Fort-de-France, Martinique: Jardin de Balata

Of all of our stops in the Eastern Caribbean, this one might have produced the most photos in our collection. It's that pretty of an area, and a highlight of our tour of the region. 

This private garden is located about six miles outside of downtown Fort-de-France, Not only are there a few thousand varieties of plants, but the views of the surroundings are terrific. 

To me, the highlight of the facility is not for the faint of heart. Visitors can walk along the treetops for a different perspective of the area. After climbing a couple of flights of stairs, they walk on a mostly roped-off area about 20 feet from the ground. While there are boards on the bottom, there is some give and sway. Therefore you'll find yourself walking carefully and stopping every so often, grabbing on to the side netting. But all things considered, it's a thrilling and exhilarating way to experience the grounds. Summon up some courage and take a walk.

If you like this sort of attraction, you'll probably find yourself asking if you could stay longer ... no matter how long the stop was. By the way, it's been known to rain on short notice up there in the hills, so have a coat or umbrella at the ready no matter what it looks like at the start of the tour.