The Basics
Country: Guadeloupe
Where is it?: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Puerto Rico
Why do people go here?: French and African influences are easily seen, and the small offshore islands are real treats
What are the main entry points?: If you’re nearby, take a boat. Otherwise, fly from France, or Air France from the U.S.
Currency used: Euro (EUR); French franc (FRF)
Country Code: 590
Religion: Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 4%, Protestant 1%
Population: 500,000
Ethnic Breakdown: Black or mulatto 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
Government: Overseas department of France
Languages: French (official) 99%, Creole patois
Travel Information
Major Cities: Basse-Terre
Attractions: Afro-French style, Offshore Islands, Rum
Accommodation: Guadeloupe Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Guadeloupe-Office of Tourism (see French West Indies) 5 Square de la Banque Pointe-a-Pitre, Gaudaloupe +590-820930, 812483, 884874;;; //www.fgtousa.org/, www.frenchcaribbean.com/
Health Issues: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travelers over 1 year of age coming from infected areas.
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Spring is the most crowed, but also the best time to go, due to hurricanes, rain, and cool evenings in the winter.
Specific Events/Holidays: Bastille Day, 14 July (1789)
Getting Around: Buses on land, ferries on water
Good to know: Rum yum on this island
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airport to fly into Guadeloupe is the Guadeloupe Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Guadeloupe travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
