Guadeloupe is a bit of France miles away from St-Tropez. Afro-influences are more pronounced here, especially in the potpourri of spices that perfume the island’s plentiful outdoor markets. Although Guadeloupe is spoken of as one island, it’s actually several, each with its own personality. "The mainland" consists of Grande-Terre and Basse-Terre, where rain forests, black- and gold-sand beaches, craggy swimming holes, and charming villages await. The outer islands—Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and La Désirade—are unique and unspoiled travel destinations in their own rights.