population: 0.032 million

extension: 6.57 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts and interested in visiting museums, you might want to check out the Musée des Arts Décoratifs de l'Océan Indien (MADOI) in nearby Saint-Louis. It features a collection of artifacts related to the decorative arts of the Indian Ocean region. For similar types of museums in the area, you could also consider visiting the Musée Stella Matutina in Saint-Leu or the Musée Léon Dierx in Saint-Denis.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts and Reunion Island are:

1. Rougail saucisse - a spicy sausage curry with tomatoes and onions
2. Cari poulet - a chicken curry with turmeric, ginger, garlic, and other spices
3. Carry bichique - a curry made with small fish found in fresh water streams
4. Riz chauffé - a fried rice dish with various vegetables, meat, and spices
5. Samoussas - deep-fried pastry triangles filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese
6. Bonbons piments - deep-fried lentil balls seasoned with chilli and other spices.

These dishes are often served with sides such as beans, lentils, and mashed sweet potatoes, and are typically accompanied by a range of condiments, including pickles, chutneys, and tangy sauces.

Activities

Some popular activities that locals enjoy in Saint-Gilles-les-Hauts and the surrounding area include:

1. Beaches: The beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains are some of the most popular on the island, with beautiful white sand and turquoise waters.

2. Hiking: Reunion Island is known for its incredible natural beauty and hiking trails, including the Piton de la Fournaise volcano and the Cirque de Mafate.

3. Water sports: Locals often enjoy water sports such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the clear waters around the island.

4. Visiting local markets: The colorful markets in Saint-Paul and Saint-Leu offer an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and taste the local cuisine.

5. Exploring natural attractions: From waterfalls to lava tubes, there are many natural wonders to explore on the island, such as Trou de Fer or the Salazie and Cilaos cirques.

6. Trying local food: Reunionese cuisine is a unique blend of African, Indian, and French influences, with dishes like rougail saucisse and cari poulet that are beloved by locals and visitors alike.