Tucked away in the vibrant heart of the Caribbean is the hidden gem of Guadeloupe (Gwa-dah-loop), a group of islands that serves as a crossroads of history, culture, and natural wonder. Travelers can explore its rich past, diverse landscapes, and captivating attractions.
We recently stopped in Pointe-à-Pitre on our Virgin Cruise. First let me go over the islands then I'll give you my perspective anyone traveling to these beautiful islands.
A Storied Past
Guadeloupe's history is as colorful and varied as its landscapes. Christopher Columbus discovered the already inhabited islands in 1493, naming it after the Spanish monastery of Santa María de Guadalupe. Over centuries, it became a pawn in the colonial games between France and Britain, with the French ultimately prevailing. France imparted their language, culture, and legal systems to the islands. While they kept the name, they changed it the French pronunciation. Guadeloupe's sugar plantations thrived on the back of African slave labor, a dark chapter of it's history that was abolished in 1848. However this led to a rich Creole heritage, which is visible today in the island's music, cuisine, and art.
Diverse Topography
The islands of Guadeloupe offer an extraordinary diversity of landscapes that makes it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The eastern islands, Grande-Terre and Petite-Terre, boast white sandy beaches and turquoise waters that contrast with the mangroves and dry forests. Meanwhile, Basse-Terre to the west presents lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls, and the towering La Soufrière volcano, a must-visit for hikers looking for breathtaking views.
On both Grand-Terre and Basse-Terre, a lot of the infrastructure is clustered near the coastal roads that surround the islands.
The surrounding smaller islands like Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and La Désirade each offer unique terrain, from serene coves to rugged cliffs, creating a rich tapestry of environments for exploration.
Unforgettable Attractions and Activities
For those seeking cultural immersion, the vibrant markets of Pointe-à-Pitre offer a taste of local life, goods, and flavors. Meanwhile, the island's culinary scene, with its blend of French and Creole influences, promises a delight for foodies. Guadeloupe's festival calendar, filled with music, dance, and traditional celebrations, offers a lively glimpse into its rich cultural tapestry. Guadeloupe truly is a hidden gem.
Guadeloupe is a treasure trove of activities and sights that cater to every taste. History buffs can delve into the past at Fort Delgrès or the Memorial ACTe museum, dedicated to the memory of the slave trade. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the beauty of the Carbet Falls or the Jacques Cousteau Underwater Reserve, perfect for snorkeling and diving amidst vibrant marine life.
Our Perspective
Cruise ships have been coming here for years, however it's a less trodden port that others in the Caribbean. There is an well established port in Pointe-à-Pitre with small local shops and a duty free store. This is a good option if you don't want to venture too far on your own.
If you do not have an established excursion, there is a tour/taxi stand that offers 4 - 6 hour tours of . I will note that the gentleman who was running the stand was extremely rude. We were trying to negotiate a shorter tour, and he just walked away from us because we "would not listen to him".
We did find a group of "tourist information ambassadors" in red shirts, where a very nice lady gave us tons of information. It was about 30 min to 90 mins to drive to see beaches or waterfalls by hiring a taxi or renting a car from the port. Ultimately, we just decided to walk to the spice market.
The walk into town was well marked. It takes only about 5 to 10 mins to get to the spice market. The covered market is the center of a square, and is full of booths selling various spices, vanilla, and souvenirs. The market itself surrounded by shops selling hats, shirts, bags and other souvenirs. You an also find some food, non-alcoholic drinks and beer. We didn't really see anyone selling spirits. There is very little seating, so finding a place to sit and enjoy a beverage was difficult with two ships in dock. We ended up sitting on a stoop. Since the island is French you can pay in Euros, but we were able to pay in dollars by rounding up. Everything we saw had very reasonable prices.
Conclusion
From its storied past to its diverse topography, and a wealth of attractions, Guadeloupe stands out as a gem in the Caribbean, promising unforgettable experiences for those willing to explore its depths. Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or culture seeker, this enchanting archipelago calls out for exploration, inviting travelers to live, love, and perhaps find a new favorite drink along the way. Live Love Drink Travel can help you let the hidden gem of Guadeloupe's magic unfold before you. Feel free to check out our other articles regarding Caribbean destinations.