Martinique
Travel tips for Martinique: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cards widely accepted. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger towns, but you should carry euros for taxis, local markets, beach bars, and rural vendors.
Try the food
- Accras de morue: Crispy, deep-fried fritters made from a spiced batter of salted cod, herbs, and scotch bonnet peppers.
- Colombo de poulet: A hearty chicken stew simmered in a thick, mild curry sauce made with roasted coriander, mustard seeds, and turmeric.
- Blanc-manger coco: A sweet, gelatin-set dessert made from rich coconut milk, vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Say it in French
- Hello: Bonjour
- Thank you: Merci
- Please: S'il vous plaît
- Excuse me: Excusez-moi
- How much is this?: Combien ça coûte ?
- The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
- Yes / No: Oui / Non
- Goodbye: Au revoir
Essentials
- Voltage
- 230V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- SIM tip
- Pick up a prepaid SIM card from Orange, Digicel, or SFR at the airport or local kiosks, or install an eSIM like Airalo before your trip for instant data access.
Etiquette
Always greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a polite 'Bonjour' before asking a question or ordering, as skipping this greeting is considered rude.