For a NYE celebration that sparkles, New Years Eve 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius should be considered a top choice It’s not only about the fireworks — what makes it stick is the shared moments and vibes you remember through the night. Curious to find out what makes this city so unforgettable?
Best Fireworks Spots in Grand Baie, Mauritius for NYE 2026
There’s something in the closing moments of December 31st in Grand Baie, Mauritius brings an heightened spark to the air. The air gradually changes—people begin to gather, conversations grow, and expectation rises with every moment. What makes it even more remarkable is that, hidden all around, there are spots where this celebration becomes even more memorable—if you know where to find them.
Locals often tend to head for certain open public areas that offer an uninterrupted view of the cityscape. They won’t appear in any tourist book, but those who’ve been around for previous NYEs know exactly where to go. Long before midnight, these corners welcome people talking excitedly, bringing tunes, and immersing in the lively energy together. There’s something magical about standing shoulder to shoulder with strangers, watching the sky light up—it becomes a shared emotion, not just a scene.
This sky won’t wait — get the best seats for NYE 2026’s most unforgettable show. CLICK HERE
If youre eager to take it all in like someone who lives here, consider exploring a guided outing that leads you through some of the most popular viewing spots. No matter if its a quiet nook, a spot with elevation, or somewhere among the celebration, being in the right place can make all the difference. A few packages even come with music sets, snacks, and soft seating areas—ideal for celebrating the New Years Eve vibe in Grand Baie, Mauritius your own way.
Top Activities During NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Festive Mood in Every Corner of Grand Baie, Mauritius
When New Year’s Eve comes closer, Grand Baie, Mauritius starts to embrace the festive spirit. Tranquil walkways now are packed with beaming citizens and eager travelers, ready to catch the magic of the countdown celebration. Sparkling decor gleams across narrow streets, laughter drifts from joyful patios, and a silent thrill fills the atmosphere. Whether exploring heritage quarters or a break in a cozy nook, there’s a gentle joy in the air you can instantly feel.
Things Everyone Can Enjoy
Regardless of your travel style, Grand Baie, Mauritiusdelivers a well-balanced selection of festive things to do that are both easy to enjoy and unforgettable. Embark on a guided tour through the city’s top sights, or wander through after-dark stalls bustling with handcrafted items, busker tunes, and seasonal bites. Many visitors also love cultural walking tours that combine local stories, urban design, and timeless customs—great for getting a feel for the city’s character before the countdown. For a smoother adventure, consider joining a carefully organized route that maintains the vibe and skips the hassle.
Family-Friendly Options
Give them a story to tell when school starts again—make NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius magical.
When traveling with your loved ones, Grand Baie, Mauritius provides relaxed, stress-free ways to keep all ages engaged and comfortable. Learning spaces and family attractions welcome visitors throughout the holidays, blending leisure with learning. Some green spaces host seasonal events, complete with treat stands and soft attractions. Marine exhibits, animal centers, or holiday-themed puppet shows are also great picks for little ones. Families often like combining a visit to one of these venues with a convenient pre-sunset meal or gentle night walk.
Where to Go if You’re Celebrating as a Couple
This isn’t about going somewhere. It’s about arriving—with the right person. Unlock the Moment Here.
For those traveling as a couple, Grand Baie, Mauritius has no lack of special experiences. Eating al fresco with the night sky above at a skyline-view restaurant is classic romance, yet quiet strolls by the river and nighttime tram rides bring their own unique charm. In quieter districts, you’ll find jazz corners and al fresco lounges where couples sip and connect free from the crowd’s roar.
Local Traditions & Cultural Highlights
The real charm of Grand Baie, Mauritius during New Year’s Eve lies in its one-of-a-kind mix of quirky customs and beloved local rituals.
You’ll find festive mini-parades in certain corners of town, complete with live rhythms and traditional moves, while nearby districts organize late-night gatherings that foster instant bonds like old friends. You might unexpectedly find seasonal food stalls offering limited-time delicacies, or performers putting together impromptu street performances. And if luck finds you, you could score a spare ticket at a cultural gem that you didn’t know existed.
Secret Spots & Local-Only Tips for Grand Baie, Mauritius
Spots Loved by Locals, Skipped by Tourists
The real charm of Grand Baie, Mauritius? They’re the places guidebooks forget. Neighborhoods full of unspoken rules, the flavors beat anything touristy, and no one’s pushing trinkets on you. We casually walked into an old quarter where the scent of fresh dough fills the air, and strangers nod at you like you belong. If youre down to see the side of the city most people miss, this is your invitation.
Tourists miss these spots every day — you don’t have to. Explore the real city with a local today.
Secret Viewpoints and Quiet Corners for NYE Magic
When you know where to search, Grand Baie, Mauritius keeps a few gems, where every spark seems to know your name. No massive gathering, no countdown, no chaos — just you and the silence of the skyline that stays off everyone’s radar. People who know might tell you about a turn by the water, a temple terrace, or a forgotten rooftop above the shelves. They’re off the radar of most travelers — but once you’re there, you’ll know.
Not all fireworks need an audience. Reserve your spot in silence and watch magic happen.
Authentic Markets and Hidden Food Stalls in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Some of the best food in Grand Baie, Mauritius hides behind curtains of steam and crowds of locals. You won’t see ads, neon signs, or delivery apps — just people waiting because it’s worth it. The kind of place where the grill master knows your order after day two. That broth hits different, every time.
Hidden Spots Locals Choose on New Year’s
Holidaymakers gather in the flashy spots — however, the real ones head somewhere else entirely. What makes New Year’s Eve special in Grand Baie, Mauritius takes place among tiny backstreets, open public fields,
where generations gather as always.
No DJs, no glitter — just food, music, and the people who’ve been gathering there for decades.
Beyond the Mainstream: Museums, Art Corners & Local Creative Scenes
Not every masterpiece hides in marble halls — some of the most moving pieces are tucked inside forgotten buildings and basements. Secret galleries, reimagined industrial spaces, and backyard galleries show a hidden layer of Grand Baie, Mauritius most never notice. You won’t need a guidebook — just intuition and patience.
Skip the gift shops. Here’s where real culture lives — start exploring now.
Peaceful Escapes Just Minutes from the City Buzz
This holiday night doesn’t have to be about packed squares. In Grand Baie, Mauritius, some of the most magical moments happen where the city lights fade and the stars start to appear. Go for a stroll, rent a bike, or just trust the silence — you’ll be amazed where it leads.
Tips You’ll Never Find in a Guidebook
You don’t truly meet Grand Baie, Mauritius until you hear it from someone who’s lived every alley. The locals navigate differently — they walk with feeling which tourists usually don’t see. Chasing hidden gems? You won’t find that in Google Maps — it shows up in conversation. Given through experience, revealed through late-night talks.
Quiet Corners with the Best NYE Fireworks in Grand Baie, Mauritius
The magic of overlooked New Year’s Eve spots in Grand Baie, Mauritius is how silently they steal your breath. No huge audience, no official countdown, just a horizon lit for you. You pause for a moment, while the city lights dance below, feeling oddly connected to the quiet. These corners don’t seek the spotlight — and that’s what makes them unforgettable. You won’t remember the noise, but the silence will stay.
Nighttime Local Experiences That Feel Like a Movie
Everything becomes still and reveals its core after sunset. Your ears might pick up a busker croon heartbreak songs along the alley, or watch old men playing cards next to food stalls. Your phone stays in your pocket since youre lost in the moment being part of it.
Best NYE Dinner Spots in Grand Baie, Mauritius for Lovers & Families
Picture this: a city-high dining spot, amber glows dancing over the city skyline, soothing background music, and plates arriving like little works of flavor. Whether it’s eyes locking between two lovers or a joyful chorus, Grand Baie, Mauritius makes it all feel cinematic. Restaurants here don’t just bring dishes — they help close the year with magic.
Make New Year’s Eve unforgettable — book your dinner with a view before it disappears.
Where to Enjoy a Romantic NYE Dinner for Two
If you’re dreaming of a dinner that feels like a movie scene, Grand Baie, Mauritius might just have the setting. Whether it’s a sky terrace or a romantic lounge with soft tunes, this city knows how to make it special. Now’s the time — the best views won’t last.
Spots disappear quickly — reserve your New Year’s Eve dinner for two and end the year perfectly.
Best NYE Dining Spots for Families
You won’t always find magic in fireworks — it starts with a plate of something familiar and people that know you best. The city has restaurants that understand families with big tables where families can eat and be themselves and still feel at home.NYE dinner like this becomes a memory that sticks.
Family seating is limited — lock it in and turn dinner into the highlight of the night.
New Year’s Eve Meals That Turn into Lifetime Memories
For those who value memories over menus, — Grand Baie, Mauritius has experiences that break the mold. You might find yourself eating aboard a slow cruise,. These meals stick in your story more than your stomach, .
Eat somewhere insane this NYE — rivers, rooftops, caves, or cliffs — just don’t eat boring.
Where to Eat with a Front-Row Seat to the Fireworks
Few things rival experiencing sparks fly while you dine. In Grand Baie, Mauritius, some restaurants and rooftops offer skyline views that elevate every bite. Where you sit truly counts when countdown vibes hit, especially for a front-row sky show. Choose wisely, and you’ll dine with fireworks overhead while sipping your drink. The best view tables don’t last long — they get snapped up faster than the champagne flows. The pros know to plan in advance and ask for the seats with a direct fireworks line.
Top NYE Dinner Cruises and Waterfront Restaurants
The most cinematic NYE dinners happen where reflections and real life blur together. In big cities, it’s a cruise with live jazz and champagne. In Grand Baie, Mauritius, it could be a beachfront table with candlelight and fire dancers in the distance. Sometimes, the best NYE story starts with a seat near the sea.
Don’t miss your chance to dine over water while fireworks light up the sky — book now.
Your Guide to Reserving a Memorable NYE Dinner in Grand Baie, Mauritius
All unforgettable dinners begin with a table that feels just right — and in Grand Baie, Mauritius, you’ll need to hunt it down. Want city views? Kid-friendly hours? A place that feels festive but not chaotic? Timing is your superpower.Think ahead, plan smart, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Lock It Down Before December Hits
Don’t wait — book that table now, especially if you want that skyline sparkle or romantic ambiance. If you’re reading this in December, you’re probably out of luck.
Decide What Kind of Night You Want
Set your dinner mood first, whether it’s a breezy terrace, a family-style feast, or an oceanside spot.
Request a Fireworks Table — and Say It Twice
Always ask for a fireworks view — literally, because some spots don’t mention it unless asked. Say it again when you confirm.
Avoid Being Early or Hangry
Don’t just pick any time, because too early and you miss the vibe, but going late means rushing dessert.
Know the Fine Print Before You Commit
Read the fine print, in case plans shift. No one wants to lose money with no meal.
Be Loud About Allergies, Needs, and Restrictions
Tell them about special food needs, because NYE is hectic, and you deserve a worry-free plate.
Style Matters — Even by the Beach
Look sharp, even for beachside seats, because the vibe deserves some sparkle. Confidence adds flavor.
Confirm Everything Twice
Confirm everything — twice, especially time. Don’t let miscommunication kill the mood.
Plan Transportation Ahead
Figure out how you’re getting there and back, because traffic gets crazy. No stress means more sparkle.
Choose a Table That Comes With a Story
Don’t forget the “wow” factor, whether it’s a view. NYE happens once a year — make it count.
Experience the Hype of NYE Concerts & Public Events in Grand Baie, Mauritius
The magic of New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius truly unique goes beyond the fireworks or the music—it’s the shared feeling of unity as the crowd chants in sync From travelers recording their memories to children dancing with light wands, each expression tells its own story of joy That’s the reason travelers return year after year—not just for the fireworks, but for that one-of-a-kind sensation of becoming part of a larger moment
The Main NYE Countdown Event You Can’t Miss in Grand Baie, Mauritius
The heart of Grand Baie, Mauritius beats loudest at one unforgettable location, and that’s the official celebration center. As the year closes, huge crowds fill the streets for a once-in-a-year event. Local stars and surprise guests take the stage, with firework-synced songs that rise with the energy of the crowd. As the final seconds tick away, the stage explodes with light, welcoming the new year with pure euphoria. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a memory etched in noise and light.
The Most Popular Places to Celebrate NYE with the Masses in Grand Baie, Mauritius
As the clock ticks closer to the new year, nothing beats the vibe than by standing with the masses at the most iconic celebration zones. Public squares, riverbanks, and major intersections turn into the heartbeat of the celebration, where swarms of people stand packed together for fireworks, music, and pure countdown chaos. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s beautiful in its chaos.
Before you choose where to go, check out the best places to join the countdown crowd.
Experience the City’s Brightest and Loudest Free Celebrations
Big celebrations don’t always come with a price tag—especially in Grand Baie, Mauritius. A string of pop-up music stages are scattered throughout Grand Baie, Mauritius, featuring local bands, DJs, and cultural acts. You can just follow the sound and lights, and stumble into something unforgettable. Everything glows in sync in choreographed light shows, making every corner a surprise show.
Here’s a list of the best free events lighting up the city on NYE.
Free & Electric: Places That Buzz Without the Price Tag
Sometimes, the real magic happens where admission costs absolutely nothing. From hillside parks and public bridges, there are places that pulse with celebration, completely free of charge. They’re hidden gems that tourists rarely find, where you can just exist in the moment, soaking in the fireworks and music around you. If youre chasing atmosphere, not expense, you’re in for a priceless experience.
Get the map of places where the party’s loud, the vibes are real, and the price is zero.
Hotel Guide: Where to Stay in Grand Baie, Mauritius During New Year’s Eve
One thing that frequent travelers never regret from last year’s New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius was booking early. The celebration was intense, but securing a cozy spot just a few steps away made it feel like home.
✨ New Year’s Eve only comes once a year— Book now and thank yourself later.
Grand Baie, Mauritius Hotspots: Where to Stay to Catch All the NYE Action
Selecting the right spot to stay in Grand Baie, Mauritius can completely change your NYE moment. Some parts of town are just minutes away from major countdown locations and celebration zones. Making it convenient to reach events, celebrate, and get back with ease.
A lot of guests who booked a room just two blocks from the main square in Grand Baie, Mauritius say it changed their whole NYE experience. Bypassing the post-midnight scramble and booking nearby helped many spend the night smoothly. That convenience really makes everything easier for people joining the countdown.
✨ Proximity is everything on New Year’s Eve— grab your perfect stay before it’s gone.
Places to stay in the top NYE neighborhoods of Grand Baie, Mauritius sell out fast. People want to be near the sky display, main event stages, and street parties. So your safest choice is to reserve ahead of time and pick a place near the action.
Book These Hotels in Grand Baie, Mauritius for VIP-Level Fireworks Access
Places to stay with skyline-facing terraces and firework views in Grand Baie, Mauritius are among the most booked choices during year-end festivities. Many of these properties offer not only ideal positioning, but also stunning nighttime skylines and private terraces.
Rooftop-view rooms in Grand Baie, Mauritius disappear several days—sometimes even ahead of the holidays. Availability is tight, everyone’s searching, and offers don’t last long.
🔥 These rooms go fast—secure your private NYE sky show today.
Affordable Places to Stay Close to the Celebration in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Not all NYE guests want to go all out on expensive rooms during NYE. There are lots of solid-reviewed budget hotels that keep you within walking distance of the countdown action and festivities.
The top affordable stays in Grand Baie, Mauritius get reserved fast during the year-end period. Acting fast can mean the difference between staying close or ending up far from the main event.
🚶 Save money and stay close — Book affordable rooms within walking distance now.
Where to Find the Best Hotel Discounts for New Year’s Eve 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Around late December, places to stay in Grand Baie, Mauritius offer special promos just for the holiday visitors. These offers are often tucked away in hotel listings or vanish quickly before they’re sold out.
Exclusive year-end hotel discounts are available right now in Grand Baie, Mauritius, but they are going fast. Reserving now might be your best chance at get a prime location without going broke.
🕛 Time’s running out — Secure your discounted room before the countdown starts.
Quick Tips for Booking the Right Place on the Busiest Night
Savvy visitors who grab affordable options usually act long before the holidays. Reserving last-minute often means fewer choices, greater distance from the venue, or bigger prices.
Some quick tactics can make your stay prep much smoother and cheaper. Avoid price tracking, don’t delay, and target midweek if you can
🎆 Before you book blind, Click here for smart NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius booking strategies.
Book Exclusive Tours & Festive Deals Now in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Choosing the most memorable option for New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius is easier than you think. We’ve uncovered a roundup of limited-time offers and hidden gems that combine celebratory energy with great prices. Be it chill rooftop vibes or under-the-radar venues, Grand Baie, Mauritius never fails to impress.Visualize gliding through Grand Baie, Mauritius on New Year’s Eve, following a insider who knows the city’s best-kept spots. Every moment comes with a narrative, each angle with a moment — that’s what makes these tours unlike anything else. Even now, a handful of these premium NYE options are available — but availability is fading. Every hour that goes by, the most exclusive NYE options in Grand Baie, Mauritius are getting booked. Some of the highly rated tours — from private boat rides to illuminated walking routes — are still available, but not for long. Savvy planners secure their spots ahead — don’t be the one left behind while others are toasting on rooftops.
Reserve your spot today — once it’s full, it’s gone.
Last-Minute NYE Tours With 5-Star Reviews
You don’t act, you lose — that’s how quickly these tours vanish. We’ve seen bookings go from wide open to locked in under 12 hours. Move fast, and your New Year’s Eve will start in the front row.
These are the ones everyone’s raving about — reserve your countdown tour today.
Act Fast: Holiday Offers in Grand Baie, Mauritius Disappearing Quickly
Every minute you scroll, one more spot in Grand Baie, Mauritius is gone. We’ve seen holiday promos go from wide open to sold out in under a few hours. Lock it in today or regret it tomorrow — this is the point of no return.
Book today and save big — or scroll past your biggest NYE regret.
Exclusive Packages That Include Fireworks + Dining
High-demand New Year’s Eve pairings in Grand Baie, Mauritius are being claimed at crazy speed. You’re not just locking food — you’re reserving the best seat in the house for the main event. Don’t be the one scrolling in envy — get your spot while it’s still open.
Skip the chaos, go VIP — Reserve this fireworks + dining package now.
Backdoor Travel Discounts in Grand Baie, Mauritius You’ll Wish You Found Sooner
Not all the most memorable New Year’s Eve tours are found on the usual travel platforms. These secret deals often go unnoticed — no bold banners, just quiet sharing and authentic charm. If you come across one of these rare listings still live, lock it in — it’s like discovering a rare find.
It’s not listed in the guidebooks, but it’s still bookable — Reveal your NYE tour now.
Cheapest Ways to Explore Grand Baie, Mauritius During NYE
Savvy explorers get it: skip the overpriced deals, follow the local rhythm. Roam through festive streets, vibe in on-the-spot concerts, or get budget meals from stalls open till late. When you vibe with the scene and go with the flow, you’ll see a Grand Baie, Mauritius only the real ones hang in.
Why overspend? Get the top budget-friendly spots in Grand Baie, Mauritius.
No Planning Needed — Just Show Up & Celebrate NYE in Grand Baie, Mauritius
Looking to celebrate the big night in Grand Baie, Mauritius without worrying about dinner reservations, event passes, and end-of-day travel plans? All-inclusive NYE deals are the smart choice. With one simple click, you get access to expert-planned experiences, high-level vantage points, fine dining, and sometimes even VIP transport. No planning required — all you need to do is be there and enjoy the night.
Get your hands on the best all-inclusive NYE packages before they’re gone.
NYE-Only Tours You Can’t Book Any Other Time
Something truly rare about tours that are exclusive on New Year’s Eve. These go beyond your usual picks you’ll find year-round — they’re one-night-only events created for the festive finale. From twilight cruises to secret rooftop performances, these limited experiences turn Grand Baie, Mauritius into a New Year wonderland. Miss it, and you’ll have to count down again next year.
Reserve your spot before it’s gone — this tour only runs on December 31st.
Your insider’s guide to NYE 2026 events and cultural festivities in Grand Baie, Mauritius
As the final day of the year unfolds in Grand Baie, Mauritius, the city becomes a celebration canvas—every district, every square, and every street corner alive with excitement. The main countdown stage is where the crowds gather as the final seconds arrive, often paired with brilliant light shows and big-name music acts. But beyond the spectacle, there’s an more soulful layer of celebration—cultural performances, ancestral customs, and folk parades that fuse heritage with NYE excitement.
Click to reveal the can’t-miss festivals and local events for NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius
What makes New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius especially unique is the variety of cultural events—from quirky, themed street carnivals and festive street food lanes, to free events that pull in massive crowds without a paid entry. In some areas, whole districts turn into festival zones, with handmade goods corners, authentic street food, live demos, and spontaneous street shows that feel more like a celebration of identity than just a countdown party. If you happen across a cultural play or a light-up celebration, you’ve likely discovered a once-a-year hidden gem—part tradition, part chaos, all magic.
Whether youre traveling solo, with kids in tow, or on a NYE date trip, there’s a perfect vibe for every kind of celebration in Grand Baie, Mauritius. Child-friendly NYE parties often feature sunset fireworks, low-noise pyros, and interactive folk tales that mix joy and heritage. Meanwhile, insiders head out at skyline spots, open-air venues, or quiet heritage sites for more intimate private shows, where lights dance into the night after midnight and chants continue into the early hours. And if youre chasing the after-midnight thrill, hang on—some of the realest vibes happen long after the fireworks fade.
Getting to Grand Baie, Mauritius: Transport Tips for NYE 2026
Traveling to Grand Baie, Mauritius is typically straightforward, with reliable connections by flight and road from both domestic and international locations. Most visitors choose air or land travel to get there, depending on where they’re coming from.
Since NYE attracts many visitors, transport lines might get crowded, but in general, it’s fairly manageable for most people heading in.
Looking for the best flight options to Grand Baie, Mauritius? Check early deals before prices soar.
There are several ways to reach Grand Baie, Mauritius, giving travelers the chance to choose what works for their needs. For long-distance trips, many choose flights that operate from major hubs to Grand Baie, Mauritius. Overland connections like buses and trains are often used for shorter regional journeys.In a few destinations, ferries act as an extra link, with Uber-style transport or local cars completing the journey into town.
Traveling to Grand Baie, Mauritius around New Year’s Eve? Try to arrange your travel plans as early as possible. The closer it gets to New Year’s, the harder it becomes to find reasonable connections. Got accommodations on your mind already? There are amazing hotel offers if you act early.
Answers to Common NYE 2026 Questions in Grand Baie, Mauritius
How safe is Grand Baie, Mauritius during the NYE 2026 celebrations?
Definitely, the city usually ramps up safety measures around NYE.
How far in advance should I book a hotel for NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius?
Absolutely. New Year’s Eve is high-demand season and accommodation goes quickly.
What are the main crowd spots for New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius?
The main gathering spots are usually near city squares, riverfronts, or landmark zones.
Where do people go for a free view of the fireworks in Grand Baie, Mauritius?
Consider visiting high-ground parks or rooftops with a panoramic cityscape.
Does public transit operate during NYE 2026 in Grand Baie, Mauritius?
Mass transportation typically stays active during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Is New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius kid-friendly?
Definitely, just stick to family zones and avoid nightlife-heavy spots.
Can I find places to eat on New Year’s Eve in Grand Baie, Mauritius?
Absolutely. Many prepare exclusive dishes for the celebration.
Can I still enjoy New Year’s Eve if I skip the nightlife?
Sober travelers will find plenty to enjoy during NYE in Grand Baie, Mauritius.
Do locals celebrate NYE 2026 in any special way?
Yes! Each destination has its own unique customs, like food customs or symbolic acts.
What time should I show up to grab a prime NYE viewing spot?
Getting there early ensures a prime spot and lower crowds.
This year, don’t settle for ordinary when it comes to New Year’s Eve. Grand Baie, Mauritius serves up everything you need for a night that resonates: joy, music, and memory-making scenes. It’s not just fireworks in the sky — it’s about stepping into something bigger. Begin with these highlights — handcrafted activities and local gems are right at your fingertips.
The world will be watching the clock — but you? You could be watching fireworks over a skyline. Let Grand Baie, Mauritius host your story. Click now — transport options are thinning fast, and hotels near the action are vanishing by the hour.