Port Louis - Mauritius

The busiest port in the Indian Ocean, Port-Louis offers colorful spectacles and a wealth of culture. The Chinese Pagoda - an example of traditional Chinese architecture - stands opposite the race course, and is just one example of the diversity of architectural styles that dot the island. Others include the Jummah Mosque, the stately English Saint James Cathedral, and the Indian Tamil Temple.

The market is the most visited and most famous part of the city, a blend of an Arab souk and Parisian "halles." This sensory feast offers a range of foods and wares, from fruits and vegetables to herbs to clothing and kitchen tools. Near the harbour, the Caudan waterfront
Port Louis is the largest city of the country and main port, which borders the Indian Ocean. It is located in the Port Louis District. The population is 147,688 (2003 census).

Port Louis was founded by the French around 1735 as a reprovisioning halt for their ships travelling around the Cape of Good Hope, and was built by skilled Tamilian craftsmen from India around 1728. The Port is named in honour of King Louis XV.  Port Louis has conserved many historic and colonial buildings through the years. Port Louis is surrounded by a mountain range, called the Port Louis Moka Range. Among its most famous mountains are Le Pouce and Pieter Both which stand about 800 metres from sea level. One of the most popular attractions is the country's national derby called Champ de Mars, which is the oldest race course (1812) in the Indian Ocean and the second oldest in the southern Hemisphere.
 
Attractions include the Caudan Waterfront, Port Louis Bazaar, the Mauritian Chinatown and the old Port Louis theatre. The capital has also three museums which are: the Mauritius Natural History Museum, the Blue Penny Museum and the Mauritius Stamp Museum. The biggest and oldest post office in Mauritius is found near the Caudan Waterfront which comprises a district of shopping galleries and restaurants. Situated in the heart of the city, near the State Bank Tower, the Place d'Armes is easily recognizable by its tall palm trees. It is the main entrance to and out of Port Louis.