Martinique is one of the showcases of the French Caribbean. The capital, Fort de France, fully lives up to that description celebrating every aspect of the island’s all-encompassing French culture with style and panache. Shops sell the latest goods from France, art galleries, theatres and museums encompass French culture and old men play boules in the squares whilst crowds sit at the pavement cafés watching the Citroens and Renaults drive by!

If it weren’t for the tropical climate, it could almost be Paris, and while the capital and other towns provide the comforts, elegance and sophistication of France, other parts of this popular tourist destination offer visitors the classic Caribbean package. There are flawless beaches – white sand on the south coast, black in the north, secluded coves for swimming and snorkelling, reefs, unspoiled fishing villages, hot springs, lush rainforests, rugged peaks and exotic flowers and fruit everywhere.