Mauritius Reaping the Benefits of Wet and Cool UK Summer

Mauritius and her fellow Indian Ocean tourist destinations have been enjoying larger numbers of visitors ever since the calendar turned to 2011, and recent statistics reveal some of that may be due to the cold and wet summer in the UK. While France typically provides the most visitors to Mauritius, the number of British travellers has increased significantly this year. More importantly, British Airways and various travel operators have noticed an upswing in last-minute bookings as UK residents look to escape overseas.

Mauritius last minute deals are still available through tour operators across the UK, according to British Airways. In a recent report they also noted that Orlando and Barbados have also seen a slight increase in last-minute bookings. All three destinations offer the beautiful sunshine, warm waters, and heat so lacking in the UK this summer. And with the British summer quickly fading into autumn, going overseas may be a Brit's only hope of a warm summer holiday.

As far as Mauritius is concerned, tourist activity has been brisk to say the least. The island nation has enjoyed a 15% increase in the number of available beds since 2008 with several new hotels planned for opening between now and the end of 2012. This new reality has called for an increase in flights to and from the island, and British Airways has answered the call. They began offering more direct flights from Heathrow this past spring and plan another increase early next year.

Air Mauritius is planning increased flights as well; those new flights will begin this fall. Even the Mauritian government is getting involved, negotiating with several private air carriers from Europe and Asia who might be able to pick up the slack for them. All signs point to plenty of flights being available as the number of tourists continues to increase.

If you've never visited Mauritius there's no better time to go than now. You'll experience the Indian ocean paradise complete with plentiful sunshine, turquoise-blue waters, comfortable temperatures, and some of the most gloriously spectacular sunsets seen anywhere on the earth. Imagine strolling down a white sand beach as the sun slowly sets over the ocean horizon. In the morning, imagine waking up to see a tranquil and peaceful lagoon to one side and the majestic Mauritian mountains on the other.

While you're on Mauritius last minute deals, there will certainly be no shortage of things to do. You could spend a day in Port St. Louis, the nation's capital as well as a great spot for historic and cultural sites. You'll enjoy a spectacular natural environment that includes lush green gardens, hiking and biking trails, and beautiful vistas. For those who love the water, Mauritius offers a long list of water sports to keep you busy throughout your stay. Finally, if golf is your passion Mauritius is the place to be. Her championship golf courses offer not only a challenge, but also the ability to play among the world's most stunning natural surroundings.