The south west corner of St Lucia must be one of the most photographed in the world. The Pitons, a pair of jagged volcanic peaks are instantly recognizable and together with the tropical rainforests, soft sandy beaches and blue green waters of the Caribbean, ensure that this is your quintessential island paradise
St Lucia, the only country in the world to be named after a woman, is 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, and said to resemble the shape of a mango! Here, the unique combination of Caribbean, British, African and French cultures combine to create a blend of food, music and traditions that are truly enchanting and inspirational.
One of the more underrated Caribbean islands, Saint Lucia is the ultimate low-key destination to relax and unwind. With an abundance of clean, sandy beaches and incredibly clear water, it’s the perfect place to have a little time to yourself. But if you want somewhere with a bit of a buzz, head to Castries, the island’s capital, for the famous market and souvenirs aplenty.
The people of Saint Lucia are always welcoming – visit once and you will return!
British Airways have daily direct flights to St Lucia from London Gatwick, and Virgin fly direct on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday (winter months) and Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Sunday (summer months), also from London Gatwick. Flights take approximately 9 hours. Special offers are often available.
Why St Lucia?
“I first visited St Lucia in 1975, and although expecting to see some evidence of cricket, one of the things that surprised me was to see rugby being played on the island (the last thing that I expected to find!). Castries, the capital, was very cosmopolitan, with a bustling and colourful market, and it was where I experienced my first Caribbean pepperpot dish and curried goat” – Mike Williams, co-founder of The Caribbeanist