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2021
2022
English edition
best of
martinique
www.petitfute.uk.com
05 96
+596 596525255
5598
98 lacasethai
Welcome to
PUBLISHING
Collection Directors and authors:
Dominique AUZIAS and Jean-Paul LABOURDETTE
Martinique!
Authors: Laure LAMBERT, Maëlle CHERRIER,
Corinne DAUNAR, Mélanie CARPENTIER, Marie
Isabelle CORRADI, Yaissa BOLIVAR-ARNAUD, Faubert
BOLIVAR, Eileen GIACOLETTO (traduction), Jean-Paul
LABOURDETTE, Dominique AUZIAS and alter
Publishing director: Stéphan SZEREMETA
Publishing team (World): Caroline MICHELOT,
Morgane VESLIN, Pierre-Yves SOUCHET,
Jimmy POSTOLLEC, Natalia COLLIER,
Laureen DUCHESNE, Anaïs MAOLE
Publishing team (France): Elisabeth COL, Tony
DE SOUSA, Mélanie COTTARD, Audrey VEDOVOTTO
Welcome to our Martinique!
Martinique is a land full of emotions… Authentic,
STUDIO warm, surprising, vibrant… Martinique will fascinate
Studio Manager: Sophie LECHERTIER you! Definitely a estive and gourmet destination! And
assisted by Romain AUDREN
Layout: Julie BORDES, Sandrine MECKING, especially when traditional events take place. Truly
Delphine PAGANO important events in the year, these celebrations are
Pictures and Mapping management: Anne DIOT an occasion to spend time with family, friends, on
assisted by Julien DOUCET
the beach or in the street, and to share unforgettable
WEB moments. The island also offers a rich gastronomy,
Web Director: Louis GENEAU de LAMARLIERE
first of all the famous PDO Martinique Agricultural
Web management and Development:
Nicolas de GUENIN, Adeline CAUX, Kiril PAVELEK, Rum, served in ti punch or coloured cocktails. Natural,
Mickael LATTES cultural, aquatic, sporty… 1000 %! Those who are
Webdesigner: Caroline LAFFAITEUR
Community Traffic Manager: Alice BARBIER,
passionate of watersports and wild nature will be able
Mariana BURLAMAQUI and Vincent PHAM to live their dreams by practising all sorts of activities:
canyoning, hiking, running, kitesurfing, tubing, as well
NATIONAL PUBLICITY
Publicity director: Guillaume VORBURGER
as paragliding and skydiving to discover a preserved
assisted by Manon GUERIN nature and breathtaking sceneries from the sky.
Local publicity management: Michel GRANSEIGNE Martinique’s cultural heritage is also very rich and
Customer relations management: reveals treasures, important sites of remembrance,
Vimla MEETTOO and Assa TRAORE
Heads of National Publicity: Caroline AUBRY, artists who represent our traditions… Seine fishing
François BRIANCON-MARJOLLET, Perrine DE CARNE with the fishermen of Bellefontaine, savouring a tinain
MARCEIN, Caroline PREAU
lanmori -dish composed of green bananas cooked
INTERNATIONAL PUBLICITY with cod and spices, served with cucumber- at the
Heads of Publicity: Jean-Marc FARAGUET and
Guillaume LABOUREUR assisted by Claire BEDON
Fort-de-France market, learning to dance bèlè at Gros
Advertising Management BEST OF MARTINIQUE: Morne with the bèlè masters, discovering navigation on
Isabelle DREZEN traditional yoles and sharing “yoleurs” ‘s everyday life,
CIRCULATION AND PROMOTION
falling into a “vidé” during the Carnival, and many other
Sales promotion Director: Bénédicte MOULET experiences to live at the heart of local life. And at each
assisted by Aissatou DIOP, Sidonie COLLET step of your journey, if you are looking for Paradise,
Sales Manager: Jean-Pierre GHEZ Martinique will also offer you unexpected encounters
assisted by Nelly BRION
Press and sponsor partnership management: and share all of our culture with you. Martinique loves
Jean-Mary MARCHAL you! We wish you a pleasant discovery,
ADMINISTRATION
Chairman: Jean-Paul LABOURDETTE Karine Rousseau President of the Martinique
Administrative and financial Director: Tourism Committee
Valérie DECOTTIGNIES
Human Resources Director: Dina BOURDEAU
assisted by Sandra MORAIS and Eva BAELEN
Information and Technology Manager:
Adam M’RAH
Accounting: Jeannine DEMIRDJIAN,
Adrien PRIGENT et Faiza ALILI
Collection: Fabien BONNAN assisted by
Sandra BRIJLALL and Vinoth SAGUERRE
Reception: Assa TRAORE
n PETIT FUTÉ BEST OF MARTINIQUE n
Petit Futé was founded by Dominique AUZIAS.
It is published by Les Nouvelles Editions de l’Université
18, rue des Volontaires - 75015 Paris.
& 01 53 69 70 00 - Fax 01 42 73 15 24
Internet: www.petitfute.com
SAS au capital de 1 000 000 E -
RC PARIS B 309 769 966
Cover: © JCH DUSANTER
Printing: GROUPE CORLET IMPRIMEUR -
14110 Condé-sur-Noireau
Legal deposit: 02/11/2020
ISBN: 9782305033594
To email us, type the surname (lowercase)
followed by @petitfute.com
Write to the editor: info@petitfute.com
table of contents
INVITATION TO TRAVEL n
Le Carbet .............................................84
Saint-Pierre .........................................87
Martinique’s Assets............................. 6 Le Precheur .........................................90
Stay ideas............................................11
How to go?..........................................15 THE INTERIOR NORTH n
The Interior North..............................94
THE RUM ROUTE n
Fonds-Saint-Denis ...............................94
History of Rum...................................28 Morne-Rouge .......................................96
Ajoupa-Bouillon ...................................99
Methods of production Mount Pelée .........................................99
and categories of rum....................... 30
The route of distilleries..................... 34
SOUTH CARIBBEAN n
EATING WITH YOUR FEET South Caribbean...............................102
IN THE SAND n
Trois-Îlets ...........................................104
Les Anses d’Arlet ...............................130
Best places to eat on the waterfront.. 38 Le Diamant ........................................133
Fort de France and its surroundings......38 Sainte-Luce .......................................136
Towards the North Caribbean coast.......38 Rivière-Pilote .....................................141
Towards the Southern Le Marin ............................................144
Caribbean coast....................................41 Sainte-Anne .......................................150
The Atlantic coast.................................46
THE ATLANTIC COAST n
DISCOVER MARTINIQUE n
The Atlantic coast..............................158
Martinique in 25 key words............... 50 Le Vauclin ..........................................158
Overview of Martinique......................54 Saint Esprit.........................................163
Le François ........................................163
History, Politics and economy........... 57
Le Robert ...........................................168
Arts and culture................................. 59 Gros-Morne .......................................171
Saint Joseph ......................................173
FORT-DE-FRANCE
La Trinité ............................................173
AND ITS SURROUNDINGS n Presqu’ile de la Caravelle....................175
Tartane............................................176
Fort-de-France and its surroundings.. 62 Morne-des-Esses ...............................181
Fort-de-France .....................................62 Sainte-Marie ......................................181
The surroundings of Fort-de-France......76 Le Marigot .........................................183
Le Lamentin.......................................76 Le Lorrain ..........................................183
Basse-Pointe .....................................184
NORTH CARIBBEAN n
Macouba ............................................184
Grand-Rivière......................................185
North Caribbean................................ 80
Schœlcher ...........................................80
Case-Pilote ..........................................82
SMART TIPS n
Bellefontaine ........................................82 Smart tips.........................................188
Le-Morne-Vert .....................................84 Getting information...........................192
3 Saint-Pierre. © VINCENT FORMICA
4
Grand’Rivière Macouba
Basse-Pointe
Cap Saint-Martin
Prêcheur Grand’rivière
Integral Biological
Reserve Mount Pelée
Integral Biological Le Lorrain
Piton Marcel Reserve N1 Atlantic
(1026)
Mount Pelée Le Marigot Ocean
(1397)
1902 Cone L’Ajoupa-Bouillon
West Summit
(1364) (1388)
Martinique
N3
Le Prêcheur Petit
Bonhomme The Aileron D15
(1140) (1107)
Sainte-Marie
Le Morne-Rouge Caravelle Peninsula
La Trinité Nature Reserve
Morne-Jacob
N2 (884) N1 Harbour
Caravelle
Saint-Pierre La Trinité Peninsula
Saint-Pierre Morne-des-Esses
Harbour Galleon
Fond-Saint-Denis Bay
D15 Gros-
Morne
Le Morne-Vert Piton Boucher
(1070) N4 D3
Le Carbet
Chancelle Islet
N3
Piton Lacroix
(1197)
Saint-
Joseph Le Robert Robert
Bellefontaine D3
Harbour
N2
N4
Case-Pilote Lavigne Islet
Thierry Islet
N2006 Le François
Le Lamentin
D41 Fort-de-France Long Islet
Schoelcher N6
Pointe
La Manzo N6
des Nègres
Fort-de-France
Fort-de-France Lamentin Airport
Bay Ducos
Saint-Esprit Mount Vauclin
Pointe (504)
du Bout
Bois la Le Vauclin
Les Trois-Îlets Charles
Rivière-
Salée N8
Morne Bigot
(467)
Morne la Morne Gardier
Cap Salomon Plaine (393) (399)
Grande-Anse N6
N5
N8 Domaine du
Grand Macabou
Rivière-
Les Anses-d’Arlets Pilote
Caribbean Morne Larcher Le Diamant Sainte-Luce Le Marin
(477) Morne Aca
Sea (268)
Cul-de-sac
Diamond Rock Marin Sainte-Anne
Sainte-Anne
Islets
Nature Reserve
Étang des
Salines
2km
Pointe des Salines
5
MARTINIQUE’S ASSETS
A heavenly destination language, same level of health (medical expenses
are reimbursed by the Social Security...). Note
In Martinique, the beach and the sea are that, within the framework of decentralisation,
always within reach. There are no less than the constitutional reform project, which aimed
200 varieties of sand on this island. With Anse at changing the articles 72 to 74 title (XII) in
Noire, Céron, Trabeau, Cap Macré, the Salines, order to grant the island more autonomy was
picture hunters and sports lovers will not be rejected by referendum.
disappointed. And if the sea and its many
assets should bore you, the lush vegetation
of Martinique will offer you pleasurable strolls. An easy trip to organize
It is easy to arrange and organize your trip
A pleasant climate by yourself. You just need to find a flight and
accommodation corresponding to the airport
throughout the year (directly, through Internet or agency). There is
Here, the climate is tropical, hot and humid. If no organised public transport (except for the
there are two seasons: the Lent (hot and dry town of Fort-de-France). You must have a car
stretching from December to May) and winter and a road map. You will find many excursionists
(wetter that lasts from June to November), there and suppliers, inter-island flights, supermarkets
is predominantly good weather, with an average and grocery stores.
temperature of 27 °C. The rain never lasts long,
and the heat isn’t excessive. So there is no
“ideal” period for a trip to Martinique, but if you
An island with multiple facets
go between September and October, you will With its 1 128 m ², Martinique has multiple
have the island to yourself. Caution: from the facets. In the south, you find many coves with
end of August to at the end of October tropical beautiful white sandy beaches and the seaside
storms, depressions or hurricanes often occur. attractions override the rest. In the north, the
Pelée mountain stands proudly. The road leading
from Schœlcher to Precheur overlooks steep
A practical island cliffs. The coast reveals black sand beaches,
Martinique is a French overseas department. remains of the eruption of mount Pelée. In the
You can enjoy several daily advantages if you east, the strongly rugged landscape is ideal
come from France: same currency, same for green tourism. Facing the immensity of the
© FABIEN R.C. – FOTOLIA
The Mountain Pelee.
MARTINIQUE’S ASSETS 7
© JC DUSANTER
INVITATION TO TRAVEL
Return of fishing.
Atlantic Ocean, the north-east coast, known as someone to come and say hello, and someone to
the “coast in the wind”, is rough (except some help you. Music is everywhere. The “ragga” and
beaches in the South). the “zouk lovers” will follow the round. During
the carnival, a general jubilation seizes, for five
Ecotourism booming days, all the cities of the island. Dare follow the
“vidés”, these splendid processions, settling of
Green tourism is booming in Martinique. The
the carnival that the population follows with heat
aquatic fauna with mask, fins and snorkel;
mangrove in kayaking, visit the domaine de while swaying to the sound of rhythms. Another
L’emeraude or the volcano house, botanical image of “Epinal-en-Caraïbe”, the ti-punch is
gardens, hiking, canoeing, horse riding, sailing... a true ritual in the Caribbean, to which you’ll
ecotourism has fine days in front of him on these sacrifice yourself willingly, preferably with a
magnificent landscapes. With its eclectic coasts, bearing the effigy of great distilleries named
its rich and varied seabed, its tropical forest, after the old creole families.
its steep paths, rivers and waterfalls: nature is
© TOM PEPEIRA – ICONOTEC
displayed generously.
A privileged tourist location
Martinique is located in the heart of the west
indies arch. This interesting location allows
you to discover the english speaking islands
(cultures and atmospheres): Sainte-Lucie, in
the south, fifteen minutes by plane or 1 hour
30 boat; Grenadines, further south, with their
heavenly beaches; Dominique, in the north,
with its rivers and its Rastas; and, east of the
antilles arch, Barbados, offering all the facilities
of an island for tourist trips.
A historical and cultural heritage
The island does not lack resources on this level.
Creole museums, distilleries, gardens, homes
tell you about its rich and complex history. You
can also easily leave the over crowded paths
to stop, have a drink and chat in towns that
are always welcoming. On the roadside, if you
sometimes think you are lost, there is always
Petit Piton is surrounded by a very diverse flora.
8
Anses d’Arlet.
© MORANDI BRUNO
Anses d’Arlet.Technical sheet 9
Money wwMobile phones work well. An advice to our
readers however: be careful with your bill when
The local currency is euro, as in France. you are in the Caribbean! The system of roaming
wwBanks. Most French banks have branches can be very expensive. Explanation: your
in Martinique. Ask your agency to give you metropolitan mobile operates in the West (if you
the agency closest to your accommodation. have the proper subscription), but remember that
Credit cards are accepted everywhere. American all calls (entering and outgoing) are charged to
express is also very present on the island. you! The best solution is to buy at your arrival
Budget. Prefer a “package” formula including (if you have the intention of often using your
the flight and accommodation, if your budget is mobile) a mobile kit with prepaid card.
© MORANDI BRUNO
tight; between E700 to E1,200 according to the
season. The à la carte trip is more expensive, To reach someone
not less than E1,500 for a week (flight + hotel
wwLandlines. All landlines (ten digits) start
+ car).
with 05 96.
wwMobile numbers. All the numbers start
The destination in short with 06 96.
The island wwTo call Martinique from France.
Simply dial 10 figures without dialing the 00 or
wwSize: 1,128 km ² (according to the Overseas the international code.
Issuing House, the IEDOM).
wwTo call the mainland from Martinique.
wwStatus: Overseas department (DOM) since Simply compose the 10 figures. It is not
March 19th, 1946. necessary to dial the 00 33. Martinique
wwPrefecture: Fort-de-France. is France!
wwM a j o r c i t i e s : F o r t - d e - F r a n c e wwTo call foreign land from Martinique. Dial
(94 000 residents, which is the most 00 for the international then the code of the
populated city of Martinique), Le Lamentin country you want to have then the number.
(40 000 residents), Le Robert (24 146 residents),
Schœlcher ( 21 8 6 3 residents ) , Le
wwTo call Martinique from abroad. Dial 00 ( +)
to have international then the 596 (international
François (20 000 residents), Sainte-
Marie (19 528 residents), Saint-Joseph code of Martinique) then the number of your
(18 000 residents), Ducos (17 000 res). corespondant. ( without the 0 )
The population
© VINCENT FORMICA
wwPopulation: 390 252 inhabitants (Insee
2017).
wwDensity: 340 inhab/km ², the highest density
of the four DOM.
wwOfficial language: French.
wwRegional language: Creole.
wwMain religion: Catholicism.
Economy
wwGDP/inhabitant: E22, 266 (2014).
wwTotal GDP: 8.5 billion euros (2014).
wwLeading suppliers: Metropolitan France,
European Union, Latin America.
wwUnemployment rate: 19.4 % (2014).
Phone
wwTelephone code: 05 96.
wwTelephone information: 118 218 or 118 712.
Tropical botanical garden of Balata.Technical sheet
10
Time difference never excessive there. Halfway between the
Tropic Of Cancer and Ecuador, the island on
5 hours difference with France in winter. 6 hours the other hand is subject to a high humidity
in summer. In January, when it is 6pm in Paris, rate. Abundant rains complement the heights
it is 1pm in Martinique. In July, when it is 6pm of north constantly, where the temperatures
in Paris, it is 12am in Martinique. can drop slightly. The record of cold established
in 1965 defers 12°C to Fonds-Saint-Denis and
Formalities 8°C on the summit of mount pelée. But these
For European Union citizens, an identity card figures are quite rare.
is enough to go to Martinique. However,
for the english islands (Sainte-Lucie, Saint- Seasonal variations
Vincent and Grenadines...) a valid passport If, in certain regions, there are also two, or three
is required. seasons, it is difficult to distinguish them here.
For the Canadians, Americans, a passport is We prefer employing the term “period”.
sufficient. You do not need a visa for stays of
less than 30 days. wwFrom December to the end of April, it is
Children have a personal ID or appear on the the “high season”: tourists flock and rates of
parents ID. Miners traveling alone must present tour operators increase.
an authorisation of leaving the territory esta- wwFrom May to the end of November, the “off
blished by the parents. season” period: the European holidaymakers
sort of ignore the destination insofar the sun
Climate is present in Europe.
The prices are lower starting from the end of
Martinique enjoys a pleasant hot and humid April until mid-December, enjoy! Avoid, however,
tropical climate. The average temperature is to plan a cruise on a sailboat in September,
26°C. With 3,000 annual hours of sunshine, because it is the month when you have the
on the plains and the coasts of the south, the highest risk of encountering a tropical storm
sun is never absent long. There are however or even a cyclone!
two seasons:
wwSummer holidays represent the
wwThe hot and dry Lent lasts from December “intermediate seasons”: summer holidays
to May, knowing that from February to April, allow the West-Indians in metropolis to visit
the island goes through a period of great the country. It is often difficult to find a rental
drought. The sunshine is then at its peak. The car and plane tickets are expensive (especially
temperature in this season varies between if you prepare at the last minute). Also note that
27°c and 34°. in July and, above all, in August it is very hot
wwThe hivernage, which stretches from June and more humid, it rains more often but still
to November, is more humid. The cyclone risk remains pleasant.
is stronger from the end of August to the end Travelling out of times of great attendances,
of October. we recommend you May and June, October
The island is constantly swept by sea breeze and November: the climate is pleasant and
from the east and the North-East, the heat is at low prices.Stay ideas
The French West Indies lend themselves wwUnlike the traditional seaside resorts
ideally to family holidays (with or without (Morocco, Tunisia, Greece, Turkey), the
children or friends. The elderly, athletes and concept of distance does not exist. The only
lovers of ecotourism are not left out. It takes city is Fort-de-France. The crowds refractories
at least ten days to fully enjoy your trip, but a can easily find accommodation near the busy
fortnight seem to us the ideal option. However, seaside centre while being away.
the package mostly offered remains the week wwMartinique is separated in three areas
INVITATION TO TRAVEL
package. To be avoided if you suffer from jet lag with very different characteristics: South, the
(5/6 hours). Center and North. The south matches the tropical
wwPublic transport is still insufficient despite seaside image you generally have, while the North
the timid arrival of TCSP, thus it is essential to is the symbol of intense and green nature. The
rent a car. The positive aspect is independence: Centre, is especially characterised by a strong
regardless of the hotel that you choose, you can urbanisation and an important population density.
move according to your desires, without being It is truly the economic lung of the island where
obliged to stay on the seafront. most industrial and commercial areas.
Short stay
If you use a travel agency (or offers on the prefer the south of the island. If you like hiking,
Internet), the most common type of stay is the mountain and ecotourism, the North (or the
week package (which includes seven nights interior) is preferable. Martinique is certainly
on site, or sometimes just six, which is quite a small island, but you will still travel many
short). Experienced people will confirm that kilometres. Moreover, there is often traffic
a week on site is not enough. The flight lasts congestion on the road serving the north-south
about 8 or 9 hours and there is a 5 to 6 hour around Fort-de-France, which significantly
time difference. For example, if you leave Paris increases your travel time.
on a Saturday, you arrive in the late afternoon Here is an example of a stay that allows you
or early evening of the same day. You must fly to enjoy Martinique to the fullest. We assume
again the following Saturday, in order to arrive that you are staying in the South of the island
in metropolitan France on Sunday (most often (Sainte-Luce or Le Diamant).
at dawn, after spending the night on the plane).
If it is estimated that the day after arrival is the
first day of acquaintance and the last day is Day 1
reserved for preparations, you only have five You arrive at Le Lamentin airport. You may
full days left to discover the island. be exhausted from the trip and have only one
Taking these parameters into account, we thing on your mind: get to your hotel. A good
advise you to target your desires and choose shower, and to bed. Five or six hours of jet lag
a geographical area of stay accordingly. If you depending on the season, you need to recover.
like the beach, quiet coves and water activities, You’ll see more clearly tomorrow.
Which accomodation formula to choose?
Visitors staying for the first time in Martinique generally choose classic accommodation.
Indeed, tour operators include flight and accommodation. However, hotel residences
with small equipped kitchen are the most popular formula. Finally, seasonal rentals
complete the range of possibilities: from studios to family villas. Cottages and
guesthouses are also expanding. Respecting the environment and an invitation to green
tourism are the highpoint of this new type of rental services, including a big rise of
quality.12 Stay ideas
Day 2 is possible, as maritime shuttles take you there
and the round trip by boat is very pleasant.
Wake up at sunrise (5h30-6h), due to time With a departure around 8: 30am/9am, you
difference. After a night’s sleep, you are in will logically be back around noon, unless you
great shape and you are already enjoying the stay for lunch.
pleasure of tropical well-being. The sky is blue,
with a strong luminosity. We suggest you enjoy wwRoute 2: the coast is called “windward”. You
the hotel (idleness, swimming pool, beach), take start with Le Vauclin, a charming and authentic
your bearings and organize your week. fishing village. Continue by Le François (almost
obligatory stop at the Clément residence), Le
Robert, the Caravelle peninsula. Lunch in Tartane
Day 3 at Mamy Nounou’s house for example. Then
You are getting used to jet lag. Take the oppor- attack the Atlantic North. In Sainte-Marie, visit
tunity to discover the island. Early departures the cemetery, the Rum or Banana Museum. Le
are strongly recommended: here we get up Marigot, Le Lorrain, Macouba where you will
early, because the sun sets around 6pm. We discover the JM Distillery. And finally, Grand-
propose two itineraries: Rivière and its cliffs. There, taste the coconut
wwRoute 1: the west coast, known as the ice cream sold by a charming old West Indian
“leeward” coast. Go up the South Caribbean woman. It is the end of the world, the island
coast, stop in the morning at the village of of Dominica points its nose beyond the cliffs.
Anses d’Arlet to have breakfast. Then go to The road ends there. Go back and after Le
Fort-de-France to shop and go to the market. Lorrain take the road that goes to Morne-des-
Head north along the Caribbean coast to Esses, Saint-Joseph.... And back to your place
reach Le Prêcheur. Visit the botanical garden of residence.
of Balata (Fort-de-France) and have lunch on Two tips: you can’t stop at all the places
the beach at Le Carbet (have a drink at the mentioned, so make a choice. The winding
Petibonum restaurant on the beach). In the roads from the interior (between Rivière-Salée
afternoon, a stop in Saint-Pierre (historic city). and Rivière-Pilote) offer wonderful landscapes!
You leave by turning off by the Morne-Rouge
road and cross the Trace road (tropical forest) Day 4
which goes down towards Fort-de-France. Three great classics for a thematic day:
Simply great. wwA day charter, which means a trip at sea
Note for those staying at Pointe-du-Bout or on board a boat, often “maxi-catamarans”.
Anse-à-l’Ane: a half-day trip to Fort-de-France Departures proposed from Les Trois-Ilets, Le
Marin or Sainte-Anne. The most classic tour is
© T PHOTOGRAPHY - SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
the South Caribbean coast and, for sea lovers,
a day trip to Saint Lucia (an English-speaking
island to the south). Departure around 9am and
return at sunset. Lunch on board, swimming
stops with the possibility of snorkeling (palm-
masking-tuba diving).
wwA day at the “white backgrounds”.
Everything is in the name: they are sandy and
shallow bottoms, located all along the Atlantic
Coast between Le Robert and Cap-Chevalier.
Leaving Martinique without having had a drink
(preferably rum) sitting in the water and far from
the coast... is a waste! Many companies organize
this excursion: departure in the morning around
9am, discovery of the islets, comments on the
vegetation, stop for a swim and rum baptism at
the famous “white bottoms”, lunch and return
in the late afternoon.
wwExcursion in a 4x4. Thanks to the
topography and climate of the island, many
service providers organize 4x4 rides. This is
a rather original way to explore the island.
Appreciated by the vast majority of our readers,
the formula appeals to them. Two very different
Diamond Rock.Stay ideas 13
circuits and concepts are proposed: the North or museum (La Maison de la Canne for example)
the South. For authenticity and tropical forest, or the option of cockfighting in a pitt (Rivière-
prefer the North Pilote) is essential.
Days 5 and 6 Day 7
If you are not too exhausted, you can devote It’s already starting. Most flights are scheduled
these two days to sports activities: scuba for late afternoon. A little something nice, some
diving (half day), sea scooter rides (half day) accommodation facilities allow you to change
or canoeing (Robert, François, Trois-Ilets or before leaving for the airport by providing you
Cap-Chevalier), windsurfing (Cap-Chevalier with luggage and showers. This is an advantage,
beach), flying or helicopter flights, canyoning... as you can fully enjoy your last moments on
For lovers of local culture, a visit to a distillery or the island.
INVITATION TO TRAVEL
Long stay
There are two Martiniques. Green and blue. The appearance, a cliché postcard perfect for beach
first, in the north, is punctuated with hills and lovers. Here, the sea is everywhere, ever so
pitons, covered with primary forest, tree ferns beautiful. You can dive to discover multicolored
and gigantic trees. The second, more seaside, fish, take care of yourselves in the shadow of
extends from the peninsula of La Caravelle to coconut trees and enjoy eating lobsters in the
the south tip and goes peacefully along the sand of Cap Chevalier. A little further, on the
Caribbean coast. If you have the possibility to Caribbean side, visit Sainte Luce, Diamant and
stay two weeks in Martinique, we advise you take a break in the beautiful village of Anses
to share your stay between these two assets d ‘Arlet. Also discover the two twin coves (one
and add, if you want to, a small cruise to Saint of white sand, the other of black sand) Anse
Lucia, Saint Vincent or the Grenadines. Dufour and Anse Noire. Here you have have
Fifteen days in Martinique is a formula that the advantage of being on by the water, while
allows you to enjoy your holidays completely. The enjoying the picturesque and the calm. For
time to get settled and not to visit everything in those who love animation, go to Pointe-du-Bout:
a rush. Four or five days in the north to discover restaurants, bars, many excursionists (mostly
the green and natural side of the island. Six nautical), shuttle to Fort-de-France, marina…
days in the south to enjoy the seaside. A few ww3/4 days in the Grenadines Islands or
days in the nearby islands. A good idea to avoid in Dominica. To end your hoidays perfectly,
unnecessary kilometers. embark from Marin on a sailboat with skipper
ww4/5 days in the north of the island. Circle and discover the Grenadines (the plane is also
the mountain Pelee to discover lush vegetation, possible for those who are sea sick). It is not rare
coloured flora, rivers, waterfalls and of course to cross dolphins in this marvelous seascape.
climb the mountain! Nature lovers will not be There, you’ll find the dream beaches. There
disappointed by the Trail Road in the heart of the are day formulas for those who are short in
rainforest. Note that Martinique is increasingly time. You must show up between 7 and 7.30am
offering ecotourism. On the program: canyoning, at the airport for a return towards 6pm. The
horse riding, marked trails. For this exploration plane (between nine and nineteen seats) allows
of the north, you can stay towards La Trinité you to admire the paradisiaque beaches of the
and enjoy the beauty of the peninsula of La Caribbean for an hour. Once in Union, you are
Caravelle. To visit absolutely: Grand-Rivière, taken in charge by the captain of a sailboat.
Basse-Pointe, Sainte-Marie, its rum and banana This tour gives a quick overview of the most
museums. The leeward coast (Caribbean, from beautiful sites: Union, the famous Tobago Cays
Schœlcher to Saint-Pierre) offers black sand and the charming small island of Palm Island.
beaches and small fishing villages… Tranquility Count between 250 E and 400 E/person. You
and authenticity guaranteed. The essential can also escape to Saint Lucia. The providers
steps from north to south: the Ceron dwelling offer two formulas (one day) to go to Saint
and cove, Saint-Pierre, Fond-Saint-Denis… Lucia: maritime transport aboard the rapid
ww6 days in the south of the island. The coast shuttle Express des îles (from Fort-de-France)
from Trinité to Cap Chevalier is a real jewel. or aboard a maxi-catamaran (departure from
Robert Islands, the white funds of Pointe Faula, Marin). Once arrived, local guides make you
Le Vauclin and its fish markets. And Sainte-Anne discover the island. On-site lunch and return
of course, with its famous beaches, including the to Martinique towards 6pm (possible by plane;
Salines. The village has preserved its traditional Only 20 minutes flight).14 Stay ideas
Thematic stayS
Hiking lovers, 4 x 4, cycling or diving enthusiasts by the maritime shuttle Express des îles. You can
will discover the great diversity of Martinique, also buy mini-packages in travel agencies. If you
far from the crowded seaside towns. For water have time, spend two or three days.
sports lovers, the Caribbean are also famous
for their climate and trade winds. Golfers can
inquire about the Trois-Ilets golf course or
Hikes
A hiker’s paradise, Martinique is far from being a
specialized tour operators.
only a destination for ‘beaches and deckchairs’.
North and south, walkers have the choice.
Cruises wwThe North of the Island: Count between
If you opt for a cruise in the Caribbean, here is two and three days to discover the heights
a little idea of tour. You can spend two or three of the island and its trails that go through the
days on one of the neighboring islands… and you tropical forest. The ascent of the mountain
have the choice. For example, the neighboring Pelee can be achieved by several tracks with
islands of Dominica and Saint Lucia have a different levels. From Morne Rouge, the Aileron
contrast with their English culture. Trail (6 hours round trip, medium level) offers
The Grenadines archipelago (located between beautiful panoramas. By Prêcheur (6 hours one
the island of Saint Vincent and the island of way, medium/difficult level), you will be able to
Grenada) simply offers dream beaches. You observe the still tangible traces of the eruption
can organize your getaway alone (by contacting of 1902. Walking down to the east coast, the
aviation or shipping companies), but we advise surroundings of Fonds Saint-Denis are rich in
you to pass by an agency. They offer a full day interesting hikes. Easier, but to avoid if you
package: the public rate is identical unless you suffer from dizziness, the Slave Channel (4 hours
come at an exceptional period (promotional…). round trip, easy level) follows the course of the
wwIn the south, the Grenadines: most of the Beauregard Canal, with beautiful panoramas
local travel agencies offer this journey for the on the Carbet pitons. More difficult, along the
day by plane, due to the distance. You have to be road de la Trace, the climbing of the Carbet
at the airport between 7am and 7.30am; You’re pitons (8 hours round-trip, difficult level) makes
back around 6pm. The aircraft (nine or nineteen you discover the rainforest. Beware! Hiking is
places) allows you to admire the paradisiaque difficult and has a steep incline because the
beaches of the Caribbean for an hour. six pitons spread over 16 km and sometimes
Then you arrive at Union where you are taken reach 1,000 m high.
in charge by the captain of a sailboat. This tour wwThe Peninsula of La Caravelle: A day will
offers a quick overview of the most beautiful be enough to discover the natural beauty of the
sites: Union, the famous Tobago Cays and reserve of La Caravelle. The large or small trail
the charming small island of Palm Island. The is shaded in large part and has an easy level.
expedition justifies high rates (forecast between The small trail (about 2 hours) winds between
E 250 and E 400/person): All day you sail in an mangrove and dry forest through the Dubuc
archipelago, from an island to another! Castle. As for the great trail (about 4 hours),
wwTo the South, Saint Lucia: independent it reaches the lighthouse of La Caravelle and
since 1979, this small island has an interesting allows you to enjoy very beautiful views over
tourist boom. Two formulas are offered (one the Tresor bay. Attention, some are in the sun.
day) to travel to Saint Lucia: Maritime transport wwThe South of the Island: leave the mountains
on board the express boat Express des îles (from to reach the beaches. The Anses d’Arlet path
Fort-de-France) or on board a maxi-catamaran (6 hours, easy level) will allow you to tour the
(departure from Marin). Once there, local guides peninsula of Sainte-Anne and discover its
make you discover the island. Lunch on site and beaches and landscapes. On the Atlantic side,
return to Martinique around 6 pm. You can also the Trace des Caps trail hike is one of the most
go to Saint Lucia by plane (only 30 minutes picturesque, to walk on foot or by bike, in one
flight). If you travel independently, car rentals or several stages. On the Vauclin side, you will
are relatively expensive. The smarter ones will travel the estate of Grand Macabou along the
prefer the local buses, cheaper and atypical. coast of la Petite à la Grande Anse Macabou.
wwTo the north, Dominica: this real mountain But one of the most original hikes remains the
paradise with 365 rivers is rather unknown to one traversing the Savanna des Petrifications
the tourists. Beach side, not much, but nature (5 hours return, easy level), in the peninsula of
lovers are spoiled: mountain walks, lakes… Sainte-Anne. In this desert which owes its name
spontaneous and natural landscapes, welcoming to fossilized trees, one can still see a few cactus
and wild. The island is connected to Martinique and acacias grow. The landscape is striking.How to go?
Going on a package tour
Tours, hikes, idleness or diving, on a catamaran CERCLE DES VACANCES
or monohull yacht, honeymoon and wedding 31, Avenue de l’Opéra (1er), Paris (France)
anniversaries: the offer for Martinique covers a & +596 01 40 15 15 11
wide range of activities and possibilities. There www.cercledesvacances.com
M° Pyramids.
INVITATION TO TRAVEL
are many specialists and they offer trips for all
tastes. Count from 500 E (excluding flights) for Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 8pm and
an 8-day, 7-night hike; 700 E for a 9-day, 7-night Saturday from 10am to 6.30pm.
idleness stay. The offer is also very important The advisors of the Cercle des Vacances are
in order to organize your tailor-made holidays. specialists who will share with you their advice
Professionals offer the necessary services to and little secrets to make your trip an unforget-
design a customized programme for you. table and personalized experience. Let them know
your travel habits, the different regions you want
to discover and work out together a tailor-made
Tour operators trip that suits you. Their agency in the heart of
ALMA VOYAGES Paris welcomes you from Monday to Saturday to
573, route de Toulouse offer you stays, tours and flights at economical
Villenave-d’Ornon (France) prices with an original concierge service.
& +596 05 56 87 58 46 TERRE ET NATURE VOYAGES
www.alma-voyages.com 23, rue d’Ouessant (15e ), Paris (France)
agvalma@almavoyages.com & +596 01 45 67 60 60
Open from 9am to 9pm. www.terreetnature.com
At Alma Voyages, travel consultants perfectly Open Monday to Friday from 9: 30 am to 7 pm.
know the destinations. They have the chance to By appointment outside these hours.
go there several times a year and therefore they Terre et Nature Voyages is a specialized agency
can advise you well. Each client is followed by for all sea lovers. Whether kitesurfing, wind-
a dedicated agent. A wide range of trips (stay, surfing, sailing or diving, this tour operator
cruise or individual tour) with the emission of travels the oceans to find the best spots. Terre
quotation proposed. Alma Voyages practices et Nature Voyages offers adventure, discovery
the best prices on the market and works with and culture. Trekking, hiking, dog sledding,
Kuoni, Beachcombers, Jet Tour, Marmara, Look canoeing, sailing, mountain biking, trail, multi-
Voyages... If you find cheaper elsewhere, the sports raids, cruises... are waiting for you!
agency will match this price. Surf on their website! Several stays rich in emotion.
© JC DUSANTER
Marina of Marin.16 How to go?
Price comparaison sites and seriousness. QuotaTrip’s network covers
nearly 200 destinations around the world.
and auctions The aim of this rapprochement is simple: to offer
a fully personalised stay to users. QuotaTrip
EASYVOYAGE thus promises the assurance of a serene,
& +596 08 99 19 98 79 tailor-made trip, without intermediaries and
www.easyvoyage.com at no extra cost.
contact@easyvoyage.fr
The concept can be summarized in three
words: inform, compare and book. Practical Travel agencies
information on several online destinations
ALMA VOYAGES
(seasonality, visas, agenda...) allows you to
573, route de Toulouse
think more efficiently about your trip. After Villenave-d’Ornon (France)
having chosen your destination according to & +596 05 56 87 58 46
your profile (family, budget...), the site offers See page 15.
you the possibility to query several sites at the
same time about flights, stays or tours. Thanks CERCLE DES VACANCES
to this powerful engine, you can book directly on 31, Avenue de l’Opéra (1er)
several booking bases (Lastminute, Go Voyages Paris (France)
and many others). & +596 01 40 15 15 11
See page 15.
QUOTATRIP
France TERRE ET NATURE VOYAGES
QuotaTrip is a new online travel booking 23, rue d’Ouessant (15e )
platform that connects travelers looking for Paris (France)
authentic and unique experiences with local & +596 01 45 67 60 60
travel agencies selected for their competence See page 15.
Travelling alone
By plane Guadeloupe to Martinique, St. Martin and Sint
Maarten, Saint-Barthélemy, Cayenne, Santo
wwDistance and flight time. The West Indies Domingo, Puerto Rico, Miami and La Barbados.
are about 7,000 km away from Paris (8 hour The destinations of Antigua and the Dominican
flight), and about the same distance, with Republic (La Romana and Punta Cana) are done
more or less 500km, from the main european only in season. You can book on line in real time
capitals. They are located approximately and 24/24 your plane ticket with a direct and
3,150 km from New York and 3,600 km from immediate access to the whole of the offers
Montreal. Towards South America, the nearest and competitive prices in particular with “flash
land is Venezuela, just over 1,000 km away, or sales”. The company also has a partnership
an hour by plane. with Air France.
wwRates. Average prices for a flight Paris-Fort-
de-France: high season (November to March + AIR BELGIUM
July, August and Christmas): from E720. Low Belgium
season (April to October, except for July and www.airbelgium.com
August): from 400. Note that the price changes info@airbelgium.com
depending on the company and, especially, Fares from E404 in economy class, E739 in
the time of booking. To obtain interesting rates, premium and E1,739 in business, including
enjoy the frequent offers throughout the year. luggage, meals and drinks.
Good news for the French West Indies! Air
Main companies serving the destination Belgium starts direct flights from Charleroi
airport on 20 November 2020 to Martinique
AIR ANTILLES and Guadeloupe. It is a Belgian company that
Martinique operates comfortable and affordable flights on
& +596 0 890 648 648 board of Airbus A340-300s . Their philosophy
www.airantilles.com is simple: “Comfort, service and pleasure:
The company is well positioned on the price no need to choose! “Three class categories
groups. She performs regular rotations from are offered: Economy, Premium or Business.How to go? 17
Departures are from Charleroi Airport, which all equipped with individual screens offering
is very easy to access and benefits from a fast more than 100 films and 300 albums as well
and efficient itinerary for passengers. Note that as a wide choice of video games.
their fares are clear and from Covid, they are
even “ZEN”: you can change your travel dates AMERICAN AIRLINES
and even your destination free of charge in the Martinique
event of an unfavourable health situation. The & +596 0811 307 300
fares include a maximum of 30kg of luggage, www.aa.com
meals on board and taxes. Consult the website American Airlines opère plusieurs vols par
for rotations. semaine pour la Martinique au départ de Miami.
Sa flotte se compose majoritairement de Boeing
AIR CARAÏBES B737.
France
INVITATION TO TRAVEL
CONDOR
& +596 0820 835 835
& +596 0 825742352
www.aircaraibes.com
www.condor.com
Central booking office open 7/7 from 7am to
reservation.en@condor.com
10pm. Paris: 4, rue de la Croix Nivert. Subway: The German company links Munich to Fort-
Cambronne. Open from Monday to Friday from de-France . The return from Martinique is
9am to 6pm, Saturday from 9.30 am to 5pm. via Barbados. The passport is therefore
Air Caraïbes, a regular French airline specia- required for passengers on the flight Fort-
lizing in the Caribbean offers its flights from de-France – Munich. The flight is every
Orly to Guadeloupe (Pointe-à-Pitre), Martinique Saturday. Reservations are made online or
(Fort-de-France), Guyana (Cayenne), the by travel agency. It is a seasonal air link, only
Dominican Republic (Santo Domingo and between November and April (high season).
Punta Cana), Saint-Martin (Juliana), Haiti Three comfort classes are offered: economic,
(Port-au-Prince), Cuba (Havana and Santiago premium economy and business.
de Cuba) and Bahamas (San Salvador and
Nassau). CORSAIR
This service, provided by Airbus A350 and A330, & +596 39 17
is complemented by the offer of the regional www.corsair.fr
network Air Caraïbes Simply to Guadeloupe, A regular company, Corsair is part of the TUI
Martinique, Saint-Martin (Grand Case), Saint France group, leader of tourism in France. It
Lucia and the Dominican Republic (Santo operates flights to the Indian Ocean, West Africa,
Domingo). The destination of Saint Barthélemy Canada and the French Antilles.
is also offered with a service operated by St. Corsair offers its customers larger and more
Barth Commuter. The company also connects comfortable cabins on board a fully reconfigured
the province and Belgium to the Caribbean from fleet. Corsair now offers 3 booking classes:
Orly through TGV AIR. Economy class, Premium Grand Large and
It offers an air-sea link to Marie-Galante, Business class. Quality upgrading offers new
Dominica and Les Saintes with navigAIR. ergonomic seats with better seating comfort,
Air Caraïbes offers 3 classes of services more onboard activities, including the provision
on board its transatlantic flights: Sun of individual touch and interactive screens,
(Economical), Caribbean (Premium Economy), offering a wide range of films, reports, and
Madras (Business). Its free loyalty program games accessible on board from individual
allows you to earn miles and receive benefits. screens or via the internal Wifi “Corsair On Sky”
Check the website for current special offers. All from smartphones, tablets and computers…
flights are displayed and the booking engine is The company’s website facilitates search for
integrated into the site. tariffs, offers the possibility of checking in
24 hours in advance, choosing your seat, editing
AIR FRANCE your boarding pass, and memorizing your search
& +596 36 54 from one visit to another. The customer can
www.airfrance.fr also book “on line ” the products he wishes
Air France offers up to 14 weekly direct flights to purchase in duty free on board the aircraft
departing from Orly West. The company serves with discounts of up to 40%. He can also
Fort-de-France in less than 9 hours onboard order “theme” meals of a marine, local, Italian,
the aircraft, offering a high level of confort gourmet type…
and equipped with 3 travel cabins: Economy, Enhanced by the Eco + space located on the
Premium Economy and Business. Business front of the devices, the Economy cabins offer
and Premium Economy are equipped with new an improved level of comfort with more space
seats and the seats of the Economy cabin are for your legs.18 How to go?
Staying
Sleeping joined their know-how on this diffusion site of
seasonal announcements. Here you are invited
ARCHIPEL ÉVASION to discover Martinique differently, while residing
134 B allée des Begonias – within villas or apartments of charm. All the
Lotissement les Moubins estates are selected with a charter quality. It
SAINTE-LUCE (Martinique) fullfills all types of budgets, from the luxury
& +596 596 351 410 villa to the small apartment of charm. Only
www.archipelevasion.com common denominator: the quality of the accom-
contact@archipelevasion.com modation. The agency also offers concierge
Travel agency specialized in the rental of prestige services. No more worries with the stewardship
villas in Martinique as well as conciergerie service. services (personal Chef, on line shopping...): they
Laura Chollet created Archipel Évasion in 2008. do it for you! As well, they offer a wide range of
Her credo: help her customers in the preparation activities to do on site, off the beaten tracks.
of their personalized individual travel. Based in
Saint Luce, the agency offers you a catalog of Getting around
about sixty luxury or standard villas, private
excursions and a panel of personalized services: Plane
Airport reception, shopping delivery, personal
chef, household, wedding ceremony, cruises… AIR CARAÏBES
Enterntainment and wellness complement these Airport Aimé Césaire, THE LAMENTIN
luxury concierge services: massage in your villa, & +596 0820 835 835
Creole cooking lessons and local crafts. With www.aircaraibes.com
family or friends, you can enjoy your dream Reservation central open from Monday to
holidays at your own pace. Saturday from 8am to 9pm, Sunday and public
holidays from 8am to 6pm. In Paris: 4, rue de la
RUM ‘ TROTTERS Croix Nivert, Paris. Subway: Cambronne. Open
Martinique & +596 696 45 45 32 Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm, Saturday
www.rumtrotters.com from 9: 30am to 5pm.
contact@rumtrotters.com On the regional network, Air Caraïbes serves
A new luxury villa rental structure has recently Martinique (Fort-de-France), Guadeloupe (Pointe-
been created in Martinique, surfing on the à-Pitre), Saint-Martin (Grand Case), Sainte-Lucie
emerging wave of “Spiritourism”. Don’t worry, and the Dominican Republic (Saint Domingue).
this is not “spiritualism”, but a concept aimed The destination of Saint Barthélemy is also offered
at promoting rum and its historical and cultural by a service operated by St. Barth Commuter.
heritage. The site brings together top-of-the-
range villas, scattered all over the island and AMERICAN AIRLINES
obviously close to the centres of activity linked & +596 0811 307 300
to rum production. The structure functions as a See page 17.
central booking centre for seasonal accommo-
dation: the accommodation, nicely called “Bed CORSAIR
& Rum”, introduces its guests into the world Agency Aréoport Aimé Césaire
of this precious beverage. A concierge service THE LAMENTIN
enhances the guests’ stay with excursions, & +596 08 20 04 20 42
discovery workshops and master classes around www.corsair.fr
rum. Booking is done online directly. Open every day from 9am to 7pm.
Daily round trips flights Paris Orly Airport – Fort-
VILLAVEO de-France and to the rest of the French West
Quartier Bac, Allée Hermann Littée Indies.
DUCOS (Martinique) CUBANA
& +596 01 76 38 00 50 – www.villaveo.fr & +596 05 96 42 18 68 – www.cubana.cu
reservation@villaveo.com La Cubana serves Havana in Cuba from Fort-
In complement of the hotel offers, in Martinique, de-France. Bookings in travel agencies or on
the rental of villas is developing exponentially. the Website.
Villaveo is a structure created by specialists of
the destination and tourism. Three associates LIAT
coming from the finance and luxury hotels fields & +596 05 96 42 16 11
decided to settle by the sun! They are young, 21 destinations to the Caribbean including St.
super trained in marketing techniques and they Lucia and Barbados.ION OF THE PEELED MOUNT
NTAT AIN
PLA
Since 1651
DISTILLERIE DEPAZ
Anchored on the majestic slopes of Mount Pelée in the north of the island,
Distillerie Depaz produces exceptional rums from a unique terroir
combining volcanic soils and the pure water of the mountain.
Shop: Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm, Saturday from 9am to 4pm.
Visit of the Castle : Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 1pm and from 1.30pm
to 4.30pm, Saturday from 9am to 1pm and from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.
Restaurant “Le Moulin à Cannes”: lunch service from Monday to Sunday.
Closed from 01/09 to 15/10. Privatization on request.
Tel: + 596 596 78 13 14 - www.depaz.fr
ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH, CONSUME IN MODERATION.6.95 € Prix France
Meet and greet by your assigned team member
Pick-up and drop-off without wait at the place of your choice 7 days a week
Wide range of vehicles (automatic and manual transmission)
Support throughout your stay contact@luxianecar.com
www.luxianecar.com
+596 696 248 630You can also read
