Guadeloupe, the jewel of the Caribbean, abounds in culinary and artisanal treasures. When you visit the island, you’ll discover a wealth of local products that captivate the senses and tell the story of Creole culture. Whether you’re a gourmet, a crafts enthusiast or simply curious, the island’s markets and stores have some unforgettable surprises in store for you.
Spices and Condiments : An explosion of flavours
Spices are at the heart of Guadeloupean cuisine. Colombo, a subtle blend of turmeric, coriander and other spices, is a must for flavoring meats and vegetables. Vegetarian chili, mild and flavorful, adds character without assaulting the palate. Creole sauces, ideal for spicing up your dishes, are the perfect accompaniment to fish, meat and grilled meats. Finally, local vanilla, harvested on the island, is prized by gourmets for its powerful, unique aromas.
Tip: Consider buying these products in bulk at markets to guarantee freshness and support small-scale producers.
Tropical fruits and vegetables: a festival of colors
Guadeloupe is a land of abundance when it comes to tropical fruits and vegetables. Local bananas and pineapples, juicy and fragrant, are real delights. You can also sample rarer fruits such as soursop, starfruit and guava. These fresh products, rich in flavor, are a delight for families in search of gustatory discoveries.
Tip: Visit morning markets like Saint-François for the freshest produce.
Rum: A tradition of excellence
It’s impossible to talk about local products without mentioning Guadeloupean rum. Produced from sugar cane, rhum agricole is the island’s pride and joy. You’ll find a wide range, from white rums to aged rums, as well as artisanal punches and rums arrangés with exotic flavors.
Warning: enjoy these spirits in moderation, and visit local distilleries to learn more about how they are made.
Handcrafted Jewelry: Unique souvenirs
Guadeloupean craftsmanship is also distinguished by the creation of unique jewelry. Made with freshwater pearls, larimar stone or shells, these pieces reflect the authenticity and creativity of local artisans. They are the perfect souvenirs to bring home for your loved ones, or to wear as a reminder of your stay.
Tip: Explore the artisan markets of Sainte-Anne or Saint-François to find unique pieces.
Pastries and sweets : Irresistible sweets
Guadeloupean desserts are a real treat for the taste buds. Among the must-tries are tourments d’amour, small tarts filled with coconut jam. You can also try coconut flan, kassav (stuffed cassava cakes) or bananas flambéed in rum. For those with a sweet tooth, homemade jams made from tropical fruits make excellent souvenirs to take home.
Tip: treat yourself to a basket of these sweet treats to prolong the experience when you get home.
Why choose Les Voiles Bleues for your stay?
Located close to local markets, Les Voiles Bleues is the ideal accommodation for exploring the riches of Guadeloupe. Our upscale villas offer a luxurious setting and proximity to the island’s iconic landmarks. Thanks to our concierge service, we can organize visits to markets, distilleries and even craft workshops.
Take advantage of our hotel formula to enjoy a breakfast of local produce. You can then prepare your culinary finds in our fully equipped kitchens, or simply enjoy them by your private pool.
Guadeloupe is a destination rich in flavors, colors and know-how. Whether you’re a gourmet, a rum connoisseur or a crafts enthusiast, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for among the local products.
For the ultimate experience, choose Les Voiles Bleues as your starting point. Our upscale villas, located close to markets and distilleries, offer unrivalled comfort. After a day of discovery, take advantage of our private swimming pools and concierge service to organize your outings and extend these moments of escape.
Les Voiles Bleues is the promise of a holiday where authenticity, luxury and relaxation meet.
