Visiting a country with someone who lives there is extraordinary. This allows you to go to places that are not always considered touristy. Also, you are not considered a real tourist. Kiko showed me around her island, way better than anything the tour guides can tell you. I was also able to taste the productions of the family business, punches, Darboussier rum and rum cream. A bottle was waiting for me in my guest room.

I went there to dive too, but that will be the subject of another article.

I recommend going to Guadeloupe but don't just settle for the fine sandy beaches. You have to take the time to appreciate the people and the beauty of the island. I am lucky to have a friend from Guadeloupe, Kiko, whom I thank, as well as his grandmother and all his family, for their welcome.