When I came back to Mauritius in November last year, I did notice a change. The pandemic has left its mark on the island as well as the rest of the world. Many shops, cafes and restaurants I used to see, were closed. Also, it is mandatory to wear face masks. That did feel a bit uncompterble because of the heat. It still is mandatory now in May, but I really enjoy walking around the old town in Port Louis, so I just have to make sure I have several masks in my bag.
I feel I know the city very well. Many visits through out the years to visit family who lives in this city is the main reason for coming as often as I can. Almost all of the photos were taken now in April and May. I have focused on the old city center where there are still many old houses and the old, traditional shops. Then I move across the main street to the modern shopping complex, Le Gaudan Waterfront, Victoria Urban Terminal terminal and the metro.
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I always start in the very small Chinatown, then move on to the different areas in the old city center. Its bustling with activity – pedestrians, cars and motorbikes. The trafic is chaotic because of the lack of traffic lights. Most houses are only two story buildings with a few high rises. There are lots of shops that sells anything you can imagine. In Chinatown you will find a traditional Chinese pharmacy, selling traditional, herbal medisin, dried insects etc. I have had a look inside, mostly because of curiosity.
When in town, I always enjoy placing myself somewhere in a street and then I just sit there watching people walking by. The island has a mixed population of immigrants from Asia, Europe and Africa. You will find an enormous variety when it comes to food. Street food and hawkers on a bike will sell small snacks all over the inner city.
It only takes me 5 minutes to cross the main street through the city. On the other side Le Gaudan Waterfront is located. This complex caters for luxury shopping! There is a wide range of shops, cafes and restaurants, casino, museum, hotels and lots of places to sit and enjoy the view of the harbour. I am not sure when it was completed, but it might have been as long as 30 -40 years ago. Le Caudan is easily accessible. It's close to city center and the main street. I usually do end up here for a good cup of coffee and Italian icecream before I take the bus back home.
The latest addition to the modernization process of the city, is the Victoria Urban station - a shopping center with a bus terminal and a metro. This year is the first time I was here. I knew from my visit in 2019 that the metro was planned, but now part of it is operational. Only half of it is finished. To see this train in Port Louis was a real contrast to the old busses that connects the small towns with each other. This center is oposite Le Caudan. You cross the main street on a pedestrian bridge. I was quite overwhelmed seeing this very modern complex and the train. The city is getting modern, but the atmosphere of the old city is still what I enjoy the most.
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[//]:# (!pinmapple -20.160327 lat 57.501411 long Black & white photography - Contrasts between the old and the modern Port Louis, Mauritius (27 photos) d3scr)
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Beautiful street photographs. You truly catch the feeling of the area. It speaks through your photos.
Thanks for sharing 😊
Here in Spain we stopped outside wearing masks a months ago only if the distance can be remained. In shops etc. we still wear them. It is easing off though… as it can be very warm, so I know what you mean.
Thank you :) I glad if you get an idea of the this city. I really love to be there. The only thing was wearing masks...
I think Europe is is easing up when it comes to restrictions and masks. In Norway too, we don't have to wear masks anymore. I would say, we live just as normal as before the pandemic. When in Mauritius I am reminded that the pandemic isn't over yet, but I think it's only a matter of time.
You are welcome, they sure showed me.
That is great to hear that it is basically back to before in Norway.
Yes, it is not over yet… but we are getting used to the new situation.
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Excellent shots!
Thanks :)
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