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St. Lucia was discovered in 1502 by shipwrecked French sailors. History would later record that the island would be ruled by the French seven times and the British seven times. The flip-flopping between governments and cultures eventually created a lifestyle that is marvellously unique. It is said that the natives cook French and speak English. St. Lucia is really beautiful. It has volcanic peaks, banana plantations, sandy beaches and a warm and friendly people.
The harbor at Castries is one of the prettiest landlocked harbors you may find anywhere. The Fort Charlotte barracks at Morne Fortune which as a commanding view of the coastline. Not far from the second largest town of Soufriere are the sulphur springs which visitors can approach as close as 50 yards.
Capital: Castries
Population: 153,000
Area: 238 square miles
Language: English
Time: + 1 hour from New York
Electricity: 220 Volts 50 Hz
Geography: The highest peak is Mt. Gimie at 3,145 ft. The island is volcanic in origin. Martinique is 25 miles to the north and 20 miles to the south is the island of St. Vincent.
International Airport
Hewanorra International Airport is 37 miles from the capital of Castries. Taxi service and bus service is usually available for flight arrivals.
Tipping: Tipping is 10% in restaurants.
Shopping: Shops are open from 8:30 am until noon reopening at 1:30 pm an again closing at 4 pm.
Food and Drink: Lobster creole style is the popular dish in St. Lucia. International foods are available in most major restaurants.
Social: The local are friendly.
Business: Business meetings are usually not formal. Business attire should be ties for the men and "smart" but not formal attire for the women. Business cards are essential.
Banking: Monday to Thursday 8 am to 3 pm and on Fridays 8 am to 5 pm. There are no weekend hours.
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar.
Money Exchange: Not necessary if you have US$
Credit Cards: Visa, Master Card, American Express, Diners Club
Climate
Summer temperatures range from 75 to 95 F and in the winter from 65 to 85F. Humidity ranges from 66 - 94%. | 