Don't have a Mr Right to whisk you off for a few days of romance and rum coolers in paradise? Who cares! Take a banana leaf out of Kylie and Nat Imbruglia's books and rally a girlfriend or three for a boy-free break on one of the Indian Ocean's most beautiful islands.

A mere dot in the Indian Ocean, next to Madagascar, Mauritius is packed with vibrant culture - a delicious blend of Creole, Chinese, European and Indian influences - and adventures, with plenty of secluded spots for just you, your beach bag and the latest chick lit. And being able to get from one side of the island to another in just under two hours, it literally is your oyster.

For all the excitement the island has to offer, Grand Bay in the north will have you drinking Alouda with the locals, shopping and experiencing the island's colourful nightlife, but for serenity seekers, south, past the volcanic peaks of Morne Mountain, is where you'll want to be. With powdery beaches, breezy golf courses and idyllic resorts to pamper any worries away... well, who needs boys, anyway?

While you're there...

Shanti stay
Super de-stressing Ayurvedic treatments, and meditation and yoga under the palm trees (topped off with a few sundowner cocktails at Red Ginger!) was obviously what the doctor ordered for Natalie and Kylie, who checked into Shanti Ananda, at St Felix in the south of Mauritius. With mountain walks, water sports and a quick round at Bel Ombre, just 10 mins away, leisure is a way of life at this five-star spot.

Get Over That Hill
If conquering a mountain is your holiday must-achieve, Lion Mountain is the one to tackle. It's a half-day hike, but you'll feel on top of the world when you finally make it to the top of the lion's head and see the views over the island.

Dive right in
A coral reef around the entire island means there's marine life aplenty, so you'll want to dip more than just a toe in. Opt for the luxury submarine option (Blue Safari is a favourite), or get your wetsuit on and get up close to the shipwrecks, caves and shallows.

Eye Candy
Head to Chamarel for the island's highest waterfall and the seven-coloured earth, or chill in Tamarin Bay... and check out the surfing talent.