Fodor's Expert Review Hôtel L'Impératrice

Right across from La Savane stands this hotel, which has been owned by the same caring, Martinican family since the 1950s; like the park, it's another landmark that's been revived in recent years. The guest rooms, though not luxurious, have nice wooden Creole furnishings, such as four-poster beds, plus contemporary amenities that include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and renovated bathrooms with impressive tile work. A good choice is one of the superior rooms (those on the third floor are best), which have private terraces overlooking the park. The hotel's central location means it's within walking distance to the ferry terminal, where boats leave for Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Saint Lucia; and to the dock, where there are departures for Les Trois-Îlets.