Reunion Island — A slice of paradise

Reunion is a beautiful piece of tropical heaven in the Indian Ocean. Situated south of Mauritius, this is French territory overseas. Reunion is blessed with amazing topography. It has pristine beaches of silky white sands and volcanic mountains. There are some lush forests rubbing hands with beautiful mountains and coastal cities. The island is among the youngest on the earth. It was discovered by the Portuguese in 1513. It was uninhabited.

People: Today the island comprises French nationals, Africans, Indians and Chinese and is an eclectic and colorful mix of people and cultures. French is the official language. Though French mixed with a little Creole along with local influences makes the language a bit difficult for French purists to follows. English is not very widely understood.

Places to see:

Piton de la Fournaise is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Yet, its eruptions are very safe. You can go very close and watch this live volcano safely. It is one of the most cherished sights on this island. Visitors almost always climb up this volcano. Twice a year, the volcano sends up fountains of lava with lights and sending the molten sea running down its side.

It has other less active volcanoes and some breathtaking beaches and waterfalls as well. Water sports are extremely popular here.  There are religious buildings of interest as well as a museum and Creole houses of a different kind of architecture.

Euros work as a currency here. This little piece of lesser known paradise is blessed with a pristine beauty that is worth relishing.

Get more information on the wikipedia page on Reunion