Martinique / Health and Safety

Probably the greatest danger to travelers in the tropics is overexposure to the sun. Remember to work on your tan gradually and use plenty of sunscreen. Of course, it's also a good idea to take along some mosquito repellent. In shallow water, watch out for sea urchins, sharp coral and jellyfish. Always wear fins (palmes) when snorkeling and ask the locals about swimming and diving conditions before you go in the water.

Other than the rarely seen fer-de-lance, a poisonous snake in Martinique, there is not much in the way of really dangerous land critters in the French islands. However, the Manchineel tree (le Manceniller) puts out a highly toxic sap. You should never stand under one in the rain or taste its little green berries. These trees are usually marked with red paint by the locals. The Martinique tap water is drinkable in most places and excellent local bottled water is available in stores and restaurants.

MARTINIQUE / Health and Safety
Probably the greatest danger to travelers in the tropics is overexposure to the sun. Remember to work on your tan gradually and use plenty of sunscreen. Of course, it's also a good idea to take along some mosquito repellent. In shallow water, watch out for sea urchins, sharp coral and jellyfish. Always wear fins (palmes) when snorkeling and ask the locals about swimming and diving conditions before you go in the water. Other than the rarely seen fer-de-lance, a poisonous snake in Martinique, there is not much in the way of really dangerous land critters in the French islands. However, the Manchineel tree (le Manceniller) puts out a highly toxic sap. You should never stand under one in the rain or taste its little green berries. These trees are usually marked with red paint by the locals. The Martinique tap water is drinkable in most places and excellent local bottled water is available in stores and restaurants.
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