Martinique is one of the 3 of EUs outermost regions in the Caribbean. French laws, as well as the euro currency, apply here. Not only it is a direct province of France, but it is also the French cultural center in the Caribbean. This little bit of Europe in the Caribbean will offer you some of the finest cuisines in the region along with beautiful beaches and landscapes. Although Martinique is one of the safer locations in the Caribbean there still are hazards that visitors should beware of.

Travelling info

Visitors traveling from Canada, USA, Australia, and EU do not require a Visa for a stay of up to 3 months, in addition, the citizens of EU do not need a passport however they do require an ID card. All other nationalities require a Visa, it is best to check Visa availability with the nearest French embassy. The EU citizens staying for a period longer than 3 months are exempt from long-stay visa and need to register at the prefecture to apply for the “Carte de Sejour” All other nationals require a long-stay visa. French road regulations apply, drivers with EU permits can drive without the requirement to obtain an International Driving Permit.

Travelling hazards

There are very few road hazards to encounter in Martinique. Along with Guadeloupe, Martinique has the best roads in the eastern Caribbean. Roads are well paved, well maintained, both main and secondary roads are properly marked and have adequate signage. Police enforce the traffic laws well and accidents happen less frequently than in the rest of the region.

Environmental hazards

Martinique unlike most of the eastern Caribbean region is home to the spearhead snake known as Fer de Lance. Although no deaths have been recently attributed to the snake, an untreated bite may be fatal. Centipedes are not an uncommon sight on the island. These highly aggressive creatures have venom that can easily kill a young child, an elder or an allergic person. They reach lengths of up to 40 cm and move very quickly outpacing a small child. They mostly happen to reside in caverns, under rocks and deep forests however human households are not spared. When swimming looks out for sea urchins, the only danger they pose is if you step on them. Avoid swimming after dusk, although shark attacks are very rare, these creatures are most active at that time of the day.
Like all of the Caribbean, the island experiences a cyclone season that begins in early June and ends in late November. During that time, tropical cyclones may occur and have a devastating effect on the entire island.

Health hazards

Visitors traveling to Martinique from the countries with a risk of yellow fever are required to present a proof of yellow fever vaccination. There are other vaccines that are not required but strongly recommended. These include the routine vaccines aka MMR vaccines, typhoid, rabies, and hepatitis A and B vaccines. Healthcare in Martinique is considered some of the best in the eastern Caribbeans along with Guadeloupe. There is 20 hospitals and clinics on the island with a very high quality of service and specialists of all kind. Emergency services are available on the island and medical evacuation is not required.
In case of an emergency dial 911.

Crime

Martinique is among the safest of the Caribbean islands. Violent crime and armed robberies are very rare. Petty crime although is common. Thefts and pickpocketing happen to careless tourists. It is advised to stay vigilant, wear money belts to prevent pickpocketing, leaving bags or luggage unattended can result in theft, it is best to leave most of your money and valuables in the hotel room safe and to only carry a token amount for the day. Walking around at night in secluded places is also not advised, and if doing so it is best to stick to popular and crowded areas. Drug laws are the same as in France which means that possession of drugs depending on type and amount can range from 1800 euro fine up to 75 thousand euro fine and 5 years in prison.

Summary

As one of the safest islands in the region, Martinique is a very popular destination with lots of tourist attractions awaiting its visitors. 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

(Visa)
https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/caribbean/martinique/passport-visa/
(Vaccines)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/martinique