FAQ
HAVE A QUESTION?
WE HAVE THE ANSWER.
Before, during, or after your trip, you may have some questions. We’ve compiled the answers to the most frequently asked questions about destinations, accommodations, themes, and more here:
. Browse by category to easily find the information you need.
Is housekeeping included for villa stays?
All of our villas include a final cleaning service, either included in the rate or available for an additional fee. Depending on the villa category, daily or mid-stay cleaning services are either included or available as an option.
Why choose Des Hôtels & Des Îles to celebrate our wedding?
We offer you an exceptional and idyllic setting (fine sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, tropical gardens) along with personalized service at one of our hotels. Our expertise ensures that every detail of your day is perfectly orchestrated, turning your dream into reality—whether it’s an intimate ceremony or a grand event.
How can I tell if my reservation is confirmed?
Once your payment has been processed, you will immediately receive a confirmation email containing your reservation number and your travel details.
Which island should you choose for a family vacation?
For a family vacation in the Caribbean, Guadeloupe and Martinique are ideal, thanks to the variety of activities for children and family-friendly accommodations (villas and hotels with pools, kids’ clubs, family rooms, and tailored services).
Mauritius and Saint Lucia are also great destinations for a family trip, with hotels offering kids’ clubs and water sports.
What are the must-do activities in Guadeloupe?
Guadeloupe is an archipelago that offers a unique diversity of landscapes and cultures.
Among the must-do activities during a stay in Guadeloupe are: hiking on the Soufrière volcano, exploring the seabed at the Cousteau Reserve, visiting the Carbet Falls, taking day trips by boat to the surrounding islands—Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, and La Désirade—as well as touring distilleries and traditional villages.
What are the benefits of visiting each island?
Each island has its own unique characteristics and offers a different kind of vacation depending on your preferences. It’s entirely possible to explore several islands during a single trip.
French Islands, Overseas Departments, and Overseas Territories
The Islands of Guadeloupe: a diverse mix of beaches, mountains, tropical forests, vibrant Creole culture, and Creole cuisine
Martinique: refined cuisine, rum distilleries, hiking trails, and idyllic beaches.
Saint Barthélemy: luxury, fine dining, and Caribbean elegance.
Saint Martin: cosmopolitan energy, a blend of cultures, and a wide range of water sports.
Independent British island, Commonwealth
Dominica unspoiled nature, waterfalls, hot springs, and ecotourism.
Saint Lucia: an independent Commonwealth island with an English heritage, volcanic landscapes, lush vegetation, and a romantic atmosphere.
Mauritius: white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and exceptional hotel service.
British Overseas Territories
Anguilla: absolute tranquility, pristine beaches, and an exclusive atmosphere.
For a unique and comprehensive experience, Des Hôtels et Des Îles offers island-hopping packages.
Can I change a reservation made on the Des Hôtels & Des Îles website?
Yes, you can change your reservation.
You’ll find a 4-digit code in your reservation confirmation email that will allow you to change your reservation directly online.
If you need help, contact the hotel directly by email or phone; their contact information is listed in your confirmation.
What is the difference between staying at a hotel and staying at a villa?
At a hotel, you’ll enjoy a turnkey service with direct access to the property’s facilities (pool, spa, kids’ club, restaurants, and bars) and daily housekeeping.
When staying in a villa, you’ll enjoy complete privacy and private living spaces, while still having the option to sign up for our à la carte hotel services (concierge, private chef, housekeeping).
Who is Des Hôtels & Des Îles?
Des Hôtels & Des Îles is an independent hotel group that has been based in the heart of the Guadeloupe Islands since 1989. Through our collection of hotels, resorts, villas, and travel services, we share our passion for island destinations and our expertise in travel to the Caribbean.
From intimate luxury to family-run seaside hotels, as well as hotel residences and charming boutique hotels, each property offers a unique experience while sharing the same values of hospitality, authenticity, and excellence.
Our goal is simple: to help our guests discover the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean through carefully selected accommodations and expert advice.
What kinds of private events can be held at your hotels?
We specialize in organizing all kinds of celebrations: birthdays, baptisms, vow renewals, engagement parties, galas, and themed parties.
Can I change or cancel my reservation?
Depending on the package you selected, you can change the dates, the number of nights, or cancel your reservation.
There is a link at the bottom of your confirmation email to cancel or modify your reservation.
The terms for modifications (free/for a fee) are listed in your confirmation.
Which island should you choose for a romantic getaway or honeymoon?
Saint Barthélemy, Anguilla, and Mauritius are ideal destinations for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon.
These destinations offer private villas and top-of-the-line services, making for an idyllic and unforgettable stay.
What to do during a trip to Martinique?
Martinique offers a wide variety of experiences that showcase its natural beauty, the sea, and its cultural heritage.
Among the must-do activities during a stay in Martinique are hiking on Mount Pelée, nature walks on the Caravelle Peninsula, snorkeling trips at Anses d’Arlet, and cultural tours around Saint-Pierre and Le François, renowned for their rum distilleries.
The beaches of Grande Anse and Les Salines round out this experience with moments of relaxation amid the island’s iconic landscapes.
When is the best time to visit the Caribbean?
Located in the Northern Hemisphere between the equator and the Tropic of Cancer, it offers the ideal climate for escaping winter in Europe and North America.
With temperatures ranging from 25 to 30°C year-round, the Caribbean is the perfect destination to escape the cold of winter in Europe or Canada and enjoy bright sunshine during the winter months.
Discover our exclusive offers at and book your dream vacation.
What is a “Non-Refundable” Offer?
A "Non-Refundable" offer is a promotional rate offered at a discounted price; it cannot be modified, canceled, or refunded after your reservation has been confirmed.
We recommend this type of offer if your travel dates are set.
Do the villas have access to hotel services?
It depends on the villas. The villas on the islands of Guadeloupe (Ayati, Ura, and Idika) have access to the facilities at La Toubana Hotel & Spa because they are located on the same property.
Why did we start a travel agency when we're primarily hoteliers?
Because we've always believed that a trip doesn't begin when you arrive at the hotel.
For over 30 years, we’ve been sharing our passion for the islands and our local knowledge with our customers. Every day, we answer questions about flights, excursions,the best times to travel, which islands to explore, and the best itineraries to choose.
So setting up our own travel agency was a natural next step. Today, it allows us to offer much more than just accommodations: a complete travel experience, designed by experts who live and work right in the heart of the destinations they recommend.
Whether you’d like to book a simple vacation in Guadeloupe or create acustom itinerary in the Caribbean or in Mauritius, our teams will assist you with the same high standards and passion that drive our hotels.
Do you offer lodging options for guests?
Yes. We can offer special group rates for your guests' accommodations. Contact our team to reserve a block of rooms and arrange a special rate: groupes@deshotelsetdesiles.com
What are your cancellation policies?
Terms and conditions vary depending on the offer you choose (flexible or non-refundable).
They are clearly stated at the time of booking and in your confirmation email.
What is an “island-hopping” trip, and how do you plan one?
An “island-hopping” vacation lets you explore several Caribbean islands during your trip to the West Indies by staying at several of our hotels, all while enjoying the convenience of travel arrangements handled by our experts.
Depending on the length of your stay and your preferences, we’ll create a customized itinerary for you to explore two, three, or even four islands, ensuring an unforgettable Caribbean experience.
What are the must-do activities in Saint Lucia?
Saint Lucia captivates visitors with its volcanic landscapes and stunning beaches.
Through our excursions in Saint Lucia, travelers can admire the famous Pitons, take a stroll through the rainforest, enjoy snorkeling at Anse Chastanet, or visit the historic plantations around Soufrière Estate.
Beaches such as Reduit Beach also invite you to relax.
When is the best time to visit the islands of the Indian Ocean?
The best time to visit Mauritius is during the summer.
Located in the Southern Hemisphere below the Tropic of Capricorn, Mauritius has a tropical maritime climate with warm, humid temperatures.
This geographic location has significant implications for travelers from Europe and North America, as the seasons are reversed. When it is winter in Europe and North America (Northern Hemisphere, from December to March), it is the Southern Hemisphere summer and peak season in Mauritius (Southern Hemisphere).
Are the accommodations suitable for families with children?
Yes, most of our hotels and villas are family-friendly. Baby equipment is available upon advance request (crib, high chair, baby bathtub), and kids’ clubs are available at certain properties. Babysitting services can be booked through our concierge desk.
Check out our special offers for family vacations.
Why book directly on the official Des Hôtels & Des Îles website?
Booking directly on the official Des Hôtels & Des Îles website gives you direct access to our offers, real-time availability, and all of our services.
You can book just your hotel or put together a complete trip package that includes flights, car rentals, transfers, and even travel insurance.
You'll also benefit from the support of our teams, who have been specialists in the Caribbean and island destinations for over 30 years.
Is it possible to host a private dinner or a cocktail party on the beach?
That's our specialty! We offer idyllic outdoor settings for sunset cocktails or gala dinners with your feet in the sand, all in compliance with local regulations on each island.
What payment methods do we accept?
We accept credit card payments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).
If you book directly through our sales office, you can also pay by bank transfer.
Our bank account information will be provided to you upon confirmation of your reservation.
What does an “all-inclusive” vacation on the islands include?
You can enjoy an “all-inclusive stay” at several of the hotels offered by Des Hôtels & Des Îles.
From the “full board” option—which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner—to the “all-inclusive” option offered by some of our hotels, you can make the most of your vacation in the Caribbean or the Indian Ocean.
What are the must-do activities in Saint Martin?
Saint Martin invites you to relax on renowned beaches such as Orient Bay and Maho Beach.
Cultural activities in Saint Martin center on exploring the island’s heritage—including Fort Louis and the village of Marigot—and sampling local specialties that will make your stay authentic and memorable.
Are linens and towels provided?
In hotels, bed linens, bath towels, and beach/pool towels are provided and replaced regularly.
In villas, all linens and towels are provided upon your arrival. A replacement is scheduled for long-term stays.
Is "Des Hôtels & Des Îles" an online travel agency?
Yes. In addition to its hotel business, Des Hôtels & Des Îles is an online travel agency specializing in island destinations, offering bookings for flight-and-hotel packages,island hopper trips, and custom-designed trips in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean.
Travelers can get an instant quote, customize their trip with a car rental, transfers, or travel insurance, and take advantage of installment payment options.
Our experts are also available to provide personalized support for each travel plan.
What is the difference between the Greater Antilles and the Lesser Antilles?
The Greater Antilles comprise the largest islands in the region: Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. These destinations are characterized by their large land area and greater distances between the islands.
The Lesser Antilles, for their part, form a string of islands stretching from the Virgin Islands to Trinidad and Tobago. They include, among others, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, Saint Barthélemy, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
One of the main attractions of the Lesser Antilles is the proximity of its islands. Thanks to regular regional flights and ferry service, it is possible to combine several destinations in a single trip and discover a wide variety of landscapes, cultures, and atmospheres.
A specialist in island destinations for over 30 years, Des Hôtels & Des Îles www.deshotelsetdesiles.com helps its clients plan multi-island vacations in the heart of the Lesser Antilles, so they can fully enjoy all the wonders the Caribbean has to offer.
Is it possible to reserve a portion of the hotel for a seminar?
For large groups, it is possible to partially reserve a specific area (restaurant, bar, pool, rooms, garden). This is the ideal option for ensuring maximum focus and privacy.
Are your hotels equipped to host business events?
Some of our hotels, such as La Créole Beach Hotel & Spa and La Toubana Hotel & Spa on the islands of Guadeloupe, are ideally suited for hosting events such as seminars, meetings, or conferences, particularly with their fully equipped meeting rooms.
Is the payment secure?
Yes. All transactions are secure. We never store your full credit card information.
Which destinations are ideal for a spa and wellness getaway?
Des Hôtels & Des Îles offers spa and wellness getaways at several of its hotels, notably in Guadeloupe at the Sisley Spa at La Toubana Hotel & Spa.
These getaways combine relaxation treatments, massages, access to the sauna and steam room, as well as dedicated wellness areas, for a stay that blends relaxation, luxury comfort, and an exceptional tropical setting.
What are the must-do activities in Antigua and Anguilla?
Antigua is known for its beaches and historical heritage.
Among the top activities and excursions to enjoy during your stay in Antigua are: relaxing on the beaches of Dickenson Bay, snorkeling at Cades Reef, and visiting the historic site of Nelson’s Dockyard.
In Anguilla, you can explore Shoal Bay, enjoy boat tours, and discover the island’s traditional villages.
Can I create a custom trip on my own?
Yes. Our platform lets you customize most aspects of your stay directly online.
You can select your hotel, your flights, and the length of your stay, and add various additional services based on your needs.
For more specific projects, our destination experts can also design a fully customized trip. Whether it’s a honeymoon, a family vacation, a trip combining Guadeloupe, Les Saintes, and Marie-Galante, an exploration of the Lesser Antilles, or a getaway to Mauritius, we’ll work with you to create an itinerary tailored to your preferences and budget.
Do you offer a catering package specifically for seminars?
Our chefs can create a variety of options—including balanced business lunches, gourmet coffee breaks, buffets, or themed gala dinners—tailored to your schedule and dietary preferences.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, we offer the option to pay in four installments for flight + hotel packages, in partnership with FLOABANQ.
You’ll need to fill out a form at the time of booking so that FLOABANQ can verify your eligibility.
Where can you go scuba diving during your stay?
The vacations offered by Des Hôtels & Des Îles, set amid the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, provide access to the best diving sites in the Caribbean.
In Guadeloupe, you can explore the famous Cousteau Reserve and the Pigeons Islets with their coral reefs and tropical fish.
In Dominica, Scott’s Head Marine Reserve features caves, tunnels, and incredible marine biodiversity.
Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Martin are also renowned for their diving and snorkeling sites suitable for all skill levels, combining coral reefs and abundant marine life.
What are the must-do activities in Dominica
Dominica an ideal island for lovers of unspoiled nature.
During a trip featuring our excursions in Dominica, you can hike in Morne Trois Pitons National Park, swim at Trafalgar Falls, explore the spectacular Boiling Lake, and discover authentic villages nestled amid lush vegetation.
How do you plan a trip to several islands in the Lesser Antilles?
The Lesser Antilles offer numerous possibilities for island hopping thanks to the proximity of their territories and the quality of regional connections.
Travel is primarily by regional flights operated by airlines specializing in the Caribbean. Some routes are also served by ferry, particularly between Guadeloupe, Dominica, Martinique, and Saint Lucia. For specific needs, it is also possible to arrange private charter flights.
Whether you’d like to combine Guadeloupe with Les Saintes, Marie-Galante, Dominica, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin, or Saint Barthélemy, our experts will help you create a seamless, personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences.
For more information, please contact our advisors at +33(0)1 42 56 46 98 or by email at info@deshotelsetdesiles.com.
Is it possible to hire a private chef for my villa?
Yes! Our concierge service provides local and gourmet chefs to prepare your breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—or private events—right in your villa.
Can I get a quote before booking?
Yes. Our booking engine lets you get an instant online quote for your flight + hotel package.
Rates are calculated in real time based on your travel dates, departure city, selected property, and chosen options.
This allows you to compare different plans, adjust your project, and book when you're ready—all with complete transparency.
The quote is free, non-binding, and available immediately.
Can I pay in person?
We offer on-site payment for our hotel-only stays booked at the “Flexible Rate.”
A credit card authorization will be required upon confirmation to guarantee payment.
No charges will be applied in the event of a change or cancellation, unless such changes or cancellations occur outside the permitted timeframes.
For reservations booked at the “non-refundable” promotional rate, payment is due at the time of confirmation.
Which destinations are suitable for seniors (age 60 and older)?
Des Hôtels & Des Îles offers vacations tailored to seniors, with hotels that provide comfort, accessibility, and suitable activities.
Destinations such as Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint Martin allow you to enjoy a relaxing vacation that combines rest, gentle excursions, and high-end accommodations.
The French West Indies offer seniors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a paradisiacal and exotic setting, while still enjoying the comfort, safety, and logistical simplicity of traveling within a French department. Access to high-quality medical and hospital facilities that meet European standards (Social Security system) is a key factor for peace of mind.
What are the must-do activities in Mauritius?
Mauritius charms visitors with its beaches, mountains, and rich culture.
Top activities and excursions include relaxing on the beaches of Belle Mare, hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park, visiting the Pamplemousses Botanical Gardens, snorkeling in Blue Bay, and exploring Port Louis.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Hotels: Rooms are available starting at 3:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m., depending on the hotel, and must be vacated by 12:00 p.m. or 11:00 a.m. on the day of departure.
Villas: Check-in begins at 4:00 p.m., and check-out must be completed by 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. to allow for a thorough cleaning of the properties.
A late check-out or early check-in can be arranged upon request and subject to availability.
What are the benefits of booking a Flight + Hotel package with Des Hôtels & Des Îles?
When you book a Flight + Hotel package with Des Hôtels & Des Îles, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive solution that combines all the services for your trip into a single reservation.
You can customize your trip with flights, accommodations, car rentals, transfers, or travel insurance, all while taking advantage of real-time pricing.
You also benefit from the expertise of our specialized advisors and the protections that apply to package tours.
Finally, you save time by planning your trip on a single platform, with a single point of contact to assist you before, during, and after your stay.
Should you rent a car when visiting the Lesser Antilles?
Renting a car is often the best way to explore the Lesser Antilles at your own pace, but your needs may vary depending on the island and the type of trip.
In Guadeloupe and Martinique, renting a car is highly recommended. These two islands cover a vast area, feature a wide variety of landscapes, and offer numerous sites to explore: beaches, villages, distilleries, gardens, waterfalls, hiking trails, and boat tours. Renting a car will allow you to fully enjoy your stay with complete freedom.
In Saint Martin, a car is also very convenient for exploring the various beaches, the French and Dutch districts, and the many restaurants and activities scattered throughout the island.
In Saint Barthélemy, given the terrain and the winding roads, renting a car is generally the preferred way to get around easily between the beaches, shops, and the island’s various neighborhoods.
In English-speaking islands such as Saint Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda, it’s worth noting that they drive on the left, just like in the United Kingdom. While some travelers choose to rent a car, many prefer to opt for organized tours or transfers with a driver so they can fully enjoy their stay with complete peace of mind.
Depending on your itinerary and the islands you plan to visit, our experts can recommend the best option for you and help you plan your travel arrangements.
Are the prices listed final?
Yes, the price shown at the time of booking will be the amount charged or the amount to be paid on site.
However, a tourist tax is payable on site per day for guests aged 17 and older. The amount varies by property.
How do I plan a road trip through the islands with Des Hôtels & Des Îles?
The Roadtrip packages offered by Des Hôtels & Des Îles include a rental car for the entire duration of your stay, allowing you to enjoy your trip with complete freedom.
The hotels are carefully selected for their comfort, the quality of their services, and their location, which allows you to fully explore the destination.
How can you plan your excursions and activities on the islands?
Some of our hotels offer a concierge service, making it easy to plan and book excursions and activities—whether cultural tours, hikes, or water sports—for a fully customized stay.
What types of accommodations does Des Hôtels & Des Îles offer?
Des Hôtels & Des Îles offers a selection of high-end hotels, resorts, and villas suited to every type of vacation in the Caribbean and the Indian Ocean:
- Luxury hotels and villas for an exceptional stay,
- Beachfront hotels and family-friendly villas for a family vacation,
- Romantic resorts and exceptional spas for a honeymoon,
- Hotels with ocean views.
Can I use a promo code?
Yes, for certain event-related stays in partnership with a hotel, you can apply a promo code provided in advance by our sales department or your travel agency.
Should we get travel insurance?
Yes. Cancellation and comprehensive insurance can be added at the time of booking for flight-and-hotel packages.