Week #4: Mauritius

Photo: lonelyplanet.com

We're heading back to the tropics, folks!

This week, we'll head 4,800 miles southeast to the tiny island nation of Mauritius, located off the east coast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean.

The island was reportedly known to Arabs in the 10th century, but it was officially "discovered" by the Portuguese in 1505. The island remained uninhabited, however, until 1598. After colonization by the Dutch, French and British, Mauritius gained independence on March 12, 1968. Today's populace comprises Indian descendants of colonial traders, who emigrated while under British rule, and Creole-African descendants of the French sugar plantation owners and their slaves, with a dash of Chinese and European settlers for good measure. Most Mauritians speak a unique Creole patois, which they developed during French rule in the 18th century.

There isn't an official national dish for Mauritius, although this man begs to differ. I'm glad I found this video, since I'd already decided to make dholl puri next Saturday to accompany a Mauritian curry. And, visual aids always help!

So, let's enjoy a week together in Mauritius. Don't forget to pack a healthy appetite!