3. St. Lucia History
St. Lucia is a sovereign island country in the eastern Caribbean Sea on the
boundary with the Atlantic Ocean. Part of the Lesser Antilles, it is located
north/northeast of the island of Saint Vincent, northwest of Barbados and
south of Martinique. It covers a land area of 617 km2 (238.23 sq mi) and has
a population of 174,000 (2010). Its capital is Castries.
One of the Windward Islands, Saint Lucia was named after Saint Lucy of
Syracuse by the French, the island's first European settlers.. They signed a
treaty with the native Carib Indians in 1660. Britain took control of the island
from 1663 to 1667; in ensuing years, it was at war with France 14 times and
rule of the island changed frequently (it was seven times each ruled by the
French and British). In 1814, the British took definitive control of the island.
Because it switched so often between British and French control, Saint Lucia
was also known as the "Helen of the West Indies".
Representative government came about in 1924 (with universal suffrage
from 1953). From 1958 to 1962, the island was a member of the Federation
of the West Indies. On 22 February 1979, Saint Lucia became an
independent state of the Commonwealth of Nations associated with the
United Kingdom. Saint Lucia has a legal system based on English common
law.
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5. St. Lucia is one of the Windward Islands, located in
the middle of the Eastern Caribbean chain. Its
terrain is a combination of high mountains, forests,
low-lying lands and beaches. Mountain ranges
runs the length of the island and forests dominate
the mountains, while jasmine, scarlet chenille and
wild orchids provide splashes of color to the lush
green slopes.
September falls during the hurricane season.
Hurricanes are rare in St. Lucia.
The average high in September is 88 with a high
humidity level.
St. Lucia
6. Vacationers should be aware that there can be a
great deal of variation in weather between the
different regions of St. Lucia. If you are visiting one of
the beaches around Castries or Rodney Bay, expect
temperatures to be high but not unbearable due to
the cool breeze off the water. Visitors exploring one
of the trails through the rain forest in the center of the
island need to be prepared for some very hot and
humid weather without any relief from the winds.
Adventurous travelers can cool off on a hike to one of
the Piton mountains, the distinguishing landscape
feature of St. Lucia. Temperatures will drop
significantly as the altitude increases and travelers
may even want to bring along a light jacket to stay
comfortable in the cool weather.
St. Lucia
8. St. Lucia
Soufrière
Soufrière is located on the southwestern coast of St. Lucia and
was the former capital when under French possession. It is also
the oldest town in St. Lucia. Unlike Castries, much of the original
architecture still stands today, so if you want a taste of French
colonial architecture, Soufrière is the place to be. The waterfront of
this town is so picturesque it draws movie studios and tourists
alike. Soufrière is an excellent destination for visitors to experience
both the St. Lucian culture and the environment. Soufrière has
everything, from beautiful beaches to towering mountains. For the
adventurous traveler, it is the perfect destination for both relaxation
and adventure. Just outside of Soufrière is the popular drive-in
volcano which is thought to have once been a site for human
sacrifice by the Arawak Indians. Visitors are allowed to drive very
nearly into the volcano and then be guided around the area by a
tour guide. Just south of the town of Soufrière along the bay, the
most distinguishing feature of St. Lucia can be found, the Pitons.
These two towering twin mountains are not only beautiful to look
at, but they a popular hiking destination that draw people from
around the world.
10. 4.5 Star Resort
Ladera is a resort that travelers dream about -
a small, lush, tropical gem that is world
acclaimed yet still relatively unknown. Located
in south western Saint Lucia, Ladera is a
paradise like no other to ignite your passions.
Two miles from the port town of Soufriere, on a
lush hill- side of mango trees, lay the lure of
Ladera. With only 6 villas and 26 suites and a
dedicated, attentive staff, Ladera offers an
intimate experience and the ability to cater to
your preference.
Ladera Resort
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14. Amenities and Activities
Lounging at Ladera's main pool and deck area overlooking
the Pitons and Caribbean Sea, with cocktails and snack
service available poolside.
Soaking and relaxing in the restorative sulphur mineral baths
at the spa.
Complimentary beach shuttle service to Sugar Beach.
Complimentary beach towels and snorkeling equipment.
Live local entertainment at the Bar at Dasheene, including
the weekly Shak-Shak Band performance during Sunday
Brunch.
A weekly wood carving demonstration at the Bar at
Dasheene.
Saturday morning Soufrière market tour followed by a
cooking class hosted by Ladera's Chef.
The Spa at Ladera features indulgent treatments inspired by
Saint Lucia's volcanic history and the lush rainforest that
surrounds this peaceful retreat.
Ladera Resort
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17. Dasheene
Ladera's award-winning restaurant, is known throughout
the world for its eclectic, innovative cuisine. The restaurant
welcomes guests from all over the island, who often come
here for lunch and dinner to enjoy the unbelievable
panoramic view firsthand, enjoy live music most evenings,
and indulge in the delicacies - both local and international -
that make Dasheene one of the Caribbean's finest dining
experiences. Featuring what is perhaps the freshest food
in the Caribbean, Dasheene's daily menu provides an
excitingly delicious combination of fresh caught fish, locally
grown and freshly picked produce and other entrees and
indulgences, all presented in a style of casual elegance.
The Bar at Dasheene is open from 9am each day. It is a
perfect setting for a pre-dinner cocktail or to enjoy a live
music show. Part of Dasheene Restaurant, the Bar shares
the same unobstructed sea views flanked by St. Lucia's
signature twin volcanic Piton peaks.
Ladera Resort
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19. Ladera Resort
Gros Piton Suite with Plunge Pool
Feature open air bedroom and sitting area with
spectacular views of the Pitons and Caribbean
Sea.
Queen sized bed
En-suite shower
Plunge pool
Stocked minibar with water daily
Coffee and tea making facilities
Full breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks by the
glass, alcoholic beverages house brands only.
Premium drinks, bottled wines and champagne
not included.
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24. Resort is located on a hillside, no direct
access to beach. There is a shuttle
between the resort and the beach
Resort has one restaurant. Taxi to town
is about $30 round-trip.
I have toured this resort and the view
really is that incredible!
Notes
26. 4 Star Resort
All-Inclusive
40 minutes from airport
Nestled along a cliff overlooking the Caribbean
Sea and away from the hustle and bustle of the
island, lies a St. Lucian treasure. This laid back
little resort is located on the serene West Coast
and is simply known as "Ti Kaye" which means
small house in the native Creole patois language
of St. Lucia. It is a secluded, peaceful location -
a great hideaway for those who seek complete
relaxation in casual, yet beautiful surroundings.
Ti Kaye Resort
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28. Amenities
Complimentary welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
All-inclusive- breakfast, 3 course lunch, afternoon tea, 3 course
dinner. All Inclusive includes meals listed above; soft drinks, local
beer and local Bounty rum, a selection of alcoholic cocktails + all
non-alcoholic cocktails, a selection of house wines by the glass
(including sparkling), tea & French press coffee
Daily maid and evening turndown service
Complementary use of kayaks
Luxurious hand built wooden pergolas and beach loungers with plush
cushions
Pool
Managers complimentary cocktail hour every Wednesday from
6:00pm-7:00pm followed by live local band
Use of the air conditioned gym (weights, multi gym, cycle and step
machines, floor mats and iPod dock)
Free in room (and resort wide) Wi-FI
Ti Kaye Resort
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35. Kai Manje Bar
Cliff side bar over looking the ocean
Ti Kave
Underground wine cellar
Kai Manje Restaurant
(Creole for house of eating or food) offering breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Guests are served all meals at the open air Kai Manje restaurant.
International cuisine is specially prepared by the Chef and infused with a
Creole flavor. A range of fresh local produce and traditional herbs and
spices are grown on the resort's grounds and help create sumptuous treats
on the extensive menu. The appetizing food is only second to the
hospitable wait staff. Enjoy signature dishes combined with a modern
interpretation of authentic Saint Lucian cuisine or simply request your
favorite and we will accommodate you.
Ti Manje Restaurant
(Creole for small eating or food) offering lunch. Set on the warm silver sand
beach, guests can enjoy a wide range of dishes ranging from specialty
salads, Ti Kaye's famous homemade burgers, baguettes and the Catch of
the Day. A perfect accompaniment to the cool sea breezes, inviting scenery
and island cocktail!
Ti Kaye Resort
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40. Ti Kaye Resort
Ocean View Room
Ocean View Rooms (OVR) are the standard room
category offered at the resort and are styled like a
duplex (semi-detached). There is no connecting door
inside but the veranda balcony is separated by a door
which can be locked or left open if your family or group
has occupied both sides.
All Ocean View Rooms have a view of the Caribbean
Sea and feature a large bedroom, spacious deck with
two rocking chairs, table and a double hammock. They
also have ceiling fans and air conditioning, four poster
beds with mosquito nets, complimentary tea and
French press coffee facilities, a mini-fridge, telephone,
hairdryer, iPod dock, in room safe, walk-in closet, iron
and ironing board plus daily maid and turn down
service. Beautiful outdoor garden showers are open to
the stars and lined with tropical plants.
45. Quotes
April 30th-May 6th
Ladera
Gros Piton Suite
○ $7,272
Ti Kaye
Ocean View Cottage w/ Pool
○ $5,906
Quote includes all-inclusive amenities and
transfers between airport and hotel.
47. Best Of St Lucia Cultural & Heritage Tour
Tour the undiscovered and unspoiled island of St.
Lucia in air conditioned comfort while
experiencing the truly Saint Lucian way of life,
with a tour that takes you to Fond Assau. There
you will practice traditions such as preparation of
cassava bread, cooking on macambou leaves,
catching crayfish in the river, collecting honey
from a beehive and the very authentic display of
wood-sawing while in Chak Chak where a band
plays traditional music in the background. The
historic buildings of Castries comes alive as well-
informed tour guides take you on a walk through
the architectural history of an old colonial island
city, make a stop to do some well-needed
shopping, whilst at the same time enjoying the
spirit and life of the modern Caribbean.
48. Soufriere Jeep Discovery & Waterfall Revelation
A scenic journey through Saint Lucia’s banana plantations,
fishing villages, rainforest and lush tropical vegetation. Your
guides will share the local history and stories about
significant sites along the way to Soufriere, home to the
majestic Pitons. The first stop is Morne Coubaril, a 250-
acre working plantation where you’ll learn about 18th
century plantation life. As you travel along an original mule
carriage pathway and through reconstructed slave quarters
there are demonstrations of plantation farming practices
including copra, cocoa and manioc production. From there
we continue on to visit the sparkling Diamond Waterfall and
the Sulphur Springs "drive-in-volcano" where you can
immerse in the rich mineral water of the mud baths heated
by the volcano itself and feel rejuvenated. Our final stop
before the return trip is for a delicious buffet lunch prepared
with fresh local ingredients at a restaurant nestled in island
greenery and colorful flowers in Soufriere.
49. Island Routes ATV Adventure
Experience the island's incredible beauty up close
and personal, as you maneuver your all terrain
vehicle past panoramic views of the dramatic
coastline, through the hills and plantations. So go
off-road, get dirty, and revel in an adventure you'll
never forget.
St. Lucia Treetop Zipline Adventure
See the world from the treetops and feel like one
with nature, gliding from platform to platform,
hovering over an abundant, tropical landscape.
Adventurers will receive the thrill of their lives with
an aerial view of Saint Lucia's lush rainforest - an
unforgettable experience of nature at its best.
50. Island Routes Hike The Pitions
Towering nearly 3,000 feet above sea level, the
majestic peak of Gros Piton, along with its twin peak
Petit Piton, dominates the western coast of St. Lucia.
The lush green slopes of these pyramid shaped icons
rise from the sapphire blue waters of the Caribbean,
filling the adventurous traveler with wanderlust. The
view itself is a classic, the Pitons of Saint Lucia, soaring
straight up from the sea's edge, this is definitely one of
the things you must do in your lifetime, a visit to the
Pitons should be number one. Snaking up the misty,
jungle-covered, boulder-strewn mountainsides for the
huge views from the top is an experience well worth the
hike. Afterwards head to a rest stop for a sumptuous
lunch and refreshing swim.
51. Horseback Ride 'n' Swim
Imagine exploring the incredibly gorgeous island
of St. Lucia on horseback! Amble through a
tropical rainforest atop a sleek, gentle mare or
serene stallion. Ride along a cliff and feast your
eyes on panoramic vistas of the St. Lucia
coastline with the aquamarine ocean sparkling in
the island sunshine. Then, prepare yourself for a
totally unique experience, as you and your mount
cross the white sand of a pristine beach and enter
the warm waters of the Caribbean. Trot through
the crystal seas together and enjoy the ride of
your life!
52. Tropical Jeep Safari
A must-do for the adventure-seeker! You'll have a
blast on this outdoor excursion that will unveil the
simply beautiful St. Lucia landscape all aboard an
open-top, safari jeep! Enjoy the trek through historic
Castries up the Morne (Hill of Good Luck), where the
most breathtaking, panoramic view of the city and
harbor awaits, then leave "modern civilization," as you
commence your jungle journey through the rural
countryside until you reach the quaint fishing village of
Anse La Raye. Enjoy a 20-minute hike through the
rainforest, passing an abundant waterscape of rivers
and cascading waterfalls. Sample local seasonal fruit
and relax in a refreshing river pool before returning to
the jeep.
53. Island Routes Waterfall Cycling Adventure
○ An adventure seekers' delight. Enjoy a thrilling mountain
bike ride through the rainforest to Errard Waterfall where
you can take a dip in its refreshing waters. Then, cycle
through the forest where you'll learn about local crops
grown on the island. End your tour with a relaxing drive
through the quaint fishing village of Dennery.
Island Routes Helicopter Island Tour
○ Quite simply, there is nothing like flying over a tropical
island with a glass of champagne in hand to enjoy the
journey even more. The feel. The adrenaline. It's a whole
new way to experience the island. Sights: Castries, Marigot
Bay, St. Lucian Fishing Villages, Lush Rainforest, Interior
Mountains, Pitons, Soufriere Volcano, Coral Reefs, Dive
Sites, Remote Waterfalls, Rivers and Valleys; Major
Beaches & Hotels, Plantations, Cap Estate Homes, Rugged
Atlantic Coast, Pigeon Point, Fort Rodney, Rodney Bay
Marina and Rat Island.