From the rainforests to the rum, the haute cuisine to the beaches, the French Caribbean island of Martinique is among the most diverse, fascinating places to visit in the wider region. 

And now it’s easier than ever to fly to Martinique’s capital of Fort-de-France, thanks to a ramp-up by American Airlines. 

For the current season, American is operating three weekly nonstop flights between Miami and Martinique — that means service on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. 

More importantly, American Airlines has upgraded its aircraft from the smaller Embraer 175 to a Boeing 737 MAX — meaning significantly more seats on the Miami-Fort-de-France route. 

It’s a boon for the island, which continues to offer up an authentic, interesting vacation experience and a very different way to vacation in the Caribbean. 

Martinique has a host of different options, whether you want to follow the Route de Rhum, one that’s comprised of visiting the more than 12 different artisanal rum distilleries that dot the island; check out charming boutique hotels like the Plein Soleil on the Atlantic coast or the lovely, classic Bakoua in the tourism hub of Trois-Ilets. 

And then there’s one of our favorite parts of the island: the northern Caribbean coast of the island, home to the so-called Caribbean Pompeii, Saint Pierre, which was considered the Paris of the Caribbean before a tragic volcanic eruption in 1902; and Le Carbet, the paradisiacal beach town that’s home to renowned Chef Guy Ferdinand’s Le Petibonum — a bucket list stop in the Caribbean beach bar trail. 

We’re also big fans of Le Diamant, the beach town marked by the offshore rock formation called the Diamond Rock, a volcanic-sand coastline that’s increasingly becoming a hotspot on the island. 

Looking for a culture trip? In the capital of Fort de France, you’ll find a rich history, a place filled with vibrant architecture, tiny boutique hotels and colorful markets. 

It’s hard to see everything in one visit — such is the richness and breadth of the destination. 

But with these expanded flights, it’s easier than ever to start your Martinique journey. 

For more, visit Martinique.