De Gerus on growing up on Reunion Island

Charouz Racing System driver Reshad de Gerus takes us on a trip around Reunion Island, where he grew up. We look at places to visit, the sites to see, and of course, the motor racing scene.

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?

“I come from Reunion Island, a small island in the south of Madagascar. It is a beautiful island, and very far from here. It’s crazy because there are so many different types of landscapes. You have got mountains, big cities, beaches, so many different types of places, it is so beautiful.”

WHERE SHOULD PEOPLE EAT AND DRINK?

“I don’t drink alcohol, but there is a Reunion rum, which is very popular across the world. To eat, there are so many places, and they are all so good. They have really good tapas and it is so nice.”

WHERE SHOULD TOURISTS VISIT?

“There is a famous volcano, called Piton de la Fournaise, and some people come purely to see that. There are a lot of beautiful places to hike, or you could go there for a beach holiday as well.

“It is a very attractive destination because there is so much to do. You could spend the morning at the beach and then the afternoon hiking in the mountains. There are some small airplanes that you can take around the island to see the views as well.

“If I was going to spend just one day there, then in the morning, I would go to the river and enjoy some relaxation time. At midday, I would go to a local restaurant, either that, or go to my grandmothers and eat some food with her. I would then spend the afternoon at the beach and stay there and watch the sunset, which is beautiful.”

MOST IMPORTANTLY, WHERE CAN WE GO KARTING?

“We have only one racetrack and it’s in the north, near to my house. There is a smaller track, that is just for fun, but only have one proper track. It’s a cool track, not very long, but fast with lots of corners.”