Mauritius
Unlike Seychelles and Maldives, Mauritius is a single tropical island, a playground set in the Indian Ocean, ringed by coral reefs, white sand beaches and clear calm water with a distinct French-Mediterranean influence. For a stress-free holiday, the many resorts scattered along the island's western coastline offer the perfect venue. With excellent service, restaurants, swimming pools, endless water sports, kids entertainment and shaded sun loungers a few steps from the sea, you have everything conveniently close at hand.
While exploring the city streets of Port Louis, the island's capital, you will come across the Anglican and Catholic cathedrals, the main city Mosque and the Natural History Museum, where you can get a glimpse of the cultural heritage of the island. And there are many cafés and restaurants to choose from. Other towns to visit are Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux on the North-Western tip of the island.
If you like to be active, head south. This is where you will be able to do some surfing and there is a mountain to explore on foot or a bicycle.
Mauritius is a favourite destination for golfers, families and honeymooners. With only a 4-hour flight from Johannesburg, it is easily combined with a safari in South Africa.
Best time to travel: May - December.