Guadeloupe is one of the 3 outermost regions of the EU in the Caribbean. It is a well-developed island with European standards of living. The safety of the island, its turquoise waters and variety of beautiful beaches, festivals, nightlife and much more attract thousands of tourists each year. Although the island is generally considered one of the safest in the Caribbean, there are still hazards to look out for.

Travelling info

The citizens of the USA, Australia, Canada do not require to obtain a visa for a stay of up to 3 months however they require a valid passport and a return or continuing ticket. EU nationals can travel to Guadeloupe without a passport however they require their national ID card. Visa is not required however staying for longer than 3 months requires registration at the prefecture to apply for a “Carte de Sejour” Any other nationalities must obtain a Visa or obtain a long-stay Visa. (link in sources) The driving laws (like all other) in Guadeloupe are the same as in France which means that EU citizens can drive using their domestic driver permits however other nationalities are required to obtain an international driving permit. Such documents can only be issued by the driving department of the driver’s permit origin. Legal driving age is 18 however most car rental agencies require the age of 25 and 2 years of driving experience to rent a vehicle. The right-hand side of the road is used for driving.

Travelling hazards

Road conditions in Guadeloupe are considered the best in the eastern Caribbean. They are well paved and maintained. All roads have adequate road signs and most of the roads are well lit. The only dangerous parts of the roads are in the mountainside at night as these can be narrow, curvy, steep and not lit at some points which creates potential danger. Law is properly enforced by the police. Most locals are helpful in case of an accident.

Environmental hazards

Guadeloupe has no dangerous animals except for mosquitoes and centipedes. These are the only two posing any danger to humans. Waters of Guadeloupe are safe, only creatures to look out for are the sea urchins and occasional lionfish that may wander around however it will not attack unless harmed. Avoid swimming after dusk, shark attacks are very rare however these creatures tend to be active at that time of the day.
Guadeloupe experiences the cyclone season that begins in early June and ends in late November. During that time tropical cyclones can occur that might devastate the island.

Health hazards

It is required to present a proof of yellow fever vaccination if travelling to the island from a country with a risk of yellow fever. (list in sources) There are several other vaccines that are not required but recommended. Routine vaccines aka MMR vaccines, typhoid, rabies, hepatitis A and B vaccines. Healthcare in Guadeloupe is on the same level as in France. Specialists and emergency services are readily available and no emergency evacuations are needed. There is a number of public hospitals as well as many private clinics and hotel physicians. Be sure to purchase health insurance when travelling to the island.
In case of an emergency dial 911.

Crime

Crime in Guadeloupe is not a major concern and visitors can feel safe. However, that doesn’t mean the island is crime free. Most of the committed crime consists of petty offences such as pickpocketing or theft. Although the local police are effective and respond quickly, some stolen items may never be recovered therefore staying vigilant, wearing money belts to avoid pickpocketing, avoiding secluded places at night, travelling in groups if possible and storing your valuables and money in the hotel room safe is the best way to avoid any of these. Drugs laws are the same as in France, possession of drugs can result in a fine of 1800 euro or a maximum of 75 thousand euro and 5 years sentence.

Summary

Guadeloupe is a Caribbean island with a European standard of living. It is a safe destination with lots of wonderful places to visit, however, expect European prices when visiting. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visas)
https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/caribbean/guadeloupe/passport-visa/
(Vaccines)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/guadeloupe
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2018/infectious-diseases-related-to-travel/yellow-fever#5291