The most remarkable thing about Rodrigues is probably its outsized 200km2 lagoon. Essential to the island, it is at the center of many celebrations in the months of September and October.
Watching the setting sun light the pristine waters on fire, you might easily forget that for many of the island’s inhabitants, the lagoon is where they strive to earn a living. Every year since 2014, to celebrate the strong relationship between Rodriguans and the sea, the Tourism Office organises a series of activities.
Over four days, locals and tourists alike will get to see cultural shows organised throughout the island, featuring traditional sega tambour bands and other local artists. Photography, fishing and sailing competitions, as well as a handicraft exhibition, are also on the menu. Add to that the on water spectacle the kite-surf association is working on, and you’ve got quite the schedule!
To get into even more authentic vibes, you could meet with fishermen or one of the numerous women running their own small businesses. Better still: go talk to the women who tread the lagoon, at low tide, to look for octopus. And do taste the food. Rodrigues likes its dishes simple but flavoursome.
Last but not least, as the festival is an opportunity to highlight the importance of protecting our environment, an awareness campaign will also be launched.
Dates have yet to be announced, but for more information, you can go to www.tourism-rodrigues.mu
Celebrating autonomy
On October 12, 2002, Rodrigues obtained the status of autonomous region within the Republic of Mauritius. To celebrate the anniversary of the event, the regional government is organising a number of cultural events and concerts. Head over to the Tourism Office for more information.
