The season of the year where one can get loose has come and passed. A unique kind of joy had filled the atmosphere, for a new year, a new decade, was about to start. Can you imagine celebrating the new year without snow? Does it seem impossible to you? Yet in Mauritius, a tropical island where the end of the year is synonymous with summer, the New Year’s Eve is celebrated in all glory! Here’s an insight of how Mauritians celebrate it.
The customary end of year shopping
December is the month for shopping in Mauritius. Nearly all shops throughout the island – whether they sell clothing, electrical appliances, furniture or vehicles – offer huge discounts. Since Mauritians earn their end of year bonus, they use it to make purchases.
However, there are also other expenses to plan for, since a new year means a new academic year for parents. Many Mauritians take account of this fact and take into consideration school material in their end of year budgets. Some buy books, uniforms, supplies and so on at the same time they buy stuff for Christmas or New Year.
A brand new look for the house
As end of year celebrations draw nearer, brooms, cleaning cloths, buckets, mops and high pressure washers are out. Cleaning before partying; that seems to be the slogan of most Mauritians, especially those who plan to welcome loved ones at their places for New Year’s Eve.
Mauritians also spend their December revenues in decorating or renovating their houses. Painting here and there, fixing new curtains, buying artificial flowers to put in a brand new flower vase, these are some of the little pleasures they indulge in during this time of the year.
What do Mauritians serve and eat at end of year parties?
Whereas the turkey or foie gras are often served throughout the world at New Year Eve dinners, Mauritians prefer grills. Marinated and grilled chicken, meat, sausages or seafood, are local favourites.
There is nothing better than a meal with the relatives or with friends. Open buffets can be enjoyed in restaurants, where themed parties and other types of entertainment are held, so that you may enjoy the last dinner of the year in a good setting.
Some perfect places to watch fireworks from
End of year means firecrackers and fireworks. Grand Bay draws in a of people during this festive season. Fireworks released by ships can be watched from its beaches. You may also rent a private catamaran in order to watch from closer. Additionally, its night clubs are particularly crowded. According to party animals, Grand Bay is the coastal village where the best end of year parties of the whole island are held. The Citadelle (Fort Adélaïde) in Port Louis, is probably the best place to watch fireworks from. Located high above the city, it offers a breathtaking view over it.
A great number of foreigners fall in love with Mauritius during the summer end of year holidays. So much so that they decide to settle down here. If the idea seems appealing to you as well and that you wish to begin the year by buying a new residence, do visit our page.