The French Caribbean Islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique are Open for Business and Welcoming Tourists

Following the Caribbean's severe hurricane season, the Martinique Tourism Authority and the Tourism Board of the Islands of Guadeloupe were and are thankful to report that both destinations emerged totally unscathed from these powerful storms. Both French Caribbean islands were able to welcome visitors right after the storms with all businesses up-and-running, including hotels, B&Bs and villas as well as restaurants and tourist sites.

Normal operations on the islands resumed less than 24 hours after the hurricanes passed near their Atlantic coasts, however, strong winds and heavy downpours were felt both in Martinique and the Guadeloupe Islands. The hurricanes left no infrastructural damage. The islands' cruise ports and the international airports of Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe, and the international airport Aime Cesaire of Martinique were fully operational shortly after the storms.

After an earlier statement related to Hurricane Irma, Karine Mousseau, Martinique Tourism Commissioner, expressed her deepest sympathies and thoughts to the neighbor islands. "Even though Martinique as part of France benefits from a legendary "savoir-faire", our island is fully tied to the Caribbean. We are a big family and our duty today is to actively support the region while offering to our guests the best Caribbean Vacation."

"Hurricanes are an integral part of Caribbean life, we are grateful that the archipelago was able to get back to normal so quickly. Our expertise in hurricane measures, hurricane proof infrastructure and more importantly, the solidarity of the People of Guadeloupe make a strong difference. Hotels did not interrupt their services and suffered no damages. The National Park has been cleared and is now open to the public. We are continuing our efforts of solidarity and assistance with our sister French Caribbean Island of St Martin and the island of Dominica, with which we share very strong bonds" said Sandra Venite, USA Director for the Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board.

Easier and more affordable than ever to fly to the French Caribbean with Norwegian Air actually increased its 2017 seasonal air service and added new routes to both Martinique and the Guadeloupe Islands following two successful winter seasons. New routes include non-stop service from Boston/Providence to both islands that started October 30 and on the same day Norwegian added from Fort Lauderdale non-stop seasonal service to Martinique to its pre-existing flights to Guadeloupe and also increased its non-stop seasonal service to both islands from JFK.

As of November 21, 2017, travelers will also benefit from twice weekly non-stop flights on Air France from Atlanta to the Islands of Guadeloupe, which then go on to Fort-de-France, Martinique. Finally, American Airlines, which operates year-round nonstop service from Miami to Martinique and the Guadeloupe Islands, will seasonally increase its flights.

With more flights and departure cities from the U.S, festive events and happenings, Martinique and the Guadeloupe Islands will welcome with open arms the growing number of American visitors. Ms. Mousseau added: "All our hoteliers, services and magnificent sites are ready and eager to welcome our American guests. We are dedicated to offer each of our guests a fabulous and authentic French Caribbean experience."