Guadeloupe Travel Guide

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Shopping

Worthwhile purchases are French imports, including perfume, wine, liqueurs and Lalique crystal. Local items include fine-flavored rum, straw goods, handmade lace, bamboo hats, voodoo dolls, and objects of aromatic Vetevier root. Traveller's checks give a 20% discount in some shops.

Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1800, Sat 0830-1300.

Currency

Since January 2002 the Euro (€) has been the official currency for the French Overseas Departments, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Réunion. Notes are in denominations of €5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Coins are in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros. For further details, see France section.

US Dollars are accepted but change might be given in Euros.

Currency Exchange

All banks and most hotels will change traveler's checks and foreign currency. All the major French banks are represented on the island. There are bureau de change in all of the main towns.

Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and ATMs

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted. ATMs are available in every town.

Travelers Checks

Accepted in most places. Their use may qualify visitors for discounts on luxury items. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveler's checks in Euros. US and Canadian Dollar checks are also accepted in some places.

Currency Restrictions

There are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency. However, amounts exceeding €10,000 or equivalent must be declared if traveling from or to a country outside the European Union.

Banking Hours

Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1400-1600, some are open Sat 0800-1300 (closed Wednesday afternoons).

Exchange Rate