Reunion
festivites
Reunion is an overseas department of France located in the Indian Ocean, and its culture is a blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. Here are some of the main festivities or holidays celebrated on the island:
1. New Year's Day: Celebrated on January 1st, like in many other countries around the world, with fireworks and parties throughout the island.
2. Chinese New Year: Celebrated based on the lunar calendar, usually in late January or early February, this holiday is marked by colorful parades, dragon dances, and traditional cuisine.
3. Easter: Celebrated in March or April, Easter is a Christian holiday that is observed with masses, processions, and family gatherings.
4. La Fête des Cuisinières (The Festival of Cooks): Held on the last Sunday of April, this festival celebrates the island's culinary heritage, with women dressed in traditional costumes parading through the streets carrying baskets of food.
5. Le Grand Boucan (The Big Smoke): Held in May or June, this festival honors the island's Creole heritage with live music, dancing, and a huge feast centered around the traditional dish "rougail saucisse."
6. Bastille Day: Celebrated on July 14th, Bastille Day marks the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution and is commemorated with military parades, fireworks, and cultural events.
7. Assumption Day: A Catholic holiday celebrated on August 15th, it is marked with religious services and family gatherings.
8. Diwali: This Hindu festival of lights is celebrated in October or November with colorful decorations, fireworks, and traditional feasts.
9. Christmas: Celebrated on December 25th, this Christian holiday is observed with religious services, gift-giving, and family gatherings.
These festivities are typically celebrated with music, dance, food, and family gatherings, reflecting the island's diverse cultural heritage.
seasons
Reunion Island has two main tourist seasons and a shoulder season:
1. High Season: From mid-December to mid-April, coinciding with the summer months. The weather is warm and dry, and there are many outdoor activities available. It's also the peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
2. Low Season: From May to November, coinciding with the winter months. The weather is cooler and wetter, but still pleasant. It's also less crowded, with lower prices and fewer tourists.
3. Shoulder Season: During mid-June to mid-September, which is the period between high and low seasons. The weather is mild and comfortable, with lower prices than the high season, but still with plenty of activities available.
In general, the best time to visit Reunion Island depends on your preferences and budget. If you're looking for sunny beaches and outdoor activities, go during the high season. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, try the low season. And if you want a balance of both, consider the shoulder season. Regardless of when you visit, always check weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
visa
Citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein do not need a visa to visit Reunion for stays up to 90 days.
Citizens of other countries may need a short-stay visa, known as a "Schengen visa," which allows them to stay in Reunion and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The cost of a Schengen visa varies depending on the country issuing the visa, but it typically ranges from €60 to €80.
It's worth noting that Reunion is an overseas department of France, so the same visa rules apply as for mainland France.
souvenirs
Here are some popular souvenirs to buy from Réunion Island, along with their average prices and where to buy them:
1. Vanilla - Average price: €7-€10 per vial. Where to buy: Vanilla plantations, markets, souvenir shops.
2. Rum - Average price: €20-€30 per bottle. Where to buy: Distilleries, supermarkets, souvenir shops.
3. Handcrafted items - Average price: €10-€50. Where to buy: Local markets, artisan shops.
4. Spices - Average price: €5-€15 per bag. Where to buy: Markets, souvenir shops.
5. Embroidered linens - Average price: €20-€50. Where to buy: Souvenir shops, local markets.
6. T-shirts and hats - Average price: €10-€20. Where to buy: Souvenir shops, beachside vendors.
Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the location and vendor, so it's always a good idea to shop around before making a purchase.
If you have 1 week
Oh, Reunion! What a beautiful place to be! Here's my itinerary suggestion for your one week stay:
Day 1: Start your trip with a visit to the Piton de la Fournaise. This is one of the world's most active volcanoes and offers some stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes, as there is some hiking involved.
Day 2: Take a boat tour around the island. You will witness the beauty of the coastline, the clear waters and get a chance to spot dolphins and whales. I think it's a great way to see the island from a different perspective.
Day 3: Now it's time for some relaxation. Hit the beach and enjoy the sun, sand and sea. Combine it with a picnic at Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or Boucan Canot Beach. Nothing beats a lazy day on the beach!
Day 4: For the fourth day, I suggest taking a tour of the local rum distilleries. The Charette Distillery in Le Tampon is a must-visit. Here, you can learn about the history of rum-making in Reunion and how it has evolved over the years. And who knows, maybe you'll find a new favorite rum to take home?
Day 5: Explore the Cirque de Mafate. It's a great opportunity to discover the island's lush rainforests, tropical flora and fauna, and to witness authentic Creole culture in the small settlements nestled in the valley.
Day 6: Visit the Jardin des Parfums et des Epices, a botanical garden showcasing the island's native flora and spices. In addition to its beauty, you can also discover the natural remedies and traditional uses of many of the plants.
Day 7: End your trip with a hike to the Col de La Chapelle viewpoint. This trek features some stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, including the Cirque de Cilaos.
I hope you enjoy your week on this beautiful island! And don't forget to try some delicious Creole cuisine along the way.
If you have 2 weeks
Great to hear that you are in Reunion, a beautiful island located in the Indian Ocean. For your two-week itinerary, I suggest exploring some of the natural wonders of the island, as well as experiencing its unique culture and history.
Day 1-3: Start by exploring the Piton de la Fournaise, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. You can either hike to the top or take a helicopter tour to see the stunning views from above. While you're in the area, visit the Plaine des Sables, a surreal landscape that looks like it's straight out of a science fiction movie.
Day 4-6: Head over to the Cirque de Cilaos, a natural amphitheater surrounded by mountains. Here, you can go hiking, canyoning or even try out paragliding for an adrenaline rush. Make sure to also visit the thermal baths, which are said to have healing properties.
Day 7-8: Visit Saint-Denis, the capital of Reunion, and immerse yourself in the island's culture and history. Check out the local markets, museums and historical landmarks like the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral.
Day 9-11: Take a trip to the west coast of the island and visit the beautiful beaches of Les Trois Bassins, La Saline les Bains and Saint-Leu. If you're feeling adventurous, try surfing or snorkeling in the turquoise waters.
Day 12-14: End your trip by exploring the lush forests of Belouve and Bebour, where you'll find rare plant species and stunning waterfalls. Take a guided tour to learn about the flora and fauna of the area, or simply enjoy a leisurely picnic surrounded by nature.
Overall, Reunion offers a diverse array of activities and sights to explore. From breathtaking natural landscapes to rich cultural experiences, there's something for everyone. Enjoy your trip!
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