So, you’ve reached level B1 in your online French language learning course and now you’re ready to test your skills in a Francophone country. Many Americans rush to Paris, but rarely consider travels to a Francophone Caribbean island. What’s interesting is that Martinique is to Europeans what Jamaica is to Americans.

One of the marvels of learning a new language is being able to put it to practice in an applicable country. Through this compact travel guide, you’ll learn a bit about Martinique and plan your first trip to this country of “très magnifique” experiences.

Exchange Rate

As a French territory, Martinique runs on the euro. The current exchange rate for the dollar to the euro is approximately $1.08 to

1 €.

Means of Transport

No Uber or Lyft
Guided tours: These usually range from $44-$118 per person with various activities and durations.
Car Rental (My personal experience): Renting a car is the best way to get around independently, I rented from Pop’s Car and my deposit to rent was 1000 €. My conversational French confirmed with the reception desk that this was standard for their company. I wasn’t expecting this upon renting, however, when I researched French car rentals, I found that some companies require a bigger deposit than most Americans would expect. Don’t fret, if I hadn’t been in a rush I would have booked with Europcar and secured a more affordable deposit at
300 €.
Taxis or Private Buses: Coming from the airport, a taxi is the only means to get to your hotel unless you’re renting a car. The fares run from 30 € to 72 € per person. Once settled, there is a water taxi ($7 roundtrip) that can transport you to and from different sections of the island. Stops are in Fort de France, Point du Bout and Trois-Ilets.

where to visit

Fort de France downtown: Tons of little shops, eateries, and Nightclubs, close to the Airport
Case Pilote: Quiet neighborhood right on the beach, awesome bar/restaurant called Le Shell’s that features great craft cocktails, water taxi within walking distance
Trois-Ilets: Directly across from Fort de France, plenty of upscale hotels, local shops, and beaches
South Martinique: Historical French exhibits
Le Diamant: Best beach area

popular bites

Boudin Creole - A fried ball of pork, pigs’ blood, onion, and other ingredients

Le Shell’s Restaurant. Case Pilot, Martinique

Camembert Frit - Fried French Camembert cheese accompanied by a strawberry/raspberry jam or sugary maple syrup and a side salad. Delish!
Le Féroce d’Avocat - Translates to fierce avocado because of the spiciness. It’s a mix of salt cod, lime juice, red pepper flakes and avocado. It’s usually found in the appetizer section of most menus.

trade wine for rum

Visit one of the many distilleries on the island. The rum on this island is as exquisite as the wine you’d find in Paris. Indulge. For starters, try the popular flavors of the flavored rum such as pineapple, vanilla, and mango.

be prepared

If you’re from a major city or used to putting in many hours for your job, the slower pace of island life offers a healthy contrast. While many Americans or Europeans may be used to 24-hour convenience stores, employees in Martinique do not work late hours, and some places may close as early as 7 pm. If you’re not staying in a resort or well-stocked hotel, please make sure you have all your essentials such as chargers, meds, etc. before evening hours.

further your learning

After you’ve booked your flight and hotel, reach your goals even faster with FluentU’s French language learning course by clicking here. Get your 14-day free trial and gain even more vocabulary to use on your trip. Bon voyage!

Martinique: Expand your French language learning