Shopping
Overview
The most coveted souvenirs include spirits, jewellery, shell necklaces, Lalique crystal and wall hangings, as well as straw and raffia goods and bamboo hats. A special souvenir are the poupées martiniquaises (black dolls in traditional Creole clothing made of madras fabric). The local rum is among the best in the world. The spice vanilla (Bourbon vanilla) produced in Martinique is also popular. French imported goods such as perfume, fashion, wine or liqueur are particularly inexpensive. Some shops give a 20% discount when paying by credit card or traveller’s cheque, although not all shops accept the latter. A stroll through the Rue Victor Hugo, the main shopping street in Fort-de-France, is worthwhile. in which there are numerous boutiques, fruit and flower shops. There are also some shopping centers in Fort-de-France, but a visit to them is hardly worthwhile. The island’s largest shopping center is the Galleria in Lamentin, near the airport; here you will also find European brand shops. The greatest shopping experience, however, is offered by the numerous street stalls that can be found everywhere. Weekly markets take place regularly in all larger towns. You should definitely visit the Gran Marché in Fort-de-France, where traders in colorful traditional Madras costumes offer tasty vegetables, tropical fruits and exotic flowers as well as numerous spices and aromatic resins. Other well-known markets are the market in Saint-Joseph and the market in Trois-Ilets and Pointe du Bout.
- Top-engineering-schools: Provides detailed population data for major cities of Martinique. Also covers geography information including rivers, mountains, lakes, and national borders.
Opening hours
Mon-Fri 09.00-13.00 and 15.00-18.00, Sat 09.00-13.00.
Nightlife
Introduction
Martinique has a diverse nightlife to offer. There are numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs and discos in all major cities. Especially in the towns of Les Trois Ilets, Le Marin, Ste Anne, Le Vauclin and Le Francois, which are all located in the south of the island, you can turn night into day. Regional dance and music events, such as performances by limbo dancers or steel bands, take place regularly in many hotels. Those who prefer to spend the evening a little quieter can enjoy the sunset with a cocktail in one of the many beach bars. Fort-de-France has the most varied nightlife to offer. There are also some theaters here. The town hall of Fort-de-France now houses the cultural center SERMAC (Service Municipal d’Action Culturelle), which regularly hosts concerts and theatrical performances. There is also a theater in Schoelcher. The Martinikaner are very proud of their music. The sounds of zouk are everywhere, a lively music in four-four time similar to merengue that is unique to the French West Indies. The Ballet Martiniquais is the largest ballet company in the Caribbean and one of the most famous ballet companies in the world. Another well-known dance group is Les Balisiers. Performances by both ensembles take place regularly at various locations on the island. The local newspaper Choubouloute contains information about evening events and is available in all newsagents.
Culinary
Overview
The island’s cuisine is characterized by French and Caribbean influences. Creole cuisine is widespread, it is an original combination of French, Indian and African traditions, enriched with exotic spices. Fish, especially red snapper, and seafood such as lobster, crab, mussels and sea urchins are prepared and served in a variety of ways. Tropical fruits are usually served for dessert.
Regional specialities
Soudins (mussels with pepper and lime juice). Blaff (fish stew with lots of different herbs). Stuffed Cancer. Sea Snail Soup. Roast wild goat or pigeon. Colombo (chicken, goat, pork or lamb in a thick, spicy curry sauce). Paté en pot (vegetable soup with bacon and lamb seasoned with bay leaves and cloves). Les accras (fish, lobster and crab dumplings fried in oil, seasoned with garlic, thyme, allspice and chives). Les crabes farcis (land crabs with coconut milk and mashed avocado seasoned with garlic and allspice). Poulet Creole (grilled chicken with a spicy sauce). Blanc-Manger (dessert made from coconut and vanilla milk,
Useful information
Lambi (conch shells) are often offered in the restaurants. Since the species is threatened with extinction, it is better to avoid this dish.
Tip
A 10% tip is customary.
Regional drinks
The range of French wines, sparkling wine and spirits as well as local rum is very large. Rum punch (‘ti punch) is a Caribbean specialty made from rum, lime juice, bitters and syrup. Every bartender has their own recipe for Planteur (Planter’s Punch), a long drink made from rum and fruit juices. Shrub is a Christmas liqueur made from rum and orange peel. Delicious juices are freshly prepared from local fruits such as guava, soursop, passion fruit, tangerines and sugar cane.
Minimum age for consumption of alcoholic beverages
In Martinique, you can drink alcohol from the age of 18.
Accommodation
Hotels
Martinique has a good range of hotels. A 10% service charge and other taxes will be added to the bills. The Relais de la Martinique, an association of small hotels and guesthouses, offers special booking and excursion options. Categories: There are hotels in the luxury, middle and lower price ranges. For further information contact: Centrale de Reservation Martinique, BP 823, 97200 Fort-de-France. Tel: 61 61 77. (Web: www.touristmartinique.com). Information can also be obtained from Maison de la France (see addresses).
Culture
Religion
85% Catholic, 11% Protestant, 1% Muslim, 1% Hindu.
Social Rules of Conduct
Social etiquette: The atmosphere is relaxed and informal. The usual courtesy formulas should be observed. They shake hands to greet each other. Polite phrases are common and important in conversation. Bonjour and Merci should be said frequently, preferably accompanied by a friendly smile. Clothing: Neat casual clothing is accepted everywhere. Light cotton clothing is recommended. Swimwear belongs on the beach. Some hotel beaches have separate zones for topless sunbathing. Evening wear is expected in better restaurants and nightclubs. Photographing: People should be asked before photographing them. Photography is often allowed in churches and museums, but you should ask beforehand. Smoking: Smoking is generally allowed everywhere. Some hotels divide into smoking and non-smoking rooms. Non-smoking zones should be observed. Crime: Like everywhere else in the world, pickpockets abound in Martinique. Valuable jewelry and large amounts of cash should therefore not be boasted about, valuables should not be left unattended on the beach and rental cars should be locked. Security: The Pelée is still active; Anyone planning a trip near the volcano should find out about the activity in advance. The American lance viper is better avoided; Bites from this snake are curable with prompt treatment.
Climate
Best travel time
Warm weather all year round. The main rainy season is from June to October, but short showers can occur at any time. Hurricanes are rare.
Country data
Phone prefix
+596
Area (sq km)
1100
Population
375,265
Population density (per square km)
344
Population statistics year
2020
Main emergency number
15
