Le Méridien Ile Maurice consists of a central reception/restaurant/bar building surrounded by six three-storey walk-up blocks, three to each side, and, at the far right-hand side, a newer luxury block, known as Nirvana, with its own reception, pool, and restaurant. Nirvana has no separate access from the outside road, so it’s a long walk from the entrance. In the original buildings all rooms face the beach and the sea and have their own verandahs; Nirvana has both sea and back views. Suites are located in the original buildings, but occupants are invited to use the Nirvana facilities, including free wireless internet in the lobby and an elaborate breakfast menu (included in the rate). Internet access in the original buildings is via a costly and slow dial-up system.

As SPG Platinum, we were pre-booked into a suite consisting of a large bedroom with a king bed, small sitting area, flat-screen TV, verandah, and bathroom (with spa bath tub) as well as a separate living room with desk, TV, and a small bathroom (with shower only). The decoration is basically in dark wood, but the upholstery is bright colored. The physical plant and the furnishings are very well maintained. The staff is friendly and helpful.

The hotel is stretched out along a white sandy beach, with pools and other recreational facilities between the beach and the buildings. The beach is nice to lie on, but there are so many rocks in the water that swimming is unpleasant. Numerous hawkers offer boating, fishing, and other sorts of expeditions at extra cost. Nonetheless, as a tropical paradise, Mauritius does not match up to Hawaii or Tahiti and better beaches can easily be found elsewhere.

The hotel is located in the north-west of the island at Pointe aux Piments, more than 50 kilometers from the MRU international airport, to the south. The trip by car, passing through the capital at Port Louis, requires about one and a half to two and a half hours, depending on the traffic. Near-by places include Port Louis (traditional markets, a modern shopping mall, restaurants, historic buildings), Grande Baie (restaurants and clubs), and the Botanical Gardens. However, without a car, Le Méridien is pretty much isolated as there is very little of interest within walking distance.

The population of Mauritius nowadays is mainly of Indian origin, but the most widely spoken language is still French creole. There are numerous Indian and creole restaurants, Indian temples, etc. People are very friendly and will go out of their way to help visitors. The Mauritius experience is interesting and worthwhile.

Review by ajnaro.

Posted at November 7, 2006 9:54 PM