Martinique is one of the top Caribbean islands.

photo by Antoine Hubert	via PhotoRee

One of the top Caribbean islands, is the island of Martinique. Martinique is in the Lesser Antilles, part of the Windward Islands, just about 30 miles north of Saint Lucia and 40 miles south of Dominica. Martinique is an overseas region of France, along with Guadeloupe.

Martinique is one of the larger islands in the Lesser Antilles. The land area encompasses 435 square miles (1100 Km)and has a population of nearly 400,000 people. Originally discovered by Christopher Columbus, yet like many other Caribbean islands, the control of Martinique has gone back and forth between the British and French for 400 years until becoming solidly French controlled in 1946.

photo by BrentOzar	via PhotoRee

The geography of Martinique is quite diverse. The northern part of the island is a rugged landscape with several extinct volcanoes much like St. Lucia's pitons, some rising to an elevation of over 4000 feet(1400 meters). The southern portion of the island is more populated as the geography is more gentle, there is better beaches and more development.



Although French is the official language, many locals speak the traditional Creole native to Martinique. Martinique, like St. Martin, provides an interesting blend of French and Caribbean cultures. One example is the French tradition of businesses shutting down at lunchtime for a leisurely lunch break. The cuisine is also a blend of French and Caribbean styles and flavors. Like most Caribbean islands, the majority of the population is descended from slaves imported during the slave trading eras of the 16th to 19th centuries. Islands in the Caribbean such as Martinique were fought over by the Dutch, French, and British for their production of tobacco, sugar cane, indigo and cotton.

Martinique does enjoy one of the highest standards of living among the top Caribbean islands. The climate is typical of most Caribbean islands, with high temperatures in the 80's year-round. The hot weather is moderated by the natural air conditioning known as trade winds. The high season on Martinique is December through April. August through October the risk for hurricanes is present, if traveling there during these months be sure to get travel insurance. You can also Search Secret Hotels & Save up to 70% off on quality hotels.

photo by Thomas Faivre-Duboz	via PhotoRee

Martinique is a popular winter vacation destination for French and French Canadians. The Euro is the official currency here and U.S. Dollars are generally not accepted, but credit cards will do. If you like French luxury goods, you'll like Martinique. Shopping for perfumes and fashion at great prices is a tourist favorite here. Like most Caribbean islands, rum is the drink of choice, even on Martinique.

photo by Spigoo	via PhotoRee

Martinique isn't usually in the top ten rankings of best Caribbean vacation destinations, though it is a popular stop for cruise ships. There are luxurious resorts here for families and couples, and is popular for honeymoons and weddings and you can Find Last Minute Deals at hotels.com! you can also check Book It. If you've been to Martinique, feel free to leave a comment about your experience there. Thanks!