The island is 238 sq. miles (616 sq. km), 27 miles long, 14 miles wide with a combination of high mountains, forests, low lying lands and beaches. A central mountain range runs the length of the island, with peaks ranging between 1000 and 3145 feet. Forests dominate the mountains, while jasmine, scarlet chenille and wild orchids provide splashes of color to the lush green slopes. The two towering volcanic cones on the southwest coast, Gros Piton (797m) and Petit Piton (750m) are one of the Caribbean’s most famous landmarks. The volcanic origin of the island provides visitors with an opportunity to visit a “drive-in volcano” and take a dip in the reputedly therapeutic Sulphur springs.
St Lucia is large enough to provide visitors with breathtaking contrasts and small enough to ensure that those who want to laze their days away in peace and quiet can do just that. The climate on island is tropical with temperatures ranging from 70 – 90 Fahrenheit. The rainy season is from June to November and the drier period between December and May. The rainy season is June-November, but don't expect a constant downpour. Rather, there are numerous short but incredibly intense showers. Trade winds provide breezes year-round, regardless of the season.
While there is no shortage of accommodation for travelers in search of traditional Caribbean living, the island has recently added a number of all-inclusive beach-side resorts. These are found mostly on the north coast where the sunsets are unforgettable and most of the sports action, nightlife and entertainment is found.
But when you’ve felt the sand between your toes and swum in the warm turquoise waters, why not discover what you have been missing on the rest of an island of ravishing beauty?
In the nature reserves, rain forests, botanical gardens and coastal mangroves you’ll see exotic trees and flowers, magnificent tropical birds and marine life. Between March and August, you might be sharing a beach with turtles which have clambered out of the sea to lay their eggs.
You’ll see banana and cocoa plantations, the crater of a dormant volcano, bubbling sulphur springs, mineral springs where visitors can bathe, 18th century forts and sleepy coastal villages. And could you really leave St Lucia without seeing the Pitons, the massive twin volcanic cones that have become the island’s signature image?
Lovers will search out secluded beaches, night-owls will find entertainment in the hotels and bars, and yacht crews will find dozens of safe harbors, from small coves to an 83-acre marina and the large natural harbor, once the world’s 14th busiest port, which is overlooked by Castries, the lively capital town where French Creole houses can still be seen. Divers, snorkelers, hikers and golfers will all find happiness on St Lucia.
Perhaps the only question about St. Lucia should be – can you really leave?
Essential Facts:
Language: The main language in Saint Lucia is English although many St. Lucians also speak French and Spanish. Kwéyòl, St Lucia's second language, is widely spoken by the St. Lucian people including all walks of life such as doctors, bankers, government ministers and the man on the street! Kwéyòl is not just a patois or broken French, but a language in its own right, with its own rules of grammar and syntax. The language is being preserved by its everyday use in day-to-day affairs and by special radio programs and news read entirely in Kwéyòl.
Capital City: Castries (population 50,000) is the island’s capital and is situated North-west of the island.
Population: 153,000
Currency: Eastern Caribbean $; US$1=EC$2.68
Religions: Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion, although there is a large Protestant minority.
Political Status: Independent nation, member of the British Commonwealth and a parliamentary democracy
Literacy Rate: Definition: age 15 and over has ever attended school total population: 67% male: 65% female: 69% (1980 est.)
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50 cycles.
Telecommunications: The international dialing code for St Lucia is +1 758 followed by the customer number. On the island, dial the customer number alone.
Entry Requirements: U.S., Canadian, U.K. and passport holders of other European Union countries nationals require proof of citizenship--a valid passport. Other nationalities should contact the nearest tourist office for entry requirements.
Departure Tax: Departure Tax of EC $68 (US $26) for all international passengers over 12 years old or EC $35 (US $13) for regional passengers must be paid when leaving the Island.
What to Bring: St. Lucia's temperature ranges from 65-85 degrees (Fahrenheit) from December to May and 75-95 degrees from June to November. The winter is relatively drier as well. Visitors should bring cool, comfortable clothing. While jacket and tie are rarely requisite, overly casual beachwear is rarely appreciated off the beach.
