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 snowmen, 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 is 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 cuisines. What are your Christmas plans?
Happenings
December approaches and this means that Christmas shopping begins. Go to your local travel agent and asks about the annual one-day shopping spree via l’express des Iles. Shopping experiences will be accommodated at four malls in Martinique; Kiabi, La Galleria, Carrefour and Hyper U. In Dominica, a Hair Festival will be hosted at Palm Cottage in December. This festival will feature free hair and scalp consultations, free hair sample products, on-site hairstyles, nutritional talks and a session on Alopecia. This event is organized by Caribbean Beauty Salon and Clinic.
Neighbourly GetAways
Taking a trip through the Island Neighbours is the perfect holiday present. Here’s what we suggest. Travel to the north east 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.
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
Traveling during Christmas
I want to go diving – Je tiens à faire de la plongée
Where are the beaches located? – Où sont les plages situées?
Where can I find a taxi? – Où puis-je trouver un taxi?
I am on vacation – Je suis en vacances.
Please take my picture – Veuillez prendre ma photo
Where can I go Christmas caroling? – Où puis-je passer Noël verges ( pomlázka )?
How much should I pay for the tour? – Combien dois-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? – Où puis-je trouver une cascade ?