New Direct Route: LIAT Air launched a year-round Pointe-à-Pitre (Guadeloupe) to Montego Bay (Jamaica) service, now running twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays—good news for faster French-Caribbean access and easier multi-island trips. Airfares Under Pressure: LIAT says it’s trying to limit ticket price hikes despite jet fuel costs jumping about 50%, aiming to absorb part of the increase so customers aren’t priced out. Water Crisis in the Islands: Guadeloupe and Martinique are facing an unprecedented drought, with drinking-water restrictions and even some beach closures due to coastal pollution—daily life is getting harder. Caribbean Rum Festival: St Barth will host the Caribbean Rum Awards Oct. 26–30, with blind judging, beachfront parties, tastings, and chef-led dinners—an easy add-on for travelers already in the region. Travel Ideas in Guadeloupe: Le Gosier is being spotlighted as a “real town” by the water—beaches, bakeries, and everyday life mixed with tourism, near Pointe-à-Pitre and the Sainte-Anne/Saint-François area. Sports & Leisure: Finolhu (Maldives) is expanding its tennis/padel program with a new pro who has worked across the French overseas region, including Guadeloupe.