The Knockturnal spent spring break in Martinique – the French Caribbean island in the Lesser Antilles.
We were there attending the Ti Punch Cup (an epic battle between mixologists from all over to create a newer version of the classic Martinican drink Ti Punch). But during our stay, we sort of fell in love with this incredible island. From 5 star dinners at Le Zandoli to sipping rose at Ilet Oscar – a private island near Josephine’s Bathtub to staying in manors that may or may not be haunted.. but probably are, Martinique is the go to spot for getting your French on while mixing in some adventure and saving your wallet from St. Barth’s prices. Here’s why:
#1 French influence – The first day in Martinique can be confusing. Are you in France? Yes. Are you in the Caribbean? Also yes. But the beautiful blend of Creole culture and French sophistication make Martinique a place where you can experience both a fantastic bottle of Bordeaux and perfectly stewed lentils in the town’s spice market.
Bonus: the mega Parisian department store Galleries Lafayette makes its mark on the island with a mini Galleries Lafayette in Fort De France, Martinique’s capital.
#2 Décollage – Ti Punch is a big part of Martinican culture and heritage. Made from 3 ingredients (Rhum agricole, Sugar Cane juice, and a piece of lime), Ti Punch is just about as strong as it sounds. And if you’re like most Americans, you like a mimosa or two with your Saturday eggs. Luckily you can décollage your way through Martinique. Décollage (takeoff in French) is code for enjoying Ti Punch pre Noon.
#3 Chef Hot Pants – He’s Times Squares’ Naked Cowboy of Martinique – a myth of a man you have to meet in order to fully appreciate. He also happens to be the chef of Le Petitbonum – an adorable and “sceney” French restaurant/bar located on the volcanic sandy beaches on the island’s North East end.
His real name is Guy Ferdinand but who cares when he’s donning short shorts and whipping up some epic Christophine Au Gratin.
#4 Shhh – it’s a secret.
Norwegian Air offers affordable non stop service out of NYC, Boston, and BWI but the route is new! It’s the perfect time to visit Martinique because most tourists are not American and French fanny packs are better than American fanny packs.
Non stop service out of NYC, Boston and BWI began in December of 2015 and will continue to operate during Martinique’s busy season of October – April.
Martinicans are a proud bunch and with good reason. Their women are tall and beautiful, they live fearlessly on an island with an active volcano, and their Banana plantations give Dole a run for its money. Still they’re welcoming and warm and love showing off their culture. There’s even an AirBnB for people! Want to cook a traditional Creole dinner? Visit the island’s botanical garden with a local because flower names sound better in French? Head to https://www.beyondthebeach.fr/, enter in your dates and activity and the site will match you with a local.
Martinique born Empress Josephine rose to power after she left the island for France and became Napolean’s first wife. At first locals I’m sure were proud, until the Empress and her new husband became largely responsible for the decision to reinstate slavery in Martinique.
There is a love/hate relationship between locals and the Empress that exists today. One that resulted in the statue’s beheading and red paint stains, but that has left the crime unsolved and the head yet to be replaced. You have to respect that. The statue’s eeriness can be felt within a few feet and is definitely a not to miss.
Visiting Le Tombolo is an essential stop on any Martinique visit. Caused by the combined effect of ocean currents and tides, several tombolos exist through out the world, but the Sainte – Marie tombolo off the island’s Atlantic coast is considered to be one of the most amazing.
It takes around 15 minutes to walk across the sea on this sand bar but once you get there you can hike up the island’s cliff and catch breathtaking views of the mainland.
There’s also a man offering “affordable body massages” but if you play your cards right, you can get him down to free.