Planning
Your Vacation on St. Lucia

The St. Lucia Experience

"I've been to St. Lucia three times now and have to say this island is one of my favourites. The scenery is spectacular and diverse. Mostly it is mountainous, covered in rain forest but the north is desert-like, a complete contrast with cactus growing in the dry landscape. It's beautiful too. There are spectacular views everywhere you go - certainly the perfect spot for those looking for a scenic vacation."

"The island also has a good safety record and good natured people. Service at the hotels is second to none. These are points which will certainly enhance your vacation experience."

Things to See and Do

"If you don't want to just sit by the pool, there is plenty to see and do on St. Lucia:

• The Piton Peaks are a World Heritage Site and the number one attraction. These twin peaks rise from the sea, surrounded by tropical rain forest. You can hike for hours to get there or drive close then walk to see them. There are numerous day tours to the peaks as well.
• Pigeon Island is an excellent spot for diving, sailing, kayaking – all the water sports you could want.
• One of the best ways to see St. Lucia is by helicopter. Flying over this stunning island is breathtaking. Some resorts actually use helicopters to transfer guests from the airport.
• The capital, Castries, is a very Caribbean town, quite small and full of local charm.
• Rodney Bay Village has a yacht club, some fine marina-view restaurants and good shopping. The challenging 18 hole St. Lucia Golf Club is also here, nestled along the coast overlooking the sea. (Golf courses on St. Lucia are very good but there aren't too many because of the mountains.)
• Ziplining is available in the rain forest.
• Tennis is played at most of the large resorts.
• A sunset champagne cruise is a romantic way to end the day."

St. Lucia Resorts

"You won't find budget all inclusive resorts here. St. Lucia is known for its mid to upscale properties."

"One of the best ways to book these 4 and 5-star luxury hotels is through our hotel network which offers competitive rates plus these exclusive amenities:

• Upgraded room at time of check-in, as available
• Early check-in, late check-out, as available
• An exclusive amenity, such as a spa credit, breakfast, afternoon tea and more."

"My experience at three of the member resorts has been excellent. Here are some details to give you an idea of what to expect at a St. Lucia resort."

"The Almond Morgan Bay and Almond Smugglers Cove are four star, all inclusive resorts. I found the staff to be excellent and friendly."

"Both have four restaurants including a casual venue for buffet breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, popular with families; Italian; Oriental and the more upscale, adults only restaurants. There were no complaints about the food and we enjoyed some outstanding meals. I particularly enjoyed Morgan Pier as it was right on the water."

"The Morgan Bay is built up a hill so you have a choice of garden view rooms on the lower level or ocean view up the hill with wonderful views. A shuttle bus takes you around the resort, so you don't have to worry about the steep climbs."

"The Smugglers Cove is a huge resort covering a hilly 60 acres. Again there is a shuttle to take you around. Here we had a lovely one bedroom suite, large with a private patio and greenery. We never saw our neighbours. It was very quiet and secluded."

"Swimming pools are very clean even first thing in the morning. There were no handrails however for those who need assistance, to get in and out of the pool."

"Another St. Lucia resort in our collection is Body Holiday Le Sport, an excellent spot for yoga and spa vacations. The food here is really good and your stay includes a spa treatment each day."

Tips

• There is limited air service to St. Lucia from Canada, so check out flights before choosing your travel dates.
• Although several international airlines fly here from Europe and North America, the airport has not kept up with capacity and is often busy and congested.
• The drive from the airport to your hotel is a good introduction to the island and lets you see how beautiful it is. Private transfer services are available.
• There is a big demand for helicopter tours so this is something to book early. My daughter was unable to get a helicopter tour for the entire week we were there.
• Castries is the cruise port for St. Lucia and gets very busy when ships are in. Avoid visiting on ship days.

By Susan Milne