The adventure started bright and early in Manchester, boarding my Emirates A380 bound for Mauritius via Dubai. For a long-haul flight (about 16–17 hours in total), it was surprisingly comfortable, especially as I’d managed to snag a seat in the smaller upper-deck Economy cabin. It felt quieter, more private, and the generous seat pitch meant I could stretch out and relax. Everything ran smoothly, the service was warm, and before I knew it, I was stepping off the plane into warm island air, greeted by that subtle mix of sea breeze and tropical greenery. Mauritius, here I come.

Today started with a 4×4 jeep safari into the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve. The island’s lush greenery unfolded before us, waterfalls cascading into hidden pools, flashes of tropical birds darting through the trees, and a sense of wild beauty that felt untouched.

Back at the resort, I treated myself to the Guerlain Spa. The moment I walked in, the aroma alone made me feel lighter. The massage was, without exaggeration, the best I’ve ever had – deeply relaxing yet rejuvenating.

Dinner was a casual beachfront affair, toes in the sand, listening to the waves. Sometimes, simplicity is the greatest luxury.

Our final day was spent in the southwest at Heritage Le Telfair and its sister property, Heritage Awali. Le Telfair has the charm of a colonial plantation house, with spacious junior suites and even a new adults-only wing. I could instantly picture long, lazy afternoons here, wandering between the Gourmet Bliss dining options and the serene spa.

Awali, next door, has a vibrant African-inspired design and a family-friendly, all-inclusive feel, yet still feels indulgent.

Both share access to the Heritage Golf Club, where we saw two world-class courses:

• Le Château Golf Course, consistently rated the best in the Indian Ocean, with a clubhouse that’s perfect for lingering over lunch.
• La Réserve Golf Links offers sweeping ocean views from nearly every hole.

We enjoyed lunch at Le Château de Bel Ombre, a 19th-century plantation house with exquisite cuisine and views over manicured French gardens. Romantic, refined, and unforgettable.

All too soon, it was time to head back to the airport. Four nights had flown by in a blur of turquoise seas, gourmet meals, and soul-stirring scenery.