Mauritius

Mum’s 70th called for something epic — hello, Mauritius!

Our second time there, her first, and bloody hell, was she smitten. Golden beaches, turquoise seas, the most incredible people, amazing traditional and local food, and a fascinating religious culture that made my mum feel like she’d discovered a whole new part of her family.

Our adventure kicked off in Port Louis, the capital. The bustling markets hit us like a sensory explosion — vibrant colours, intoxicating spices, sizzling street food, and souvenirs galore that practically begged to be touched, tasted, and explored.

One of the absolute highlights? We were so lucky to be invited to a Mauritian X South African feast with friends we’d never met in person, now living on the island.

We laughed, swapped stories, and by the end of the evening, we’d scored the ultimate insider tip — a local tour guide who ended up showing us every corner of the island.

One of the absolute highlights was visiting one of the oldest temples in Mauritius — centuries of devotion etched into every intricate stone — and watching Oliver soak it all in with such curiosity and respect he surreal Seven Coloured Earths (yes, the Seven Sands!), like walking on a painter’s palette; lush botanical gardens with ginormous lily pads and waterfalls tumbling dramatically; and, of course, the majestic Lord Shiva statue — a towering symbol of transformation, rebirth, and clearing space for the new.

We wandered its grounds, snapping (far too many) photos and learning alongside Oliver as he asked endless questions.

We ate, we laughed, we danced under the stars. It was a celebration of her life, her stories, her strength, and her joy — memories we’ll carry forever.

Mauritius, you were the perfect gift — THANK YOU.