Currency: The euro is used throughout Martinique. ATMs are plentiful in Fort-de-France and most towns; Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. American Express is less reliably accepted outside hotels.
Language: French is the official language; Antillean Creole is spoken between locals. In Fort-de-France and at tourist sites you will often find English speakers, but do not count on it in smaller towns or markets. A few words of French go a long way.
Visas: EU citizens need only an identity card. US and Canadian passport holders can stay up to 90 days without a visa. A return or onward ticket is required on entry. Martinique is part of the EU but not the Schengen Area.
Health: No vaccinations are required, though hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended. Tap water is safe to drink island-wide. Dengue fever is present; use insect repellent, especially in the wet season. The main hospital is the CHU de Martinique in Fort-de-France.
Safety: Martinique is generally safe. Petty theft occurs in Fort-de-France and at beaches, so leave valuables in your accommodation or the car boot. Avoid deserted areas of the capital at night.
Electricity: 220V, 50Hz, with French-style two-pin plugs. US and UK appliances need adaptors.
Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (UTC-4) year-round. Martinique does not observe daylight saving time, so the offset from Europe and North America shifts seasonally.
Phone and internet: French mobile operators cover the island; a local SIM is cheap and easy to obtain. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
Emergency numbers: Police 17, Fire 18, Medical 15, general European emergency 112.