General Information

Imagine a small, lush tropical gem that is still relatively unknown! It is one of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles located midway down the Eastern Caribbean chain between Martinique and St. Vincent, and north of Barbados. St. Lucia is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide. The beaches of the west coast owe their calm beauty to the Caribbean Sea while its eastern shore faces the Atlantic.

Language:
St. Lucia's principal language is English, but a French-based patois is widely spoken.

Getting There:
St. Lucia has two airports: Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort and Vigie Airport near Castries. British Airways, American Airlines, Amerijet International Inc., Air Canada, and BWIA provide international flights. Vigie Airport just outside Castries is served by LIAT, BWIA, Air Martinique, American Eagle, Helenair, and Eagle Air.

Immigration:
Valid passports are required for all visitors, except US and Canadian citizens who possess valid return tickets and I.D. and stay for less than six months. Visas are not required for citizens of the US or Commonwealth countries as well as other countries where there is agreement for exemption.

Currency & Banking:
The currency of St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar which is linked to the US Dollar at the exchange rate of US$1 to EC$2.65. US Dollars are readily accepted throughout the island. Most hotels will exchange reasonable amounts of foreign currency, and there are change bureaus in Castries. The National Commercial Bank (NCB) has a branch at Hewanorra International Airport where EC Dollars can be exchanged for foreign currency. It is open daily from 12:30pm until the last flight departs. A passport and ticket are required as proof of returning visitor status.

Climate & Clothing:
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 more dry as well. Visitors should bring cool, comfortable clothing. While jacket and tie are rarely requisite, overly casual beachwear is rarely appreciated off the beach.

Electricity:
Electric current is 220 volts, 50 cycles AC. (A few hotels are 110 volts, 60 cycles.) Most sockets take 3-pin square plugs (UK standard) but some take 2-pin round plugs or flat American plugs which are rarer. Adapters are generally available at the hotels.

Transportation:
Cars and four-wheel-drive vehicles can be booked in advance through a travel agent or at the airports, hotels or at car rental offices on the island. The rental rate per week ranges from US$295 to US$390 depending on the type of car and the company. The average daily rates are US$65.00, not including insurance, which can be an additional US$15-20 per day. A temporary driving license is required for visitors and can be obtained on production of a current driver's license on arrival at the airport, at the police station in Castries or at the car rental office. The cost is EC$30.

Shopping:
You'd better come prepared if you are going shopping here. Many wonderful items are to be found such as perfume, colorful clothing & beachwear, batik, evening fashions, an unique piece of art or craft, an ultra-smart purse, a tropical shirt, a gorgeous piece of jeweler or native crafts.