I think almost everyone who has reviewed Auberge Miko has mentioned what a fabulous couple run the place.
Well, sorry folks, here's yet another such review...
Although I only had the pleasure of meeting Vivek (and Chili the sausage dog) as Lena was away, Vivek clearly compensated for Lena's absence by being TWICE as gracious and welcoming a host as one could hope for. He made me a cup of tea upon arrival and we sat down for a lovely chat rather than an abrupt, "Hello, here's your room key, good night." Instead, I got a conversation, a hand-drawn map, directions to the bakery, some tourist advice about which buses to catch, which beach is best, and a good book to read.
What you will also want to know is:
*WiFi - very good
*Very close to Grand Bay centre/shops/restaurants
*Quiet at night (I slept so well!)
*Book swap shelves in the communal lounge area. I found a cracking Lee Child for a beach read.
*Distance to beach - 10 minutes' walk
*Bakery - yummmmm!! Their fresh baguettes (Vivek shared some buttered ones with me one late morning) are glorious, and the hot chocolate is a MUST. An ABSOLUTE, THICK, CHOCOLATEY MUST!
*Room (I booked the downstairs studio with kitchenette) - clean and spacious with two comfortable single beds (you can push together to make a double if you prefer).
There is a fridge if you want to shop at the market and keep stuff fresh (big supermarket about 10-15 minutes' walk away).
*Towels and soap provided
*Solar heated shower - fine once it gets going, but Vivek will tell you it takes a few minutes to warm up. It has a water pressure issue which I meant to mention to Vivek but I didn't get around to it in the end.
*Communal area with couches to socialise (with TV inside if you/kids really need it)
*Dining area
*Balcony outside room if you fancy an al fresco breakfast
I can't recommend this lovely, cheerful place highly enough. I felt like a friend visiting rather than a room number. I will absolutely be back to visit charming and beautiful Mauritius the next chance I get, and will be staying at Auberge Miko I am sure!
Thanks, Vivek, for helping to make my stay so enjoyable! You are a fantastic host!