Guadeloupe comprises the butterfly-shaped islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre and the nearby smaller islands of La Desirade, Marie-Galante and Les Saintes.

The islands were discovered by Columbus in 1493, became a French colony in 1635 and, in 1946, were given the status of a French Overseas Department. As a result they retain their strong French influence, from the local flavours and ingredients to the currency.

Beaches and rainforest
The islands have lovely white sand beaches but also a wildlife-infested rainforest and the highest waterfall in the Caribbean. Basse-Terre has a rough volcanic terrain; Grande-Terre has rolling hills and flat plains. There are also lush mountainous areas with stunning and unspoiled tropical scenery.

The islands are a divers' paradise, described by Jacques Cousteau as among the top 10 dive sites in the world.

Island nightlife
Guadeloupe boasts plenty of restaurants, bars and discos, with displays of local dancing and music. The famous dance of the island is called the biguine, where colorful and ornate Creole costumes are still worn. Don't forget to try the famous rum punch cocktails - rum with lime, bitter and syrup.