Sainte-Marie, Reunion
Museums
If you're interested in visiting museums while in Sainte-Marie, I would suggest checking out the Musée Stella Matutina. It's a museum dedicated to the history of Reunion Island, and it's located about 18 kilometers south of Sainte-Marie in La Possession. Other museums on the island include the Musée Léon Dierx in Saint-Denis, which focuses on art, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs de l'Océan Indien in Saint-Louis, which features exhibits on decorative arts from around the Indian Ocean region.
Food
Sainte-Marie, like the rest of Reunion Island, is known for its delicious and unique cuisine that combines elements of French, Indian, and African cooking. Here are some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to try in Sainte-Marie according to the locals:
1. Rougail Saucisse: A spicy sausage dish made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of local spices.
2. Cari Poulet: A chicken curry dish made with a base of onions, garlic, ginger, and turmeric, along with other spices and herbs.
3. Prawn Samosas: Crispy fried pastries filled with diced prawns, onions, and spices.
4. Bouillon Blanc: A traditional soup made with white beans, sausage, and vegetables.
5. Bonbon Piment: A snack made from deep-fried balls of spiced lentil dough.
6. Civet Zourite: A stew made with octopus, tomatoes, red wine, and local spices.
7. Tarte Tatin Banane: A dessert made with caramelized bananas baked in puff pastry.
These are just a few examples of the mouthwatering dishes you can enjoy in Sainte-Marie and throughout Reunion Island.
Activities
Sure, here are a few fun activities that local people enjoy in Sainte-Marie, Reunion:
1. Surfing: Reunion Island is known for its excellent surfing conditions, and many locals love to hit the waves. Some popular surf spots near Sainte-Marie include Trois Bassins, Boucan Canot, and Saint-Leu.
2. Hiking: The island has many beautiful hiking trails with stunning views, and it's a popular activity among locals. For example, you could hike to the top of Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano on the island.
3. Snorkeling or scuba diving: Reunion Island has some incredible underwater scenery, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and a variety of marine life. Some popular snorkeling and diving spots near Sainte-Marie include L'Ermitage, Saint-Gilles, and Cap La Houssaye.
4. Visiting local markets: Sainte-Marie has a lively market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. It's a great way to get a feel for local culture and sample some delicious food.
5. Beach activities: Of course, no trip to Reunion Island would be complete without spending some time at the beach. Locals enjoy activities like picnicking, playing volleyball, and swimming in the clear turquoise waters.
