When planning an island vacation, a honeymoon or a couple’s getaway, then the first thing that comes in mind is serene white –sands and clear blue beaches. You would be looking for seafront accommodation, opportunities to relax and maybe a little sunset stroll along the seaside to unwind at the end of the day.
You must have definitely thought of Maldives OR Mauritius. Both the islands, offer an absolute island experience, offering delicious seafood, coral life, turquoise beach, and a lot to explore.
It must be hard to choose between the two, and you would probably be wondering what the difference is for both, and where to travel? Read on below and you can decide for yourself, the best island to go to for your holiday, depending on what you’re looking for.
Location
This is a main factor for travelers to choose the perfect destination for them, depending where they’re travelling from.
Maldives: Located in Asia, this would be a convenient option- in terms of flights as well - for travelers travelling from European and other Asian countries
Mauritius: Location in Africa, this option is convenient for travelers from the Americas and African countries.
Best time to Visit
Tropical climate marks the weather for both Maldives and Mauritius. Depending on the rainfalls for each time of the year, we would suggest the below months, for each islands visit.
Maldives: between November and April
Mauritius: September to December and April to June
Budget
While both islands do offer an abundance of accommodation from mid-range to luxurious resorts; it is important to look at factors of where you will be travelling from and the range of price for different things.
Maldives: Slightly on the higher side between the two islands, it is advisable to get an all-inclusive package for your holiday to avoid unnecessary costs, for meals and activities. This is a better option for travelers with a high budget and looking for luxury holiday.
Mauritius: The Island has better deals for all travelers. Mid to high range, you can go for either one.
For Adventure and Activities
While clear- water beaches are the number one factor when travelers are planning their travel vacation, activities do play an important role for some.
Maldives: The island focuses on laid- back luxury vacations, and hence does not offer a lot of adventures, especially within the resorts. Most people prefer to relax in their beach front chalets, sleep in a hammock, or read under the shade of a palm tree as the day passes.
Mauritius: The Island gives travelers and action- packed experience for those seeking for it. Being busier than its counterpart, it can offer a relaxing and exciting holiday experience with activities like hiking, cycling, kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, mountain trekking, hunting, birdwatching, windsurfing, waterskiing, rafting, horse riding and even quad biking.
Family Holiday, Honeymoon Destination or Solo Travel
Both islands have a little of everything to offer, for any type of Holidays. However, since each type of travel has an element that it focuses on mostly, here is what we have gathered.
Maldives: Privacy, luxury, me-time. Maldives can offer you this and the seclusion that you require, making it an excellent option for solo travelers and honeymooners, but may not be the best option for families, as some over water villas do not allow children below the age of twelve years, and most resorts do not offer enough activities for children.
Mauritius: A bustling colonial capital, with myriad activities for all age ranges, Mauritius is a perfect family destination and very child friendly. Some resorts do offer kids clubs to take care of them, giving parents a little time on their own to unwind. It is a safe destination, and does attract a lot of visitors year round and hence may not be the best option for couples seeking privacy.