Direct answer
Guadeloupe is a French Caribbean archipelago with tropical climate, French administration, Creole culture, and easy access for EU/Schengen travelers. Expect French language, euro currency, island hopping, volcanic landscapes, beaches, and relaxed island life.
Visa & entry requirements
- Citizens of EU/EEA/Switzerland: no visa needed; valid ID or passport required.\
- US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: short tourist stays (typically up to 90 days) visa-free — carry passport valid for at least 3 months beyond stay; check latest rules.\
- Other nationalities: consult French consulate/official visa site for Schengen/Overseas France rules.\
- Health: no routine mandatory vaccines, but stay up-to-date on routine shots. Yellow fever vaccination only required if arriving from an endemic country. COVID-19 rules may change — verify before travel.
Best time to visit
- Peak season: December–April (dry season) — best weather, higher prices.\
- Shoulder seasons: May–June and November — fewer crowds, good weather.\
- Low season / hurricane risk: July–October — hotter, wetter, higher chance of storms; check forecasts and travel insurance.
Safety tips
- General safety: Guadeloupe is relatively safe for tourists but exercise standard precautions.\
- Petty crime: watch for pickpocketing and theft in urban areas (Pointe-à-Pitre, ferry terminals). Don’t leave valuables in parked cars or on beaches.\
- Night safety: avoid poorly lit/isolated areas at night; use licensed taxis.\
- Sea safety: heed beach flags and local advice — currents and riptides can be strong.\
- Health care: decent hospitals/clinics on main islands; carry travel insurance and any prescription meds.
Local customs & etiquette
- Languages: French is official; Guadeloupean Creole widely spoken. Learning a few French/Creole phrases is appreciated.\
- Politeness: greet with Bonjour/Madame/Monsieur and say Merci. Formality is valued in shops and services.\
- Dress: casual beachwear on beaches; smart-casual for restaurants and towns.\
- Tipping: service charge often included; leaving small change for good service is common but not obligatory.
Currency & money
- Currency: Euro (EUR).\
- ATMs and cards: widely accepted in towns and tourist areas; carry cash for market stalls, small eateries, and remote areas.\
- Prices: generally similar to mainland France; groceries and imported goods can be pricier than other Caribbean islands.
Transportation
- Airports: main international airport is Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP). Direct flights from Paris and some seasonal connections from North America.\
- Inter-island travel: ferries and small planes connect main islands (Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, La Désirade).\
- Car hire: recommended for exploring; roads are mostly good but can be narrow/windy in rural or mountainous areas. Book in advance in high season.\
- Public transport: buses exist but are limited; taxis and shared minibuses (taxi collectifs) available.\
- Driving: drive on the right; bring an international driving permit if your license is not in French/European format.
Must-know tips & local insights
- Island differences: Grande-Terre = beaches and resorts; Basse-Terre = rainforests, volcano (La Soufrière) and waterfalls — plan to visit both.\
- Nature & activities: hiking (La Soufrière, Carbet Falls), snorkeling/diving (Cousteau Reserve), rum distillery tours, Creole cuisine.\
- Markets: visit local markets for fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts (Pointe-à-Pitre market is lively).\
- Food: try accras, boudin creole, Colombo, fresh seafood and local rums.\
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz (European plugs).\
- Connectivity: good mobile coverage in main areas; buy a local SIM for data if needed.\
- Respect nature: coral reefs are fragile — don’t touch coral, use reef-safe sunscreen.\
- Cultural events: Carnival (Feb–Mar) and local festivals are vibrant — check dates and participate respectfully.\
- Emergency numbers: 112 for EU emergency services; local police and medical centers available in towns.
Practical checklist
- Passport + any visas, travel insurance, print of accommodation and transport bookings.\
- Euros and at least one credit card.\
- Lightweight rain jacket for sudden showers, reef-safe sunscreen, mosquito repellent.\
- Comfortable walking shoes for hikes, snorkel gear if you prefer your own.
Enjoy the mix of French and Creole culture, lush landscapes, and Caribbean beaches — plan for some island-hopping time and savor local cuisine.