Port Louis, Mauritius

Port Louis is the capital of the island of Mauritius, a volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar. Mauritius is gorgeous, with lush mountain ranges, fine beaches, vibrant coral reefs and picturesque villages. It was uninhabited up until the 16th century when Dutch, British and French traders came to the island, followed by slaves from Africa, to work the plantations, and then laborers from India. Today, the largely French-influenced Mauritius is independent and its economy prospers due to sugar, textiles and tourism.