WELCOME TO SAINT LUCIA
Perhaps the most picturesque of the Caribbean islands, Saint Lucia revels in glorious beaches and a dramatic landscape, from the twin volcanic peaks of the Pitons rising on the south coast to the lush rainforest and waterfalls of the interior. A diverse history lends the island an intriguing mix of English customs and French ambience
USEFUL INFORMATION
Weather
St Lucia has a sub tropical climate cooled by trade winds so average temperatures are generally between 22-32°C. Sporadic showers occur June to November.top 
Visas
British Citizens holding a valid UK passport do not require a visa to enter St Lucia for stays of up to 6 weeks. Proof of onward or return travel is required.top
Recommended immunisations
Diphtheria & Tetanus
Typhoid
Hepatitis Atop
LOCAL INFORMATION
Attractions
SOUFRIERE
St Lucia’s drive-in volcano, Sulphur Springs is open from 9am-5pm daily. With hissing steam vents, sulphur springrfs and a lunar-like landscape it’s a very contrasting environment to the golden beaches of the coast. From Soufrière you can get a closer view of the ‘Pitons’, the volcanic cones which rise over 2000 feet above sea level. The beautiful Diamond Botanical Gardens are just south of Soufrière with many lush tropical plants and flowers. There is also a spectacular waterfall here.
CASTRIES
The capital of St Lucia, Castries, is worth a visit for its lively market, which takes place every day except Sunday and there is excellent duty free shopping at La Place Carenage and Point Seraphine Malls. You can enjoy fine views of the harbour from nearby Morne Fortune (Hill of Good Luck) and spend time in the pretty gardens and museum.
NATURE RESERVES
Pigeon Island National Landmark was St Lucia's first national park and is an important heritage site. The picturesque, 44 acre park is connected to the mainland via a causeway with two beaches, a museum and many nature trails. Tours can also be arranged locally to the rocky Frigate Islands, off Praslin Bay, home to colonies of breeding frigate birds from May to July as well as other rare birds.top
Cultures & customs
English is the official language, although St Lucians also speak French Creole. You will find that US Dollars are widely accepted as well as the local currency, the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. There is an 8% government tax in bars and restaurants and a 10-12% tip is generally expected.top
Nightlife
Hotels and resorts offer a selection of evening entertainment while in Castries there are a number of excellent restaurants. Rodney Bay is home to the island’s liveliest dance clubs while the Captain’s Cellar at Pigeon Point is a popular British hangout featuring live jazz.top
Events
January: St Lucia Regatta
April/May: St Lucia Jazz Festival - a 10 day music extravaganza attracting some of the worlds best performers in Jazz, Soul, R&B and more.
June: Fisherman's Festival - beautifully decorated boats, special church services and merrymaking.
July: St Lucia Carnival
October:1 International Creole Day - special activities to celebrate the Creole culture.
December: Festival of Lights - a procession of lights.top
