Fort-de-France, Martinique
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees talk about what it is really like living in Fort-de-France, Martinique. They offer advice about meeting people, cost of living, finding a home and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Fort-de-France?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Fort-de-France, they said:
"Fort-de-France is the capital of Martinique, a French overseas territory located in the Caribbean. The official language is French, so it would be beneficial to have a basic understanding of the language before moving. The currency used in Fort-de-France is the Euro, as Martinique is a region of France. The cost of living can be high, especially when it comes to housing and imported goods. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Public transportation is available but not always reliable, so having a car can be beneficial. Healthcare is of a high standard, with a good number of hospitals and clinics available. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The cuisine is a blend of French and Creole influences, with seafood being a staple. The city is generally safe, but like any other place, it's important to take precautions, especially in crowded areas. The education system follows the French model, and there are both public and private schools available. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and rainforests, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The work culture is similar to that of France, with a 35-hour work week and a strong emphasis on work-life balance. It's important to note that while Martinique is a part of France, it has its own unique culture and customs that may differ from what you're used to. Lastly, it's recommended to have a comprehensive health insurance plan, as medical costs can be high," commented one expat who made the move to Fort-de-France.
How do I find a place to live in Fort-de-France?
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Fort-de-France?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Fort-de-France?
- Will I be able to find a job in Fort-de-France?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Fort-de-France appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Fort-de-France?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Fort-de-France accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Fort-de-France like?
- How are healthcare services in Fort-de-France?
- What are medical services in Fort-de-France like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Fort-de-France?
- What are emergency services like in Fort-de-France?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Fort-de-France?
- How are local medical facilities in Fort-de-France?
- As a foreigner living in Fort-de-France, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?