Features

Christmas Approaches

ADMIT it. You look forward to Christmas because of the likelihood of receiving a present. Who doesn’t? Here in the Island Neighbours, we love gifts regardless of the form in which they appear; tangible or intangible. Whereas our ancestors from the European metropolis enjoy the frosty atmosphere with snow men, old tales of gift-giving and old, bearded men who rode deer-driven sleighs, citizens of the Island Neighbours enjoy Christmas West Indian style.

Aptly defined as a time of rum drinking, cake baking and partying, this is indeed the perfect gift that you can give this festive season – an all-expense paid trip to one of the Island Neighbours. Christmas in Dominica mirrors that which occurs in St. Lucia. It is filled with family gatherings and house-to-house festivities. The best cooking is often reserved for this time as guests are expected to flood households.

While the French Departments are not as elaborately charged in their Christmas festivities as Dominica and St. Lucia, a festive aura still remains as rum drinking and shopping are at an all-time high. Given our similar historical navel, a visit to any of the Island Neighbours during Christmas should be a “home away from home” scenario. After all, we embrace similar linguistic strings and cuisine. What are your Christmas plans? Share with us on Facebook: Island Neighbours!

Happenings
December approaches and this means that Christmas shopping begins. On December 13, a one-day shopping spree via L’Express des Iles will be hosted. Shopping experiences will be accommodated at four malls in Martinique: Kiabi, La Galleria, Carrefour, and Hyper U. In Dominica, find that unique Christmas present at Fred’s at Romance Café, Mero Beach as they host a Christmas book sale in the midst of an afternoon of reading by Waitukubuli Writers & Associates. This event takes place on Sunday, December 10 under the theme, “Books on the Beach”.
While we gear up for Christmas shopping, let us take some time to remember the AIDS victims in our midst. On December 1, the world celebrates World AIDS Day. We take this opportunity to encourage you to practice the ABCD: Abstain! Be Faithful! Condomize! Do the Test!
Visit one of your local health establishments for more information.

Neighbourly GetAways
Taking a trip through the Island Neighbours is the perfect holiday present. Here’s what we suggest. Travel to the northeast of Martinique to visit the Mount Pelee. Learn about its rise to volcanic power, its destructive path and what the future likely holds for this giant of the Earth. When you are finished in the isle of flowers, visit Marie Galante for a relaxing eco-vacation as you enjoy the waters of Grand Bourg and the superb sandy beaches.

History
Historical note! Did you know that Marie Galante was named after one of Christopher Columbus’ ships — Santa Maria Galanda? Get to know your neighbours!

A bit of the French for the Visitor
Travelling during Christmas
I want to go diving – Je tiens à faire de la plongée.
Where are the beaches located? – Oùsont les plagessituées?
Where can I find a taxi? – Oùpuis-je trouverun taxi?
I am on vacation – Je suisenvacances.
Please take my picture – Veuillezprendre ma photo.
Where can I go Christmas caroling? — Oùpuis-je passer Noël verges (pomlázka)?
How much should I pay for the tour? — Combiendois-je payer pour le voyage?
Take me to the best diving spots — Prenez-moi à les meilleurs sites de plongée.
Where can I find a waterfall? — Oùpuis-je trouverune cascade?

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