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Martinique Travel Guide
Martinique is a mountainous and lushly forested island in the eastern Caribbean Sea. To the northeastern side of the island lies Dominica and to the south is Sta. Lucia. Although most of its inhabitants speak Antillean Creole, the official language is French. This stems from the fact that Martinique is one of 26 department of France. For years it has been the site of many Hollywood films, probably stemming from the beautiful contrasting colors of its beaches. In the north side area of the island is Mount Pelee, a volcano that spews ashes producing grey and black sandy beaches, while in Les Salinas in the south, pristine white beaches abound.
Often referred to as the Paris of the Lesser Antilles, Martinique is unique for its blend of French and Caribbean culture. The combination of modern sophistication and old world charm has attracted tourists for years. Shopping range from Gucci apparels sold in high-end shops to cheap Martinican Limoges porcelains found in the back-alleys of colonial houses and quaint hostels. Despite its image of exclusivity the diversity allows the more budget-conscious traveler to visit the country, thus, Martinicians enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean region.
The diverse mix of English, French, Portuguese and Spanish influence have also contributed to its culinary reputation as one of the world's best. Tropical foods are a staple, allowing travelers to indulge in traditional French fare combined with compelling Creole dishes, and creations that fuse the two together.
The tropical climate that is in season all year long allows for lush vegetations and an abundance of natural resource, which help some of the most beautiful flowers in the world to bloom in this island. The highly prized ones can be viewed at the Garden of Balata and the Macintosh Plantation. A great diversion can be found in the island seaside that has mangrove swamps, cascades and tropical climate. Even Christopher Columbus was awed by the majestic spell that the island exudes and to this he once wrote, “It is the best, most fertile, the softest most charming place in the world.”
User blogs:
Ta Marija Restaurant
In «Ta 'Marija», located in the center of the village Mosta you’ll be amazed by the welcoming atmosphere created thanks to the traditional setting of talented entertainers and warm ones. Every Wednesday and Friday after the Auto Reviews and Auto Shows that are shown in the TV, customers are invited to sing accompanied by mandolin and guitar, traditional and popular songs ... Read full Blog post
Ati-atihan in Kalibo Aklan
Ati-atihand origins ccan be traced to 1210 when refugees from Borneo would smear their faces with soot in affectionalte immitation of the Filipino natives The island of Panay in the Visayas is where this particular detail of Philipine history took place sometime ih the late 12th or early 13th century. For centuries hence, it has been commemoratged in one specific place - in Kalibo, the capital ... Read full Blog post
An Aerial fiesta in Clark Pampanga
Its a party in the sky as multi colored hot air balloons piloted ny different pilots from various partso of the world participated in this annual gathering. As early as 5am, the 2,500 hectare aviation complex at Clar Economic Zone in Pampanga was already crammedi with excitement. Clusters of hot air balloon participants busily prepare their own balloons for liftoff as they need to take advantage of ... Read full Blog post
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