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Port Louis, Mauritius Capital City

Port Louis, Mauritius

Port Louis - bustling port, market town, horse racing capital, former home to the Dodo, and much more... see below for info.
Port Louis, Mauritius' capital city, Indian Ocean

Port Louis, Mauritius' capital city, Indian Ocean

Thierry/Creative Commons

Basic Facts About Port Louis

Port Louis is the capital city of Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. Around 150,000 people live in the capital, a bustling port on the north-west coast of the island. Port Louis is one of Africa's busiest commercial ports, it's also a popular landing spot for cruise ships. It has a rich history, the harbor was in use by traders as early as the 1630's. The French made it the administrative capital as early as 1735 and used it as a provisions center for their ships sailing around the stormy Cape of Good Hope. Port Louis was named after the French King Louis the XV (1710-1774).

Port Louis is truly a microcosm of the world today. It's population is total melting pot of cultures, languages, traditions and religions. The grandest architecture reflects its early colonial history which is now battling for sea views with sky-scrapers. The modern concept of a "waterfront mall" is alive and well in the form of Le Caudan. But the heart and soul of the place can be found in its bazaars (markets). This is where housewives and restaurant owners mingle in the early hours of the morning to buy their fresh produce for the day.

Traffic is chaotic in the small capital, but you can easily escape the fumes and head into the Port Louis Moka Range that surrounds the port, or one of the numerous beaches ...

What to See in Port Louis

Port Louis has many attractions including:

Where to Stay

If you're spending a few nights in Port Louis, check out: Le Labourdonnais, Le Suffren, and Villa Jorico.

Where to Eat

Mauritian cuisine is absolutely delicious, especially if you like seafood and/or spicy, Indian cuisine. Try the snack food available at little stalls in the central market, Dhal Puris Stall is popular. For Chinese food, head to Chinatown and check out the First Restaurant. For views and international cuisine check out L'escale.

Sources and More
Travel Mauritius - Port Louis
Mysterra.Org - Port Louis
Travel Video about Port Louis
Wikipedia on Port Louis
Lonely Planet - Port Louis

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