Mauritius is the Indian Ocean's most complete destination — an island that manages to be simultaneously a world-class beach resort destination, a cultural melting pot, an adventure playground and a luxury retreat. Few islands anywhere in the world offer such diversity of experience.

The beaches are the main draw. Mauritius is almost entirely encircled by a coral reef, creating a series of calm, shallow lagoons with water of an extraordinary turquoise colour. The north coast, centred on Grand Baie and Trou aux Biches, has the calmest lagoons and is the most popular area for families and first-time visitors. The east coast, with Belle Mare and Palmar, has longer beaches and more dramatic scenery. The west coast, around Flic en Flac, has excellent diving and the best sunsets. The south, around Le Morne, is wilder and more dramatic.

The hotels are exceptional. Mauritius has a higher concentration of luxury beach resorts than almost anywhere in the world — the One&Only Le Saint Geran, Constance Belle Mare Plage, Four Seasons, Shangri-La and the Oberoi all have flagship properties here. The standard of hospitality is genuinely extraordinary, and the all-inclusive packages offer outstanding value.

Beyond the beach, Mauritius has more to offer than most Indian Ocean islands. The Chamarel Coloured Earths are a geological wonder. The Black River Gorges National Park protects the island's last native forest. The underwater waterfall near Le Morne — an optical illusion created by sand flowing off the continental shelf — is one of the most extraordinary natural phenomena on earth, best seen from a helicopter.

The food is outstanding. Mauritius's multicultural heritage — Creole, Indian, Chinese and French — has created a cuisine that is unique in the world. Street food at Port Louis's Central Market, fresh seafood at beachside restaurants and the island's excellent rum distilleries are all highlights.

The best time to visit is May to December, when the weather is cooler and drier. January to April can bring cyclones, though they rarely cause serious disruption. We search across Travelpack, Emirates Holidays and JTA Holidays for the best deals, with the FIBI discount applied automatically.