MARTINIQUE: Communications / Time Zone / Telephones

TIME ZONE
Martinique is in the Atlantic Time Zone (GMT-4). When the eastern US is on Eastern Standard Time, the time in the islands is one hour later. When the eastern US switches to Eastern Daylight Time, the time in the islands is the same. Local time is usually indicated in the 24-hour format (1:15 p.m. is 13:15 or 13h15). As with most of the Caribbean, there is also something called "Island Time". This means that things may actually take a lot longer that one expects. The best way to deal with Island Time is to simply relax and enjoy yourself while you are waiting.

TELEPHONE CODES
To call Martinique from the US, dial 011-596-596 + the local 6-digit number. If you are trying to reach a cell phone in Martinique, dial 011-596-696 + the local 6-digit number. When you are in Martinique, dial 0-596 + the local 6-digit number for local calls and 0-696 + the local 6-digit number for local calls to cell phones.

CELL / MOBILE / PORTABLE PHONES
Before you travel to the islands, check with your service provider to determine if your phone will work in Martinique. You may be also be able to purchase an adaptor chip for your phone or rent a portable phone from one of the local companies during your stay.

PUBLIC TELEPHONES
To phone from Martinique, a Télécarte (phone card) makes local and international calls easier and less expensive. Télécartes are sold at Post Offices and other outlets marked Télécarte en Vente Ici. They are used in special booths marked Télécom found all over. There are no coin phones. Many phones will now accept VISA, MasterCard or other credit cards for long distance calls. Operator-assisted calls are higher in cost.

INTERNET
Instant internet connection is becoming more available in Martinique and other islands. Some hotels allow guests to check their e-mail from a central hotel computer, usually located near the reception desk. Certain hotels and accommodations may also provide in-room internet access. There are a growing number of businesses that provide internet access on a fee per minute basis.

MAIL / LA POSTE
Postage stamps can be purchased at post offices (hours are irregular and lines can be long and slow), cafés-tabacs (tobacco stores) and at hotel newsstands or souvenir shops. Mail can take up to six weeks between Martinique and the US. If you want to send something quickly, it is better to use an express shipping service such as FedEx.

For related Martinique contact information, please visit Caribbean-Direct.com.

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