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Martinique Guide  » More About Martinique: Overview

Overview

 
More about Martinique
Known by the native Arawaks as the "Island of Flowers," Martinique has long been treasured for its many tropical assets – from stunning native flowers like the anthurium and forests full of pineapple, papaya, avocado and banana trees to fabulous beaches, beautiful women, and breathtaking natural beauty. A French colony since the mid-17th century, the island is unique in Caribbean circles thanks to its cities' distinctive Parisian look and feel. In fact, many long-time residents like to describe Martinique as Paris's westernmost suburb. Geographically, the island offers a variety of landscapes, from the black sand beaches on the northwestern shore and 4600-plus foot Mount Pelée to the pristine nature preserve on the Caravelle Peninsula and the snow-white sands of Les Salines. Visitors to Martinique, most of them arriving in cruise ships, enter through Fort-de-France, the capital city since the early 20th century after the original capital, St-Pierre, was leveled by the eruption of Mt- Pelée. Here, you'll find the heart and soul of the island's cultural and social circles, with the town boasting traditional West Indian public markets, Paris-caliber boutiques and restaurants, and a bustling nightlife scene. Elsewhere on the island, things tend to be more relaxed, as remnants of the old colonial lifestyle continue to survive in and around old plantation homes like Habitation Clement, Château Dubuc, and Habitation Mac Intosh, all of which are open to the public.

Restaurants in Martinique

Restaurants in Martinique

La Villa Creole

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