DMC' varied offerings include exploring Martinique's shores by catamaran and speedboats
Martinique DMC Coeur des Isles reports that baguettes and beaches go hand in hand on the island.
Company development director Mathieu Meril says his island is an intriguing blend of French, African and Indian influences, distinguishing it from other parts of the world.
“It’s a small part of France in the Caribbean,” said Meril, in Toronto with a recent Martinique Tourism Authority delegation.
And the varied cultural traits help create a destination that will help make an enjoyable winter retreat for Canadians, said Meril, who joined his colleagues in the Ontario capital a little over a month ahead of Air Canada’s start of winter Toronto-Martinique service. The carrier also has year-round Montreal flights.
Coeur des Isles’ varied offerings include exploring the water lying off Martinique’s shores by catamaran and speedboats, and the company also has buses, 4X4 vehicles and vans for clients. Private guided tours can also be arranged.
“You can discover Martinique at your own pace. You’re in good hands,” reported Meril, who worked in finance for years in Singapore before returning to his native Martinique.
Meril said Martinique has numerous beaches available for visitors but added that it shouldn’t be seen as a beach destination alone.
“Of course you come for the beaches but you have the nature,” he said of a very green, often mountainous destination that is often referred to as the Isle of Flowers. “We have a strong culture and a rich history.”
The island’s history is in part showcased by the massive and long-standing Fort Saint Louis in the capital of Fort-de-France.
Meril praised other Martinique attributes, among them “high-end rums” and its culinary scene, with local cuisine unsurprisingly having a strong French influence.
Long-time sailor Meril said water enthusiasts will find a great sailing destination, with steady winds ensuring that Martinique is well-suited for that sport.
The island is also a good diving destination, he continued.
Meril said Coeur des Isles will accommodate specific interests, for instance taking clients to local farms if they wish.
“If you want to discover Martinique, book a ticket and come,” he counsels.
Meanwhile, Meril said Martinique’s ties with France help ensure that Martinique has a sound tourism infrastructure, with French building codes and standards applying.
More information can be found at www.coeurdesiles.travel/.
