St Lucia
A volcanic island rising up from turquoise water located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, rich in natural beauty from its golden sand beaches to its verdant mountainous, inland area with its twin peaks, Gros and Petit Piton. The island is covered in thick, lush, emerald green tropical rain forest, which covers some 19,000 acres and is a refuge for exotic wildlife, giant fern and wild orchids as well as over 30 species of birds. Although now an independent country within the British Commonwealth, St Lucia alternated between British and French rule for 150 years and there are still reminders of those times to be seen in the fortresses and naval bases and the old French capital of Soufriere. The British influence is manifested in the language, a love of cricket and driving on the left. The French can be seen in the place names and second language of Patois but there is of course also a strong sense of the Caribbean seen in the drinks (rum), music (calypso and reggae) and Creole cuisine. This is a colourful and unique island where St Lucia Jazz, the carnival and open air markets are part of life.
The sights
Historical, cultural and heritage sites can be found throughout the island, including Pigeon Island National Landmark, once home to the Amerindians it has been a pirate hideout and military base. Experience the St Lucian way of life at Fond Latisab Creole Park - Babonneau where you can see the preparation of cassava bread, the catching of crayfish in the river and enjoy traditional music. Nature lovers can enjoy three exquisite tropical botanical gardens, each brimming with rare and exotic flora and should also head for Fregate Island Nature Reserve, a tropical sanctuary for rare birds. At Soufriere, you can view the majestic Pitons and visit the world’s only drive-in volcano with its bubbling holes of sulphuric waters.
In a nutshell
St Lucia is a perfect destination for lovers of nature. The natural beauty of the island shines forth from every corner. Local environmentalists have protected the island to the best of their ability and it is a haven for all manner of wildlife. Whale watching is very popular with over 20 species seen during the migrating periods and there is an abundance of turtles. For beach lovers, the best are to be found north of Castries.
The facts
Geography: The island is 27 miles long and 14 miles wide and is home to a population of 150,000, 50,000 of whom live in the capital Castries. It is a volcanic island which can be seen from the hot sulphur springs, mountainous terrain and fertile land.
Language: English, although many St Lucians also speak French and Spanish. Also widely spoken is Kwéyòl, St Lucia's second language.
Passports: You will need a full 10 year passport valid for 6 months beyond your date of return.
Visas: Not required for British passport holders for stays of less than three months as long as you have a return ticket.
Vaccinations: Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time: British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and BWIA fly to St Lucia. The travelling time from London to St Lucia is around 8 hours.
Local time: GMT -4 hours.
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar, although US dollars are accepted in most places.
Best times to travel: High season runs from December to May. Although there is little variation in temperature throughout the year, the wettest months are from June to November.
