The Martinican tradition is in the image of its very mixed population and influenced by the different populations resulting from the different waves of immigration. Thus, in Martinique we can distinguish different more or less important contributions of European culture arrived on the island in the 16th century, of African culture brought by the former slaves who came to work on the island but also Indian, who came at the end of the century. slavery for paid jobs and finally traces of the culture of the Caribbean, the first population of the island.
Obviously, Martinique as French department, share with the Metropolitis as well the use of French language, European dress codes but also its renowned cuisine combined with local spices and flavors. For example, you can enjoy in the restaurants on the island beef bourguignon with "légumes péi" (local vegetables : yams, breadfruit, dasheen, banana vegetable, yellow bananas). The coq au vin is often like in France as New Year's Day meal and enjoyed with family.
Martinique's cuisine is undoubtedly one of the main assets of Martinican culture. Meat cooked with local spices and vegetables are cooked in the country several times a week, blends from different cultures are sure to delight your palate. Indeed, It would be very damaging to visit the island without attending its many restaurants and sample exotic local fruits and vegetables.
But although the European is the higher culture, it has always had this contribution from Africa with such community life where people live in mutual with the practice of "coud'main" (Service generously and freely given) . It is not uncommon to see a neighbor give his opposite the fruit harvested from his land.
Ritual side, at funerals, family and mourners dressed in white (white is worn when mourning in Africa and means the resurrection of the body) and black from Europe.
The most visible contribution came from India remains the "madras" tissue and the frequent use of spices such as Colombo (mixture of spices used in the preparation of meat). Martinique's culture is very colorful, whether in clothing where colors are popular or highly colored by the various fruits and vegetables sold on market stalls. Thus the large Grand marché de Fort-de-France (Big market) and its lively atmosphere with the cries of merchants and customers is a strategic place to watch closer the Martinique animated life.
Martinican woman is very distinguished. She loves jewelry and be elegant it is obvious. She wears very often gold jewelry legacy of the Indian and African culture. It is the heart of the family taking care of the education of children often in single-parent families. Very popular in Martinique by the ancients, cock fights are subject to bet lovers. Large sums are wagered in the overheated and feverish arenas planned for the occasion.
Other popular leisure and away the highlight of the year in Martinique is the Tour des Yoles Rondes. Fascinated by the sea, Martinique and highly appreciates fishing, and throughout the years, these races indulged by fishermen edges of their boats, wooden skiffs structure at the point will become unmanageable. Held in late July-early August, prepare early if you want to get there, the beaches are steps stormed at dawn to get the best seats. Of course do not forget your bathing suit and towel, races do not stop to enjoy the beach.
If you opt for a holiday earlier in the year, target the "fat days" where you can participate in the Carnival of Fort de France and in other towns of the island. Behind a giant model made for the occasion "Vaval" you will see closer the frenzied atmosphere of the Caribbean Carnival where colors and rhythmic music will obviously be at the rendezvous.
