/Guadeloupe

This butterfly-shaped island - actually two isles - is one of few Caribbean places where tourism is not king. Sugar is.

Since Guadeloupe is essentially an oversees department of France, expect fine cuisine, tasteful surroundings and a clothing-optional beach or three.The central market in bustling Pointe-a-Pitre is a beehive of people bargaining and buying piles of papayas, tomatoes, breadfruit and assorted other goodies.

For a commanding view of this French Riviera-styled city, visit the 18th century Fort Fleur d'Epee. Then take the Riviera Road at least as far as the Guadeloupe Aquarium, there to view a fine collection of colourful tropicals. Guadeloupe also comprises the island beauties: Marie Galante, Isle Desirade and Des Saintes. Joined with St Martin and St Barts, they form an overseas French Region. The official language is French, the currency French francs. Many speak English as well as a French-based Creole.

Scuba divers adore Pigeon Island and Cousteau Underwater Park, one of the world's 10 best dive destinations, according to the late marine-explorer Jacques Cousteau.

Guadeloupe has more than 100 restaurants, this being a part of Overseas France. Every summer, women chefs stage a lively Fete des Cuisinieres, or Festival of Women Cooks. As for entertainment, there are casinos, discos, piano bars, night clubs, French-styled cafes and night clubs. For French-Caribbean Gallic charm, class and culture, it is hard to surpass Guadeloupe.

For further information:
Guadeloupe Tourist Office
161 Washington Valley Road
Suite 205
Warren, NJ
07059

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