Guadeloupe is a melting pot of cultures. The country’s art, music, dance, and culinary traditions have been influenced by France, Africa, India, and its neighbors in the Caribbean.
The majority of the locals are Roman Catholic, with a predominantly Evangelical Protestant minority. People here are informal and relaxed, making casual clothes appropriate. If you are going to a nightclub or dining out, though, consider dressing to the nines.
La biguine is one of the local genres of music you can experience in Guadeloupe, which is described as a combination of Creole bele and polka. Zouk and gwo ka la base are also common in the streets and clubs.
Guadeloupe’s culture is defined by its artisans, who are very artistic at handicrafts. Pointe Noire is notable for its woodwork, while Saint Francois is known for its sculptures made from coconut. La Broderie de Vieux-Fort is the place to go to buy embroidered items.
You cannot fully experience the country’s culture without immersing yourself in local cuisine. Creole-style seafood is the staple on main menus, and is usually offered with freshly harvested vegetables.
Indian-inspired dishes such as meats with curry and rice, and exotic fruits like coconut and papaya are also part of the main island fare. Guadeloupe natives love their champagne as much as they love their homr beverages, including fruit punches and ti-punch.
We understand that studying abroad can be a life-changing experience and, should you choose Guadeloupe, our RocApply tips and guides will enhance what will already be a wonderful trip by helping you also understand the culture and etiquette in the country.
We recommend that you thoroughly go through this guide to enhance your peaceable stay in this awesomely build a country free of worry.
Things to observe
- Always ask permission before taking pictures of locals.
- Eye contact during a conversation is a sign of disrespect, especially when talking to the elderly.
- Personal space tends to be very minimal. People often talk very close to each other and less than an arm’s length is common in most situations.
- Guadeloupian cuisine is quite simple, consisting mainly of rice-based dishes and hearty meaty stews.
" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada
