March 3, 2025 - Mauritius

Dear friends and family,

Today we arrived in Mauritius, and it was nothing short of magical. This volcanic island, with its lush mountains, fine beaches, and coral reefs, feels like a tropical paradise. I enjoyed the day with a visit to some enormous colorful shiva statues, received a red tread prayer bracelet, saw more statues beside a lake with a temple across the lake. We went to Black River Gorges Biosphere Reserve with its beautiful waterfalls, then to Chamarel 7-colored earth, which also had giant tortoises (two were mating, taking their time).

I sure learned to value small private tours with a 6-8 passenger van, with driver and tour guide. They are much more economical, you have an opportunity to get to know the others in the van, including the person who arranged the tour, bio breaks don’t take forever, lunch on the go works well.

Mauritius’s unique blend of cultures and its breathtaking scenery make it a destination I’ll always treasure. It’s incredible to see such beauty and resilience in this small island nation.

With love and a spirit of wonder,
Chris