Mauritius is a spectacularly beautiful island where sandy white coasts lined with calm turquoise waters rise into emerald mountains. South of Port Louis, explore the multihued sand dunes known as Seven-Colored Earth and the cliffside cascades of Chamarel Waterfall, and then taste some of the island’s famous rum at a local distillery. To the north, the renowned centuries-old Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanic Garden displays giant water lilies, baobab trees and other rare tropical plants. Within the vibrant capital of Port Louis, you might begin by shopping for island delicacies and handcrafts in the bustling Central Market or observing local artists at work and sampling the street food along Le Caudan Waterfront. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Aapravasi Ghat offers a somber look at the history of indentured labor on the island, and Fort Adelaide further illuminates the British colonial era while also offering panoramic views. Be sure to stop into the Blue Penny Museum, which houses prestigious art and history collections that include two of the world’s rarest stamps.