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Martinique

INTRODUCTION

An island vacation in the Caribbean is a fantasy for many Americans. But when that island vacation takes place in Martinique, it's even more special. Martinique is a little bit of France located in the Caribbean sea, complete with all the things that make a French vacation so appealing --the food, the culture, and the joie de vivre--but packaged in a unique island fashion. Martinique is a destination with rich Creole history, welcoming people, spectacular landscapes --including lush gardens, pristine beaches, and tropical rainforests--as well as all the comforts of home.

Blessed with lovely beaches, all of which are open to the public, incredible lush vegetation, an ideal climate, and a wealth of cultural, artistic, and scenic attractions, Martinique is unlike any other tropical destination. Martinique was named the “Island of Flowers” by the Caribbean Indians and that name rings true when you visit the breathtaking rainforests and botanical gardens dispersed throughout the island. Two-thirds of the island is actually protected as a botanical nature park.

With an increase in air traffic, Martinique has become the Caribbean island to discover or rediscover. Travelers can now reach Martinique four times a week from Thursday-Monday on a direct flight operated by American Eagle out of San Juan, Puerto Rico or they can take the direct, weekly charter flight from New York City’s JFK International Airport to Fort-de-France, Martinique every Saturday. With an early afternoon arrival on either flight you can unpack, settle in, and swimm in the azure blue ocean, or sip a Ti-Punch on the beach or by the pool with plenty, of time left to enjoy the day.

As soon as you arrive you will be swept away by the rich diversity the island has to offer--starting with its hospitality, gorgeous landscapes, and wide choice of accommodations. With more than 6,000 hotel rooms ranging from budget to deluxe, including a Relais & Châteaux Resort and the brand-new spectacular $60 million Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek Resort, Martinique can accommodate any vacation style you want.

If you are seeking a romantic hideaway, cuisine du terroir, and off-the-beaten track experiences, several historic and intimate boutique hotels will fill the bill. Located just 25 minutes from Le Lamentin International Airport, in the charming town of François on the Atlantic coast, two lovely little boutique hotels await you.

Martinique--so much in so litle an island!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Capital: Fort-de-France

Climate: Matrinique has a tropical climate, with average temperatures around 17C. Its rainy season lasts fromJune-October. Every eight years or so it is vulnerable to hurricanes.

Currency: Euro

Languages: French and Creole Patois.

Time Zone: UTC-4