Mauritius, the holiday destination in the Indian Ocean, could soon have more to offer to the travel-hungry Chennaiite, with more direct flights to the island nation a distinct possibility in the coming years.
Over 60,000 Indians visit Mauritius every year, of which nearly 10,000 are from south India, according to the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA).
Every Tuesday, a flight from Chennai flies holiday-makers, primarily honeymooners, to the island that seeks to enthrall tourists with a variety of water and adventure sports.
“We are witnessing a steady growth of tourists from India, and plan to offer more facilities to make their holiday more memorable. We may introduce more flights from India, mainly the southern parts, in two years and also hold festivals to attract tourists to our beautiful country,” said Michael Yeung Sik Yuen, minister of tourism and leisure, Republic of Mauritius.
Mauritius is sure to make a Chennaiite feel at home with its tropical weather, gastronomic delights — including vegetarian dishes — that are similar to Indian cuisine, and the surrounding pristine, white sand beaches.
The island, which boasts a pollution-free environment and air that is estimated to be the second cleanest in the world, is connected by flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.
“After a gap of five years, the MTPA conducted a tourism seminar in Chennai in June and a road show last month, primary aimed at attracting tourists from the city. The response from travel agents was overwhelming. We believe they would bring in more tourists from the city to the island destination,” said Vivek Anand, country manager, MTPA, New Delhi.
So, if you are planning a holiday to Mauritius, call the MTPA helpline (011-2623 6525) to pick the right travel agent in your region, or write to mauritius@hometourism.com for details. You can also log on to www.tourism-mauritius.mu for additional information.
(The writer was in Mauritius recently, on invitation from the MTPA)
