Historically, the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, French and British played a role in the history of Mauritius. Today international investors are rediscovering this ideally located, independent island gem in the Indian Ocean. - By William Bell

Lying off the coast of South Africa to the east, it is easy to get caught up in describing the incredible beauty of this independent island that is 500 miles east of Madagascar. As a mature, stable Republic, it beckons to travelers looking for white coral sand beaches, nature lovers hoping to spot rare animals like the Aldabra giant tortoise, or eco-tourists ready to taste authentic recipes and witness preservation efforts directed at forests, marine life and wildlife. The island’s natural beauty is merely a bonus for businesses lured by the most desirable features a market can claim, including wide access to expanding markets, political stability, well-developed infrastructure, very high literacy rate and much more.