Rodrigues Island, AFRICA
Airing Date: Feb 3rd, 2003
On the island of Rodrigues the welcome is as warm as the weather. Although it's officially part of Mauritius, the island has a rhythm, style and feel all of its own. Even the small town of Port Mathurin is unique - it's here you'll find the hottest chillies in the world.
The number one Rodriguan activity is fishing. Small fishing boats called pirogues have been cruising the lagoons for centuries, and tourists are welcome to come aboard for an old time fishing adventure. Catching a fish requires a bit of luck, but if the fish aren't biting you can still catch an octopus. On Rodriques these creatures are highly prized.
Rodriguan sightseeing offers everything from coral reefs to coral caves. Guided tours operate through an underground world of 25 caves including Caverne Patate, a kilometre-long cave full of ancient formations.
A popular attraction for tourists and locals is an event called the Fancy Fair. Every Sunday, young musical hopefuls or wannabe stars turn up to sing and dance. Although the event is very similar to a talent quest, there are no prizes. Performers participate simply for the pleasure of entertaining an audience.
In the evening when all the fishing boats head home, places like the Restaurant du Quai start filling up and seafood is on the menu. Restaurant du Quai serves calamari eight different ways with tasty variations like garlic and butter sauce.
The facts:
Air Mauritius flies to Mauritius from Melbourne and Perth weekly. From there it is a 90 minute connecting flight to Rodrigues. Prices start from $2469 per person from Melbourne, $2829 from Sydney, $2929 from Brisbane and $2169 from Perth. Price includes return airfares and five nights' twin share accommodation at Les Cocotiers Hotel, breakfast and dinner. Honey moon couples receive a discount of $130 per person. Includes taxes and charges. Conditions apply. Specials available on request.
Air Mauritius Holidays
Tel: 1300 362 166
Rod Tours
Tel: 1300 362 166
Chilli bombs from the town of Port Mathurin cost 75 Rupees or about $4.50 Australian per serve.
A four hour fishing trip on a pirogue costs $38.
A 40 minute tour of the caves is $25.
A three course meal at Restaurant du Qui costs around $35.
