Vacationing in Martinique: Experience a True Caribbean Paradise

The Caribbean brings many visions to the mind's eye. Pirate exploits, beautiful oceanside retreats, and wonderful, dazzling beaches are just a few of the visuals most people imagine. It would take weeks to fully appreciate everything the Caribbean has to offer, but one country stands out for its attractions, its beauty, and its history: Martinique.

Martinique was originally claimed by France in the 17th century; the town of Saint-Pierre, later destroyed by Mother Nature's fury, was an important French colony in the Caribbean. As with most Caribbean nations, there is a great deal of pirate lore surrounding the island of Martinique. It was near Martinique that the infamous Blackbeard took the ship that would forever after be known as Queen Anne's Revenge; before capture, the vessel was known as La Concorde. Bartholomew Roberts, also known as "Black Bart," had dealings in Martinique as well.

Contrasting climates are represented in this island paradise: Humid rainforests, sunny beaches, and tropical mountains sprawl out luxuriously across Martinique. Monuments and memorials both manmade and natural are there for the traveler's pleasure. Although the ruins of old mansions and churches may invoke sadness in the history lover, they also give the island its distinct feel.

Here are some suggestions if you're planning to visit Martinique (just make sure to take enough time to see everything on your itinerary, and choose which attractions are most important to see; it would take weeks to see everything the island has to offer):

Saint-Pierre. This French colony is only a shell of its former self. In the very early 20th century, a volcano known as Pelee, spewed, obliterating most of the charming town. Luckily for visitors, part of Saint-Pierre was rebuilt and the town now boasts pleasant walkways and places to grab a bite to eat. You can see the little that is left of Saint-Pierre's 17th centuryu church, or take a tour on the Cyparis Express. For those who aren't familiar with French, however, the tour guide will not make a whole lot of sense!