From market colours to poolside calm, a rooftop drink and dinner at a bustling local favourite — the perfect way to settle into island life.

The day began with breakfast by the pool at Le Clos des Bains — fresh fruit, warm pastries, and strong coffee in the morning sun. It was quiet except for birds in the garden and the soft sound of water from the pool. After the long journey, it felt wonderful to just sit, eat, and soak up the tropical warmth.

After breakfast we walked down to Blue Bay Beach, only a few minutes away. It’s every bit as beautiful as the pictures — clear turquoise water, soft sand, and a relaxed local vibe. Families were swimming, children chasing waves, and fishermen bringing in their morning catch.

After our beach walk, we caught a taxi to Le Rose-Belle Market, driven by Uncle Joseph, who introduced himself with a big smile and insisted we call him that. As we passed through small villages and fields of sugarcane, he pointed out local landmarks and told us about life on the island. It was Uncle Joseph who recommended Le Rose-Belle, a weekly Wednesday market he said we shouldn’t miss — and he was right.

The market was lively and full of character. Stalls overflowed with incredible fresh fruit and vegetables, and the air was thick with rich smells — sweet, spicy, and occasionally sharp from the salted octopus and dried fish piled high. Everyone we met was warm and welcoming, happy to chat or offer a taste.

We sipped freshly squeezed juice while weaving between stalls selling everything imaginable — from pots and pans to saris in every colour. It was vibrant, noisy, and full of life; the perfect glimpse into everyday Mauritius.

When the shopping and exploring were done, we crossed the road to a small mall opposite the market for lunch. There, tucked among local cafés, we found a simple food court serving Mauritian pani puri — crisp, tangy, and refreshing — and a vegetarian thali, full of flavour and spice. It was casual, authentic, and delicious. Uncle Joseph waited patiently in the car park, chatting to other drivers while we ate.

After lunch, Uncle Joseph drove us back to Blue Bay, and we headed straight for the sea. The water was warm and clear, the sand soft underfoot, and it felt good to wash off the heat of the day with a slow, easy swim.

Back at Le Clos des Bains, we spent a quiet afternoon by the pool — a swim, a book, and a little sun.

By late afternoon we made our way up to the roof terrace for a drink, watching the light fade across the village as the sky turned soft pink and gold.

Dinner that night was at The Bamboo Restaurant, a lively local spot just a short stroll away. It was packed and full of energy — we were lucky to grab the last table. The service was friendly and the food was excellent: a Mauritian vanilla chicken, an unusual dish with a delicate, subtly sweet flavour that somehow works perfectly; a creamy burrata stack; and our favourite, tuna tartare so fresh with chopped mango.

It was the perfect end to our first full day — a mix of local colour, good food, and that easy rhythm of island life that makes everything feel just right.

📍 Places We Visited

Blue Bay Beach – Calm turquoise water, soft sand, and an easy local atmosphere.

Le Rose-Belle Market – A weekly Wednesday market recommended by Uncle Joseph. Colourful, friendly, and full of local life, with everything from fruit and spices to saris and cookware.

Lunch Spot – Mall Opposite Le Rose-Belle Market – Simple local eateries serving pani puri and vegetarian thali, perfect for a quick and tasty Mauritian lunch.

The Bamboo Restaurant – A popular dinner spot with great food and a buzzing atmosphere.