2009-11-20 14:44:06 -

Martinique has been named “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2009” by Caribbean World Magazine, reaffirming its leadership position as the top Caribbean destination for culinary travel. This marks the second straight year that Martinique has received the prestigious award, which was presented at the 15 th Caribbean World Annual Awards, held recently during World Travel Market (WTM) in London.

Muriel Wiltord, director Americas for the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, commented on the prize, saying: “We are extremely pleased to receive this wonderful award yet again. This recognizes the best of what Martinique has to offer; what sets us apart. Like all Caribbean islands, Martinique is blessed with sun, sand and sea, but it is the unique and world-class quality of

our gastronomy that enables us to provide unparalleled culinary travel experiences for even the most discerning palates.”

Martinique boasts a vibrant and eclectic culinary scene with local and international chefs elevating gastronomy to an art form. Traditional French cuisine is widely available throughout the island and rivals that found in Paris, but what really sets Martinique apart is its Creole flair. A sublime blend of African, Indian, European and Caribbean flavors, Martinique's Creole culinary creations keep visitors coming back again and again.

The “Best Gourmet Island of the Year 2009” award follows an impressive win by Martinique in an October 2009 Caribbean Travel + Life Magazine survey asking readers to name their favorite Caribbean destination for delectable dining. Martinique garnered 43.3% of the 807 votes cast over the course of the one-month survey period, besting the likes of St.
Martin (28.87%), Puerto Rico (14.13%) and Barbados (13.63%).

The Caribbean World Annual Awards, now in its 15 th year, is firmly established among Britain’s foremost award ceremonies and has become an exclusive club within Caribbean tourism. Honoring excellence among islands and services that provide comfort, entertainment and enjoyment for those who make the Caribbean their favorite holiday destination, the awards are determined by the editors of Caribbean World Magazine and its readers.

About Martinique ( www.martinique.org : )

The Caribbean island with French flair, The Isle of Flowers, The Rum Capital of the World, The Isle of the Famed Poet (Aimé Césaire) – by any one of its many names Martinique remains one of the most alluring and enchanting destinations in the world; as unforgettable as a summer romance or a first kiss. Martinique is an overseas region of France, and in keeping with its traditions, this vibrant island stirs the passions with awe-inspiring natural beauty, a rich cultural history, distinctive culinary delights, warm smiles and so much more. Napoleon’s bride, Empress Josephine, was born and raised here. The Pompeii of the Caribbean, St. Pierre, is found here. The finest French products, from Chanel fashions to Limoges porcelain, are readily available here. La Route des Rhums, a tour of the world’s finest rum distilleries based on France’s famed Route des Vins, is offered here. A special place, to be sure, with so much to offer – Martinique c’est magnifique!

For more information on Martinique, contact the Martinique Promotion Bureau /CMT USA, 825 Third Avenue, 29 th Floor, New York, NY 10022 – Tel: 212 838 6887 - Fax: 212 838 7855 – Email: info@martinique.org : mailto:info@martinique.org – Web site: www.martinique.org : .



Martinique Promotion BureauChristel Coïta, 212-745-0970 christel.coita@franceguide.com : mailto:christel.coita@franceguide.com orSBPR
CorpSteve Bennett, 954-566-1522 Steve@SBPRcorp.com : mailto:Steve@SBPRcorp.com