Local Encounters

OVERVIEW

This tour offers a wonderful opportunity to taste the local flavors of Mauritius and discover its different cultures by meeting with locals. Your tour begins in the small village of Bambous at the ‘Beautiful Local Hands’ workshop, a small non-governmental and non-profit association regrouping some 55 artisans, coming mostly from underprivileged backgrounds. The artisans work with local materials namely bamboo, guava wood, coconut, vacoas (padanus leaves) as well as with recyclable materials. By allowing these craftworkers to derive an income from traditional Mauritian handicraft techniques, Beautiful Local Hands promotes these techniques and helps maintain this cultural heritage. Continuing on to Carreaux Lalianne in the town of Phoenix, you will pay a visit to the home of Mr Sanjay, who will initiate you to 'samoussa' (a traditional Indian Snack) folding as well as show you how to make Mauritian 'Chutney', a local favorite. You will be treated to lunch under the veranda of his house, where your meal will be served as it would be in the Traditional Indian wedding. Embark on a tantalizing journey of wine tasting at the Takamaka Boutique Winery, the only winery in the world dedicated exclusively to lychee wine. Takamaka was born out of the conviction of a passionate winemaker, Alexander Oxenham, the only oenologist on the island, who took up the challenge of producing wine from lychees harvested in the best orchards in Mauritius. You will be guided through the winery and get to know almost everything about the Lychee Wine making process. More than just a wine tasting, enjoy a unique experience in a cosy handcrafted winery. Returning to the pier, you will no doubt be filled with wonderful memories of the colorful mosaic of people and cultures that make Mauritius a truly enchanting destination.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Taste the local flavors of Mauritius and discover its different cultures by meeting with locals.
• Pay a visit to the home of Mr Sanjay, who will initiate you to 'samoussa'-a traditional Indian Snack.
• Enjoy a unique experience in a cozy handcrafted winery.
• Sit for a delicious, time-honored meal served in the style of a traditional Indian wedding.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.