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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Guadeloupe

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels

  • Hostels

    While limited within Pointe-à-Pitre city center, you find some hostels or backpacker-oriented guesthouses in other parts of Guadeloupe, providing dormitory beds or basic private rooms.

  • Guesthouses / B&Bs (Chambres d'hôtes)

    Numerous local guesthouses and bed and breakfasts provide a more personal and often charming experience. They range from simple rooms in a local home to more structured B&B setups.

  • Hotels

    Guadeloupe features a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options in city centers to comfortable mid-range hotels and upscale resorts.

  • Apart-hotels

    These establishments provide self-catering apartments or studios combined with hotel services like reception, cleaning, and sometimes a pool or restaurant.

Unique local accommodation types

  • Gîtes

    These are self-catering cottages, bungalows, or sometimes apartments, often located in rural or scenic areas. Gîtes are very popular in Guadeloupe.

  • Bungalows

    These are individual detached units, often part of a larger resort complex, guesthouse, or gîte property. They provide privacy and often feature a small kitchenette and a terrace.

  • Vacation rentals and apartment options

    An extensive selection of vacation rentals and apartment options is available through platforms like Booking.com and Vrbo. You find apartments within Pointe-à-Pitre city center or larger houses and villas in coastal or rural areas elsewhere on the island. These suit families, groups, or travelers desiring a local living experience.

  • Homestay and community-based tourism opportunities

    Some guesthouses and smaller, locally run accommodations provide a homestay-like experience, allowing direct connection with local culture and people. Community-based tourism initiatives develop, specifically in rural parts of Basse-Terre.

Neighborhood Guide

Detailed breakdown of areas and their character.

Centre-Ville Downtown Pointe-à-Pitre

Pros
  • Central for exploring Pointe-à-Pitre's historical attractions, markets, and the main bus and ferry terminals.
  • Delivers a genuine experience of local life.
Cons
  • Noisy during the day; evenings are generally quieter but with fewer dining/entertainment options directly outside hotels.
  • Limited high-end accommodation.
  • Parking can be difficult.
  • Not directly on a swimming beach.

La Marina du Gosier

Pros
  • Upscale area features a yacht marina, numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels.
  • More tourist-focused and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Cons
  • Transportation (short drive or bus ride, 15-20 minutes) to reach Pointe-à-Pitre center.
  • Can feel less authentic or "local" compared to staying in the city.

Pointe de la Verdure Le Gosier

Pros
  • High concentration of larger hotels and resorts, along with a casino and popular beaches.
  • Provides a resort-centric experience with amenities.
Cons
  • Can be busy with tourists.
  • Transportation to Pointe-à-Pitre city center.

Safety and Proximity

Centre-Ville:

Generally safe during the day. Exercise caution and avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas at night. Petty crime can occur in crowded areas. Direct walking access to Pointe-à-Pitre's markets, museums, and the main bus and ferry terminals.

Le Gosier Area:

Tourist zones are generally very safe, with a more relaxed evening atmosphere. A short drive or bus ride is needed to access Pointe-à-Pitre center. These areas provide excellent access to coastal attractions, beaches, and a starting point for exploring Grande-Terre's southern coast.

Booking Strategies

Review booking options and policies for a smooth experience.

Advance booking recommendations by season

  • High Season (Mid-December to May): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular properties, luxury resorts, and during major holidays (Christmas, New Year's, Carnival, Easter).
  • Shoulder Season (June-July): Booking 1-2 months in advance is recommended. You find better availability and possibly some deals.
  • Low Season (August to Mid-December): You often find last-minute deals during this period. Booking a few weeks ahead is still advisable to secure your preferred choice.

Trusted booking platforms and local reservation systems

  • Major Platforms: Use Booking.com, Agoda, or IHG Hotels for a wide selection of hotels, resorts, and apart-hotels.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo also provide extensive selections of vacation rentals.
  • House Sitting: TrustedHousesitters is a specialist platform.
  • Local Resources: For gîtes and specific local properties, check directly on the Guadeloupe Islands Official Tourism Website or contact local tourism offices.

Important Considerations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies:

Policies vary widely by property and booking platform. Always review the deposit requirements and cancellation policy thoroughly before confirming your reservation.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations:

Accommodation prices can double or even triple during the peak dry season and major holidays compared to the low wet season.

Negotiation Customs:

Negotiating walk-in rates is not common for established hotels or guesthouses in Guadeloupe. Prices are generally fixed.

Accommodation Recommendations

Explore options for various travel styles.

Family-friendly Options

Resorts

Consider resorts in Le Gosier or Sainte-Anne that provide amenities like swimming pools, kids' clubs, and family rooms. These provide a convenient and entertaining environment for children.

Gîtes

Gîtes with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and often outdoor space are excellent for families, providing more room and the ability to self-cater.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

Guesthouses

These provide opportunities for social interaction with other travelers or hosts.

City Hotels

Supply convenience and often good security.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Vacation Rentals
  • Apart-hotels

    Also suitable for longer visits, combining apartment-style living with hotel services.

Cultural or Historical Properties

  • Colonial-style hotels

    A few colonial-style hotels exist elsewhere on Basse-Terre, providing a glimpse into the island's heritage and a more traditional experience.

  • Exploring historical districts

    In Pointe-à-Pitre itself, immerse yourself in the city's history by exploring its historical districts rather than focusing on specific historic hotels.

Unique Stays

Local Homestays

Some guesthouses provide a homestay-like experience, allowing a connection with local culture.

  • Connect with local culture
  • Personalized experience
Eco-lodges & Glamping

Discover eco-lodges on Basse-Terre for nature-focused stays, or glamping-style tents for rustic outdoor experiences.

  • Nature immersion
  • Unique outdoor options

Overview

Budget Stays

Affordable guesthouses and studios.

Mid-Range Comfort

Comfortable hotels and apart-hotels.

Luxury Resorts

High-end resorts with full amenities.