Saint Lucia Family Travel Guide presented by
Winter-Spring 2013
An introduction to
Saint Lucia Presented by
Thomas Cook Kids First Family Vacations A selection of all-inclusive family resort vacation packages designed to provide the ultimate holiday experience for parents and children.
Cover images courtesy of depositphotos.com.
Saint Lucia Situated just northwest of Barbados, St Lucia is famous for having some of the Caribbean’s most dramatic scenery. Home to both lush rainforests and towering mountain peaks, it’s the perfect destination for those looking for more than just a beach holiday. That’s not to say that there’s a shortage of beaches however. They happen to come both baked in sunshine and with your choice of white or black sand. St Lucia is unique to say the least and that’s not just because of its volcano. Should you find yourself dreaming of a family vacation in this island paradise, here’s all that you need to know.
Climate St Lucia experiences a tropical climate which basically translates as year round sunshine. In Winter, you can expect temperatures of between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. In Summer, on the other hand, temperatures rise to between 85 and 95 degrees. The rainy season officially lasts from June until December. Contrary to popular belief however, showers are generally both short and mild. The hurricane season is also not something that holiday makers should be worried about. In recent years, serious storms have been noticeably absent on the island.
When to Go Like most tourist destinations in the Caribbean, you can expect to pay as much as thirty percent more for a winter vacation. Those on a budget are therefore very much advised to avoid the season of December through March. As I mentioned above, the weather in St Lucia is idyllic regardless of when you visit. Those who visit outside of the peak months can also expect a much quieter, more laid back atmosphere on the island.
Where to Eat From unique Caribbean flavours to top class international cuisine, St Lucia is a foodie’s paradise. Here are five of the islands most popular restaurants. • The Old Plantation Yard: Arguably the best restaurant in the Vieux Fort area, The Old Plantation Yard serves fresh seafood in a choice of indoor and outdoor settings. To make the most of your visit, try the delicious crab curry. • Orlando’s: Consistently voted the best restaurant on the island, Orlando’s can be found in the town of Soulfriere. A locals’ favourite, offering traditional Caribbean dishes cooked to perfection . Reservations are very much recommended. • Spice of India: Top class Indian restaurant located in the town of Gros Islet. It’s not cheap but you won’t find a better Indian restaurant on the island. Excellent selection of both mild and spicy dishes. Order the latter with care. • Big Chef Steak House: Another Gros Islet favourite, if you like your meat, Big Chef Steak House is where you go. Tailored to North American clientele, it’s the perfect choice for those looking for a taste of home. • The Coal Pot: Located in the islands capital, Castries, The Coal Pot offers traditional Caribbean dishes with a distinct French flavour. Sophisticated and yet family friendly, it makes for the perfect venue for an enjoyable night out.
Things to Do Should you find yourself growing tired of idyllic beaches, you’ll be pleased to know that there’s more than one way to spend your time in St Lucia. Here are five of the best places to visit on the island. • Pitons: Consisting of two large mountains, the Pitons are both a World Heritage Site and St Lucia’s most iconic tourist attraction. The Gros Piton is by far the most popular of the two and is a relatively easy two hour hike. The summit offers a panoramic view of the entire island. • Pigeon Island National Park: The home of Fort Rodney, Pigeon Island offers visitors both stunning scenery and interesting historical sites. Secluded beaches, perfectly manicured lawns and a kitchen from 1894 combine to make it one of the islands most popular attractions. • Sulphur Springs: Famous for being “the world’s only drive in volcano”, tourists are invited to drive to within a hundred metres of the volcano’s edge. Highlights include warm mud baths and some of the best photo opportunities on the island. • Treetop Canopy Adventure: Offering no less than twelve different zip lines, this treetop adventure park offers an exhilarating day out for the entire family. Multiple activities are available both for adults and younger family members. The staff are both well trained and incredibly friendly. • Tet Paul Nature Trail: Arguably the best hiking trail on the island. Lasting just one hour and suitable for all ages, it’s something that all holiday makers should experience at least once. Thanks to the informative guides, it’s also surprisingly educational.