Original post
Je voudrais savoir comment sont les gens de la Martinique?Sont-ils sympa? J'ai toujours voulu aller visiter cette ile.
Comment sont les gens de la Martinique?
by Cbotron
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Bonjour,
La Martinique est magnifique. La Guadeloupe l'est encore plus à mon avis. Si tu as le temps, je te conseille de combiner les deux. Tu pourras même y ajouter Les Saintes qui sont de toutes petites îles dépendantes de la Guadeloupe. Celles-ci sont tout à fait charmantes.
Les gens sont très sympathiques et souriants, à moins qu'ils aient changé depuis 20 ans.
Un facteur qui jouait en ma faveur était le fait qu'ils aimaient bien accueillir les Québécois.
Amicalement,
Robert Saucier
Bonjour,
Bien moi je crois que je peux repondre a ta question!! J'ai ete a la MARTINIQUE 5 fois, la derniere fois remonte en 1999 et l'ile a beaucoup change, plus de TOUT COMPRIS dans les Hotels parce qu'il ne faut pas oublier que c'est tres tres dispendieux, les magasins a FORT de France etait avant dirige par les Martiniquais mais maintement les francais de la Metropole (FRANCE) les dirigent. Ce n'est pas pour rien que cette ile s'appelle (L'ILE AUX FLEURS) C'EST BEAU, mais il faut aime la nature, les gens en general sont super aimable avec les QUEBECOIS . Alors pour ma part la MARTINIQUE est l'ile que j'ai le mieux aimee dans mes 21 voyages a mon credit
J'espere vous avoir eclaire sur le sujet et n'hesitez pas a y aller. Ma Douce
Bien moi je crois que je peux repondre a ta question!! J'ai ete a la MARTINIQUE 5 fois, la derniere fois remonte en 1999 et l'ile a beaucoup change, plus de TOUT COMPRIS dans les Hotels parce qu'il ne faut pas oublier que c'est tres tres dispendieux, les magasins a FORT de France etait avant dirige par les Martiniquais mais maintement les francais de la Metropole (FRANCE) les dirigent. Ce n'est pas pour rien que cette ile s'appelle (L'ILE AUX FLEURS) C'EST BEAU, mais il faut aime la nature, les gens en general sont super aimable avec les QUEBECOIS . Alors pour ma part la MARTINIQUE est l'ile que j'ai le mieux aimee dans mes 21 voyages a mon credit
J'espere vous avoir eclaire sur le sujet et n'hesitez pas a y aller. Ma Douce
Bonjour Napoléon,
Ce que je disais plus tôt et ce que Pleindevie confirme, les gens sont très sympathiques avec les Québécois.
Sans vouloir te choquer, en tant que Parisien, tu fais partie de la métropole, donc des colonisateurs. Ce qui n'est pas très bien perçu par rapport aux touristes étrangers comme j'en suis un.
Amicalement,
Robert Saucier
😄Bonjour,
Dans un mois je m'envole pour la Martinique pour la 6° fois : c'est dire si je trouve cette île super.A chaque séjour, j'ai séjourné dans le nord de l'île sur st pierre ou ses environs et là je peux te dire que l'accueil y est on ne peut plus chaleureux .Les gens sont super gentils et accueillants et je me suis fait des amis avec lesquels je correspond régulièrement et que j'ai plaisir à retrouver...
Bon voyage
mdchantal
Bonjour à tous,
Je ne veux pas pas polémiquer, mais je suis allé deux fois en Guadeloupe, et je n' ai à aucun instant, senti de l' animosité ou un quelconque rejet, de la part des guadeloupéens envers les "métro" que nous étions; dans les commerces, restos ou marchés, ou sur les plages ou lieux de fête, nous n' avons eu que des rapports normaux, exactement comme en métropole, avec des gens qui étaient très sympas et toujours souriants, et je ne pense pas qu' il en soit différemment en Martinique, même si je ne la connais pas encore, (mais ça ne saurait tarder)je ne suis pas d' accord avec ceux qui pensent qu' ils n' aiment pas les français, car ils sont français! ce ne sont pas eux qui ont été colonisés, ce sont les amérindiens qui l' ont été, par les europééns, ceux qui vivent dans les iles aujourd'hui, sont aussi français que moi, la différence, c' est que leurs ancêtres ont été exploités en tant qu' esclaves, et que ceux d' aujourd' hui, le sont au même titre que n' importe quel autre français de métropole. Je ne pense pas que les martinicais ou les guadeloupéens, tiennent les touristes métros, pour résponsables de la colonisation, et leur fassent des misères pour se venger.En tout cas, je n' ai pas eu ce sentiment quand j' étais là-bas.
De toute façons, j' irai en Martinique avec le même plaisir que j' ai éprouvé en Guadeloupe, et je conseille à tous ceux qui le peuvent, de s'y rendre et se faire plaisir, on ne vit qu' une fois, profitons-en.
Bravo à tous et à +.
Tcholïn
L'accueil reçu dépend toujours de votre attitude envers eux au départ. Pour ma part, je suis allée plusieurs fois en Guadeloupe et j'ai toujours eu un accueil plus que chaleureux. C'est vrai comme le mentionne Robert, que nous québécois sommes accueillis tout sourire là-bas dès qu'ils nous entendent parler avec notre accent de "Robert Charlebois" comme ils disent, ils sont débordant de gentillesse. J'essaie la Martinique cette année, on verra bien 😉
Abeille
Abeille
L'ouverture d'esprit n'est pas une fracture du crâne.......
Je voulais répondre en tant que "colonisateur" des antilles. Il est vrai que les occidentaux ont mal agi en arrivant dans ces îles en ne respectant pas les pop locales. Mais il ne faut pas trop houspiller la France. En effet, les anglais quand ils en ont eu marre d'entendre Ste Lucie, la Dominique et Montserrat demander l'indépendance, ils leur ont donner en partant avec tout. Quand je dis tout je parle du bitume des routes, du tarmac de l'aéroport, des lampadaires, .... Et aujourd'hui résultat, ce sont les pays les plus pauvres du monde.
Et si la France faisait pareil avec ses îles on dira qu'elle est cruelle. Lorsque le volcan de Montserrat s'est réveillé, les anglais n'ont apporté aucune (ni matérielle, ni financière) aide à leur ancienne population. Néanmoins la France a bien voulu les accueillir en Guadeloupe pour quelques uns.
Il faut tout de même relativiser l'époque colonisatrice des occidentaux où certains ont eu des comportements plus à blâmer que d'autres.
Il faut dire que l'Etat Français a eu un comportement assez exemplaire face à la catastrophe aérienne qui a coûté la vie à plusieurs martiniquais. Sincèrement je ne crois pas que les anglais, ni même les américains réagiraient pareil dans un pays où on parle leur langue!
Et si la France faisait pareil avec ses îles on dira qu'elle est cruelle. Lorsque le volcan de Montserrat s'est réveillé, les anglais n'ont apporté aucune (ni matérielle, ni financière) aide à leur ancienne population. Néanmoins la France a bien voulu les accueillir en Guadeloupe pour quelques uns.
Il faut tout de même relativiser l'époque colonisatrice des occidentaux où certains ont eu des comportements plus à blâmer que d'autres.
Il faut dire que l'Etat Français a eu un comportement assez exemplaire face à la catastrophe aérienne qui a coûté la vie à plusieurs martiniquais. Sincèrement je ne crois pas que les anglais, ni même les américains réagiraient pareil dans un pays où on parle leur langue!
Bonjour,
Lisez bien l'enfilade et vous réaliserez que je fus le premier à répondre à Cbotron. Ma réponse fut aussi très positive concernant les Martiniquais.
Ma deuxième réponse, en fut une à Napoléon qui a exprimé une opinion très négative sur le caractère des Martiniquais. Je ne crois pas avoir été négatif par rapport aux touristes français en expriment ce que certains Martiniquais m'ont dit dans les années 1980.
Tous les Québécois qui ont répondu sur le sujet, ont parlé du caractère sympatique des Martiniquais.
Puisque tu es un habitant d'une de ces îles magnifiques, tu pourrais prendre le temps de répondre aux propos de Napoléon, à moins que tu considères qu'il a raison.
Amicalement,
Robert Saucier
Oh que non qu'il n'a pas raison ce Napoléon et loin de là même!!
C'est vrai que je ne n'ai pas pris le temps de lire tous les messages donc j'ai écris sans prendre en compte tous les avis.
J'ai habité 4 ans en Martinique (91-95) et c'était génial. Les habitants, ..., c'était formidable. Aujourd'hui ça a beaucoup changé.
Aujourd'hui je fais des A/R France/Guadeloupe et je dois dire que je suis déçu de ne pas retrouver les choses comme avant. Mais bon c'est l'évolution des choses.
Toutefois, ça vaut toujours le coup d'y aller car les 2 îles sont magnifiques ainsi que les dépendances du papillon.
Salut a toi, nous etions en Martinique en octobre, un accueil parfait au si bien dans le nord que dans le sud .N oubliez surtout pas que vous votre comportement jouera un role decisif dans l accueil de toute population .
Concernant Napoleon, je pense que son pseudo en dit assez long !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A bientot
peut etre au Quebec !!!!!!
Thierry & Angelika
http://voyagedumonde.oldiblog.com
Peux-tu argumenter, et donner des détails ou des exemples STP?
Pfff... ça m'énerve cette légende sur le prétendu mauvais accueil des Antillais... 😠
Qu'ils ne soient pas accueillants avec les crèpes et les gauffres affalés sur le transat de leur 5 étoiles qui sortent une fois en 2 semaines au marché du coin, je les comprends totalement !!!! Quand on se comporte en colons et qu'on ne cherche pas à connaître le pays, on en tire les conséquences !!! et on évite de juger...
Moi je suis resté 3 semaines en martinique et 2 semaines en guadeloupe en me baladant à droite à gauche, et ben si les métros pouvaient être aussi accueillants, ça serait franchement cool !!!!
je n'ai eu aucun problème et on a été invité plein de fois chez les gens sans autre contrepartie que de bons délires au ti punch et d'intérêt pour eux !
donc, arrêtez de colporter de telles légendes qui n'ont cours que dans les "paradis" à touristes !!!
Qu'ils ne soient pas accueillants avec les crèpes et les gauffres affalés sur le transat de leur 5 étoiles qui sortent une fois en 2 semaines au marché du coin, je les comprends totalement !!!! Quand on se comporte en colons et qu'on ne cherche pas à connaître le pays, on en tire les conséquences !!! et on évite de juger...
Moi je suis resté 3 semaines en martinique et 2 semaines en guadeloupe en me baladant à droite à gauche, et ben si les métros pouvaient être aussi accueillants, ça serait franchement cool !!!!
je n'ai eu aucun problème et on a été invité plein de fois chez les gens sans autre contrepartie que de bons délires au ti punch et d'intérêt pour eux !
donc, arrêtez de colporter de telles légendes qui n'ont cours que dans les "paradis" à touristes !!!
Jalan jalan !
bonjour je reviens tout juste il y a 3 jour de la martinique j'y suis passer 3 mois j'était la bas depuis septembre je comptait bien y rester mais j'ai eu quelque désagréable surprise donc je suis revenu en métropole car je me sentait pas bien la bas le boulot est trés dur sous la chaleur j'ai travailler 1mois et demi dans le batiment les martiniquais sont désagréable(pas tous bien sur mais beaucoup quand même) je m'explique au début tout allait bien chaud, fiesta etc pendant 1mois nickel mais petit a petit j'ai compris que je n'était pas du tout le bienvenu car on me mentait "mon patron, les ouvrier etc" ensuite il ne tenait pas leur parole je devait avoir une voiture puis 1moi plus tard et ben toujour pas de nouvelle elle était au garage il changait le moteur!! j'ai laisser tomber, je devait avoir un logement a 350euros puis au dernier moment c'était 380 🤪 on a voulu profiter de moi en me demandant de l'argent c'était la personne qui me louais sont appart 400euros par mois en hlm cité!! pas déclarer bien sur elle payait 50euros et touchait le rmi j'ai halluciner puis le pir j'ai falli me faire dépouiller😕portable, papier, argent en allant faire des course heuresement que je cour vite . il ya eu quelque autre bricole aussi du genre me faire dévisager de la tête au pied avec des regard méchant. je n'ai pas aimer du tout aussi leur comportement envers les femmes parfois inaccectable, et la pollution d'une aussi jolie terre "bouteille, détritus en tout genre" pourtant je suis une personne très souriante, durant mes 25ans en métropole je me suis fait aucun enemi j'ai énormement d'ami(e) ici je suis selon leur dire une personne très agréable a vivre. peut être mon look a jouer un peut car je porte casquette et pantalon large mais alors si c'est le cas je comprend pas car certain jeune martiniquais portent casquette et pantalon large voila l'escenciel de mon retour . sinon j'ai quand même quelque point positif sur cette île j'ai rencontrer des gens fort sympatique (je ne fait pas une généralisation dans mon récit plus haut ) acceuillant et aimable, la vie est plus cool que en métropole moins de stress quoi que j'ai entendu dir que sa changait pas mal, il fait chaud, il y a la mer (même si j'aime pas trop ça), la montagne, le rhum pas cher et très bon punch coco ainsi que la bierre local. le week end est très animer dans certain coin et la fête agreable autour d'un coktail et musik créole j'ai aimer le compas les artiste locaux qui jouais dans certain restaurant que je suisaller. voila mon point de vu sur la martinique que j'aurait je pense pas du tout trouver pareil lors d'un sejour en vacances, pour aller vivre la bas il faut voir les à coté aussi du genre la vie est très couteuse. j'en garde un très bon souvenir tout de même et compte bien y retourner un jour en tant que "touriste" car mon but en partant était quand même de rester j'avait tout plaquer ici j'ai pus qu'a reprendre tout a zéro. c'étaitune très bonne éxperience. salutation nikap
salut,
dommage, tu as manqué de conseils et d'aide pour vivre correctement ici.
je suis ici depuis presque un an, et j'ai pu, grace à de judicieux conseils et les yeux biens ouverts,
ne pas me faire prendre pour ..... bref.
ici, la parole est souvent en l'air, ce n'est pas mechant, ils font pareil entre eux ! ce n'est donc pas destiné à un blanc ou un metro.
si tu sais te faire respecter, crois moi, on t'accepte et on te respecte. Je suis une femme, et crois moi, ça file droit !
Si tu le parrais, on te prends pour un faible... c'es tvalable dans pas mal d'endroits, y compris la metropole. va faire un petit tour à Marseille, A lyon, à Paris .... 😕 c'est pareil !
LA vie est couteuse.... là je ne suis pas trop ok, meme si certains produits sont plus chers ok... fais ton compte, avec les vetements que tu achetes en metropole, le chauffage, les tentations dans la consommation etc....
Je t'assure que sans faire de sorties à gogo, en aimant me ballader plonger avec un masque un tuba, mettre de bonnes chaussures et partir dans le nord, des loisirs sains et pas couteux.
J'ai ici des amis, metros, des amis antillais, toujours prets à rendre service, qui arrivent toujours les bras chargés de fleurs ou de fruits du jardin, en retour, je leur fabrique des objets nature avec des calebasses, des cocos, etc... tu vois, c'est des trucs pas chers ! des choses simples.😉
essaie de revenir en vacances, t uverras, l'ile est vraiment extra! amicalement
essaie de revenir en vacances, t uverras, l'ile est vraiment extra! amicalement
lilithouille, amoureuse de son ile...
j'ai visité la guadeloupe et la martinique en 90 et 93 et j'ai été ravie. aujourd'hui j'aimerai m'installer sur l'une ou l'autre île avec mes 3 enfants. Trouve t-on du travail rapidement branche vente ou secrétariat et l'insertion se fait-elle facilement avec les habitants. merci de ta réponse.
les magasins a FORT de France etait avant dirige par les Martiniquais mais maintement les francais de la Metropole (FRANCE) les dirigent.
Rien n'a changer, l'enseigne est differente mais les proprios sont les mêmes.- Il y a une difference entre venir en vacances et y vivre. Je suis très content de ne plus y vivre mais j'y retournerais volontiers pour vacances. Personnelement, j'y ai vecu pendant plus de 20 ans (sur 27), je suis martiniquais d'origine et ça, c'est une notion très importante ici. Je crois qu'on a une des societes les plus fermée et complexée qu'il soit et non, on n'aime pas beaucoup les étrangers, on a dejà du mal à nous aimer entre nous. C'est long a expliquer, je crois qu'il faut le vivre pour le comprendre. Ceci dit, nous ne sommes pas foncierement méchants et nous sommes tellement complexes qu'on peut obtenir aussi bien le meilleur et le pire acceuil. En général on est correct avec nos touristes. Bon voyage
Rien n'a changer, l'enseigne est differente mais les proprios sont les mêmes.- Il y a une difference entre venir en vacances et y vivre. Je suis très content de ne plus y vivre mais j'y retournerais volontiers pour vacances. Personnelement, j'y ai vecu pendant plus de 20 ans (sur 27), je suis martiniquais d'origine et ça, c'est une notion très importante ici. Je crois qu'on a une des societes les plus fermée et complexée qu'il soit et non, on n'aime pas beaucoup les étrangers, on a dejà du mal à nous aimer entre nous. C'est long a expliquer, je crois qu'il faut le vivre pour le comprendre. Ceci dit, nous ne sommes pas foncierement méchants et nous sommes tellement complexes qu'on peut obtenir aussi bien le meilleur et le pire acceuil. En général on est correct avec nos touristes. Bon voyage
Ils sont comme tous les gens qui vivent dans un pays régulièrement envahi et occupé par des touristes, ça peut donner des choses très variables.
Dans le sud où la pression touristique est forte, les contacts ne sont pas forcément faciles, et à l'inverse on pourrait dire que dans le nord les gens sont très avenants.
Mais tout ça est schématique car il n'y a pas une vérité et une seule.
Pour avoir déjà fait 5 séjours là-bas (et j'y retourne fin janvier) c'est certainement que je trouve le pays et ses habitants sympas. J'y ai de très bons contacts.
C'est donc sans réserve que j'encourage tout le monde à aller faire un tour en Martinique, en n'oubliant pas d'aller se ballader dans le nord (voire d'y séjourner).
ka ou fé, sa ka maché !
Vas-y, cé cool. Cé pas la culture québécoise, cé sur. - de rigueur, il ne fo pas etre pressé et ponctuel. Autrement, les gens sont un peu méfiant avec les blanc (normal pour une ile colonisé). Bonne musique, bonne plage, bon punch. Cé l'ile aux fleur (madinina). Bon voyage.
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First, the flights: we now live in the Luberon, so we flew out of Marseille. We took British Airways, which we’ve used several times before for trips to the English-speaking Caribbean and which offers flights via Heathrow. We had an overnight layover in London on the way out, then a flight to Nassau. After that, we took a connecting flight (we had a 2h20 layover in Nassau, which was more than enough) to George Town with Sky Bahamas. We had initially ruled out Bahamasair based on very negative reviews. Immigration and customs were very quick.
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Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
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There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
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We spent 15 days in the Exumas from March 10th to 26th.
I should mention that we’ve been traveling to islands for 20 years, so we have points of comparison when it comes to prices, hospitality, and landscapes.
First, the flights: we now live in the Luberon, so we flew out of Marseille. We took British Airways, which we’ve used several times before for trips to the English-speaking Caribbean and which offers flights via Heathrow. We had an overnight layover in London on the way out, then a flight to Nassau. After that, we took a connecting flight (we had a 2h20 layover in Nassau, which was more than enough) to George Town with Sky Bahamas. We had initially ruled out Bahamasair based on very negative reviews. Immigration and customs were very quick.
When we arrived, we took a taxi to our hotel, Augusta Bay. Cost: $30.
We rented a car through Sure and Shore. It was delivered to our hotel the day after we arrived, and we kept it until we left for Stocking Island. For 9 days, we paid $470 (which is a great price) for a small Honda that wasn’t very new, but we didn’t have any issues with it. One thing we’d never experienced before: they’d put newspaper sheets on the floor, and we were told not to get any sand in the car if we went to the beach!
We stayed 5 nights at Augusta Bay. A 5-minute walk away is the beautiful, uncrowded Jolly Beach, perfect for swimming. We visited the southern part of the island to see the beaches of Little Exuma, especially Tropic of Cancer Beach and the one next to Santana’s restaurant. We also went to Hopper Bay Beach, where you can see a group of about ten turtles near a small boat dock. We went kayaking from the hotel.
Then we stayed at Paradise Bay in the north. While we hadn’t encountered the sandfly problem before, here it’s important to know that the beach is infested with them. The hotel’s restaurant, which is very good otherwise, even provides repellent for guests— that’s how bad it is! From there, we visited Coco Plum Beach, Three Sisters Beach (where you can snorkel), and others. We also went kayaking again.
We ended our trip with 3 nights on Stocking Island at Saint Francis Resort. If we were to do it again, we’d spend 4 nights there. The island has many trails, snorkeling spots, and you can get around by kayak. We saw rays, turtles, and even a harmless shark, as well as some beautiful beaches. Plus, the welcome at Saint Francis was the warmest we experienced.
Be aware that everything is very expensive on the island—much more so than in the English-speaking Caribbean. Clearly, the purchasing power of Americans plays a role. They say everything is imported, but that’s the case on all islands! Some places only accept cash or charge a 5% fee if you pay by card.
We didn’t find the locals particularly friendly. If you’ve been to Dominica or Grenada, for example, you’ll know what I mean.
We explored the whole island. The beaches are stunning, but the roads tell a different story. There are a lot of car wrecks—some houses have two or three in front of them, which really spoils the landscape. There are also many abandoned, ruined houses.
The vegetation is lush but not tropical, and you’ll be served apples and oranges for breakfast because there are very few exotic fruits.
As for the climate in March, there was no humid atmosphere, and the heat was very manageable (26°C). It was very pleasant. The seawater, however, is definitely cooler than in the Indian Ocean, for example.
There’s not much snorkeling, but we knew that before coming.
In conclusion: beautiful beaches, sand as fine as flour, and a very pleasant climate. But honestly, for the same cost, I’d prefer the Seychelles, for example.
Best regards.
Hi everyone,
I need your help!
We’re planning to visit Guadeloupe and take the opportunity to explore the islands La Désirade, Marie-Galante, and Les Saintes.
I initially planned to rent a car to get around the main island and then take the ferry from Trois-Rivières to Les Saintes, from Pointe-à-Pitre to Marie-Galante, and finally from Saint-François to La Désirade, following that route.
But when I look at it, the car would sit unused for at least 5 days—that’s paying for nothing🙁.
Is it possible to go from LES SAINTES to MARIE-GALANTE and then on to LA DÉSIRADE? We’d only rent a car once we arrive in Saint-François to continue exploring Guadeloupe. What do you think—is that doable?
This trip is planned for April.
Thanks so much for your help
Hi there,
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Just a quick update on the state of this road: the unpaved section has been significantly improved. You can now complete the journey in about 4 to 4.5 hours instead of 6. Great news! For me, the most hazardous part is actually the paved section before and after Sagua. It encourages higher speeds, but there are deep, dangerous potholes that appear without warning. Be careful!
I’d also note that despite occasional power outages—which casas and paladares know how to handle—tourism remains perfectly doable. Cuba is still magical! I was just told, with a touch of humor, that the official German government website suggests bringing your own toilet paper and candles… Hmm, maybe an update on rechargeable gear would be in order…
Best,
renaldito
Hi! We’re visiting Guadeloupe for the first time in January. We’re looking for accommodation near Deshaies to start our trip. A quiet spot, not too far from the sea so we can walk there. Any suggestions are welcome!
Have a great day!
Have a great day!
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
I’ve just returned from 15 days in Cuba and wanted to share my experience along with some practical tips for those planning a trip there.
1. Formalities:
- Passport valid for at least 6 months after your return. - E-visa: apply online (payment by bank transfer only via the embassy of your choice): evisacuba.cu or through an agency novelacuba.com (card payment on their site—I had to go with this option and recommend it because the Cuban embassy in Brussels apparently never received my transfer...) - Digital D’Viajeros form to fill out a few days before departure - Mandatory health insurance
2. Currency/budget - Plan your entire budget in cash; card payments are rare, and withdrawals at the official rate aren’t great. Local currency: CUP (Cuban Peso)
Official rate: ~1 € = 120 CUP → state-run restaurants and shops.
Current unofficial rate: ~1 € = 490 CUP → private restaurants, local bars, Cuban-owned shops.
For exchanging money: The easiest way: ask at your *casa particular* or a local restaurant.
3. My itinerary (15 days)
Havana: 3 nights Viñales: 3 nights Cienfuegos: 1 night Trinidad: 3 nights Varadero: 3 nights Havana: 1 night
Flights: Air Europa from Brussels, with a layover in Madrid. Smooth and pleasant service. Accommodations: *casas particulares* booked on Airbnb except for Varadero (Iberostar Playa Alameda hotel).
Practical tips
Install a VPN before departure (many blocked sites like Instagram and Airbnb).
Download the El Toque app to check the updated CUP exchange rate.
Internet via ETECSA SIM card (~30 € for 10 GB) or Wi-Fi in hotels/*casas*.
Download Maps.me for offline maps.
Intercity travel: shared taxi, Viazul bus, or private transfer through your *casa*.
Electricity: 110 V, sometimes 220 V.
Bring basic supplies and medications—hard to find there.
Cuba requires flexibility and openness: regular power outages, unstable internet (especially in Trinidad).
Finally, my personal take:
I loved my trip to Cuba! It’s a disorienting yet deeply charming country. Poverty is visible, especially in Havana: crumbling buildings, many people asking for help (but no safety concerns!). Bringing some essentials for locals is a good idea (soap, toothpaste, medications, clothes...). Cubans are incredibly welcoming and friendly. A few basics in Spanish help a lot! The vibe is unique: music in every street, musicians everywhere, salsa all around. The variety of landscapes is amazing: colonial architecture, paradise beaches, mountains, waterfalls, lush valleys—you’ll never get bored. Only downside: Varadero, less authentic than the rest of the country, but I expected that! Overall, it was a wonderful trip, and I’d love to go back!
Don’t hesitate if you have any questions! 😉
Hi,
Several comments recommend bringing mosquito repellent. Got it. Are there a lot of them during the day? And by the seaside? Or are they more present (and voracious) in the evening? Thanks.
Hi everyone,
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
I bought tickets for Martinique in April 2025 for 15 days, without really looking into what there was to do, and with the idea in my head that we could: hike, do water activities, swim, visit rum distilleries...
But... I’m worried I’ll get bored over 15 days and I’m considering maybe spending 1 week in Guadeloupe and 1 week in Martinique. For example, I don’t know how to spend a whole afternoon at the beach. 2 hours, max.
I know it’s a personal question and depends on how you travel, but I’d love to hear your thoughts if you’ve done it: - Did you feel too rushed? - Is it reasonable to do? - How much time would you spend on each island?
I’m open to all your comments.
Thanks so much.
Have a lovely afternoon! :)
Hi everyone,
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
I’ve just returned from Havana after an 18-day stay from October 8th to 26th.
From Montreal, you have to go through Varadero Airport. I now break up the airport-to-Havana transfer with a SUPER pleasant stopover halfway, in the historic village of Hershey (Camilo Cienfuegos). Quebecer Anne-Marie has renovated a century-old house there, and every stay of mine feels like a peaceful oasis. Amazing food, a pool, impeccable hospitality—I highly recommend it! Casa Cub'Anita.
Life for Cubans remains just as tough, made even harder right now by tropical viruses spread by mosquitoes. It’s absolutely essential to protect yourself properly. That said, the purchasing power of foreign currency hasn’t changed much, despite skyrocketing inflation. As of today, the US dollar exchanges for nearly 500 pesos on the "informal market."
This was my first time staying in Vieja, in the non-touristy part. I discovered some great little restaurants run by the younger generation. Affordable, excellent food, and remarkably friendly service: El Chanchulero (it was about time I checked it out—unbeatable value for money!), El Café, Jibaro...
Cubans are still as warm and welcoming as ever—bicitaxis, servers, markets. Speaking the language is a huge plus.
Essentials to download from abroad before you leave: the maps.me offline maps app, and the La Nave taxi/motorcycle taxi app, which is super efficient for getting around the capital.
Sending my best to all my friends in Oriente as the hurricane passes, especially to Baracoa. I’m planning to visit this winter.
Cheers!
renaldito
Hi there,
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
I’m planning a trip to Cuba this summer and I’d love some info: Is travel insurance really necessary? Can you easily get online by buying a local SIM card or internet card? Apparently, there’s only one currency now—is it better to exchange money with your *casa particular* host? Thanks for all these valuable tips!
Hi!
I’m heading to Havana for a week in February. I’m looking for a casa particular that’s affordable, clean, and cozy. Since I’ll be traveling alone, I’d love a place where people are welcoming!
Also, I really want to stay in Habana Vieja...
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Do you have any recommendations for places you’ve stayed before? I tried booking the casa particular *Chez Nous*, but I never got a response.
Thanks!!
Julie
Hi fellow travelers,
We're heading to Martinique for a month from mid-January to mid-February.
Our plan is to explore the island by staying in three different spots for 10 days each, on both sides of the island...
Could you share some great tips on where to stay for an authentic experience and what we absolutely must see?!
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Thanks for your help! Voyamie.
Hi there,
In March 2026 I’ll be at the Club Med in Sainte-Anne and I’m thinking of heading to Les Saintes at the end of my stay.
Do you know what the most convenient way to get there is?
Thanks so much!
Hi everyone.
For those traveling to Cuba and then planning to go to the USA, you won’t be able to get your ESTA for the United States (same applies) if you’ve been to Cuba after 2021 due to a law passed by Donald Trump (a law that Biden later repealed).
You’ll have no choice but to apply for a visa, which costs 200 € (and approval isn’t guaranteed even after payment).
If you’re in this situation, the process to get this visa will be a real hassle—you’ll need to book an appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Paris. It’s the only embassy in France authorized to handle your application after you’ve filled out the visa request on the official website.
If you try to cheat by applying for an ESTA for the USA, just know that the American administration has ways of finding out if you’ve been to Cuba. 😉
What would you recommend at the airport to get to Ste Anne... Taxis or rideshares?
Can you point me to a good one?
I'm looking for information on the islands of Puerto Rico, St. Barthélemy, and St. Martin for March 2026.
What is there to see, and if possible, prices or tips, please?
Thanks, Michel V.
Hi everyone,
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
I’ve booked a room at an all-inclusive in Varadero for January 2025. This will be my 3rd trip to Cuba, the last one was 20 years ago.
The whole tipping and gratuities thing is wearing me out. Even though it’s an all-inclusive package, I think it’d be rude not to leave any tips for the bar staff and the housekeeping team, especially.
Here’s what I’m aiming for: 1. Not feeling stingy (or “feeling cheap” for my fellow Quebecers); 2. Not disrespecting Cubans by offering junk or, on the flip side, going overboard and creating unrealistic expectations for future tourists; 3. And most importantly, not spending the whole week wondering if I’m doing the right thing. I’m going there to relax, not to stress!
Can you help me out? Thanks! 🙂
Hi there,
I’m planning our upcoming trip to Guadeloupe. We’re looking for a place to stay where human contact is a priority, with air conditioning, close to the beaches, and clean.
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
We’ve had several responses. After doing some research online, I was able to rule out quite a few options. But now I’m deciding between: Kokoplaj, tipayoune (issue: no AC, just fans—is that a problem?), Résidence Le Zandoli, and Gwada Rêves.
If you have any info or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them! ;-) Thanks for your help! See you soon...
Hi,
I’ll be staying at Playa Pesquero in Holguin and I’d like to rent a bike or scooter to explore the area. Do you know how I can do that? Thanks
Hi there,
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
I’m heading to Blau Costa Verde next February and I’d like to rent a scooter to explore the area. Are the roads around Holguín in good condition? I’m thinking of renting one for 1–2 or 3 days to visit Holguín, Gibara, and Banes on my own. Do you recommend it (I’ve got a great sense of direction)? How much does it usually cost to rent a scooter for 2 or 3 days (or a car, though I’d prefer a scooter)? Also, are there any other interesting spots nearby you’d suggest checking out?
Are there any excursions to Santiago, and how much do they typically cost?
Thanks! :)
hi
need some info—I’m torn between Martinique and Guadeloupe for April.
also, which island is bigger in terms of trip length?
thanks in advance
Hi,
When booking the tickets to Martinique for our family, I must have made a mistake, and on one of the tickets, the third first name is wrong. Michel instead of Joel...
CORSAIR Airlines is telling me I have to buy a new ticket for 1200 € (Christmas period). I think that’s outrageous and, above all, impossible for us.
I’m desperate—I feel like Corsair is really overdoing it.
Is there any recourse? How can I get out of this?
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
I’m throwing this message in a bottle, just in case...😕
Thanks for your help.
Hi
On a layover in Pointe-à-Pitre—where’s a good place to stay for one night?
Thanks
Hi, I'm looking for a car rental for January 2020 in Guadeloupe. There are several agencies I've seen reviews for—has anyone dealt with Autolagon before?
Thanks!