Thread: Guadeloupe

Guadeloupe is a lively center of Creole culture, boasting a spirited blend of French and African influences. As well known for its sugar and rum as for its dive sites and resorts, the archipelago offers an interesting mix of modern cities, rural hamlets, rainforests and secluded beaches.


One of the most urbanized of the region's islands, you'll need to scratch beneath the French polish to get a grip on Guadeloupe's Creole core. Away from the tourist hub, the buzz of insects in the banana groves and the whiff of coconut rum will put you firmly back on Caribbean time.



When To Go

Guadeloupe is pleasant to visit at any time of the year, with a warm climate year-round. During winter (December to February), evenings are gorgeously mild and temperatures linger between 19-28°C (67-83°F). The driest months are between February and April, with rain falling an average of seven days a month and the humidity staying in the realm of the tolerable. This temperate period is also the peak tourist season. The wettest months are July to November, which is also hurricane season, so keep an eye on weather reports.


Most cultural events take place in the spring and summer. The Fête des Cuisinières (Festival of Women Cooks) is a colorful event held in early August where women in Creole dress parade through the streets to the cathedral, where they are blessed by the bishop.

Map of Guadeloupe

As beautiful as I found this island (reminded me of Hawaii), I never observed a more bunch of arrogant and rude people. The open meat market was a turn off as well.

Is it French?

Very.