The vibe is decidedly low-key and no one despairs if one speaks English. French, Creole, a patois and English are widely spoken and local hospitality c’est magnifique.

Many islanders have French ancestors and families in the ‘motherland’ more than 4,000 miles northeast. Four islands southeast of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands comprise the French Caribbean: Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Martin and St. Barthélemy (St. Barths). These islands are part of France, which ensures modern roads, excellent schools, a good standard of living and friendly people.

After all, when one lives among lush rain forests, spectacular waterfalls, exotic lagoons teeming with rainbow-coloured fish, endless crescents of powdery sand beaches (including the renowned topless and clothing optional kind), gin-clear waters and that lackadaisical happy-go-lucky lifestyle to which each of us is drawn, how could anyone be unhappy? Charming seaside villages, captivating boutiques and fascinating history are like the stuff of novels. French speakers are appreciated but not necessary; visitors making the eff ort are amply rewarded with twinkling smiles and hearty Gallic goodwill.

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