Indian Ocean Islands
The islands of the Indian Ocean are split into five islands, including
Comoros, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka.Comoros
A little known gem, the Comoros Island is a place of contrasting beauty, clutter, mystery, charm and poverty. Not your usual vacation destination, but definitely not an experience to dismiss, Comoros offers a unique charm of its own. Here the Muslim faith reigns supreme, and visitors can be enchanted by the rich Swahili culture which is portrayed in the locals' cuisine, vocabulary, architecture, dress sense and way of life.
With influences of Arab traders, Persian sultans, African slaves and Portuguese pirates, one can expect a uniquely diverse experience in Comoros. A holiday in Comoros may not be for everyone, and is something of a niche experience. Tourism facilities are not exceptional and indeed some might say tourism in the Indian Ocean Islands is still in its developmental phase! The people, however, are friendly and welcoming, but the Muslim faith is evident in most of the island, so modesty and respect is expected from all parties. Comoros is therefore a great destination for those wanting to get away from it all and experience a new, rich and fulfilling culture and lifestyle. Not really a place for the cocktail sipping, bikini wearing crowd, but a memorable and worthwhile experience nonetheless.
Madagascar
Madagascar is a place like no other. Where else in the world would you be able to witness 70 varieties of lemur - a unique and fascinating creature - some of the world's largest and smallest chameleons, and a diverse variety of flora and fauna? Madagascar was also once the home of the world's largest bird, the now extinct elephant bird. Combine the spectacular beauty of the island with friendly and polite locals, a wonderful climate, great accommodation options, a rich history steeped in mystery and magic, and a unique and diverse culture, and you have the refreshing and interesting experience in a place not similar to any other in the world.
Maldives
For those in search of unadulterated luxury in its purest form, the Maldives demands your attention. After a few years of maintenance and growth, the Maldives is now back to its original state of beauty. The natural disasters over the past years may have damaged this breathtaking island, but it did not damage the spirit and faith of its people, who worked hard to restore the island to its original beauty and grace. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, with water as blue as it is warm, and blessed with almost 365 days of glorious sun, the Maldives is the perfect destination for honeymooners, sun worshippers, luxury seekers, or divers and snorkellers. In the Maldives, travellers get to experience the simple life without compromising on quality, comfort and luxury. Enjoy the finer things in life while still experiencing the island in its natural state of beauty and charm. The Maldives has for a long time been a leading tourist destination, therefore expect service and facilities of the highest accord. From high end luxury to back-to-nature acommodation, the Maldives will be able to satisfy the needs, curiosity and taste buds of the most discerning tourist.
Mauritius
A place of majestic beauty, sun soaked beaches and enchanting sensory delights, Mauritius is the epitome of paradise. The name itself conjures up images of tropical luxury, exquisite beauty, culinary delights, sprawling white sandy beaches, palm trees and mysterious cobble stone cities. And that is exactly what you can expect from a Mauritius vacation, and so much more. Whether you are simply interested in spending your days relaxing on the beach, or taking in the sights and sounds of the island, Mauritius offers a host of activities and attractions that may appeal to you. The island itself is a melting pot of cultural experiences, historical locations, and geographic variations. This, combined with limitless activities to keep young and old busy for hours, and you have a superlative luxury experience of note. From the bustling towns of Quarte Bornes and Curepipe, to the indigenous beauty of the Black River Gorges National Park, you will experience a truly magical and rewarding holiday in Mauritius.
Seychelles
An island of exquisite beauty and tranquility, the Seychelles is a place where few crowds are found. Without a doubt, one visits the Seychelles for the beaches, and the beaches alone. Seychelles has been blessed with the most beautiful beaches in the world, with cobalt blue water, white sand and breathtaking surroundings, not to mention complete peace and serenity. Seychelles has been the destination of choice for many a romantic couple for years, and is a noted honeymoon destination. Gently nested in the waters of the Indian Ocean, this island offers the insipid traveller an experience like no other. The Seychelles boast a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs, from quaint and charming self catering facilities, to uber luxurious lodges right on the water's edge. Seychelles is therefore a destination accessible to us all, not just the multi-millionaires looking to get away from it all.
Sri Lanka
Offering a kaleidoscope of colours, smells and sights to intrigue even the most discerning traveller, Sri Lanka is a place steeped in mystery, history and culture. Spend your days unwinding on the crystal clear beaches, or amble through the bustling markets where eager locals jostle to sell you their wares. Browse the wonderful display of fruit, jewellery, and spices, or revel in the traditional Buddhist culture that emanates through most of the island. But indeed the island is more than sun drenched beaches and cultural experiences. It is also a place that Mother Nature has blessed with indigenous forests and natural beauty, a place where one can indulge in fascinating history, a place where religion forms an important part of daily life, and a place where nothing is taken for granted and simplicity reigns supreme. It is also a place of high end luxury, with world class accommodation options where visitors retreat to after a memorable day of exploring.