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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.”