The windward island of Martinique lies between Dominica and St. Lucia. This Caribbean island is a tropical paradise with more than a slight hint of its French ancestry. This is very apparent in its architecture, its language, and especially in its food.

Martinique is a rather large, mountainous island measuring roughly 50 miles long by 22 miles wide and hightlighted by Mt. Pelee which totally devastated the city of St. Pierre in 1902. The island interior is a dream world for hikers with more than 30 well-marked and well-maintained trails. The interior’s diversity ranges from tropical green flocked mountains and volcanoes to lush rain forests to thundering waterfalls to windswept rocky coastlines. You can also see many of these areas by bicycle or 4x4 vehicle.

Martinique’s capital city, Fort-de-France, is a wonderful city to sightsee and is blessed with a staggering array of shops and restaurants. Save time for some serious shopping and take advantage of the many unique gifts from this French inspired island.

Martinique is ringed with excellent beaches that range in color from white to volcanic black and every hue in between. The turquoise waters around these beaches beckon you to sail, fish, snorkel, or scuba dive. There are many accommodations along these beaches and there are also many fine hotels in the hilly interior. In either area you will find hotels, inns, and resorts at every price range. French is the official language but English is widely spoken.

As you head back to your room after a hard day at play, you have the prospect of top-notch dining and nightlife to look forward to. With over 400 restaurants and a dizzying number of discos, clubs, and piano bars, your evening can be as laid-back or as glitzy as you desire.