Foreigners with permanent residency in mind can make an island lifestyle investment and get exclusive hotel privileges when they invest in property at The Essence in Mauritius.

This is one of the most popular tropical islands in the Indian Ocean, and the government has introduced several incentives for foreigners to live and work there. For starters, an investment of USD 375,000 secures permanent residency for the investor, their spouse, dependent unmarried children, and dependent parents.

The Essence is the latest Property Development Scheme (PDS) to be launched in the ever-popular north of the island. As a result, this residential development has more than a few strings to its bow. The Essence is located in Trou aux Biches, which is much-loved by South Africans for its charming character and quiet environment.

Pioneers in hospitality

The 2Futures development, which is open to foreign investment in the island lifestyle, is a collaboration with Alizée Resort Management, a pioneer in the Mauritius hospitality sector. The concept ensures that investors get even more bang for their buck. “The Essence is one of the first developments to be built on to a resort in the Grand Baie area. That means you get a fully serviced beach lifestyle with exclusive hotel privileges. This is possible through our affiliation with the five-star Le Cardinal Exclusive Resort and Casuarina Resort & Spa,” says Rinie Boshoff, 2Futures sales consultant.

Homeowners at The Essence benefit from a 10% discount on hotel services and access to facilities that include restaurants, bars, swimming pools, gyms, spas, and a beach club. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are free to use (covered by the syndic fees). However, residents may book a speedboat or catamaran cruise through the hotel concierge.

Island lifestyle investment 

The benefit of owning a home at The Essence is also all about location. The residence is closer than any other estate in the region to the best swimming beach on the island, which offers a 3km sandy stretch to walk along. It is near the only 18-hole golf course in the north.

What’s more, it’s close to absolutely everything necessary to live the ultimate island life. Grand Baie shopping malls, private schools, medical facilities, entertainment, and water sports are nearby. Plus the motorway is just a few minutes’ drive away should you feel like exploring the island further.

French hotelier Claude Berthier’s fascination with Mauritius began in the 70s. “The warmth of the multi-ethnic population, the beauty of the lagoon, and the luxuriant nature of the island seduced me. I decided to invest in tourism and create jobs. The microclimate and location of Trou aux Biches (meaning ‘deer waterhole’), close to a large bay, seemed ideal. It all started with the construction of Casuarina, which I entrusted to Miko Giraud as an architect,” he says.

Authentic Mauritius

In September 2010, Casuarina became part of Alizée Resort Management. Later, they added Le Cardinal Exclusive Resort to the portfolio. 2021 marks the group’s 47th year in business. That makes it one of the oldest hotel operators in Mauritius and one of the pioneers of the hospitality sector.

The Essence reflects the authentic character of Casuarina. It is luxurious yet practical, with materials from Mauritius adding natural texture through the use of volcanic rock and wood.

The development incorporates five exclusive villas, seven spacious penthouses with private splash pools, and 37 apartments. Features include open-plan living and pristine finishes in the kitchen. Homes have a scullery, drying yard, underground parking, and storeroom. There are lifts and views over the pool from the top floor. And there is also a clubhouse, gym, tennis court, kids’ playground and vegetable garden.

Strong rental returns

The Essence offers a turnkey solution, with strong annual rental returns from 3% to 8,3%. Furthermore, Alizée will manage the rentals and take care of all homeowners’ needs when they are not in residence.

The residence forms part of the 2Futures luxury portfolio. The company is the leading property developer in Mauritius. Their projects feature well-designed spaces with high ceilings, spacious verandas, and quality finishes.

You can buy a home at The Essence for USD 375,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. All you have to do to reserve it is pay a 10% deposit.