuna Sashimi" is one of the popular dishes

Enjoy wines from around the world at "Prime"

The "Prime Box" can be enjoyed in your favorite location

Sugarcane cultivation began in Mauritius with Dutch colonization in the 17th century, and it remains the island's primary agricultural product. Rum, made from sugarcane, is one of Mauritius's specialties. The pool bar offers a wide selection of Mauritian rums and an extensive range of rum-based cocktails. Dayandun Valaithan, the bar manager and a renowned staff member, has been with the resort since its inception. He is an expert on rum, known as the "magician of local rum cocktails." He crafts over ten original rum cocktails, with "Feel the Rock" and "The Moris" being highly recommended.

Pool bar staff offering various rums (Dayandun Valaithan is second from the right)

Please note that since there are no direct flights from Japan to Mauritius, you cannot purchase rum as a souvenir at the airport. It will be confiscated at your transit point, so be aware.

Feature: The Island "Closest to Heaven" Floating in the Indian Ocean

Savoring Mauritius (3)

Abundant Activities that Charm Celebrities

In addition to the culinary delights, we highly recommend engaging in sports activities during your stay at One&Only Le Saint Géran. What's great is that most of these activities are available free of charge. Watersports include water skiing, kayaking, kite surfing, and Hobie Cat sailing. Kite surfing, though gradually gaining popularity in Japan, is such a popular sport in Mauritius that international competitions are held here.


There are also five floodlit tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course designed by Gary Player (with a hole that requires playing over the sea, making it quite challenging). Play on both is free of charge, with only the rental of equipment like rackets, balls, and golf sets, as well as golf carts, incurring a fee. You can also play with the staff, receiving lessons as you go.

The course is always kept in top condition

The golf course was designed by legendary player Gary Player

Similar to the bar staff, the golf course also boasts a memorable staff member. Ramesh Shibrooke, the Caddy Master, began working at the resort as a gardener even before its completion in 1973. In 1975, at the time of the resort's opening, his pleasant personality and quick wit were recognized, leading him to become a caddy on the golf course. He is now so popular that some guests look forward to playing with him, and he has even played with Gary Player himself, the course designer.


Game fishing is also a recommended activity, though it is an additional charge. The boat is chartered, and professional staff (who clearly look like former fishermen) provide assistance, making it enjoyable even for beginners. Back in 2009, the avid angler Robert De Niro, before attending the opening party of One&Only Cape Town, stopped by here and greatly enjoyed game fishing in the Indian Ocean.

Experience authentic game fishing with advice from dedicated staff

Many guests also spend their time on the beach. Red and blue flags are placed sporadically on the beach; red signifies "Don't Disturb," while blue means "Service Please." The beach staff adhere to the rule of not approaching guests with red flags, and for those with blue flags, they frequently offer various services such as taking drink orders, polishing sunglasses, and providing cold towels. While seemingly a small gesture, it's an exceptionally thoughtful service.

One of the unique services: what do the red and blue flags mean?

Don't overlook the Health & Beauty offerings at One&Only Le Saint Géran. Similar to other One&Only resorts, it features a Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez, a world-renowned podiatrist, offering immaculate nail care for hands and feet. With a two-week waiting list in New York, this should be at the top of your "TO DO list" during your stay at One&Only Le Saint Géran.


Furthermore, the One&Only Spa menu, developed in partnership with ESPA, offers treatment programs designed to meet each guest's needs through three approaches: Unwind, Restore, and Elevate.

Bastien Gonzalez's Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio

The quiet pool in the spa wing is perfect for moments of relaxation

Spa treatments in a tranquil courtyard surrounded by greenery are exceptional

In 2013, "Harmonia" was introduced, developed by Frances Miralles, a specialist and practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This is Mauritius's only authentic well-being program. It includes a diet therapy focusing on low-fat, low-sugar, and reduced gluten and dairy intake to minimize oxidation (prepared by chefs who excel in gourmet cuisine, ensuring deliciousness). Energy balance is then adjusted through acupuncture and craniosacral therapy.

Furthermore, flexibility is enhanced through physical therapy and osteopathy, while traditional Chinese herbs address bodily imbalances. Simultaneously, detoxification is promoted through massages and treatments incorporating both Chinese and Western techniques. The program culminates in balancing the body's energy flow through traditional Chinese practices like Tai Chi and meditation. This ultimate holistic experience is available as a 7-night package, but a "Harmonia A La Carte" menu is also offered from 3 nights, allowing guests to experience even a part of it to rebalance their bodies.

One&Only Le Saint Géran

Pointe de Flacq, Mauritius

Tel. +230-401-1688

http://lesaintgeran.ooresorts.com/ja/