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St Lucia
Overview of St Lucia
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St Lucia is indeed a Caribbean dream: a small, lush tropical gem of an island that is still relatively unknown and undeveloped, although it does offer a good variety of accommodation for tourists, including a few discreet resorts. St Lucia is one of the Windward isles of the Lesser Antilles, situated midway down the Eastern Caribbean chain between Martinique and St Vincent, just north of Barbados. It is tiny - only 27 miles (43km) long and 14 miles (23km) wide - and shaped a bit like an avocado.
The island has been left with a distinct French flavour, although its earliest colonists in the 17th century were British. The colonial history of the island, first settled by Arawak Indians around 200 AD, is a long saga of battles for control between the French and British. Britain eventually won the war in 1814, and granted independence under the Commonwealth to St Lucia in 1979.
The volcanic island's main landmarks are the Pitons, two soaring peaks on its southern coast that rise up from the sea and shelter a magnificently dense rain forest, where wild orchids grow and brilliantly-plumed tropical birds abound. The Creole people of the island are as warm as the tropical climate, and visitors are treated to plenty of smiles as they make the most of the island's natural beauty and secluded golden beaches, where coral reefs beckon snorkellers and scuba divers.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the official language, but St Lucian Creole is widely spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
-
Visitors must hold documents for the next destination, return or onward tickets and sufficient funds. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after the intended date of departure from St. Lucia. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
-
The unit of currency in Saint Lucia is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is tied to the US Dollar. The EC$ is divided into 100 cents. US dollars are also accepted at most tourist establishments and ensure a better exchange rate. ATMs are available in Castries, Rodney Bay, Soufriere and Vieux Fort. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm, some are open till 5pm. Major credit cards are accepted at all large hotels, shops and restaurants. Most hotels will exchange foreign currency, and there are change bureaux in Castries.
- Electricity:
- 240 volts, 50Hz. Three square-pin plugs are standard.
Travel to St Lucia
Overview
St Lucia is a wonderful destination for tourists with a tropical and sun-soaked holiday in mind. Its many beaches, emerald waters and incredible resorts draw in hordes of visitors every year, and understandably so.
Most guests arrive on cruise liners at the island's main port, Castries, and generally do little more than shop for souvenirs at the likes of the Castries Central Market and enjoy the beach; however, holidaymakers looking for something more won't be disappointed. Those who have time to explore are enchanted by the jungle walks and biking trails, as well as natural attractions like the fascinating Soufriere Volcano with its bubbling sulphur springs.
Visitors also enjoy the botanical gardens and the UNESCO-listed twin peaks which are known as 'The Pitons'. The Pigeon Island National Park is also popular among tourists for its white sandy beaches, as is seeing the best panoramic views of the island from the old town of Vieux Fort.
Those with a taste for sun and relaxation will not be disappointed in St Lucia, but neither will those looking for a more diverse tourist offering.
Climate in St Lucia
Like all Caribbean islands, St Lucia enjoys a hot, tropical climate throughout the year. The average daily temperatures of 80°F (27°C) tend to be tempered by trade winds. The driest time on the island is between January and March but showers can occur throughout the year, however they are usually over quickly. Hurricane season is generally from June to November.
Health Notes when travelling to St Lucia
There are few health risks associated with travel to St Lucia, although the mosquito-carried dengue fever is a risk throughout the island. HIV/AIDS is prevalent and precautions are always advised. Bilharzia is endemic. No vaccinations are required, however a yellow fever certificate is necessary for travellers arriving from infected areas. Health care costs are high on the island and health insurance is recommended, which should cover medical evacuation. EHIC card holders are entitled to emergency medical treatment in the case of evacuation to Martinique, on the same terms as Martinique nationals, of which 70 percent of the costs can be reclaimed.
Safety Notes when travelling to St Lucia
Most visits to St Lucia are trouble-free, but visitors should take common-sense precautions against robbery and theft. Isolated areas, such as beaches, should be avoided after dark. Hurricane season is generally from June to November.
Customs in St Lucia
It is an offence for anyone to dress in camouflage clothing. Homosexuality is illegal.
Duty Free in St Lucia
Travellers to St Lucia may bring in 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 225g tobacco, and 1.2 litre wine or spirits without paying customs duty.
Doing Business in St Lucia
Due to its popularity as an offshore banking location, business dress in St Lucia requires a level of formality. Handshakes for both men and women are the common form of greeting at the beginning and end of meetings, and business cards are usually exchanged. Business hours are generally 8am to 4.30pm throughout the week and 8.30am to 12.30pm on Saturdays.
Communication in St Lucia
The international access code for St Lucia is +1 758. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom); the outgoing code is not needed for calls to Canada and the US. City/area codes are not in use. Pay phones accept coins and pre-paid cards, available at shops throughout the island. AT&T calling cards can be used for cheaper international calls. Mobile phone operators provide good GSM 850, 900, 1800 and 1900 network coverage of the island. Email and Internet access is available at Internet cafes throughout the island.
Tipping in St Lucia
A service charge is not automatically added to bills and about 10% of the bill is expected. Taxi drivers, porters and chambermaids also expect small tips.
Passport/Visa Note
Visitors must hold documents for the next destination, return or onward tickets and sufficient funds. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after the intended date of departure from St. Lucia. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
-
US citizens require a passport valid for the period of intended stay in St Lucia. US citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
-
Canadian citizens require a passport valid for the period of intended stay in St Lucia. Canadian citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
-
UK citizens must hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. UK citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
-
Australian citizens must hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. Australian citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
-
Irish citizens must hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. Irish citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
-
New Zealand citizens must hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. New Zealand citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
-
South African citizens must hold a passport valid for the period of intended stay. South African citizens don't require a visa for stays of up to six weeks.
Tourist Offices
St Lucia Tourist Office, Castries: +1 758 452 4094 or http://www.stlucia.org
- Tourist Authority Offices in the United States:
-
St Lucia Tourist Board, New York, United States: +1 800 456 3984 or information@stlucia.org
- Tourist Authority Offices in Canada:
-
St Lucia Tourist Board, Toronto, Canada: +1 800 869 0377 or infocanada@stlucia.org
- Tourist Authority Offices in the United Kingdom:
-
St Lucia Tourist Board, London, United Kingdom: +0 207 347 7005 or sltbinfo@stluciauk.org
St Lucia Embassies
- In the United States:
-
St Lucia Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 364 6792.
- In Canada:
-
Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 236 8952.
- In the United Kingdom:
-
St Lucia High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7370 7123.
Foreign Embassies in St Lucia
- American Embassy
-
United States Embassy, Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for St Lucia): +1 246 227 4000.
- Canadian Embassy
-
Canadian High Commission. Bridgetown, Barbados (also responsible for St. Lucia): +1 246 429 3550.
- British Embassy
-
British High Commission, Castries, St Lucia: +1 758 452 2484.
- Australian Embassy
-
Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for St Lucia): +1 (868) 822 5450.
- South African Embassy
-
South African High Commission, Kingston, Jamaica (also responsible for St. Lucia): +1 876 620 4840.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Saint Lucia
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Note: Zika is a risk in Saint Lucia. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Saint Lucia. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Stay Healthy and Safe
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Saint Lucia, so your behaviors are important.
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
- Food that is cooked and served hot
- Hard-cooked eggs
- Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
- Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
- Food served at room temperature
- Food from street vendors
- Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
- Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
- Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- ”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
- Bottled water that is sealed
- Water that has been disinfected
- Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
- Carbonated drinks
- Hot coffee or tea
- Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
- Tap or well water
- Ice made with tap or well water
- Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
- Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
HideBugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Saint Lucia. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
- Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
- Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
- Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
- Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
- Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
- FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
- DEET
- Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or PMD
- IR3535
- Always use insect repellent as directed.
What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?
- Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
- Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.
What can I do to avoid bed bugs?
Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs.
For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites.
Note: Zika is a risk in Saint Lucia. For more information, see Zika Virus in Saint Lucia.
HideIf your travel plans in Saint Lucia include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
- Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
- Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
- Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
- Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
- If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
- Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
- Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
- Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
- Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
- Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
- Do not dive into shallow water.
- Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
- Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
- To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Saint Lucia. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
HideMost animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
- Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
- Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
- Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
- If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
- Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
- Go to a doctor right away.
- Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
HideFollow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:
- Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
- If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.
Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.
Protect yourself:
- Use latex condoms correctly.
- Do not inject drugs.
- Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
- Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
- If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.
Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:
- Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
- Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
- Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
- Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Saint Lucia’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
- Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
HideMotor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
- Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
- Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
- Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
- Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
- Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
- Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
- Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
- Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
- Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
- Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
- Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
- Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
- Wear a seatbelt at all times.
- Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
- When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
- Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Saint Lucia may be poor.
- Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
- Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
- If you choose to drive a vehicle in Saint Lucia, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
- Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
- Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
- Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
- If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
- Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.
Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Saint Lucia.
- Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
- LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.
Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
Before you leave
- Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
- Monitor travel warnings and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
- Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
- Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.
While at your destination(s)
- Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate.
- Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
- Follow all local laws and social customs.
- Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
- Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
- If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.
Healthy Travel Packing List
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Saint Lucia for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Travel Health Notices
Be aware of current health issues in Saint Lucia. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
- Zika Virus in Saint Lucia August 29, 2017 Zika virus (or Zika) has been reported. Public health officials have reported that mosquitoes are infected with Zika and spreading it to people.
After Your Trip
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The unit of currency in Saint Lucia is the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), which is tied to the US Dollar. The EC$ is divided into 100 cents. US dollars are also accepted at most tourist establishments and ensure a better exchange rate. ATMs are available in Castries, Rodney Bay, Soufriere and Vieux Fort. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 2pm, some are open till 5pm. Major credit cards are accepted at all large hotels, shops and restaurants. Most hotels will exchange foreign currency, and there are change bureaux in Castries.
| Exchange rate for 1 XCD - East Caribbean Dollar | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
0.37 BMD Bermudan Dollar |
0.33 EUR Euro |
0.37 USD U.S. Dollar |
0.26 GBP U.K. Pound Sterling |
40.40 JPY Japanese Yen |
0.49 CAD Canadian Dollar |
|
0.37 CHF Swiss Franc |
0.51 AUD Australian Dollar |
9.32 UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia |
125.29 KZT Kazakhstani Tenge |
558.69 LBP Lebanese Pound |
0.26 LYD Libyan Dinar |
|
2.55 BOB Bolivian Boliviano |
40.02 NPR Nepalese Rupee |
0.14 OMR Omani Rial |
1.35 QAR Qatari Rial |
0.51 SGD Singapore Dollar |
3.07 SEK Swedish Krona |
|
2.46 TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar |
3.70 VEF Venezuelan Bolivar |
17.00 DOP Dominican Peso |
2.49 HRK Croatian Kuna |
6.91 MXN Mexican Peso |
217.53 XOF West African CFA Franc |
|
1.17 PGK Papua New Guinean kina |
0.37 BSD Bahamian Dollar |
0.78 FJD Fiji Dollar |
8.40 HNL Honduran Lempira |
41.01 DZD Algerian Dinar |
441.99 MMK Myanma Kyat |
|
4.15 BWP Botswana Pula |
1.25 PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol |
257.31 CLP Chilean Peso |
177.38 AMD Armenia Dram |
8.97 CZK Czech Koruna |
7.41 MDL Moldova Lei |
|
46.11 ISK Icelandic Krona |
1,090.32 UZS Uzbekistan Sum |
1.43 ILS Israeli New Sheqel |
0.26 JOD Jordanian Dinar |
0.11 KWD Kuwaiti Dinar |
11.63 UYU Uruguayan Peso |
|
13.18 MUR Mauritian Rupee |
10.58 NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba |
3.10 NOK Norwegian Krone |
1.46 PLN Polish Zloty |
1.39 SAR Saudi Riyal |
54.17 LKR Sri Lanka Rupee |
|
13.21 THB Thai Baht |
1.36 AED U.A.E Dirham |
1.33 BRL Brazilian Real |
1.50 RON Romanian New Leu |
2.88 HKD Hong Kong Dollar |
218.02 XAF Central African CFA Franc |
|
8,338.42 VND Vietnamese Dong |
5.17 ARS Argentine Peso |
2.91 GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal |
3.63 MAD Moroccan Dirham |
0.14 BHD Bahrain Dinar |
0.37 PAB Panamanian Balboa |
|
0.55 AZN Azerbaijan Manat |
1,156.75 COP Colombian Peso |
25.34 KGS Kyrgyzstan Som |
103.79 HUF Hungarian Forint |
2.92 TJS Tajikistan Ruble |
5,076.61 IDR Indonesian Rupiah |
|
3.29 EGP Egyptian Pound |
441.91 KRW South Korean Won |
2,103.43 PYG Paraguayan Guaraní |
1.54 MYR Malaysian Ringgit |
199.88 CRC Costa Rican Colón |
0.54 NZD New Zealand Dollar |
|
38.86 PKR Pakistani Rupee |
24.78 RUB Russian Rouble |
5.79 ZAR South African Rand |
0.79 TND Tunisian Dinar |
0.74 BBD Barbadian Dollar |
0.65 BGN Bulgarian Lev |
|
1.09 TRY Turkish Lira |
17.30 PHP Philippine Peso |
12.10 TWD New Taiwan Dollar |
72.90 NGN Nigerian Naira |
39.75 XPF CFP Franc |
1.45 GHS Ghanaian Cedi |
|
46.35 JMD Jamaican Dollar |
0.67 ANG Neth. Antillean Guilder |
0.51 BND Brunei Dollar |
41.02 RSD Serbian Dinar |
2.44 CNY Chinese Yuan |
7,382.61 BYR Belarussian Ruble |
|
2.47 DKK Danish Krone |
1.27 TMT New Turkmenistan Manat |
24.96 INR Indian Rupee |
|||
U.S. Dollar to East Caribbean Dollar
1 USD = 2.70 XCD
Euro to East Caribbean Dollar
1 EUR = 3.01 XCD
Canadian Dollar to East Caribbean Dollar
1 CAD = 2.06 XCD
U.K. Pound Sterling to East Caribbean Dollar
1 GBP = 3.89 XCD
Australian Dollar to East Caribbean Dollar
1 AUD = 1.95 XCD
New Zealand Dollar to East Caribbean Dollar
1 NZD = 1.84 XCD
South African Rand to East Caribbean Dollar
1 ZAR = 0.17 XCD
Castries Airport (UVF)
Hewanorra International Airport
http://www.slaspa.com
Location: Castries The airport is located 42 miles (67km) from Castries, on the southeastern tip of the island.
Time: GMT -4.
Contacts: Tel: +1 758 454 6355.
Getting to the city: The airport is situated on the main highway running north to south on the island, and is served by all taxi companies on the island. The trip to Castries takes about an hour. Local buses are also available but services are infrequent.
Car rental: Car hire companies represented at the airport include Avis, Hertz and Alto.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities: The airport has a few shops and bars, an ATM and currency exchange services. There are good facilities for disabled passengers.
Parking: The airport has parking spaces for up to 250 cars.
Overview of the Attractions in St Lucia
St Lucia is a wonderful destination for tourists with a tropical and sun-soaked holiday in mind. Its many beaches, emerald waters and incredible resorts draw in hordes of visitors every year, and understandably so.
Most guests arrive on cruise liners at the island's main port, Castries, and generally do little more than shop for souvenirs at the likes of the Castries Central Market and enjoy the beach; however, holidaymakers looking for something more won't be disappointed. Those who have time to explore are enchanted by the jungle walks and biking trails, as well as natural attractions like the fascinating Soufriere Volcano with its bubbling sulphur springs.
Visitors also enjoy the botanical gardens and the UNESCO-listed twin peaks which are known as 'The Pitons'. The Pigeon Island National Park is also popular among tourists for its white sandy beaches, as is seeing the best panoramic views of the island from the old town of Vieux Fort.
Those with a taste for sun and relaxation will not be disappointed in St Lucia, but neither will those looking for a more diverse tourist offering.
Gros Islet
North of Castries lies the small, rather unremarkable fishing village of Gros Islet, a collection of dilapidated wooden homes lining narrow streets and a rather grubby beach. But come Friday night this unprepossessing town is the place to be for everyone on St Lucia, local or visitor.
The renowned Friday night 'jump-up' starts at around 10pm when the streets are blocked off, scores of vendors arrive with delicious snacks and cold beers, bars open their doors and speakers are set up on street corners. The party goes on most of the night.
Gros Inlet also offers daytime activities for families. Children as young as two years old can enjoy riding at the International Riding Stables with trained guides, while older children can enjoy riding ahead, depending on their level of experience.
Children will also love the riding tour with a beach picnic at Cas en Bas, a scenic ride through the countryside and a stop on the beach for swimming and cantering through the lapping waves.
Pigeon Island
Pigeon Island, north of Castries, is St Lucia's first national park, reached from the mainland across a causeway. The islet has a romantic past, having been the hide-out of Jambe de Bois, the much-feared peg-leg pirate who preyed on Spanish galleons. It was also from here that Admiral Rodney set sail in 1782 to destroy the French fleet in one of the most decisive sea battles in European history.
Pigeon Island features two white sandy beaches and an interpretation centre, where a multimedia display explains the local history. The centre includes the Captain's Cellar Olde English Pub, a re-creation of an 18th century English pub. The island is ideal for nature walks and has numerous marked trails which bypass historical sites, like the remains of an 18th century British fort.
Address: Located in Gros Islet, in the northern region of Saint Lucia
Website: http://www.slunatrust.org
Soufriere
Soufriere in the south is the oldest settlement on the island, having served as the French capital in the 18th century. The deep-water port stands at the base of St Lucia's main landmarks, the two towering extinct volcanoes known as the Pitons, rising to 2,619 feet (798m) above sea level. The town itself is pretty, with a cluster of colourfully-painted arcaded buildings against a background of dense jungle.
Most visitors, however, are drawn by the nearby attraction of the 'drive-in' volcano, Mount Soufriere, where it is possible to enter by car into an ancient volcanic crater filled with sulphur springs and steam geysers. Also at Soufriere are the Diamond Mineral Baths, the Diamond Waterfall and the Diamond Botanical Gardens.
Vieux Fort
St Lucia's second largest town is on the south coast, adjacent to the island's busy Hewanorra International Airport on the southernmost tip of the island. At St Lucia's most southerly point just outside the town is the Cape Moule, a Chique Lighthouse, which offers one of the best panoramic views of the island. The town has a beach called Anse de Sables which is popular for windsurfers. Near the beach is the Maria Islands Interpretive Centre, which contains a small natural history museum and an office where visitors can book trips to the Maria Islands about half a mile offshore.
Address: Located in the southern part of St. Lucia
Beaches
St Lucia may not have coral reefs, but it does have perfectly clear emerald waters and brightly coloured tropical fish, perfect for snorkelling and other aquatic activities. All of St Lucia's beaches are public and travellers can pop onto any of the island's most famous stretches of sand. Some of St Lucia's best beaches include Anse Cochon or the solitary beaches on Anse Comerette. Anse Louvet is one of the best beaches for snorkelling, while the sheltered bay at Anse Chastanet is great for younger and more inexperienced swimmers.
Jungle Biking
Although St Lucia's mountain bike trails may not be the easiest in the world, they are definitely some of the most beautiful. An attraction geared more towards older children and adults, jungle biking is a great way to see the island and get outdoors with the family for a fun-filled day.
Bikers will ride past the ruins of an 18th-century French-colonial sugar mill, an old church, and a reservoir; there are plenty of great locations to stop for a picnic, and seasoned bikers can take the Tinker's Trail for a thrilling ride. Children's bikes and helmets are available to rent.
Address: Anse Chastanet Resort, Anse Mamin
Website: http://www.bikestlucia.com
Pirates Day Adventure
Children will go mad for this exciting tour aboard the Brig Unicorn, the actual boat from the Disney Pirates of the Caribbeanmovies. The 140-foot (42-metre) replica of a 19th-century tall ship takes passengers from St Vigie Cove sailing south towards Soufriere into the open waters to explore the mystical Caribbean Sea, where lucky sailors will even get to experience the ship's cannon being fired, walk the plank or swing into the sea from the ship's ropes. The ship drops anchor at Pigeon Island, where old ruins can be explored. Lunch and drinks are served on the cruise back to St Lucia. Booking is essential.
Address: Rodney Bay Marina
Website: http://www.seaspraycruises.com
Diamond Waterfall
Located in the Diamond Botanical Gardens, the Diamond Waterfall is a popular attraction and a great walk for the whole family. This waterfall is created by the water from the bubbling sulfur springs of the Diamond Mineral Baths and changes colours a few times a day, from yellow to black, then green and finally grey.
Address: Diamond Botanical Gardens, Soufriere Estate, Soufriere
Website: http://www.diamondstlucia.com
Castries Central Market
For cruise passengers to St Lucia, the Castries Central Market will be one of their first experiences of the Caribbean island - a famous first port of call for passengers looking to stretch their legs, do some shopping and take in some local culture. This wonderful fresh goods and produce market provides a great introduction to the vibrancy and colour of St Lucia, as well as a tasty introduction to its incredible range of fresh fruits and vegetables. There are also numerous food stalls in the Castries Market, selling local favourites such as freshly-prepared curries and jerk dishes. Across the road from the Central Market is the Vendor's Arcade, which is probably the best place to shop on the island for crafts, curios and souvenirs. Visitors looking to take advantage of duty-free deals should head to Pointe Seraphine (located on the northern end of Castries' harbour), where a modern mall offers discounted prices on items such as liquor (especially local rum), perfumes and jewellery.
Address: John Compton Hwy, Castries City
Sulphur Springs
Known as the 'world's only drive-in volcano', Sulphur Springs - located near the gorgeous town of Soufriere - is a popular tourist attraction for visitors to St Lucia. Sulphur Springs is a dormant volcano (some scientists say that it is due to erupt within the next 100 years), and the on-going physical and chemical processes at the site are at once thrilling and deeply interesting to experience.
The first thing you'll notice as you approach Sulphur Springs is the overwhelming smell of sulphur in the air - in fact, the presence of sulphur is so strong in the area that you shouldn't wear any silver jewellery in case it gets discoloured. Once inside, from the safe confines of a boardwalk tourists can gawk at seething, bubbling mud pots and their 50-foot steam vents rising from the volcanic crater, and admire the strange orange, purple and green streaks left on the surrounding rock by mineral deposits.
The highlight of the visit is the chance to take a hot bath in the sulphur-enriched mud - which supposedly does wonders for your sinuses. A unique and exciting attraction, budget at least two hours to take it all in.
Address: Sulphur Springs Access Rd, Soufriere
Website: soufrierefoundation.org/discover/attractions/sulphur_springs_park/
The Pitons
The Pitons - two volcanic plugs that stand like sentinels on the headland outside the St Lucian town of Soufriere - are not only UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but provide active visitors with a glorious opportunity to do some hiking in what are uniquely picturesque surrounds.
Gros Piton, with an elevation of about 2,500 feet (770m), is the more popular to climb, as it is not as steep at Petit Piton, and boasts a richer variety of plant and animal life as well as superior views from its summit. The trail that leads up Gros Piton begins at an elevation of about 600 feet (180m), and ascends quite sharply through dense tropical vegetation, broken here and there by cool caves and rocky outcrops that provide outstanding views of Petit Piton rising from the expanse of the Caribbean Sea below.
The climb takes about four or five hours in all, and can be undertaken by fit visitors with little or no mountaineering experience. Local guides, trained in emergency medical procedures, are available for hire and will enrich your hike by pointing out interesting flora and fauna along the way.
Address: The Pitons are linked by the Piton Mitan ridge
Website: whc.unesco.org/en/list/1161
Public Holidays in St Lucia
Port of Call - Castries
Photo credit: jster91
St Lucia's real charms are revealed in day trips away from Castries, into the glorious hinterland and along the scenic coastline. The local people are famously friendly and the weather perpetually sunny.
Cruise ships docks at quays on both the north and south sides of the harbour. The two sides are linked by water taxis. The north side is called La Place Carenage and is closest to Castries. Passengers exit through a duty-free shopping centre into Castries old town. The south quay is closer to a larger duty-free shopping centre at Pointe Seraphine across the water.
Shopping in Castries
Visit the old market at the corner of Jeremie and Peynier streets for indigenous crafts and colourful scenes from local life. Look out for wood carvings, spices, and banana ketchups. Two substantial duty-free shopping centres are at La Place Carenage Pointe Seraphine, although the goods are fairly uninspiring and aimed squarely at tourists. Eudovic studios in Goodlands sells unique and finely crafted wood carvings.
Dining in Castries
The Pink Plantation - local cuisine on a large veranda with excellent views
Chic - fine dining at The Royal Hotel
Brown Sugar Restaurant and Bar - Caribbean food with a fun and lively atmosphere
Things to do in Castries
Hunt for orchids between the Pitons that guard the island
See Marigot Bay, where scenes from Dr No were filmed
Explore Pigeon Island St Lucia's first national park
Tourist Board office
Tel: +758 452 4094
The Sureline Building, Vive Bouteille
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