"It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" Finally! We get to wind down and spend time with our friends and families. This year has been particularly trying... So what better way to unwind than to let yourself be charmed by the magic of Christmas with a Mauritian twist.
The Christmas spirit is very much present this year despite the unwanted guest, COVID-19. Cities have been decorated, the sidewalks that are flooded with street vendors, stores and shopping malls are opening until late, Mauritius is never as lively than during this festive period.
Snow or sand ?
No beautiful fir trees covered with snow. No snow either. Here in Mauritius, we celebrate a very warm Christmas where the temperature is never too far from 30 degrees. Forget winter coats and ear muffs! Christmas here is celebrated in a tank top and shorts under the shade of mango and coconut trees while sipping ice-cold drinks.
End of year cleaning…
Mauritians have their very own version of the spring clean. Although here, it is the end of year clean. Nothing is better to a Mauritian than a clean house to celebrate the end of the year. Almost every Mauritian family has to clean their house from top to bottom before putting up the first Christmas decorations. The big clean has become a tradition for many Mauritians.
Much more than a simple religious celebration, Christmas is above all an opportunity to get together and share a special moment with the family. Therefore, Christmas is not only celebrated by Catholics but also by many other families of different faiths. Generally, families gather around a big lunch or a big dinner at the home of the parents or grandparents.
Christmas menu…
What will you typically find on the dinner table, you ask? There is not one Christmas menu in Mauritius, it really depends on what you fancy. Whether it is the famous Briani, the turkey with a creamy potato gratin and salad, or a spicy chicken curry, noodles or pasta… Christmas dinner can take many forms in Mauritius. However, the Christmas table is always very colorful and well furnished.
Santa Claus is coming to town!
The 24th is indeed the most exciting time, especially for the little ones. It's a magical night where children's wishes come true, to the delight of adults. The euphoria is enough to take adults back to childhood. It allows us to share with children a part of this imaginary world...
Although celebrating Christmas can inspire contrasting emotions, especially at the end of this very difficult year for many expatriates who may not be able, once again, to see their families due to health restrictions, there are ways for you to spice it up. Think of ways to celebrate this holiday with a tropical twist, for example…
