A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Reunion, Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Reunion is a volcanic island located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar and southwest of Mauritius. Although it is an overseas region of France, Reunion has a unique blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese cultures.

Geography and Nature

The island of Reunion is famous for its varied geography. In the east, you will find lush tropical rainforests and spectacular waterfalls, while the west is home to white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The interior of the island is a geological wonder, with two volcanoes, the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active in the world, and the Piton des Neiges, the highest peak in the Indian Ocean.

Tourist Attractions

Reunion offers a wealth of attractions for visitors. The capital, Saint-Denis, is a vibrant city with impressive colonial architecture, interesting museums, and a lively open-air market.

For nature lovers, the Reunion National Park, which covers more than half of the island, is a must-visit. This park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as stunning landscapes that include mountains, forests, rivers, and waterfalls.

The coast of Reunion is also a major draw, with beautiful beaches and excellent spots for snorkeling and diving. The Ermitage lagoon, with its calm waters and coral reef, is a popular place for swimming and snorkeling.

Culture and Gastronomy

Reunion's culture is a fascinating blend of French, African, Indian, and Chinese influences. This is reflected in the music, dance, and of course, the food. Reunion's cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors, with dishes like cari (a type of curry) and rougail (a spicy sauce) that are must-tries.

Festivals are an important part of life in Reunion, with celebrations ranging from Chinese New Year to the Cape Festival, a celebration of the island's Creole culture.

Reunion is a truly unique destination, offering a blend of cultures, stunning landscapes, and a wealth of activities for visitors. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Reunion has it all.

Gastronomic Products of Reunion

• Carri

  Carri is the most emblematic dish of Reunion. It is a type of stew that can be made with a variety of meats, fish or seafood, and is cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, turmeric and other spices. It is generally served with rice and can be found in almost all restaurants on the island.

• Rhum arrangé

  Rhum arrangé is a rum macerated with fruits and spices that is very popular in Reunion. Each family has its own recipe and it can be found in many bars and restaurants. The fruits and spices used vary, but can include pineapple, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger and many others.

• Bouchons and samosas

  Bouchons are small pork dumplings that are served as an appetizer or snack. Samosas, on the other hand, are triangles of dough filled with meat, fish, cheese or vegetables and then fried. Both are very popular in Reunion and can be found at many street food stalls.

• Tropical fruits

  Reunion is famous for its tropical fruits, which include mangoes, pineapples, papayas, lychees and many others. They can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, juices and desserts. Many local markets sell a wide variety of these fruits.

Sports Activities in Reunion, Indian Ocean

Hiking

Reunion is famous for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. You can explore the Reunion National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the view of the Piton de la Fournaise volcano.

Surfing

Reunion is a popular destination for surfers due to its world-class waves. You can test your skills at places like St Leu and St Pierre. However, keep in mind that surfing may be restricted in some areas due to sharks.

Diving

The Indian Ocean around Reunion is a paradise for divers. You can explore the colorful coral reef and see a variety of marine life, including turtles, dolphins and, if you're lucky, even whales.

Paragliding

Reunion is one of the best places in the world for paragliding. You can fly over the island's stunning mountains and coastlines and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views.

Mountain Biking

With its steep mountains and challenging trails, Reunion is a great place for mountain biking. You can rent a bike and explore the island at your own pace.

Places near Reunion (Indian Ocean)

If you are in Reunion and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Mauritius, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, offers dreamy beaches, a rich history and a diverse cuisine that fuses Creole, Indian, Chinese and European flavors, with fresh seafood and exotic fruits as the main characters.

Madagascar, a unique island jewel of biodiversity, offers unforgettable tourist experiences with its rich fauna and flora, paradisiacal beaches and vibrant culture. Its cuisine, a mix of African, Arab and French influences, delights with exotic dishes such as romazava and vary amin'anana.

Seychelles, a tropical paradise of stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, offers a rich culinary experience with fresh seafood, exotic fruits and local spices, highlighting the fusion of French, British, African and Indian flavors in its unique cuisine.