Martinique is one of the showcases of the French Caribbean. The capital, Fort de France, fully lives up to that description, celebrating every aspect of the island’s all-encompassing French culture with style and panache.

There are flawless beaches – white sand on the south coast, black in the north; secluded coves for swimming and reefs for snorkeling; unspoiled fishing villages; hot springs, lush rainforests and woods; rugged peaks and gorges; and everywhere flowers and fruit – bougainvillea, orchids, lilies, bananas, pineapples, papaya and coconut palms.