MARTINIQUE

This verdant island's variety of tropical flowers and its beautiful beaches inspired artist Paul Gauguin to paint here in 1997. Today Martinique is a popular tourist destination with some of the best French and Creole dining in the Caribbean. Visitors to the island enjoy its ambiance as Martinique is both legally and culturally French. Besides the country of France, local residents also can trace their family roots to Africa, Southeastern Asia, China, and the Arabian peninsula.

The Lamentin Airport is just 15 minutes from Fort-de-France, and 40 minutes from the popular resort area, the Trois Ilets peninsula. You'll probably want to rent a car for there are over 175 miles of paved roads and much to see on Martinique.

Among the local sights is the Musée Gauguin near Carbet where reproductions are exhibited of the work Gauguin created during his stay on Maritinique. At the fragrant Balata Gardens, you can wander past over 200 varities of tropical trees and plants. Hikers will enjoy a strenuous climb up the dormant volcano Mont Pelée. At the Musée Volcanique, guides describe the destruction from a volcanic eruption that once devastated the now rebuilt city of St-Pierre.

French fare and Creole-style restaurants are the specialities. Popular with locals and toursists is La Petite Louisiane in Trois Ilets. La Villa Creole at Anse Mitan is a good place to enjoy the sunset.

-excerpt from Bahamas & Caribbean Pilot's Guide

Photos of Martinique

(Left to Right) A view of Fort-de-France. The island of Martinique.

Lodgings at Martinique

Two nights (9 Dec. to 11 Dec.) at the Victoria Residence.

Phone: 596-60-5678, Fax: 596-90-0024