Lush scenery, stunning accommodations, breathtaking views, rich history and culture-this is Guadeloupe.
A place teeming with natural beauty, Guadeloupe is five destinations in one. Made up of the islands Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre, Marie-Galante, Les Saintes and La Désirade, the French Caribbean region has so much to offer every type of traveler.
Whether you're up for adventure travel, just want to relax on the beach or immerse yourself in a location steeped with a strong past, Guadeloupe has you covered.
When asked what separates Guadeloupe from other islands in the Caribbean, Michel Kozminski, Trade Production Assistant for Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board told TravelPulse:
"Not only are the Guadeloupe Islands a slice of France in the Caribbean, but the variety of landscapes makes our culturally rich destination a truly unique one. It definitely is a premiere island-hopping destination ideal for family fun, adventure seekers and foodies."
How to Get There
Norwegian is the ideal way to arrive in Guadeloupe.
The world's best low-cost long-haul airline flies non-stop into Pointe-à-Pitre from JFK in New York (6 flights a week) and FLL in Florida (3 flights a week). These flights are seasonal (late October through the end of March) and are from $79 one-way.
My journey on Norwegian from FLL was pleasant, with spacious seating, free WiFi on board and the flight attendants were incredibly nice and helpful. I got lucky and didn't have anyone sitting next to me, which made it much easier for me to take a nap and get some work done as well.
Where to Stay
La Créole Beach Hotel and Spa is a gorgeous property located in a central spot in Guadeloupe, with several major attractions on the islands located within easy travel distance for a thrilling day trip adventure. Spacious, affordable rooms, multiple restaurants and a large pool with natural elements all around help make La Creole Beach Hotel and Spa one of the top places to stay in Guadeloupe.
La Toubana Hotel & Spa, the only 5-star resort on the islands, is the ideal luxury retreat for those looking to live lavishly during their stay. Book a stay here for some of the best villa views in all of Guadeloupe. Foodies out there should also put this hotel on their list-not only will you get the ultimate meals, but the lunch views are also sensational.
Club Med La Caravelle is the only all-inclusive resort in Guadeloupe, so this should be your go-to spot if you don't want to worry about fully indulging during your vacation. It's also home to one of the most popular beaches on the island. It's great for adults and families because Club Med is the pioneer of all-inclusive resorts.
What to Do
Some travelers just want to stay on their resort the whole time. To each their own.
However, I'd implore you to get out and discover the islands around you.
And if you only do one thing off the resort, make it a visit to the Memorial ACTe Museum for an enlightening experience on the Caribbean's slave trade & indigenous people. No photos are allowed, so you'll have to place your phone in a locker. Besides, you'll want to be unplugged anyway to stay fully engaged.
Discover Guadeloupe through its cultural heritage with guided tours from Guadeloupe Explor. Our guide Taina Tharsis was welcoming, knowledgeable and a great driver.
Aside from the Memorial ACTe, other historical spots include Fort Delgrès and Fort Napoleon. The former saw tons of action for many years between the British and the French and the latter never saw any and has since been turned into a museum.
Hike to beautiful scenery at Soufriere volcano and relax in the Yellow Baths hot sulfur springs on your way back down. For a less intense but still active hike with incredible island views, head to La Pointe des Chateaux in Saint Francois.
All islands are within an hour ferry ride away, meaning the day trip options are seemingly endless. Les Saintes Bay is a must though. Feast on accras (Caribbean fritters) and the traditional Tourment d'Amour cake while you relax in a region considered one of the most beautiful bays in the world according to UNESCO.
Beach lovers also have several options for fun in the sun. Grande-Anse in Deshaies, Basse-Terre, Sainte-Anne Beach in Sainte-Anne, Grande-Terre, La Caravelle Beach in Sainte-Anne, Grande-Terre and Le Souffleur Beach in Port-Louis, Grande-Terre are the top beaches in Guadeloupe.
From golden to white to black sand beaches, what could be better?
Do you love seafood? Have an affinity for French/Creole flavors and history? Thrive on adventure travel? Enjoy your toes in the sand on a picturesque beach? If so, Guadeloupe is the place for you.
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Eric Bowman is the Editor-in-Chief of TravelPulse. A graduate of The University of Georgia, Eric has been working in online media, radio and TV for over a decade. He currently lives in Georgia with his wife, daughter, and son.
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