Martinique

Martinique, one of the best islands (and French department) in the Caribbean, is an ideal choice if you're seeking for France-in-the-Caribbean. It is located in the Lesser Antilles, is a culturally and physically rich former colony with unique Creole and French cultural elements that pervade the island's art, music, gastronomy, and spoken languages. Martinique has a complicated and sad past, as slavery was not abolished on the island until 1848.

Martinique now attracts visitors yearning for white-sand beaches, surfable waves, walks through lush tropical woods, and cultural experiences ranging from Créole cuisine to music and art. Most inhabitants are bilingual in both Creole and French.

Begin by touring Fort-de-France, the busy capital city, with its colorful squares, streets, spice market, restaurants, and the historic Schoelcher Library. Then, from the famed Mount Pelée volcano in the north and its rough surrounding landscapes to the gorgeous white-sand beaches of the southern coast and the gurgling waterfalls and tranquil woodland walks of the interiors, experience the island's spectacular natural settings. Also, don't miss the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial, located near Diamond Beach in the southwest, which is a somber and moving homage to the victims of slavery in Martinique.

What to Do: Begin by touring Fort-de-France, the busy capital city, with its colorful squares, streets, spice market, restaurants, and the historic Schoelcher Library. Then, from the famed Mount Pelée volcano in the north and its rough surrounding landscapes to the gorgeous white-sand beaches of the southern coast and the gurgling waterfalls and tranquil woodland walks of the interiors, experience the island's spectacular natural settings. Also, don't miss the Anse Cafard Slave Memorial, located near Diamond Beach in the southwest, which is a somber and moving homage to the victims of slavery in Martinique.

Location: Caribbean Sea

TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5