Guadeloupe is made up of two main islands – Grande-Terre to the east and Basse-Terre to the west – as well as several smaller ones. Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre are so close together it’s difficult to see the separation, but their very different landscapes easily distinguish one from the other. The two islands are connected by a drawbridge which passes over the Riviere-Salee, a narrow four mile strait. Grande-Terre is a level land of sugarcane fields and low, chalky hills rimmed by stunning white-sand beaches perfect for sunbathing. Point - a - Pitre, Guadeloupe’s bustling port and commercial centre, sits on the island’s southwest side. Basse-Terre’s forest-covered mountains and volcanic peaks contrast sharply with Grande-Terre’s flatter limestone terrain.

The island’s waterfalls, lakes, hot springs, and mountain trails attract nature lovers. The capital city of Guadeloupe, also named Basse-Terre, is located on the island’s southwest edge. Pointe-a-Pitre is reminiscent of a French Riviera port. Tall, modern buildings provide a backdrop for the city’s tree-shaded historic area centered around the Place de la Victoire, where many quaint wooden houses with open air balconies date back to the island’s colonial days. The downtown open market is animated with the spirited sound of shoppers bargaining with vendors. Piles of papaya, breadfruit, tomatoes, and other produce fill the stalls.