Explore Sainte-Marie: 10 Mindful Experiences

Ten Simple Mindful Things to do In Sainte-Marie, Madagascar

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• Ten Simple Mindful Things to do In Sainte-Marie, Madagascar
• Ten Mindful Experiences
  • 1. Walking along the beaches at sunrise
  • 2. Whale Watching:
  • 3. Explore the Pirate Cemetery:
  • 4. Bicycle Through Lush Forests:
  • 5. Savor Local Flavors
  • 6. Canoe to Hidden Bays:
  • 7. Visit Local Villages:
  • 8. There are also some handicrafts at the market
  • 9. The Sun Sets on La Piscine Naturelle
  • 10. Relax and Unwind
• Conclusions

Sainte-Marie, or Nosy Boraha, in the local Malagasy language, is a tiny island paradise. It is located off the eastern coast of the Republic of Madagascar. It is a place where time and the pace of life take a slower pace. There, you can immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty. You can lose yourself in its culture and nature. You can enjoy every moment of the slow and soft cadence of a typical island life.

The ideal time to visit from June to October Ste Marie. The weather is pleasant, and it is a very good time for whale watching.

Ten Mindful Experiences

Here are ten simple, mindful, life-changing things I do when touring the island, and I invite you to do them too during your tour:

Walking along the beaches at sunrise

Freshen up with an early-morning stroll on untouched beaches. Seeing the sun rise and feeling the soft morning light is calming. Hearing waves lapping against the shore adds to tranquillity. Watching fishermen in their canoes casting their nets, is a serene way to start the day.

Whale Watching

Between June and October, the waters surrounding Sainte-Marie are a playground for humpback whales. You can go whale-watching, but go with an operator, like ‘Cetamada’. I have used them before and am satisfied with their services. Apart from professional staff and services, they prioritize responsible, sustainable practice of observing the giant mammals without disturbing them.

Explore the Pirate Cemetery

The Pirate Cemetery, near Ambodifotatra, takes you back in time. As you stroll among the tombstones, you can imagine the colorful history of the island. Notorious pirates who once frequented and were found living in Sainte-Marie.

Bicycle Through Lush Forests

Cycling on a rented cycle and exploring the island on your own, is a Zen thing. It is a brisk ride through lush forest. The Ikalalao forest is particularly lush. You see lemurs, chameleons and tropical birds there.

Savor Local Flavors

Eat local food with elements like freshly caught seafood, and rice-based sides. These delightful bites make for a memorable meal experience. The meals were crafted with a handful of ever-fresh ingredients. It is also the deft hands of their makers; these delicious foods make for a memorable meal experience.

Canoe to Hidden Bays

Head out in a canoe to discover the secluded bays and coves that punctuate the island. These calm waters that are shielded by coral reefs are perfect for a quiet day on the paddles. I love paddling through the thick mangrove forest. It is a natural heritage found in Ampanihy Bay to the east of the island. It is an exciting way to uncover some of the scenic sights’ unspoiled corners of Sainte-Marie.

Visit Local Villages

Visit the villages round about to see daily life in action. The residents of Sainte-Marie are friendly and welcoming. The tradition-based and community-orientated way of life not only holds a mirror to us for living intentionally. It also holds a mirror for living purposefully.

There are also some handicrafts at the market

Also check out the local markets where you’ll find handmade goods, most notably baskets woven out of raffia. Every art piece narrates the tale of the island’s rich culture. Buying directly from the artisans donates money to the local economy.

The Sun Sets on La Piscine Naturelle

End your day by taking a dip in “La Piscine Naturelle”, a natural pool created by coral reefs. It is a moment of pure magic. The setting sun reflects on the water. The rugged beauty of the coastline all around.

Relax and Unwind

The most mindful experience of all is to sit back and relax. You can choose to do so under the coconut tree, or in a hammock. Pick up a good book in hand or simply stare off into the never-ending horizon. Do not miss the fishermen fishing at night with lamps. This makes for a wonderful sight. Sainte-Marie welcomes you to take life at your own speed and savor the scenery.

Conclusions

Sainte-Marie is not a place but an invitation to embrace a simpler, more purposeful way of life. It is an invitation to embrace nature in its purest form. Touring its historic sites is a reconnection to oneself. Basking in its natural beauty, is a form of reconnection with yourself and with the world around you.