Practical Info: Before you leave

Practical Info: Before you leave

Formalities

French citizens in possession of an identity card or a valid passport have right of residence in the West Indies. Citizens of the United States and Canada are admitted without a visa and are permitted to stay on the islands for a maximum of three months on justification of their identity. Under-aged children must also hold an identity card or passport, or may be entered into the passport of their parents under the age of 14.

Children travelling alone

Children under the age of 4 must be accompanied by an adult of 18 years or over, or a hostess (for tariffs see individual companies). From the age of 4 to the day before their 12th birthday, children may travel alone as “UMs” (Unaccompanied Minor). ). An under-aged child travelling alone must be in possession of an authorisation of leaving the territory. From the age of 15, children are obliged to hold a valid passport. Infants dispose of no baggage allowance. Certain regular airlines may offer catering services specifically for babies, but this service must be booked in advance, on reservation of your flight.

Transporting animals

Pets are accepted on board most flights under certain conditions. Regulations may vary with individual airlines, so ask around for pet transportation norms on reservation of your ticket (compartments, cages, vaccinations, etc). Airlines must be notified in advance of any pets you might wish to take with you, as the number of transportable animals may be limited on certain flights. Animals weighing 5 kg or less are permitted to travel on board, 5 kg or more will be transported in the baggage compartment of the aircraft (ventilated, heated and pressurised).

How to pack your bags

What sort of clothes to bring? Summer clothes all year round, such as swimming suits and T-shirts… You can leave your tuxedo at home, as casual wear is encouraged even in hotels and restaurants of higher standing. If you’re not planning to dine in Bermuda shorts and flippers, you will be welcome in these establishments in as little as a polo, no need even of a shirt and a tie. Don’t forget to bring along a rucksack, photo film, suntan lotion, a Swiss Army knife, a banana-bag, a raincoat and a scarf to protect you from wind and excessive sun.

Time difference

Pointe-a-Pitre is five hours ahead of Metropolitan France during winter months (6 p.m. in Paris = 1 p.m. in Pointe-a-Pitre), and six hours ahead during the summer.