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Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is made up of two wing-shaped islands, called Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, separated by a mangrove channel. They are very different geographically. Grande-Terre has low hills and plains, where they grow sugar-cane. Basse-Terre has more rugged mountains, with rain forests of tall trees and ferns. The seeming misnomer is because the trade winds blow "big" over the flatter Grande-Terre, but are halted and flattened by the mountains on the other island. The larger marinas are on the southern shore of Grande-Terre. There are interesting offshore islands, such as Terre-de-Haut, Terre-de-Bas, Marie-Galante and La Desirade, where there is little tourism.

Look out for a nice mix of architecture from French colonial to Hindu temples and traditional Creole dress.

Currency is Euro. Only larger restaurants accept credit cards. Don't change money at hotels. ATMs give good rates as do bureaux du change.

Emergency Numbers
Medical: 891010 Pointe-a-Pitre, 805454 Basse-Terre
Fire 18
Police 17

Climate
Not much different from above islands, but the Basse-Terre side is noticeably cooler and wetter.

Snorkelling
Best spot is Pigeon Island, but quite good at Ilet du Gosier on Grande-Terre.

Food
Crayfish, octopus, conch and red snapper are popular. Island specialities include Cod Fritters, Stuffed Crab, Curried goat, breadfruit gratin and blaff - seafood poached in a spicy broth. Also try the island's fruit-flavoured rums, usually in large glass jars behind the counter. Good French wines can be found in restaurants and and at local supermarkets.

Shopping
Look out for wood carvings and local coffee and spices. Bois Bande is a local tree bark with aphrodisiac properties, usually sold at the market.

Shop hours usually 9-1 and 3-6. Bank hours 8-12 and 2-4. Links
Lonely Planet Guide