Martinique
About Martinique
Currency | Euro (EUR) |
Language | French |
Capital | Fort-de-France |
Martinique is one of the Windward Islands in the Caribbean Sea, south of St. Lucia. The island is an Overseas Department of France. The population is about 400,000 people, and they are French citizens. Since Martinique is a region of France, it is part of the European Union.
The government of Martinique consists of a General Council and the president of the General Council, and members are elected by popular vote. There is a Regional Council, also with a president, and members are also elected by popular vote. Martinique has two seats in the French Senate and has four seats in the French National Assembly.
The island was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502. French settlers arrived in Martinique in 1635, and France officially annexed the island in 1674. The people of Martinique are highly literate and mainly employed in the tourist sector. The culture is a blend of French and West Indian lifestyles. Tourists are attracted by the tropical climate, scenery, and beaches.
Recommended Vaccinations For Martinique
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Yellow Fever Vaccine
The yellow fever vaccination is not recommended for this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies Vaccine
Rabies may occur in bats in this country. Rabies vaccination is recommended for travellers who may come in contact with bats (i. e. cavers, adventure travellers, researchers, and anyone working with bats).
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Recommended Medications For Martinique
There are no recommendations for Martinique at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Martinique
For Most Travellers
Dengue Fever
There is a risk of dengue in Martinique.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Martinique.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Martinique through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
For Some Travellers
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers 1 year of age and older arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Schistosomiasis
The parasite that causes schistosomiasis is found in rural areas of Martinique. It is acquired through contact with fresh water, such as swimming, bathing, or rafting. Well-chlorinated swimming pools and contact with saltwater in oceans or seas will not put travellers at risk for schistosomiasis.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Zika Fever
There is a very low risk of Zika Fever in this country.
Safety & Security in Martinique
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no safety or security problems. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur in any crowded area or tourist destination. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.
LGBTI traveller should note that there are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations.
Political Unrest
Demonstrations or protest rallies may occur. Travellers are advised to avoid the areas of protest, as they may turn violent at any time.