As the French metropolis plunges into the long winter months and the holidays have just ended, many people are thinking that a short stay in the sun would be just the thing to recharge their batteries, while waiting for the sun to return. In just 8 hours by plane from Paris, we have the opportunity to abandon sweaters, socks and hats and put on the bathing suit again for pleasant moments of idleness on paradisiacal beaches. From France, there is a tendency to think that the West Indies are made up of islands that look alike, which does not appeal at all to locals who are very keen on their specificities. So Martinique or Guadeloupe, here are some details that will help you choose. And if you want a serious helping hand before you make your decision, platforms like Where and When to Go help you find the ideal destination, according to your desires.
The climate: a draw between Martinique and Guadeloupe
With a humid subtropical climate, both islands are sunny all year round, with very pleasant temperatures. The maximums vary on average from 28 to 31 degrees, so there is nothing to worry about, no matter what month you leave, the heat will be on the way and the swimming will give way to outdoor sports activities and long walks in an amazing natural setting. However, some periods are recommended in order to enjoy mild weather and an atmosphere away from the crowds. Whether in Martinique or Guadeloupe, focus on the period from December to the end of March, for a real break with the climate of the metropolis. May is a rather calm month and where you can take advantage of the many public holidays to take holidays. On the other hand, July and August should be avoided, when many West Indies living in mainland France visit their families, as well as the period from September to the end of November, due to cyclones.
Where to go to enjoy the most beautiful beaches?
It is obvious that when we think of Martinique and Guadeloupe, we think of coconut palms, large white and fine sandy beaches and warm, turquoise waters. But do the beaches of the two islands look similar? Where to spend the most beautiful hours of idleness on the towel or in the water? In all honesty, it is very difficult to separate the two islands as they are so full of wonders in terms of beaches. Martinique has several types of beaches: fine sand, black sand, pebble beaches, bordered by coconut palms or more or less clear waters. There are so many places that it is possible to change places every day if you want. And the least we can say is that they make families happy. Grande Anse des Salines, Anse Dufour, Anse Couleuvre, Anse Noire are all names that evoke little corners of paradise. But note that Guadeloupe has nothing to be ashamed of, with beautiful beaches that sometimes have to be found on neighbouring islands such as Désirade or Marie-Galante. And Guadeloupe is a diver's paradise, and it is not for nothing that it is nicknamed Karukéra, which means the island of beautiful waters. La Grande Anse in Deshaies, la Grande Anse in Trois-Rivières and l'Anse du Figuier in Terre de Haut are among the most beautiful spots to swim
Which island to enjoy a multitude of activities?
Regardless of the destination, it will be necessary to get off the beaten track to carry out outdoor or open sea activities. In Martinique, many sporting activities allow amateurs to unwind. You can take the board to surf the waves of Grande-Rivière, dive or join a nautical base to explore the surrounding islands such as Saint Lucia. Those who like walking can also participate in some very beautiful hikes. We think of the northern part of Martinique and emblematic places such as the Caravelle peninsula, the Trace des Jésuites or the ascent of Mount Pelee. Those who choose to go to Guadeloupe can rest assured that they will also have the opportunity to walk in beautiful natural surroundings, in the Grand Cul-de-Sac-Marin reserve or in the Guadeloupe National Park in Basse-Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is here that nature is most exuberant and lush. It is still difficult to separate the two islands, but Guadeloupe is given an extra point for its nightlife and outings. Even if it is not Ibiza, it is easier to go to discos and bars in the evenings, on the outskirts of Pointe-à-Pitre and at the Gosier marina in particular. In Martinique, the dancers must be satisfied with the places in Fort-de-France, which are still 30 minutes from the main tourist areas, quieter when night falls
So who is the winner?
The match was close and both islands can count on their natural and unique charm to attract crowds. All in all, the ideal solution would be to split the pear in two and make a combined stay: a week on each island, with a quick transfer by plane or fast sea shuttle to enjoy the landscape.
