Karibea Hotel Residence La Goelette

Given the relatively small size and laid-back vibe of the surrounding La Caravelle peninsula, Karibea Residence La Goelette feels like a resort that’s four times larger than the area’s tourism industry can sustain. Consequently, large portions of the property are shuttered and in disrepair. Much of the hotel is dated and feels decidedly budget -- the wicker chairs, brown tiling, and abundance of wood paneling in the lobby (not to mention the empty shopfront) don't exactly inspire good vibes, and things don't get much better from there. The hotel’s only noteworthy social spaces are its two pools -- one of which is large and includes two water slides. However, many rooms and every other advertised amenity -- including the restaurant, bar, and open-air poolside lounge -- appear closed indefinitely. The result is a quiet, abandoned atmosphere that borders on creepy. Given the budget nature of the property and fact that upgraded rooms can accommodate up to four, guests are just as likely to be families as adult couples and singles, though we didn't spot many of either on our visit.

Situated on a quiet, residential hillside overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel offers excellent water views from almost anywhere on-site. The relaxed beach town of Tartane is less than 10 minutes away on foot and is home to a number of restaurants, shops, and a public beach. A Carrefour grocery store is less than 15 minutes away by car for supplies and other sundries necessary for stocking the kitchenettes. Guests will want a car to do any exploring, keeping in mind that taxis are exorbitant over long distances in Martinique. Roads and highways are well maintained. The immediate area surrounding the hotel is a nature preserve with some striking scenery. Some of the islands most popular beaches are within a reasonable day trip from here, including Les Salines, which is around 70 minutes south of the property. Martinique’s main airport -- Aime Cesaire International (FDF) -- in Fort-de-France is located 40 minutes west.

The hotel officially offers 65 rooms, though as of early 2016 many were undergoing "renovation." It's unclear on when these upgrades may be finished. In the rooms that are open -- which are available as Standard Rooms or Junior Suites -- the decor is dated. Expect to see cheap wood furniture, simple tilework or terra-cotta flooring, and an aesthetic that blends Mediterranean and nautical design. Like much of the property, chipped paint, salt-worn handles and fixtures, and a general state of disrepair all reveal the hotel’s age. Junior Suites are the marginally nicer option, with wicker seating and white-washed details, but they still look tired and worn, clashing patterns in the soft furnishing, and outdated bedspreads. The floor plans are tight across all categories, despite Junior Suites technically offering 30 square meters of space (322 square feet). 

All rooms offer a short list of amenities. The outdoor kitchenettes on the balconies include mini-fridges, electric cooktops, wet bars, and microwaves. Flat-screen TVs are the only technological feature as in-room Wi-Fi isn’t available. All Suites feature a single queen bed and a fold-out sofa bed, plus two full bathrooms to accommodate a total of four guests. As is typical throughout the island, housekeeping services are limited only to longer stays (a minimum of eight nights). Additional cleanings are available for a surcharge. The bathrooms in each room are done in simple tile, with just a bit of space around the sink and walk-in shower stalls with dollar-store shower curtains. No toiletries are provided, and some of the grout was a bit stained when we visited.

Check ahead with this property as the advertised features -- a restaurant, bar, and grocery store -- didn't match up with what was actually on offer when we visited in 2016. The hotel is ostensibly being renovated, but there's no indication as to when this will be finished. For the time being, features are limited two pools and two waterslides. The 3,500-square-foot (325-square-meter) Upper Pool has a resort-like feel with two waterslides, a waterfall, and a small island in the middle. A dozen chairs dot the surrounding pool deck. However, the seating seems inadequate given the hotel’s size. An open-air restaurant/bar overlooks the space, although it was closed indefinitely during our stay leaving the pool without any services. The lower pool is substantially smaller with only a handful of chairs and no umbrellas. The small adjacent bar is likewise closed. There's a pricey vending machine in the lobby, which is where the only free Wi-Fi is available as well. Just outside, free parking is available in a secure, gated lot.