GUADELOUPE - Guadeloupe includes Guadeloupe proper (called Basse-Terre) and Grande-Terre (separated from Basse-Terre by a narrow sea channel), plus five smaller islands. The total population is approximately 440,000.

ACCOMMODATIONS - When it comes to accommodations, the offerings are wide ranging but generally casual. They include hotels, resorts, villas, guest houses and apartments.

CALLING GUADELOUPE - International direct dialing is available. The local area code is 590. From the United States, dial 011-590 plus the local number.

COMMUNICATIONS - On-island, phone cards (telecartes) are necessary to make calls from public telephones.

CREDIT CARDS - MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express and Visa are the commonly accepted credit cards and their use may qualify visitors for discounts on luxury items. Traveler's checks are also accepted in most places.

CURRENCY - The island currency is the French Franc (FFr) = 100 centimes. 1 French Franc = 0.1475 U.S. dollars.

DRINKING WATER - The water is chlorinated. While relatively safe, drinking it may cause mild abdominal distress. To avoid discomfort, drink the readily available bottled water for the first few weeks of your visit. Drinking water outside main cities and towns may be contaminated and sterilization is advised.

ELECTRICITY - The current is predominantly 220 volts AC, 60 Hz which takes European-style two-round-prong outlets. However, some hotels use 110 volts AC, 60Hz, which accommodates North American-style outlets. Check with the reservations desk if you plan to bring along personal appliances such as hair dryers or electric razors.

TIME - Guadeloupe is on Atlantic Standard Time.

WHAT TO WEAR - Lightweight clothing is advised with a jacket or sweater for the evening and be sure to bring along rain gear. Topless and nude sunbathing is acceptable and common in the French culture.