A true gem in the heart of the Caribbean; Saint Lucia is Definitely not your ordinary island

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts!

Imagine standing atop a breathtaking viewpoint, taking in the panoramic vistas of the sparkling Caribbean Sea and the iconic twin volcanic peaks of the Caribbean, the Pitons. Now, I want you to picture yourself strolling through lush, tropical forests, marveling at the diverse array of flora and fauna that call this island home. If you are a foodie, we cannot forget the incredible seafood and fresh, locally grown fruits that will tantalize your taste buds.

The island that we are going to manifest for your next vacation is no ordinary island – it’s a true feast for the senses, a place where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and the warmth of the local culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, this captivating destination has something for everyone.

I’m thrilled to take you on an exciting journey to the captivating island of Saint Lucia – a true gem in the heart of the Caribbean. As I promised, for the rest of the year, we’re going to explore the most beautiful destinations in this tropical paradise, and I can’t wait to share my experiences with you.

On my first visit to Saint Lucia, I’ll admit, I didn’t get the chance to appreciate the sheer beauty that this island has to offer. The island unfortunately was locked down due to an impending storm, but during my second trip, I was completely mesmerized by its natural wonders. Lush, verdant landscapes. Towering mountains. Vibrant fauna and mouthwatering local cuisine. Saint Lucia is truly a one-of-a-kind destination that will leave you in awe.

This article will be a quick recap of my time there, and in the upcoming editions, I will take you on an in-depth visual experience of all Saint Lucia has to offer. From reclining on the sandy white beaches, to soaking in the volcanic mud baths of Soufrière, indulging in authentic island food, club-hopping on the Rodney Bay strip, and driving through the countryside. I am going to help you design your vacation to experience everything that you enjoy: exploring abandoned sugar plantations, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, chasing brightly colored fish in the shadow of the Pitons, or experiencing a street party in the sleepy village of Gros Islet.

I had a chance to drive through the mountainous Saint Lucia’s landscape and it is as diverse as her heritage. No two parts of the island are alike! Some parts of Saint Lucia are ideal for bustling nightlife and beachside parties, while others offer opportunities to get away from it all.

North Saint Lucia is one of the most popular locations for visitors to stay. Everything just a few minutes away. While this area is harder to get to from the airport, many visitors are likely to stay in this region during their visit. North Saint Lucia is home to the town of Rodney Bay, which has some of the top Saint Lucia beaches as well as popular nightlife spots. North Saint Lucia has more diverse activities, and is ideal for groups of people traveling together, or for families.

The south side of Saint Lucia is closest to the airport, which means you can relax on beautiful beaches and check in to luxury resorts just minutes after your plane lands. The south part of Saint Lucia Island is also one of the most historic. Visitors have a chance to explore ruins and hike around Vieux Fort, which still has rusty canons and old bricks scattered around. The beaches on this part of the island are known for their length, so you can find a place far away from other visitors if you need to get away for a while.

The west coast of Saint Lucia is home to Soufrière, the original French capital. While this town is quiet in the off-season, it is a popular tourist destination and the port for many cruise ships. You can walk around the Old Town with its colourfully painted buildings and pick up a few handcrafted souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Soufrière is also the jumping off point for other excursions around the island. Soufrière is tucked just under the Petit Piton (the smaller Piton). Its name actually comes from the smell of sulfur emissions from the now-dormant volcanic plug. You can leave the town and go hiking around the Piton and swim in some of the more impressive waterfalls.

Then there is central Saint Lucia, which offers a variety of unique opportunities that the other parts don’t. The central part of the island is home to various forest reserves that protect the natural plant and animal life of Saint Lucia. You can hike past streaming waterfalls and past rushing streams to reach some of the best views on the island. There are lookouts around the reserve where you can see the small towns and pristine beaches below. Along the way, you might spot some of the island’s more exotic birds and even a few small mammals.

I am excited to have you on this adventure with me. I hope you are ready. In this edition, look out for my article about my first stop, the beautiful  Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort.