BACKOn Location in Saint Lucia September 2017
Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia is our award-winning On Location partner, in operation for over 28 years. You can’t beat that type of know how when it comes to exploring one of the most beautiful islands in the world! Shirlyn Elliodore, Director of Sales & Marketing, is here to share her knowledge and experience for those planning a trip to this precious jewel of the Caribbean.
Q: Describe Saint Lucia for those considering a vacation.
When looking for a quiet and naturally scenic island to relax and move away from the usual busy schedules, why not a vacation in Saint Lucia?
Saint Lucia is one of the most colorful, lively and naturally beautiful of Caribbean locations, a place where sunsets leave you breathless and the stunning scenery provides sport, relaxation and awe-inspiring landscapes. The island is also rich with cultural diversity and is the perfect destination, whether you're after romance, rejuvenation or adventure. A genuine, natural landscape of gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, miles of unspoiled rainforest and the majestic Piton Mountains, are sure to indulge every taste. Natural waterfalls, breath-taking views, friendly locals and authentic culture impress the most travelled individuals for a holiday with lasting memories.
When it comes to beaches, you are spoiled for choice with Saint Lucia but there are some that stand out as even more beautiful than the rest. Possibly the most stunning bay on the island is Marigot Bay which distils the essence of the Caribbean with palm fringed beaches and crystal-clear waters, in front of green carpeted hillsides.
If rainforests are more your thing then Saint Lucia can provide this in abundance – the interior of the island is called its 'green heart' and wandering under the leafy canopies, you will easily be able to see why. Outside of the natural attractions of the island, Saint Lucia has a wonderfully vibrant and colorful culture, best explored through its towns, people and food.
Q: What services do you offer on island?
We continue to provide unforgettable island experiences to clients as we maintain a standard of excellent customer service and delivery to our distinguished clientele. Our services include but are not limited to:
- Sightseeing Island Tours
- Cruise Ship Excursions
- Airport Transfers
- Hotel to Hotel Transfers
- Transportation Services
- Destination Weddings
- Hotel Reservations
- Villa Accommodation
- Cultural & Heritage Tours
- Adventure Tours
- Sports Tours
- Incentive Travel Programs
- Meetings & Conference Planning
- Special Interest Groups
- Tours in other Caribbean islands
Q: Are there any special features of your services we should know about?
Barefoot Holidays is premised on high quality service and attention to detail.
Q: What are the Top Five things to do on St. Lucia?
- See the majestic Pitons
- Dip in the mud baths.
- Zip through the rainforest
- Make your own chocolate bar
- Indulge in local cuisine
Q: Tell us about your favorite Resort Accommodations on Saint Lucia and what they offer?
Royalton Saint Lucia
Newly opened Royalton Resort Saint Lucia has already proven itself to be one of the best. Vacationing in upscale style and comfort on an island where natures welcomes you. This All-in luxury escape features three distinct sections, a Family friendly general resort, Diamond Club, as well as a Hideaway adults-only Oasis. With an interactive kids' club and Hang out Teens club, guardians who are visiting with kids now have little to worry about.
Cap Maison
A hotel for food Lovers; Intimate and stylishly designed villas providing the perfect setting to allow the most of your time. From service and food, to its hospitality experts, Cap Maison is set on one of the Island's beautiful cliffs. It is located in a secluded area but still near to the chic Rodney Bay area and adjacent to the St. Lucia Golf & Country Club, it is in one of the most sought-after spots on the island appealing to both the active as well as those seeking a relaxed retreat.
Windjammer Landing
The beauty and charm this picturesque Mediterranean Village, Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort is unlike any other resort on the island of Saint Lucia. This hotel possesses extraordinary dining experiences and a wide range of accommodation styles. It features spacious beachfront and hillside villas many with full kitchens and luxury amenities, premier on-site dining at multiple venues, and exclusive access to a white sand beach. Windjammer Landing is nestled on 60 acres of Saint Lucia's northwest coast in Labrelotte Bay, offering exclusive access to 64,000 square feet of sandy beach. Guests enjoy six swimming pools, an array of motorized sporting activities, and premier dining.
Q: Any advice for those planning a Destination Wedding?
Location
Many brides who come to Saint Lucia are tempted and quick to host their special day at the resort, but we would like to advise them to give some thought to an extraordinary scenic site that may add more ambiance to their wedding, for instance, the famous Pitons as a backdrop or a simple beach wedding.
Visit in advance
Ideally, you'd see your venue once before booking and again three to four months before the wedding to finalize details. If a second trip's not possible, arrive at least five days early to make those decisions and do a hair and makeup trial.
Hire a pro
It is the best thing to let a planner organize everything for you on Saint Lucia and if isn't in your budget, look for a package that may include these services.
Tailor your wedding dress to the destination
Breathable fabrics work best in hot, humid locations. Lightweight lace in Saint Lucia can be stunning and comfortable.
Never check your dress
Always carry your dress on board the plane, even if it means having to fold it. Just make sure someone at the other end can press and steam it.
Q: Describe what visitors will see on an island sightseeing tour?
The most popular sightseeing tours allow the visitor to discover the amazing beauty of the island's picturesque west coast and attraction-filled town of Soufriere. There they will see one of a kind attractions including the majestic twin mountains called the Pitons, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Sulphur mud baths inside the Caribbean's only drive in volcano and the multicolored Diamond Waterfall.
In addition to this, you will get the opportunity to meet the warm and hospitable people of Saint Lucia and sample the delectable cuisine of the island.
Q: What about Cruise passengers. Do you offer pier-side pickup and Drop off?
Yes! A representative from the Barefoot Holidays team will be at the cruise port/ pier-side to meet and assist clients. We do pick them up and drop them off after the tour is completed.
Q: Can visitors hike the Piton Peaks?
Yes! Visitors are allowed to hike Gros Piton, the wider of the two. There is an existing tour where clients depart their hotel to hike the mountain and enjoy great vistas from the top. It is not advisable to hike Petit Piton because it is too steep.
Q: What other Sports tours do you offer?
We offer a variety of Sports tours including:
- ATV
- Horse Back Riding
- Cycling Adventure
Q: What are the food and drink specialties visitors should try on Saint Lucia?
For adults, our award-winning rums and Spirits would be the 'must try' when on Saint Lucia and for the kids, our wide variety of fruits, vegetables and local juices.
Visitors go to the famous Friday Night to experience the famous Friday Night Street Party in the quaint town of Gros Islet where locals gather to feast with family, friends and visitors on the fresh catch of the day and other favorites including lobster, conch, red snapper, crab and salted cod fritters.
