Rum, sugar and the golf course in Martinique
Travelers staying in Martinique vacation rentals have no shortage of attractions to keep their interest piqued. The Trois-Rivieres Rum Distillery, nestled in the south of the island, offers a guided tour to the history of rum production on the island, followed by a delicious rum sampling opportunity. The House of Sugar provides a perfect complement to carry on the historical culture, tracing the timeline of sugar cane and plantations. Finish off with a hole-in-one at the golf course named after Napoleon's Empress Josephine, the most famous former citizen of Martinique.
Hike through the Martinique's beauty spots
Martinique boasts more than 350 kilometers of walking paths suitable for all levels, from seasoned adventurers to the first-time explorer. As almost half the island is covered with tropical rainforests, travelers staying in Martinique vacation rentals have the opportunity to witness soaring mahogany "cathedrals" of the ancient red wood trees, over 40 meters high. In the north, you'll find athletic treks along the Pelee Volcano and the Pitons de Carbet, its mountainous ridge legacy. The south provides more gentle coastal paths through wafting mangroves and unspoiled beaches. Though wherever you go, you won't be more than 12 kilometers away from the lapping sea.
Hot and humid in Martinique
As in all the Caribbean islands, the climate of Martinique is tropically hot all year round, with temperatures averaging about 75 to 85 degrees. However, travelers should be aware that Martinique is traditionally divided into 2 halves climate-wise, with the south dryer and the north greener with more forests, rain and mountains. The coolest season is Martinique's winter, from January to April, but the summer lingers from June to November. Although Martinique benefits from its fair share of glorious sunshine, the lush island vegetation thrives from the periodic rainfall of Martinique. The least rainy months are February to April.
Hummingbirds and darting lizards in Martinique
Martinique is a haven for a gorgeous host of wildlife. Look out for blue-headed hummingbirds tasting the nectar in rainbow-colored tropical flowers and small emerald and topaz lizards called "mabouyas" darting over the igneous rocks. If you're a bird watching fan, pack your binoculars, as there are over 200 recorded species on the island, including American Kestrels and rare parakeets. In fact, life in Martinique's skies is perhaps only rivaled by the life in its waters: take a boat out and watch shoals of fish ripple beneath the clear blue, or maybe even a cute sea turtle.