Guadeloupe is a French island and one of the "departments" of France.  Here's the map.  Christopher Columbus landed on the island of Guadeloupe on November 3, 1493. Though initial efforts to colonize the area failed, it was finally annexed by France in 1674 and declared an official overseas department in 1946.

The Guadeloupe Archipelago includes the large islands of Basse-Terre and Grande-Terre, the nearby islands of Marie-Galante, La Desirade, Saint Barthelemy and the French controlled part of the island of Saint Martin.

The island is very much French, with superb beaches, wonderful french cuisine and a lively night life.

• Pigeon Island is the site of the Cousteau Marine Park. Despite its popularity as a dive destination, the marine life is in good condition. All the sites are buoyed and this has obviously contributed greatly to the preservation of the reefs. There are also 2 wrecks near Pigeon Island.
• One of the best dives is Sec Pate - a row of underwater pinnacles that look like witches hats.  Amazing quantity of fish and sponges.  Watch out for the strong currents!
• Basse Terre: The west coast of Basse Terre is steep sided and almost every headland would make a good dive.
• Grand Cul de Sac Marin: Several miles of reef have developed in the sheltered waters in the north between the two sides of Guadeloupe. Much of the area has been declared a marine park and access is restricted.
• Iles des Saintes: Iles des Saintes has a full complement of diving, which is quite separate from the rest of Guadeloupe’s sites. One of Guadeloupe’s most spectacular sites is north of Iles des Saintes.

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate is requires from travellers over 1 year of age travelling from infected areas.
• Not all of the operators speak English so check the book for details if you do not speak French and want to find an English speaking operator.