2 2 3 is formed by two parallel streets lined with Creole houses that lie between the sea and forest. This popularity has driven the construction of two cruise terminals in downtown Pointe-à-Pitre, which is classified as a city of arts and history, enabling the port to offer safe, high-quality services to cruise lines and their passengers. The southern island of Les Saintes has also become an increasingly important destination for cruise lines thanks to its landscapes and small village atmosphere. Nearby Terre-de-Haut is known for its beautiful bays, while Terre-de-Bas delights hikers and bird enthusiasts with its unspoiled nature. Beyond its natural heritage, Guadeloupe also has a rich cultural tapestry shaped by African, Indian, South American, Syrian-Lebanese and European influences. This complex history can be seen throughout the islands’ gastronomy, architecture, painting, sculpture, music, dance and the conviviality of its inhabitants. Basse-Terre, for example, offers cruise visitors the chance to discover the heritage of the administrative capital, as well as pre-Columbian site, the ‘Fort Delgrès’ and the volcano ‘La Souffrière’ called ‘The old lady’. Rum is also central to life in Guadeloupe. It has been produced there for more than three centuries in distilleries that continue to be run by local families. There are 10 distilleries and nearly 13,200 hectares of sugar cane on Guadeloupean farmland, making rum tastings a popular activity with cruise guests. In addition, Guadeloupe hosts multiple events to celebrate the spirit, including the ‘Arts and Rum’ event, which combines rum tasting with a street art tour. In June 2022, Guadeloupe will also host the 23rd edition of the Spirits Selection Competition, allowing local producers to showcase their distillation knowledge and expertise. “A visit to Guadeloupe is a soulful experience, with surprising and beautiful opportunities to indulge in the islands’ landscapes and culture,” says Willy Rosier, the executive director of the Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board. CFR “ A visit to Guadeloupe is a soulful experience” Guadeloupe’s natural beauty has made the island a hotspot for ecotourism Photo: Tony COCO-VILOIN on Unsplash
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