Mauritius

Mauritius is a volcanic island in the Indian Ocean ringed by coral reefs and turquoise lagoons, with a mountainous, forested interior. Around two-thirds of its people trace their roots to India, so Hindi and Bhojpuri are heard in the markets, temples dot the countryside and Indian food is everywhere, which is why it remains one of the most popular honeymoon and family destinations for Indian travellers.

Our six-night package splits the stay between the north and east coasts. From Grand Baie in the north you explore Port Louis, the capital, with its Central Market and the Caudan Waterfront, and the Pamplemousses botanical garden with its giant water lilies. The south-west day takes in Chamarel's Seven Coloured Earth, the Chamarel waterfall and Black River Gorges, and Ganga Talao, the sacred crater lake at Grand Bassin with its towering Shiva and Durga statues, a major pilgrimage site during Maha Shivaratri.

On the east coast around Belle Mare, the island slows down. A catamaran or speedboat trip to Île aux Cerfs brings white beaches and water sports, and the lagoons are ideal for snorkelling, glass-bottom boat rides and undersea walks. Mauritius suits honeymooners, families and multi-generation groups, and Indians can visit visa-free for tourism. The flight, usually via Mumbai or a Gulf hub, is longer than to the Maldives, but the island rewards with far more to see and do. Most resorts have Indian chefs, and the island's Creole culture, music and markets add a flavour of their own. Evenings are for beach dinners, sega dance shows and sunsets over the lagoon.