Discover the Hidden Gem of the French Caribbean: Martinique

A Captivating Destination for the Adventurous Traveller

Rainforests and rum. Beaches and bakeries. Volcanos and Veuve Clicquot. If you haven’t discovered the French Caribbean island of Martinique, it’s a captivating place that remains one of the region’s great under-the-radar destinations.

A Diverse and Layered Island

For an island of less than 400,000 people, it’s remarkably diverse and layered, whether you’re experiencing its unrivaled rum-making culture (there are more rum distilleries here than any other place in the world), savoring its intoxicating blend of French and Caribbean flavors; or exploring the richness of its eco-tourism offerings, from lush rainforests to its towering Mont Pelee volcano.

While Martinique still remains something of a well-guarded secret, travelers are beginning to appreciate its wonders — and with demand growing, American Airlines just expanded its service to the island. The expansion means American Airlines is now flying three times per week between Miami and Martinique, with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The airline has upped capacity from its 80-seat Embraer aircraft to Boeing 737s with 176 seats. Most importantly, though, is that American’s Miami-Martinique route is now a year-round flight, Martinique Tourism Authority officials confirmed to Caribbean Journal. So far, the numbers have been performing very well, officials said.

And Now, a New Route to New York?

The ultimate goal is to attract a flight between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Martinique. So, what about flight prices? The Miami-Fort-de-France flight is showing prices around $586 right now, according to Google Flights.

Regional Carriers Add Routes to Martinique

Martinique has been seeing a big jump in air access in recent months, with two regional carriers adding important new connections: Winair and Caribbean Airlines, both of which have debuted their first-ever routes to the island.

Where to Stay and Play

Are you planning a trip to Martinique?

If you’re making your first visit, we rather like the Hotel Bakoua in the tourist-friendly town of Trois Ilets, filled with cafes, beach bars, and excellent restaurants. Rates right now are as low as $167 per night. Just make sure you enjoy the floating bar.

If it’s all-inclusive you’re interested in, the Club Med Buccaneer’s Creek was recently transformed with a sleek new look, with rates starting at $363.

For a Deeper Immersion

If you’re looking for a deeper immersion, a villa is a great way to experience the island, with companies like Villa Veo, which have a broad portfolio of options around the island, from the stunning black-sand beaches of Le Diamant to the south to the charming, lush northern Caribbean coast in towns like Le Carbet and Saint Pierre.

Conclusion

Martinique is a hidden gem that is slowly but surely being discovered by travelers. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, it’s an ideal destination for the adventurous traveler. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, excitement, or simply a taste of French Caribbean hospitality, Martinique has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

* What is the best time to visit Martinique? The best time to visit Martinique is from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny.
* What are the top attractions in Martinique? Some popular attractions include the city of Fort-de-France, the St. Lucia cathedral, and the Anse Rodrigue beach.
* What is the currency used in Martinique? The official currency is the Euro, but the US dollar is widely accepted.
* What is the language spoken in Martinique? French is the official language, but many Martinicans also speak Creole and Spanish.