Travel: Fort-de-France, Martinique

Fort-de-France, Martinique

Fort de France is located on the west coast of the island of Martinique, and is bordered by the Caribbean Sea. It is the capital city of Martinique.

Martinique is known as the "Island of Flowers," and tourists arriving via the main port at Fort de France will be greeted by many fragrant varieties that line walkways.

In the suburbs north of Fort de France, tourists can discover one of Martinique's most beautiful flower gardens, Jardin be Balata. La Savane's gardens are also a sight to behold.

Each of Fort de France's streets are lined with shops, restaurants, markets, cathedrals, museums, statues and more, which is why Martinique is also known as "a little bit of France in the Caribbean." Rue Victor Hugo is one of the most popular streets for shopping and dining.

If in search of the best beaches on Martinique, head to the island's southern half, where the sand is warm and white and the waters calm and turquoise. The "Salines Beach" at the southernmost tip of Martinique is postcard beautiful.

The weather on Martinique will almost always co-operate, allowing for several truly tropical days at the beach. Annual daytime highs are in the 28-degree Celsius range, and there is plenty of blue sky and sunshine.

But expect to see rainshowers in September, which is Martinique's wettest month. Measurable rain falls an average of 26 days in September. Tourists should also be aware that Martinique can be affected by tropical depressions, tropical storms and hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.

In the northern half of Martinique, adventure seekers can hike through lush, tropical rainforest. The north is also where you will find Mont Pelée, an active volcano and the highest mountain on Martinique at 4, 582 feet. The eruption of Pelée in 1902 wiped out the capital city St. Pierre, making Fort de France the new capital.

Other outdoor activities on Martinique include scuba diving, sailing, kayaking, water skiing, horseback riding, golf, tennis and more.

What to know before you go!

Current Condition
	24°C / 75°F

Weather Forecast
	Max: 28°C / 82°F Min: 28°C / 82°F

Documentation:
Canadian citizens require a valid passport to enter Martinique.

Language:
French, English

Currency:
the Euro

Some information courtesy of the Consular Affairs Bureau of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

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