for immediate release martinique launches new 'summer spectacular'

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: Christel Coïta 

Steve Bennett, SBPR Corp 

T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 

E: christel.coita@franceguide.com E: Steve@SBPRcorp.com 

MARTINIQUE LAUNCHES NEW ‘SUMMER SPECTACULAR’ PROMO OFFERING 

SPECIAL SAVINGS & AMENITIES FOR TRAVEL JULY 1 TO SEPT. 30 

NEW YORK, NY – June 10, 2010 – The Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA announced today the launch of 

a new Summer Spectacular promotion offering special savings and amenities for travel between July 1 and 

September 30, 2010. Seven of the island’s top hotels are featured in the promotion, which rewards guests with a 

sixth night free, as well as complimentary daily breakfast. Participating hotels and their corresponding booking 

contacts are as follows: 

• La Suite Villa – contact: yanick@la-suite-villa.com 

• Hotel Bakoua – contact: sylvie.mirete@accor.com 

• Carayou Hotel & Spa – contact: reservation@hotel-carayou.com 

• Le Panoramique Hotel – contact: lepanoramichotel@wanadoo.fr 

• Plein Soleil Hotel – contact: pleinsoleil1@wanadoo.fr 

• La Batelière – contact: reservation@hotelbateliere.com 

• Mercure Diamant – contact: sylvie.mirete@accor.com 

At La Suite Villa, the savings extend to a Pay 10-Stay 12 option, affording guests two free nights when booking 12. 

This offer is valid on travel June 1 to 30 and September 1 to 30. 

Added savings are also available at La Batelière through the property’s Pay 4-Stay 5, Pay 7-Stay 9, and Pay 9- 

Stay 12 options, all of which are available through October 31, 2010. 

About Martinique (www.martinique.org) 

The Caribbean island with French flair, The Isle of Flowers, The Rum Capital of the World, The Isle 

of the Famed Poet (Aimé Césaire) – by any one of its many names Martinique remains one of the 

most alluring and enchanting destinations in the world; as unforgettable as a summer romance or a 

first kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year” in 2008 and 2009 by Caribbean World 

Magazine, Martinique is an overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary 

delights, awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. 

Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. Majestic Mt. Pelée and The 

Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel 

fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s 

finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to 

be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 

For more information, contact the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, 825 Third Ave, 29 th Floor, New York, 

NY 10022 – Tel: 212 838 6887 - Fax: 212 838 7855 – Email: info@martinique.org – Web: www.martinique.org. 

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DRAFT FOR REVIEW ONLY 



T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


KARINE ROY-CAMILLE NAMED CHAIRMAN, MARTINIQUE TOURISM AUTHORITY 

Former President of Martinique Cruise Tourism Association carries 20+ years of travel industry experience 

NEW YORK, NY – May 17, 2010 – Serge Letchimy, President of the Martinique Regional Council, has tapped 

Karine Roy-Camille to head the Martinique Tourism Authority. She succeeds Madeleine de Grandmaison who 

had held the island’s top tourism post for the past six years (2004-2010). 

A veteran of 20+ years in the travel and tourism industry, Roy-Camille served as President of the Martinique 

Cruise Tourism Association immediately prior to taking the reigns at the Martinique Tourism Authority. Her career 

began in 1986 at SMCR Voyages, an international travel agency based in Fort-de-France. While there, Roy- 

Camille quickly spearheaded the development of a dynamic cruise division, securing General Agent contracts 

with such notable cruise lines as Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises and Carnival. 

In her new role, Roy-Camille intends to move quickly again. During the press conference announcing her 

appointment, she set a goal of achieving 600,000 visitors in 2010, expanding to 650,000 in 2011. Total visitor 

arrivals for 2009 were 443,202 according to preliminary statistics. 








Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. 

Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are 

readily available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on 

France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – 

Martinique c’est magnifique! 



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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE FAST FACTS – 2010 

Essential information on The Caribbean Island with French Flair 

Overview/History – First sighted by Columbus on his initial expedition in 1493, Martinique played host to its 

first European “tourists” in 1502 when Columbus landed there during his fourth voyage. Dubbed Martinique by 

Columbus, the island was inhabited by Carib Indians who had driven away the Arawaks who, like themselves, had 

come to the island from South America. Martinique was claimed by France in 1635 and officially annexed in 1674. 

France and Britain fought over the island until 1815, when it was restored to France. Slavery was abolished in 

1848. In 1946, Martinique became a Department of France and in 1974 a Region of France, its current status. 

Modern day Martinique is truly “a little bit of France in the Caribbean.” It exudes an alluring and distinctly French 

sensibility in the excellence of its cuisine, the chic sophistication of its fine resorts and hotels, and the sensuality of 

its language. Yet Martinique has a cachet all its own; an endearing West Indian warmth and friendliness in its 

personality, a special spice in its music and dance, its local dishes, cultural heritage, and way of life. It is an island 

with style and so much more. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 

~THE BASICS~ 

Location – Nestled in the heart of the Lesser Antilles 

between Dominica to the north and St. Lucia, Martinique 

lies 1,965 miles from New York, 1,470 miles from Miami, 

425 miles from San Juan, and 4,261 miles from Paris. 

Size – 425 square miles (50 miles long and 22 miles 

across at its widest point), or just a few blocks smaller 

than New York City. 

Population – 400,000+ 

Capital City – Fort-de-France 

Electricity – Voltage is 220 AC. Visitors traveling 

with hair dryers, shavers and other appliances made in 

the U.S. will require international power adapters. 

Money Exchanges & Banks – U.S. dollars can 

be converted to euros at locations throughout the island. 

Hours of operation vary, though Fort-de-France banks 

are generally open 7:30 a.m. to noon and 2:30 to 4:30 

p.m. weekdays. Bank-operated 24-hour ATM’s can also 

be found throughout the island. 

Climate – Temperatures average 79°F with two 

regular alternating wind currents (les alizés) keeping the 

island cool. There is only about a 5° difference between 

summer and winter temperatures. 

Topography – Mountainous and lush in the north 

with plains in the center and rocky hills (mornes) framing 

pristine beach coves (anses) in the south. 

Currency – Euro 

Languages – French, Creole and English. 

Religion – Roman Catholicism, Seventh-Day 

Adventist, Jehovah’s Witness, Methodist, Evangelical, 

Baptist, Jewish, Hindu and Islamic. 

Accommodations – Martinique is home to 6,000+ 

hotel rooms with budget, moderate and luxury properties 

scattered throughout the island. For the rustic and truly 

budget-conscious, beachfront and rainforest camping 

can be arranged. Those seeking a more luxurious 

experience can opt for villa and private island rentals. 

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~GETTING THERE & GETTING AROUND~ 

Entry Requirements – U.S. visitors must have a 

valid passport. 

By Air – AA/AA Eagle connects via San Juan twice 

daily. Air France operates daily from Miami. Caribbean 

Airlines service from NY connects with LIAT in Antigua 

or Barbados. Air Caraibes flies to/from Antigua, 

Barbados, Dominica Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, St. Martin, 

St Vincent and Trinidad. 

By Cruise – Lines featuring Martinique in 2010-2011 

include Disney Cruises, HAL, Princess, Oceania, 

Seabourn, Star Clippers and Voyages of Discovery. 

Yachting – Bareboat or crewed charters can be 

arranged at most hotels. Yachtsmen can choose among 

several marinas, most notably Port de Plaisance in Le 

Marin, the island’s largest and best equipped marina. 

Arrival/Departure Taxes – None for air or cruise 

arrivals. 

By Sea – Air/sea connections can be made via 

Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, Dominica and Les Saintes 

aboard sleek catamarans operated by Express des Iles. 

Ferry service operates daily with a typical trip from 

Guadeloupe taking approximately 3 to 3-1/2 hours. 

Getting Around by Rental Car – Driving is on 

the right with cars provided by Avis, Budget, Hertz and 

more. A valid driver’s license is required; min. age is 21. 

Getting Around by Taxi – Taxi stands are located 

at the airport, in Fort-de-France, and at major hotels. All 

cabs are metered. Martinique has 200+ taxis; 80% of 

them are Mercedes-Benz. 

~ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS APLENTY~ 

Culinary Travel – World-renowned for its cuisine, 

Martinique’s 365+ restaurants feature the best of French 

and Creole. Seafood abounds, prepared Creole-style 

with spices, or in a classic French manner with herbs. 

Rhum – The Rum Capital of the World, Martinique is 

home to 15 brands, each produced utilizing a unique 

rhum agricole method yielding blends comparable to 

fine cognacs. Martinique rhums are the only rums to 

carry the exalted Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) 

designation formerly reserved for the finest wines. Free 

tasting is available at all of the island’s distilleries. 

Shopping – Martinique offers the best of Parisian 

fashion, jewelry, perfumes, etc., and local treasures. La 

Galleria Mall is a top shopping spot, while Rue Victor 

Hugo is to Martinique as Fifth Avenue is to New York. 

Scuba Diving – The best-kept secret in Caribbean 

diving, Martinique offers abundant marine life, historic 

shipwrecks and healthy reefs. The highlight is Diamond 

Rock, an offshore island with a deep undersea cavern. 

Family Attractions – From sightseeing trains to the 

Butterfly Gardens and Mangofil, Martinique has much to 

offer families. The main attraction is Aqualand, a U.S.- 

style water park featuring water slides, wave pool, and 

young kids play area complete with its own pirate ship. 

Cultural Heritage – Birthplace of the famed poet, 

Aimé Césaire, Zouk and Napoleon’s bride, Empress 

Josephine, Martinique boasts a rich cultural heritage 

kept alive in the island’s 25 museums. 

Ecotourism – Martinique boasts a whole world of 

natural wonders, making it one of the Caribbean’s top 

eco destinations. Two-thirds of Martinique is designated 

as protected parkland, affording visitors a wide range of 

nature-themed vacation adventures – hiking the island’s 

27 well-marked trails, kayaking, horseback riding, 

enjoying a 4x4 tour and more. 

Casino Gaming – Martinique’s two casinos, Casino 

de la Batelière Plaza located just north of Fort-de- 

France and Casino des Trois Ilets, offer slots, blackjack, 

roulette and more. Patrons must be 18; dress is casual. 

Golf & Tennis – Designed by Robert Trent Jones 

Sr., the 18-hole Golf de l’Impératrice Joséphine in Trois 

Ilets, is the island’s sole golf course. Tennis is available 

at the course and at resorts throughout the island. 

Destination Weddings – Required documents 

include original birth certificates; certificate of good 

conduct; residency card (bride or groom must reside onisland 

min. 1 month); medical certificate issued within 3 

months of marriage; French translation of all documents. 

For more information contact the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, 825 3 rd Avenue, 29 th Floor, New York, 

NY 10022 – Tel: 212 838 6887 – Fax: 212 838 7855 – Email: info@martinique.org – Web: www.martinique.org. 

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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE NAMED BEST CARIBBEAN DESTINATION BY ABOUT.COM 

Isle of Flowers garners 38% of 3,800 votes in an online reader survey 

NEW YORK, NY – May 20, 2010 – Martinique was the runaway winner in the recent ”Best Caribbean Destination” 

poll conducted by About.com’s Caribbean Travel site (http://gocaribbean.about.com). The Isle of Flowers was the 

preferred choice of 38% of the 3,800 voters, out-pacing second place finishers Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis, 

each with 26% of the vote. Among the seven other finalists placing even further behind Martinique were such 

notables as Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, the Mexican Caribbean (Cancun, Cozumel, etc.), Costa Rica, Antigua 

& Barbuda and St. Maarten/St. Martin. 

Muriel Wiltord, director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, commented on the survey 

results, stating: "This is a wonderful affirmation that our special brand of tourism product, characterized by 

intimate boutique hotels and emphasizing nature, a rich cultural heritage, romance, scuba diving and gastronomy 

is winning the hearts of U.S. travelers.” 

The About.com honor is the latest in a recent string of accolades for Martinique. In November 2009, Caribbean 

World Magazine named Martinique “Best Gourmet Island of the Year” for a second consecutive year. This 

followed an impressive win by Martinique in an October 2009 Caribbean Travel + Life Magazine survey asking 

readers to name their favorite Caribbean destination for delectable dining. Martinique garnered 43.3% of the 807 

votes cast over the course of the one-month survey period. 








Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. 

Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are 

readily available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on 

France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – 




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FOR IMMEDIATE REALEASE 



T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE ANNOUNCES NEW AIR SERVICE + HOTEL DEVELOPMENT 

AA Eagle service via San Juan expanded to twice daily; new Radisson Hotel & Spa Martinique to open in 2011 

NEW YORK, NY – June 10, 2010 – Martinique continues to make strides toward better accommodating U.S. 

travelers with the addition of a second daily flight on American Eagle via San Juan, and the development of a new 

U.S. flag hotel – the Radisson Hotel & Spa Martinique – slated to open in 2011. 

New AA Eagle Service beginning July 2 

The new American Eagle flights are ideally suited for leisure travelers emanating from the Continental U.S., as 

well as Puerto Rico and other Caribbean gateways with convenient arrival and departure schedules enabling 

visitors to maximize their vacation time in Martinique. The schedule for the new second flight is as follows: 

Southbound 

AA Eagle Flight #4896 departs San Juan at 1:50 PM, arriving in Fort-de-France at 3:45 PM 

Northbound 

AA Eagle Flight #4897 departs Fort-de-France at 4:15 PM, arriving in San Juan at 6:09 PM 

On sale now for flights beginning July 2, the new American Eagle service will run initially through August 24, 2010, 

commencing again November 4 and extending indefinitely. Pre-existing American Eagle daily flights, which arrive 

in Martinique at 9:20 PM and depart back to San Juan at 7:35 AM, will continue as usual. 

New Radisson Hotel & Spa Martinique Opening in 2011 

In another sign of Martinique’s strengthening commitment to the U.S. market, the French Caribbean island will 

welcome a new U.S. flag hotel, the Radisson Hotel & Spa Martinique, in 2011. Formerly the Bataliere Hotel, the 

175-room property will undergo a $10 million renovation beginning in mid-June and is expected to join the 

Radisson brand by the end of 2011. 

Both developments follow closely on the heels of Martinique’s victory in a “Best Caribbean Destination” poll 

conducted by About.com’s Caribbean Travel site (http://gocaribbean.about.com) in April 2010. Martinique 

garnered 38% of the 3,800 voters, out-pacing second place finishers Dominica and St. Kitts & Nevis (26%). 








Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. Majestic Mt. Pelée and The 

Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel 


finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to 

be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 



# # #




T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE, WHERE HOLLYWOOD MOVIE MAGIC IS MADE EASY 

NEW YORK, NY – April 13, 2010 – When Hollywood scripts call for an exotic, colorful and distinctly Caribbean 

setting, there’s no better choice than Martinique. This vibrant slice of France in the Caribbean combines inspiring 

natural wonders and a rich cultural heritage, with sublime gastronomy, chic hotels de charme and ultra-modern 

infrastructure to create the ultimate Caribbean film location. 

“Martinique has enjoyed a long and successful marriage with Hollywood, dating all the way back to 1944 and the 

Bogart and Bacall classic, To Have and Have Not,” says Muriel Wiltord, Director Americas for the Martinique 

Promotion Bureau/CMT USA. “Today, Martinique still has it when it comes to meeting the needs of the most 

demanding filmmakers. As was the case with The Thomas Crown Affair in 1999 and Jonathan Demmeʼs The Truth 

About Charlie in 2002, the Martinique Promotion Bureau stands ready with the talent and experience to meet the 

needs of virtually any film production.” 

As an overseas region of France (equivalent to Hawaiiʼs status with the United States), Martinique boasts the most 

advanced infrastructure in the Caribbean. Film crews benefit from the islandʼs exceptional roads and highways, 

modern hospitals and emergency services, reliable electrical and high-speed internet service, state-of-the-art 

communications systems, and safe drinking water. 

In terms of backdrops and locations, Martinique can support a wide range of tropical settings owing to the islandʼs 

diverse topography, which changes dramatically from north to south. 

Lush, dense tropical rainforests blanket towering volcanic peaks to the north with black-sand beaches rimming the 

shoreline. Majestic Mount Pelée, Martiniqueʼs dormant volcano and tallest peak (4,600 feet), dominates the 

skyline, while the slightly smaller, yet equally spectacular Pitons du Carbet (4,000 feet) lay just to the south. This is 

prime hiking ground with refreshing springs and waterfalls dotting well-marked trails all sheltered by a tangle of 

ferns, bamboo and other exotic flora and fauna. 

Martiniqueʼs “waistline,” or central region, is where the island narrows along a spine of hills that get progressively 

smaller from north to south. This region is home to the alluvial plain of Lamentin, an extension of Fort-de-France 

Bay, and the largest of Martiniqueʼs coastal swamps of mangrove trees; an exceptional area for kayaking or 

canoeing 

In the south, small rocky hills known as mornes frame pristine, white-sand beach coves called anses. Some of the 

most idyllic, picturesque beaches in the Caribbean are found here. 

Martiniqueʼs surrounding waters add another dimension to film production possibilities with 48 satellite islands of 

varying shapes and sizes all located within easy access of the main island. 

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Martinique, Where Hollywood Movie Magic Is Made Easy 

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Filming options below the surface are no less alluring. The waters around Martinique are filled with abundant 

marine life, while the islandʼs 12 shipwrecks (many dating back to the early 1900ʼs), and unique dive experiences 

such as the undersea caverns below Le Rocher du Diamant (Diamond Rock) lend a sense of historic adventure and 

intrigue. 

“Our message to Hollywood is that Martinique is open for business and ready to assist you,” says Wiltord. “ 


The Caribbean island with French flair, The Isle of Flowers, The Rum Capital of the World, The Isle of 

the Famed Poet (Aimé Césaire) – by any one of its many names Martinique remains one of the most 

alluring and enchanting destinations in the world; as unforgettable as a summer romance or a first 

kiss. Martinique is an overseas region of France, and in keeping with its traditions, this vibrant island 

stirs the passions with awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, distinctive culinary delights, 

warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. 

The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel 


finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be 

sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 



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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


WHAT’S NEW IN MARTINIQUE FOR 2010 

New hotel openings, renovations and enhanced attractions headline the latest enhancements 

NEW YORK, NY – October 20, 2009 – Martinique continues to expand and enhance its tourism product for 2010, 

welcoming two new boutique “hotels de charme,” as well as a new hotel renovation and enhancements to an 

ecotourism attraction to entice visitors like never before. 

New Hotel de Charme – La Suite Villa 

Combining intimacy, luxury and convenience, this new boutique property boasts an ideal location across the Bay 

from the capital city of Fort-de-France in the hills above the scenic seaside village of Trois-Ilets. From here guests 

enjoy quick and easy access to Martinique’s only golf course (The Empress Josephine Golf Course), the island’s 

newest casino (Casino des Trois-Ilets), tennis, beaches and the shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife in Trois- 

Ilets’ vibrant Point du Bout resort area. 

As La Suite Villa is wonderfully suited for honeymoon/romance travelers and offers a wealth of elegant comforts, it 

is conceivable guests won’t take advantage of all that its surrounding area has to offer. La Suite Villa is comprised 

of a charming main house constructed in the island’s traditional Creole style with six suites. Each suite is tastefully 

furnished and equipped with its own Jacuzzi. Inspiring panoramic views add to the romance. 

In addition to the six suites, La Suite Villa offers nine private villas. Available in two- or three-room layouts, the 

colorful Creole-style villas offer exceptional privacy and comfort. Each villa has its own private garden, covered 

terrace, outdoor shower, solarium and Jacuzzi. 

For dining, the La Suite Villa restaurant and bar features French-Creole specialties in a warm, friendly atmosphere. 

As an added special touch, the property invites local artists (painters and sculptors) to showcase their work and the 

passion they put into it. A magnificent infinity pool overlooking the Bay of Fort-de-France is also on-site. 

For more information on La Suite Villa, visit www.la-suite-villa.com. 

New Hotel de Charme – Pomme Cannelle Village 

Nestled in Martinique’s lush, mountainous northern region in the town of Le Prêcheur, the new Pomme Cannelle 

Village is one of Martinique’s newest boutique “hotels de charme” having celebrated its grand opening in May 2009. 

A colorful, intimate property, the Pomme Cannelle Village evokes the warm familial feel of a traditional Martinican 

Creole village updated with all the comforts and amenities required by today’s modern travelers. 

The property is absolutely ideal for families, couples and independent travelers interested in enjoying Martinique’s 

nearby rainforest, hiking excursions and other eco-/adventure-tourism pursuits. Pomme Cannelle Village offers 16 

guest apartments each including air-conditioning, a fully equipped kitchenette, color-TV, and high-speed Internet 

service. Seven of the 16 total guest apartments are also specially outfitted to accommodate disabled persons. 

Guests can also enjoy the property’s cascading infinity pool overlooking the shimmering Caribbean Sea below and 

fantastic views of Martinique’s highest peak, 4,582-foot Mt. Pelee. 

For more information on Pomme Cannelle Village, visit www.villagepommecannelle.com. 

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What’s New In Martinique For 2010 

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Hotel Renovation – The Hotel L’Impératrice 

Located in the heart of the capital city, Fort-de-France, The Hotel L’Impératrice was originally built in the 1950’s and 

named in honor of Empress Josephine, Napoleon’s wife and one of Martinique’s most famous figures. Completely 

renovated in 2009, the property still retains much of its authentic Old World charm with antique furnishings and 

artifacts outfitting its 24 guestrooms. The property is located along La Savane, a sprawling promenade currently 

undergoing its own facelift just off the Fort-de-France waterfront. This is a city hotel popular with business travelers 

with balconies overlooking bustling streets, and also among the best spots to experience the full pageantry of 

Martinique Carnival. 

Enhanced Ecotourism Attraction – Maison de la Nature 

Located in Martinique’s lush central region in the town of Morne Rouge, La Maison de la Nature offers a peaceful, 

relaxing ecotourism experience with some of the island’s best views of Mount Pelee. Recently expanded and 

renovated with the installation of new signage and information kiosks, the facility will re-open October 10, 2009. 

Here nature lovers can enjoy 100+ species of tropical plants laid out along a three-kilometer secure hiking trail 

through the rainforest. A wide range of hiking itineraries are available, stretching from a few minutes to a full-hour, 

allowing visitors to enjoy La Maison de la Nature at their own pace. Picnic areas and an exhibition hall are also 

available for special events. 

For more information on La Maison de la Nature, contact: 011 (596) 596 52 33 49. 





kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2008” by Caribbean World Magazine, Martinique is an 

overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary delights, awe-inspiring 

natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, Empress 

Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The 

finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available here. La 

Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des 

Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 



# # #




T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


2009 MARTINIQUE JAZZ FESTIVAL LINEUP RELEASED 

Caribbean’s longest running jazz fest dating back to 1983 to be held Nov. 26 to Dec. 6 

NEW YORK, NY – October 20, 2009 – Melodious musique de jazz will fill the air once more this fall as the 

Caribbean’s longest running jazz festival, the Martinique Jazz Festival, will be held November 26 to December 6. 

The festival, which dates back to 1983, has long provided a showcase for local and international artists to share 

their talents with a lively and appreciative crowd of music lovers from all corners of the globe. This year will be no 

exception, as a solid line-up of musicians are set to combine with interactive master classes, film screenings and 

exhibits to create the ultimate jazz experience under the warm Caribbean sun. 

Among the international artists scheduled to perform are Elizabeth Kontomanou (France), the Kenny Barron Trio 

(USA), and Lionel Loueke (Bénin/USA). A highlight of the event will no doubt be the performance of steel pan 

master, Andy Narell (USA), who will team with calypso legend, Relator (Trinidad) to perform innovative “PanJazz” 

selections from their new album, University of Calypso. 

Muriel Wiltord, director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, commented on the festival, 

stating: “Over the years, the Martinique Jazz Festival has attracted some of the biggest names in jazz and scores 

of their fans to our shores. We look forward to more of the same in 2009 and beyond.” 

Jazz luminaries who have performed at the Martinique Jazz Festival in years past include the Marsalis brothers, 

Dee Dee Bridgewater, Paquito d’Rivera, Chucho Valdes, and many more. 

Martinique Jazz Festival performances will be held primarily at L’Atrium, in the capital city, Fort-de-France, with 

additional concerts and events held in the towns of Sainte Anne, Sainte Marie, Lamentin, Riviere Salee, Sainte 

Luce and the La Pagerie Museum in Trois-Ilets, childhood home of Empress Josephine. 

For more information, including performance schedules, ticket information and more, contact Le Centre 

Martiniquais d'Action Culturelle (www.cmac.asso.fr) at Tel: 011 596 596 70 79 29, or Email: 

communication@cmac.asso.fr. 





first kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2008” by Caribbean World Magazine, Martinique 

is an overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary delights, aweinspiring 

natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, 

Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found 

here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available 

here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed 

Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est 

magnifique! 



# # #




T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE NAMED TOP CARIBBEAN DESTINATION FOR DELECTABLE DINING BY 

CARIBBEAN TRAVEL + LIFE MAGAZINE 

Isle of Flowers bests St. Martin, Barbados & Puerto Rico netting 43% of 807 votes in online reader survey 

NEW YORK, NY – October 20, 2009 – Martinique’s status as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean” was 

confirmed recently in a Caribbean Travel + Life Magazine survey asking readers to name their favorite Caribbean 

destination for delectable dining. Martinique garnered 43.3% of the 807 votes cast over the one-month survey 

period, besting the likes of St. Martin (28.87%), Puerto Rico (14.13%) and Barbados (13.63%). 

Muriel Wiltord, director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, commented on the survey 

results, stating: “Caribbean Travel + Life readers are certainly among the most knowledgeable when it comes to 

the best that our region has to offer, so it’s especially gratifying to be recognized by them in this way.” 

Martinique boasts a vibrant and eclectic culinary scene with local and international chefs elevating gastronomy to 

an art form. Traditional French cuisine is widely available throughout the island and rivals that found in Paris, but 

what really sets Martinique apart is its Creole flair. A sublime blend of African, Indian, European and Caribbean 

flavors, Martinique's Creole culinary creations keep visitors coming back again and again. 

The Caribbean Travel + Life honor is the second such notable recognition of Martinique’s culinary wonders in as 

many years. In November 2008 Caribbean World Magazine named Martinique “Best Gourmet Island of the Year”. 












magnifique! 



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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE CALENDAR OF EVENTS – 2010 

Fun-filled events blossom throughout the year on the 'Isle of Flowers' 

NEW YORK, NY – October 20, 2009 – Like any très chic exotic beauty, Martinique enjoys an active and exciting 

social schedule year after year. Of course 2010 is no exception, with a series of unique cultural, sporting and 

music events planned to delight visitors and locals alike. Among the more prominent events taking place in 

Martinique in 2010 are the following: 

February 14-17 – Carnival 

From Rio to Trinidad to New Orleans, the world’s most celebrated pre-Lenten Carnival fetes all pale in 

comparison to Martinique’s Carnival in one key area – length. Each year as revelers in other Carnival hot spots 

wind down with the close of Shrove Tuesday, the party in Martinique keeps going, reaching a decadent climax on 

one of the most solemn days on the Christian calendar, Ash Wednesday. The fitting theme for Martinique’s 

“bonus” days of revelry – “Rejoice Today, Repent Tomorrow.” 

May 2010 – May in Saint Pierre 

Formerly known as the Paris of the Caribbean, the northern coastal town of Saint Pierre was instantly transformed 

into the Pompeii of the Caribbean when on May 8, 1902 Mount Pelee erupted. Out of the centuries-old 

destruction Saint Pierre has emerged a quaint yet vibrant town, offering visitors a unique view of the island’s 

storied past. The May in Saint Pierre event commemorates the anniversary of the eruption with a series of 

lectures, presentations and guided tours offering greater insight into this historic event. 

May – Sainte Marie Culinary Week 

Martinique shares, with distinctive panache, mainland France’s love for gastronomy. One of the best expressions 

of this passion occurs each year during Sainte-Marie Culinary Week, a weeklong festival celebrating Martinique’s 

unique gastronomic heritage and traditions. At the center of the festivities is a cooking competition. Each year, 

several local food products are chosen for competing chefs to use as the centerpiece of their culinary creations. 

The competition extends throughout the week, with special dinners, cooking demonstrations, a street fair and 

more providing an in-depth introduction to Martinique’s culinary scene. 

June 21 – Fête de la Musique 

Some of the world’s greatest musical forms hail from the Caribbean, with reggae (Jamaica) and calypso (Trinidad) 

the most widely known, but true music lovers know that Martinique also ranks among the music capitals of the 

region. Martinique is the birthplace of Zouk, a rhythmic music developed in the 1980’s through a mix of many 

different styles, including compas, balakadri, cadence and bal granmoun, mazurka and biguine, French and 

American pop, and kadans, gwo ka and other indigenous styles. La Fête de la Musique is a celebration of 

Martinique’s rich musical tradition with free concerts performed in the streets throughout the island. 

July – 26th Tour des Yoles Rondes 

Carnival and sea are brought together for a celebration unlike any other during Martinique’s famed Yawl Boat 

Race (Tour des Yoles Rondes). Held each summer over a one-week period, the Yawl Race attracts local and 

international yachtsmen skilled in sailing traditional yawl boats for a race around the island. The race is contested 

in stages with throngs of locals and visitors crowding the shores to cheer on the racers. Carnival-style 

celebrations punctuate each day’s victory earned along the way, while on the high seas hundreds of yachts, 

catamarans, speedboats, and other private vessels trail the racers, partying along the way. 

-- more --

Martinique Calendar of Events – 2010 

Page 2 

July – Le Tour de Martinique 

Le Tour de Martinique is a smaller version of the famed Le Tour de France bicycle race. Just like it’s larger 

cousin, Le Tour de Martinique is held each summer and features and international field of riders competing in 

stages. The race reaches virtually every corner of the island, with fans and spectators lining the day’s route to 

offer cheers and support. 

November – La Belle Martinique 

Less competitive than Le Tour de Martinique, this amateur cycling race is ideal for recreational riders seeking an 

alternate way to tour The Isle of Flowers. Local as well as visiting riders participate annually, with crowds lining 

the course each day. 

December – Martinique Jazz Festival 

The Caribbean’s longest running jazz festival, the Martinique Jazz Festival has long provided a showcase for local 

and international artists to share their talents with a lively and appreciative crowd of music lovers from all corners 

of the globe. Jazz luminaries who have performed at the Martinique Jazz Festival in years past include the 

Marsalis brothers, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Paquito d’Rivera, Chucho Valdes, and many more. 












magnifique! 



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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE FAST FACTS – 2009 / 2010 













~THE BASICS~ 































Accommodations – Martinique is home to 6000 +, 






-- more --




By Air – AA/AA Eagle connects via San Juan daily. 

Air France operates daily from Miami. Air Jamaica and 

Caribbean Airlines service from NY connects with LIAT 

in Antigua or Barbados. Air Caraibes flies to/from 

Antigua, Barbados, Dominica Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, St. 

Martin, St Vincent and Trinidad. 


include Azamara Cruises, Holland America Line, MSC 

Italian Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. 






arrivals. 






Getting Around by Rental Car – 5,431 cars 

available for rentals Driving is on the right with cars 

provided by Avis, Budget, Hertz and more. A valid 

driver’s license is required; min. age is 21. 
























































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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE FAST FACTS – 2008 / 2009 













~THE BASICS~ 































Accommodations – Martinique is home to 6,000+ 






-- more --




By Air – AA/AA Eagle connects via San Juan daily. 

Air France operates daily from Miami. Air Jamaica and 

Caribbean Airlines service from NY connects with LIAT 

in Antigua or Barbados. Air Caraibes flies to/from 

Antigua, Barbados, Dominica Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, St. 

Martin, St Vincent and Trinidad. 


include Azamara, Costa, HAL, MSC, P&O, RCCL, 

Seabourn, Silversea, Star Clippers and Windstar. 






arrivals. 






Getting Around by Rental Car – Driving is on 

the right with cars provided by Avis, Budget, Hertz and 

more. A valid driver’s license is required; min. age is 21. 
























































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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


AMERICAN EAGLE AIRLINES EXPANDS SERVICE TO MARTINIQUE 

New daily flights between San Juan and Fort-de-France begin May 1 

NEW YORK, NY – March 24, 2009 – Martinique has become more accessible to U.S. travelers thanks to newly 

expanded service from American Eagle Airlines. Beginning May 1, 2009, American Eagle will offer daily service 

between its hub in San Juan, Puerto Rico and Fort-de-France, the capital of Martinique. The new daily service 

replaces previous American Eagle service, which operated four times weekly. 

Muriel Wiltord, director of the Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA, commented on the 

expanded service, saying: “This is a wonderful boost for tourism in Martinique following the just concluded general 

strike among our local unions. The strike may have had a minimal impact on tourism, but we intend to put forth a 

maximum effort to ensure a successful year for our travel industry partners and visitors to the island. This is a great 

start to that maximum effort, and I hope to have more good news to share soon.” 

The new American Eagle service to Martinique will operate daily as follows: 

From San Juan to Fort-de-France 

Flight # 5020 – Departure 7:15 p.m.; Arrival 9:06 p.m. 

From Fort-de-France to San Juan 

Flight # 5021 – Departure 7:24 a.m.; Arrival 9:25 a.m. 

For American Eagle Airlines reservations, fares and more information, visit www.aa.com. 





kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2008” by Caribbean World Magazine, Martinique is an 

overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary delights, awe-inspiring 

natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, Empress 

Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The 

finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available here. La 

Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des 

Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 



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T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE PROMOTION BUREAU/CMT USA SETS DIVE PACKAGES 

Five-night packages including hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, rental car and six dives start at just $495 

NEW YORK, NY – June 11, 2009 – The Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA (www.martinique.org) has 

partnered with a collection of PADI certified dive operators and hotels to create new value-priced dive packages. 

Valid for travel through December 14, 2009, the new six-day/five-night packages include hotel accommodations, 

daily breakfast, rental car and six dives starting at just $495 per-person. 

The new Martinique dive packages offer a choice of three hotel options – the Karibea Amandiers Resort, the 

Blue Season Hotel Carayou and Villa Saint Pierre, one of the island’s newest and most intimate properties, its 

nine rooms having welcomed their first guests in late-2008. Nine participating dive operators are spread 

throughout the island, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the full breadth of Martinique’s dive product. 

Though boasting rich marine life, excellent visibility and a diverse array of natural and man-made undersea 

environs, Martinique’s dive offerings remain virtually undiscovered in the U.S. 

“Martinique is the new frontier in Caribbean diving,” said Muriel Wiltord, director of the Americas for the 

Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA. “The island’s unique combination of modern tourism infrastructure and 

diverse, virtually untapped undersea wonders enables Martinique to best meet the needs of today’s discerning 

dive enthusiasts.” 

Martinique’s dive product is distinguished by expansive caves, dramatic offshore rocks, vibrant fringing coral 

reefs, unique plates and one of the Caribbean’s largest collection of wrecks. Some 12 wreck sites, a few 

accessible with just snorkel gear, are found off Martinique’s shores. Most of the wrecks were caused by the 

historic 1902 eruption of Mount Pelée, which forever converted the Paris of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, into the 

Pompeii of the Caribbean. 

For reservations and more information on dive packages to Martinique, please contact the Martinique Promotion 

Bureau/CMT USA at Email: centrale@martiniquetourisme.com, or Tel: 212-838-6887. 





first kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2008” by Caribbean World Magazine, 

Martinique is an overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary delights, 

awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s 

bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is 

found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily 

available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s 

famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – 


# # #




T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


MARTINIQUE SALUTES PRESIDENT OBAMA, NAMING STREET IN HIS HONOR 

Rue Obama extends from the heart of the picturesque city of Le Diamant to the sea 

NEW YORK, NY – June 11, 2009 – The French Caribbean island of Martinique has commemorated Barack 

Obama’s historic ascension to the presidency of the United States by naming a street in his honor. The newly 

dubbed Rue Obama extends from the heart of the picturesque city of Le Diamant, located along the island’s pristine 

southern coast, to the sea. Fittingly, the street measures 144 meters for the 44th President of the United States. 

Muriel Wiltord, director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA, commented on the designation, 

stating: “Here in Martinique, as in other communities around the world that boast a predominantly African heritage, 

we are extremely proud and excited about President Obama’s victory. Our own Aimé Césaire was a crusader for 

Civil Rights in the Caribbean and Europe on a comparable level to great American leaders like Martin Luther King, 

so for us the victory is all the more sweet. Our hats go off to Gilbert Eustache, Mayor of Le Diamant, for leading the 

street-naming effort, giving voice to the pride shared by all Martinicans at this touchstone event that brings us one 

large step closer to realizing the brighter tomorrow that Césaire and others fought their whole lives to achieve.” 

Martinique’s favorite son, Aimé Césaire is widely hailed as a principal crusader for civil rights within the Caribbean, 

Africa, Europe, and beyond through his writings and in his 55 years serving as Mayor of Martinique’s capital, Fortde-France. 

Most notably, he is credited with developing “la negritude,” an artistic and cultural movement designed 

to encourage black youths to maintain a positive racial identity. 

Césaire passed away in April 2008 at the age of 94. 





kiss. Martinique is an overseas region of France, and in keeping with its traditions, this vibrant island 

stirs the passions with awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, distinctive culinary delights, 

warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. 

The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel 


finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be 

sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique! 



# # #




T: 212-745-0970 T: 954-566-1522 


CARNIVAL TAKES TO THE HIGH SEAS DURING MARTINIQUE’S YAWL BOAT RACE 

25 th annual Tour des Yoles Rondes to be held July 26 to August 2, 2009 

NEW YORK, NY – June 11, 2009 – Carnival is to the Caribbean as fish are to the sea – one simply cannot exist 

without the other. In Martinique, the analogy is taken one step further when carnival and sea are brought 

together for a celebration unlike any other, the famed Yawl Boat Race (Tour des Yoles Rondes). A yearly 

highlight of the Martinican social calendar, the Yawl Boat Race will be contested this year between July 26 and 

August 2, literally encircling the Isle of Flowers with the boundless spirit of carnival, replete with pulsating 

rhythms, prodigious libations and nonstop parties. 

“This is a uniquely Martinican cultural event that gives a wonderful expression of our seafaring past and the 

importance that the daily catch still holds in our society today,” said Muriel Wiltord, director of the Americas for 

the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA. “At the same time, it’s a great party with daily celebrations across 

the island open to all.” 

Yawl boats featured in the race are constructed with painstaking detail in the grand tradition of Martinican fishing 

vessels initially developed by local craftsmen in the 70’s. Each vessel flies brightly colored rectangular sails 

over rounded canoe-like wooden hulls made from local Pear trees. As distinctive in style as they are 

challenging to sail, quick and agile yawl boats test the mettle of even the most experienced sailors; their 

rounded hulls ensuring an instant capsize if ever the vessels should come to a stop at sea. 

This year’s race departs initially from the picturesque seaside village of Vauclin, continuing in a counterclockwise 

fashion around the island in seven stages. Teams representing various towns across Martinique 

compete alongside international competitors from neighboring islands. Visitors and locals turn out by the 

thousands each day of the race to offer vociferous support and enjoy the festivities. 

As is the case with traditional land-based carnival celebrations, the Yawl Boat Race is a spectacle of color. 

Each vessel is brightly festooned for the occasion with crewmembers sporting matching corporate-sponsored 

race-wear akin to that of a Formula One race team. Carnival-style celebrations punctuate each day’s victory 

with the largest spectacle reserved for the race finale and the crowning of the overall winner. 

Throughout the race, the party extends to the high seas where hundreds of yachts, catamarans, speedboats, 

and other private vessels trail the racers, partying along the way. Charter boat operators offer affordable race 

packages, including meals, excursions to secluded beaches and more, enabling visitors to experience the race 

up-close and at sea. 

Whether experienced on land or by sea, the Yawl Boat Race is a uniquely Martinican take on traditional 

Caribbean carnival that is not to be missed. 

-- more --

Martinique Yawl Boat Race – July 26 to August 2, 2009 

Page 2 

For more information on the 2009 Yawl Boat Race, including the latest details on tour and charter packages, 

travel agent referrals, and more, please contact the Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT USA at Tel: 212-838- 

6887, or Email: info@martinique.org. 





first kiss. Named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2008” by Caribbean World Magazine, 

Martinique is an overseas region of France that stirs the passions with distinctive culinary delights, 

awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s 

bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is 

found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily 

available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s 

famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – 


# # #

for immediate release martinique launches new 'summer spectacular'

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