Réunion’s Pub Crawl Culture: An Adventure Waiting to Happen

Réunion is a beautiful island located in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar. This French territory is home to an active nightlife scene and a robust pub crawl culture. If you’re one to enjoy the thrills of exploring different bars, pubs, and taverns, then you’ll love Réunion’s pub crawl culture.Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Réunion’s pub crawl culture, where to go, and what to expect.

What is a Pub Crawl?

Before we delve into Réunion’s pub crawl culture, let’s take a moment to define what a pub crawl is. A pub crawl or bar-hopping is when you move from one bar or pub to another, with a group of people, in one night. The goal is to visit different drinking establishments, try new drinks, and socialize with other patrons.Pub crawls have been a part of drinking culture for many years, and Réunion has not been left behind in this global trend.

The Pub Crawl Culture in Réunion

Réunion’s pub crawl culture is more than just exploring new bars and drinking exotic cocktails. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community, learn about their drinks, food, and customs.Pub crawls in Réunion often start at around 8 PM and run until the early hours of the morning. The starting point is usually a designated bar, and from there, you move from place to place with a group of fellow adventurers. Réunion’s pub crawl culture is diverse, and you can choose between various types of pub crawls. From wine-tasting tours to beer-tasting experiences, you can tailor your crawl to suit your preferences.

Where to Go for a Pub Crawl in Réunion

If you’re excited about experiencing Réunion’s pub crawl culture, below are some of the top spots that you’d want to include on your itinerary.

1. La Belle Équipe

La Belle Équipe is a favorite amongst the locals and tourists. This cozy, dimly lit bar serves an impressive variety of cocktails, wines, and beers from all over the world. If you’re a gin lover, La Belle Équipe has you covered with its extensive gin menu.

2. The Rhumerie de Chamarel

If you want to discover the unique rum culture of Réunion, head over to the Rhumerie de Chamarel. This rum distillery is located at the foot of the Chamarel Mountains and is just a half-hour drive from Saint Leu. Here, you can discover the complex flavors of rum, and how it’s Made in Réunion.

3. The King’s Pub

Also known as the “British Pub,” The King’s Pub is located in St Gilles Les Baines. It serves a wide variety of beers and spirits, including Heineken and the German beer, Krombacher. At The King’s Pub, you can catch up on live sports games and enjoy the cool indoors or outside seating.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before you pack your bags and come to Réunion to experience the pub crawl culture, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Have a Designated Driver

The goal of a pub crawl is not to get drunk, but to explore different drinks and have a good time. Be sure to have a designated driver, or better still, use a taxi or Uber to get around.

2. Stay Safe

Although Réunion is a safe destination, it’s essential to stay alert and cautious, especially when taking part in the pub crawl. Stay with your group at all times and avoid leaving your drinks unattended.

3. Respect the Local Culture

Réunion’s pub crawl culture is an opportunity to learn about the local culture and customs, and as such, it’s essential to respect them. Avoid getting involved in any actions or phrases that may offend the locals.

Final Thoughts

Réunion’s pub crawl culture is unique, diverse, and thrilling. Whether you’re an adventurer in search of new experiences, or looking to have a great time with friends, Réunion’s pub crawl scene has got you covered. Don’t forget to keep the safety tips in mind, and let the adventure begin!

Réunion’s Pub Crawl Culture: An Insider’s Guide

Réunion Island is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, but underlying it is a vibrant and lively culture that is waiting to be discovered. While tourists may flock to popular tourist spots, the locals have their favorite hidden gems that make the city come alive. Here’s an insider’s guide to Réunion Island that goes beyond the usual tourist spots and explores the city’s unique culture and history.

Local Attractions

Réunion Island has a lot of incredible natural wonders, like Piton de la Fournaise, but for a unique experience, check out some of the off-the-beaten-path destinations. One of these hidden gems is the Domaine du Cafe Grille. This coffee plantation and restaurant offer a genuine experience of Réunionese cuisine set amidst a picturesque setting of hillside views.

If you’re interested in local artisanal crafts, make sure to visit Maison Martin Valliamée. This historical monument of the city is an association of craftsmen that promotes the traditional skills and techniques used by skilled artisans of the island, preserving the cultural heritage passed down through generations. You will find pottery, weaving, engraving and other traditional crafts being practiced here.

Dining Spots

Réunion Island’s culinary scene is heavily influenced by French, African, and Indian cuisine. You can try the world-famous samoussas, a typical Réunion appetizer that is made of a fried pastry shell stuffed with spicy stuffing, ranging from meat, vegetables, or cheese.

A must-try dish of Réunion Island is the Rougail Saucisse. A hearty dish that contains sliced smoked sausages and a tomato-based stew with a collection of locally grown spices. You can usually find this at local “bouchons”, small classic island bars where locals gather to savor the traditional Creole cuisine, accompanied by some good rum and beer.

Cultural Experiences

For those who love music, explore the Maloya, a traditional musical style of Réunion Island, recognized by UNESCO as a part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The music was originally sung by slaves working in the sugarcane fields on the island. It is characterized by wide-ranging vocalizations, percussion, and other cultural instruments like ka, Tam-Tam, and Kayamb. You can add an unforgettable experience to your Réunion trip by attending a Maloya concert.

For a cultural immersion, visit the colorful Marché du Chaudron, a bustling historic and cultural market with vendors selling handicrafts, spices, crop, and traditional homemade street food.

Local History

Réunion Island has a rich and complex history, from being a Portuguese discovery to becoming a French colony. For history buffs, a must-visit spot is the Maison Folio Docteur, a mansion turned museum that presents the city’s history with a unique focus on the 19th-century lifestyle of the wealthiest families of the city. The mansion is adorned with porcelain and silverware, and rich wood finishes crafted by skilled craftsmen.

Another crowning jewel of the island’s History is the Liberty Avenue. The long stretch of Freedom of Réunion Island history is represented through various statues and monuments, showcasing its progress into its modern society.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Adventurists will surely not miss conquering the Maïdo Peak. It is the third-highest peak on the island, and you can trek to the summit for a surreal view of the island’s breathtaking topography. The scenery on the way includes some natural ecosystems that include different unique flora and fauna.

Another exciting adventure that those seeking more adventurous pursuits can take is swimming alongside the dolphins and whales in the stunning blue waters of the island’s coast. It is truly an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion:

Réunion Island’s vibrant culture and unique history that intertwine with its stunning natural beauty make it an irresistible destination that tourists fascinated with offbeat travel promises. While there are so many places to visit, and things to do in Réunion, this insider’s guide provides a snapshot of some hidden gems that the city has to offer. The next time you plan a visit to this scenic wonderland, don’t forget to add these insider tips to your itinerary, and explore what the city has to offer through the eyes of a local.