Nestled on the west coast of Basse-Terre in Guadeloupe, the town of Deshaies stands out as an unspoilt gem, a haven of tranquility far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
Deshaies, filming location of the series 'Death in Paradise'
A rich history
Known for its authentic ambience and lush nature, Deshaies is a paradise for nature lovers and peace seekers. The city has a rich history, dating back to colonial times, with diverse cultural influences reflected in its architecture, cuisine and local traditions. With its picturesque harbor, colorful streets and Creole houses, Deshaies offers a charming glimpse of traditional West Indian life.
The Natural Attractions of Deshaies – Unparalleled Beauty
The area around Deshaies is famous for its natural beauty. The Jardin Botanique de Deshaies, once owned by French comedian Coluche, is a must-see. This lush garden is home to an incredible diversity of tropical plants, sparkling waterfalls and even colorful parrots. The beaches around Deshaies, such as Grande Anse and La Perle, are among the most beautiful in Guadeloupe, with golden sands, crystal-clear waters and swaying palm trees. These beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming or snorkeling, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Activities and Leisure in Deshaies – For Adventurers and Nature Lovers
Deshaies is a playground for adventurers. Activities range from hiking in the Guadeloupe National Park, where trails wind through the rainforest, to diving and snorkeling in the living coral reefs. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, paddling or even sailing. For those seeking a more relaxing experience, deep-sea fishing or sunset cruises are also popular. Local guides offer excursions into the rainforest, including visits to hidden waterfalls and natural pools. Find out more:
https://www.villededeshaies.fr/index.php/info-tourisme
A magnificent tropical forest classified as a National Park since 1989
Culture and Gastronomy in Deshaies – An Authentic Taste of the Caribbean
Deshaies’ culture is a vibrant blend of African, Indian and European influences. This is reflected in the local gastronomy, where restaurants and street stalls offer Creole specialties, fresh seafood and tropical fruits. The local markets are a feast for the senses, offering spices, artisanal rums and local produce. Cultural events, such as music festivals and traditional celebrations, are opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of Deshaies and share moments with the locals.
Deshaies location for the series “Meurtres au paradis”: A Perfect Symbiosis between Fiction and Reality
The British TV series “Murders in Paradise” has greatly contributed to Deshaies’ fame, serving as the main backdrop for its captivating plots. This detective series, combining mystery and humor, takes place in the fictional setting of the Caribbean island of Sainte-Marie, but it’s actually the charming village of Deshaies that serves as the main setting for this series, turning this small Guadeloupe town into an internationally recognized landmark. Launched in 2011, the series quickly gained in popularity, blending police intrigue, British humor, and the seductive setting of the Caribbean.
The Deshaies Selection
Deshaies’ selection for the series is no accident. With its picturesque landscapes, idyllic beaches and breathtaking views, Deshaies offers the perfect setting for this series focusing on police investigations in a paradisiacal environment. The colorful buildings and relaxed atmosphere of the village have become emblematic elements of the series, attracting fans and onlookers from all over the world. Deshaies was chosen to represent the fictional location of Sainte-Marie because of its authentic atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The producers were looking for a location that embodied the quintessence of a Caribbean island, while offering an infrastructure suited to the production of a TV series. Deshaies, with its sandy beaches, typical houses and charming streets, offered the perfect balance between natural beauty and practicality.
Impact on tourism
The presence of “Meurtres au paradis” in Deshaies has also had a significant impact on local tourism. Visitors often come hoping to catch a glimpse of the filming locations, such as Catherine’s famous bar, the fictional police station or the beaches used for some of the most memorable scenes. The series has highlighted the natural beauty and rich culture of Deshaies, bringing international attention to what was once a hidden gem. Since the arrival of the series, tourism in Deshaies has been transformed. Fans of “Murders in Paradise” flock to all these iconic filming locations. These sites have become attractions in their own right, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the series while discovering the local charm.
Local Community Participation
As well as boosting tourism,“Meurtres au paradis” has also created a special bond between the people of Deshaies and the series. Many of them were involved in the shoot, either as extras or by providing services to the production teams. This interaction has enriched the cultural experience of the town, blending its authenticity with the fictional charm of Sainte-Marie, and has thus provided a source of pride and identity for residents, reinforcing their sense of belonging to their now world-renowned town.
Murders in paradise
Cultural influence
“Murders in Paradise” also had a cultural impact on Deshaies. Although the series is primarily a British production, it incorporates elements of Caribbean culture, notably through music, gastronomy and language. This cultural fusion has led to a better understanding and appreciation of local traditions by an international audience.
Deshaies in the Eye of the World
Ultimately, “Murders in Paradise” put Deshaies on the world map, not only as a picturesque filming location, but also as an attractive travel destination. The series highlighted not only Deshaies’ natural beauty, but also its cultural heritage, way of life and the hospitality of its people. This detailed look at the relationship between “Meurtres au paradis” and Deshaies, highlights how the series not only captivated its audience with its intriguing storylines, but also played a key role in promoting and enhancing this beautiful Guadeloupe town. So, for fans of the series and travelers in search of a picturesque setting, Deshaies has become a must-see destination, a place where fiction meets reality in an exceptional Caribbean setting.
And soon “Season 13” of the series “Murders in Paradise”.
Series 13 of “Murders in Paradise”, like its predecessors, continues to explore mysterious plots and police investigations in the picturesque setting of the fictional island of Sainte-Marie, with Deshaies in Guadeloupe still serving as the main filming location. This new season promises to maintain the formula that has made the series such a success: a mix of humor, suspense and engaging characters, while introducing new twists and challenges for the protagonists.