How is tourism, particularly business tourism, faring in Martinique?
Madeleine de Grandmaison - Things have improved considerably since 2002-2003. To raise public awareness, we have organised Tourism Days. We have an educational role to play with local people. For example, I'm a great believer in rural tourism, in local products and their authenticity, in the interior that has shaped Martinique's culture. That's how we got into schools, that's how we met the media... Over the next ten years, we need to establish a real tourist culture here, because we don't quite have it yet. And then, of course, we are present at all sorts of events, whether here in Martinique or elsewhere, at major trade fairs such as EIBTM, Imex, in Canada, in New York... We present our latest products there, particularly those relating to green tourism.
Why choose Martinique?
M. de G. - Because it's French! Because it's a safe destination, and a rich one too. Rich in culture, in landscapes, in joyous events like the carnival or the yawl races. You can do everything here, from going to the beach - we have some magnificent ones - to climbing Mount Pelée.
What do you think are the main obstacles to visiting this destination?
M. de G. - Perhaps our lack of rigour, and even then... But above all, I think that as with many other destinations, it's the economics that come first. And it's true that Martinique is expensive. Also, we've let our image get outdated, with all the sand and coconut palms that are less attractive these days. Finally, the other islands, our competitors in a way, have equipped themselves.
And who are your "competitors"?
M. de G. - I'd say Cuba. They have a congress culture that is out of all proportion to Guadeloupe or the Dominican Republic.
