Pierre F. Dournaux, President of the incoming agency Georges Marie-Gabrielle Voyages in Guadeloupe

Why does a company choose Guadeloupe?

Pierre F. Dournaux - Guadeloupe has the advantage of being able to combine seaside and green tourism. What's more, most French people have language problems, and here, if they feel out of place, it's certainly not because of the language.

What is the ideal length of stay? Group size?

P. F. D. - In general, groups stay for 6 days/5 nights, and can vary in size from 80 to 100 people. They often come in April-May and from late October to early December. As for the programme, we adapt to demand; obviously, there are a lot of sea outings, like cruises, or rallies on land.

What aspect of the island do you emphasise?

P. F. D. - First of all, we remind decision-makers that we are in Europe and that we defend all the values of Europe with that little Creole touch that makes the island so charming. What's more, there are no major problems of insecurity, epidemics or disease here.

What was your most burlesque idea?

P. F. D. - When the Pointe-à-Pitre prison closed, we told a group of 30 people when they arrived that the hotels were overbooked and that, for one night, they would be sleeping in the cells. Some people took this with humour, others not at all. But this year, it'll be easier, we'll surprise them with the Route du Rhum.