In Fort de France, Martinique port is the passenger terminal, which is just a short drive from the main city. The Pointe Simon Cruise Dock, which was added recently to the port, is big enough to hold two cruise ships at once. The newly erected cruise dock allows passengers to come down to the middle of Fort de France, where they are provided with all the information they need about Martinique port of call. Custom officers are present on the port itself, and they give quick clearance to the tourists to visit the island. The French province Martinique is a part of the northern end of the Caribbean islands and the French Antilles. The green and mountainous island has two volcanoes, and the one on Mount Pelee is still active. Although most of the residents are well versed in English, Martinique is a French-speaking island.
Shopping
The Spice market is a covered market area that sells tropical orchids and exotic herbs and spices in addition to fresh vegetables and fruits. In the recently built Atrium, which regularly hosts arts and photography exhibitions, one can purchase works of local artists.
The tourist information office will provide you with details about the current program being hosted at the Atrium.
Rue Victor Hugo is one of the biggest shopping centers in Fort De France and is packed with cafés, restaurants, boutiques and souvenir shops.
Things to See
It may be nearly impossible for cruise ship passengers to see everything in their one-day excursion, given the number of attractions this charming little Island has to offer. Travelers can choose a guided group tour or hire a taxi for a day with the drivers doubling up as guides.
The Fort-de-France Cathedral is the national monument of France and is located in the capital city of Martinique. Built in 1878, this magnificent Romanesque structure boasts of huge stained glass windows and iron balustrades.
Apart from the cathedral, one should also visit the Schoelcher library, a giant iron and glass structure, which was built in the honor of Victor Schoelcher - the famous slave revolutionary.
Other popular tourist spots include Bougenot Villa and the Old Town Hall, which are two fine examples of colonial architecture.
Plage des Salines, located in the southern tip of the city is regarded by the locals as the finest beach in Martinique.
Restaurants and Bars
When in Martinique, your choice of restaurants depends on the kind of cuisine you wish to experiment with. Thai lovers should try out La Case Thai not just for its food but also for its fairytale-like decor complete with tumbled pottery, exotic orchids hanging from trees and a beautiful lily pond. Their homemade lychee liqueur goes with almost anything you order.
In the suburb, a little bit away from the main city of Fort-de-France is the charming French restaurant of La Belle Epoque. The quality of meat, especially the lamb served here is excellent.
Chez Les Pecheurs is a beach restaurant to be enjoyed by all sea-food lovers. Everything listed in the menu is freshly caught and served with red beans, ripe red tomatoes and a special red hot sauce.