Tropical Traveller (Year-End Edition) by Tropical Traveller

TROPICAL

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SAINT LUCIA

TRAVELLER NOVEMBER / DECEMBER VOL 295, 2017

HIKING

PETIT PITON UPHILL ALL THE WAY!

NATIONAL DAY Saint Lucia celebrates

ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS A warm welcome to ARC participants!

SHOPPING

TAKE HOME SOMETHING SPECIAL

ERY IN EV ISSUE S, TORIE S DIREC MBER U N E N O H &P ATION MAPS R VAC U O Y AKE TO M

S FRE S E R ST

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve WHERE TO PARTY www.trop i c a l tra velle r.co m

SEE THE WONDERFUL Sparkle this party season with our NEW collection.

Pointe Seraphine • La Place Carenage • Hewanorra Airport tel: 758.458.6000 • fax: 758.452.7587 harryedwardsjewelers.com ST. LUCIA

TROPICAL

TRAVELLER

TROPICAL

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

VOL 295

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2017

TRAVELLER HIKING

PETIT PITON UPHILL ALL THE WAY!

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Events

A warm welcome to ARC participants!

SHOPPING

TAKE HOME SOMETHING SPECIAL

S, TORIE ERS DIREC E NUMB ION & PHON VACAT MAPS YOUR TO MAKE

FRE STRESS

New Year’s Eve WHERE TO PARTY w w w.t rop i c a l t r a vel l er.c om

Cover Photo Fishing boat with Pigeon Island in the background by Dani Devaux danidevaux.com

8 10

By Land

Mae Wayne Publisher & Editor in Chief

Underwater World

Doretta Francois Editor doretta.f@stluciastar.com

Restaurant Reviews

Villages

By Sea

Property Spotlight

Diving

Spinnakers DOOlittle’s Dennery

Carnival Luxury

Michele-Lauren Hackshaw Claudia Eleibox Editor’s Assistants Linda Andrew Creative Director Contributors Mae Wayne, Doretta Francois, Michele-Lauren Hackshaw, Claudia Eleibox, Nick Mobley

Team TT

Photography Bill Mortley, Chris Huxley, Dani Devaux, Michele-Lauren Hackshaw, Claudia Eleibox, Nick Mobley, Colleen Newman, Ciara Devine, Cultural Development Foundation, Christiane Beaubrun, St Lucia Yacht Club

Tourist Talk

Michelle Callender Ad Designs

New villas at resorts

IN EVERY ISSUE Our picks for things to do What visitors are saying

Vanessa Julien Advertising & Sales Manager vanessa.j@stluciastar.com

Wedding Bells

Great Escapes

Island Map

A-Z Guide/Out & About

Castries Map

Star Publishing Company Ltd Rodney Bay Industrial Estate, Massade, Gros Islet, PO Box 1146 Castries, St Lucia Telephone: (758) 450-7827 Fax: (758) 450-8694

Rodney Bay Map

TROPICAL TRAVELLER IS A BI-MONTHLY MAGAZINE

Sean and Kathryn Mitchell A guide to great excursions 238 square miles of paradise

Useful information and contact numbers Find your way around the capital city Find your way around the tourist hub

Shopping Directory Where to find the best shopping opportunities

Dining Guide

Comprehensive list of Saint Lucia’s restaurants

Nibbles

Seasonal fare

Entertainment Guide New Year’s Eve parties TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Saint Lucia celebrates

National Day ARC Activities Hiking Petit Piton

NATIONAL DAY

ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS

RY IN EVE ISSUE

Masquerade

SAINT LUCIA

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER VOL 295, 2017

CONTENTS Culture

FREE TRAVEL GUIDE

Nickeyer Sundborg-Collymore Advertising nikki.s@stluciastar.com Christian Wayne Distribution christian.w@stluciastar.com

ON STANDS:

Publication Dates for 2017 - 5th JAN, MAR, MAY, JUL, SEP, NOV.

Deadline for advertising COPY:

26 30 32

5th of the month PRIOR TO PUBLICATION

Printed & Published by STAR Publishing Company Ltd

AD HARRY EDWARDS MARGLOD

Pointe Seraphine • La Place Carenage • Hewanorra Airport harryedwardsjewelers.com tel 758.458.6000 • fax 758.452.7587 ST. LUCIA

Team TT

SMALL ISLAND WITH LOTS TO OFFER!

We at TT are immensely proud of Saint Lucia, and justifiably so. Wonderful climate, stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, Caribbean sea, friendly people . . . The list goes on. Here our Publisher, Editor and writers reveal what makes each day superb for them and how easy it is for you to have a slice of our lovely island life.

Grow Well Youth Drive - 1,000 Tins for Dominica. One Can, Two Cans, Who Can? They can! And They Did!

As we approach the year end I reflect on the highs and lows in Saint Lucia during 2017. The Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Pearlette Louisy, celebrated 20 years in office; this indefatigable and graceful lady received the nation’s congratulations and thanks. Ingrained in our memories for years to come will be the devastation caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Saint Lucia was on the periphery; islands further north, especially Dominica, bore the brunt of nature’s brutal force. Aid came in from around the world: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, the Netherlands, Venezuela, Taiwan, Australia and New Zealand, with additional funding through the United Nations and the European Union, amongst others. Saint Lucians held fund-raising events; individuals, businesses and government sent money, supplies and personnel. We may be a little Island but our people have huge hearts.

Doretta, Editor

My most recent pleasure was my Sunday at Stonefield Villa Resort, where the Brown family - who own the business - grew up. This charming laid-back property has a rustic elegance and family vibe reminiscent of what life must have been like in simpler times. It is genuine, relaxed luxury without all the unnecessary frills. The Mango Tree restaurant is an authentic ‘farm to table’ experience: everything is freshly grown on-property. The best adjective I can find at this moment is 'heavenly satisfying!' Taking a hike through the estate is not only an excellent workout but a great way to discover the variety of Saint Lucian produce and learn how fruits like mangoes grow. After the exercise I was happy to rest in my villa – all villas are extremely spacious and decorated with furniture made by the family-owned carpentry shop. Each villa features large four-poster beds, comfortable hammocks, your own pool and stunning views of the Pitons. The new Escape spa just adds to the beautiful rejuvenating experience of the resort. What else could I ask? Yes, I’m spoilt to have friends who pamper me the old-fashioned way but hey, the place is so welcoming they’d spoil you too. So don’t leave Saint Lucia without at least a day trip to this hidden treasure! It’s your time to Escape, Relax and Rejuvenate.

Mae, Publisher

Every weekend I search for an adventure to bring me joy and a good workout. In Saint Lucia we have lush vegetation, vibrant seas, inclines and peaks, verdant valleys and sandy beaches, all offering plenty of activities, from easy and relaxing to challenging and rewarding. Recently I climbed Petit Piton for the first time and it was amazing! (See page 14.) I wholeheartedly recommend climbing Petit Piton or the less strenuous ascent of Gros Piton. The view from the top will leave you in awe and the adrenaline rush makes the early start and all the effort worthwhile. Happy hiking!

Yuletide is synonymous with my joy. Opportunities to wear sparkly gowns or to eat seasonal delicacies are endless. Of course, the time is a memorial of Christ’s birth but I find the food almost as important! Mostly I drink as much enchanting sorrel juice as I can manage. There are parties almost every night and our little lighting of the Christmas tree is never something I miss. New Year celebrations follow and, although it signifies the end of my best loved, I still enjoy picking from the many options to celebrate. Most times I settle for a hilltop view of the fireworks, with friends.

Michele-Lauren, Contributing Writer

Claudia, Contributing Writer

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

AD CARNIVAL SAILING

Visitors

Tourist

TALK

We love finding out what visitors adore about St. Lucia. Here is what some had to say about our little piece of paradise.

TAMELA AND MICKEY

POPPLEWELL FAMILY

THE CRAIGIE BOYS

[ CALIFORNIA, USA ]

[ CHESTER, UK ]

[ NEW MALDEN, UK ]

Tamela and Mickey were here to celebrate their wedding anniversary.

The Popplewells were staying at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort

We met Will and Andrew with their parents at Bay Gardens Beach Resort.

TT: Welcome to Saint Lucia! Tamela: We are so happy to be in Saint Lucia for our fifth wedding anniversary. The occasion has extra special meaning as my Dad, Randy, lives here and we last saw him at our wedding. TT: How did you celebrate? Tamela: Our anniversary falls on the same date as the birthday of Regina, Dad’s wife. We all went to Pigeon Island and hiked up to the fort. My wonderful Dad brought a flask and poured us shots of Chairman’s Spiced Rum. Awesome! Then we all jumped in the water to cool off. TT: Where are you staying? Mickey: We’re at Windjammer and the staff have been so welcoming and friendly. The entertainment here is good: Boo Hinkson played guitar the other night and the jazz was amazing! TT: What do you think of our local produce? Mickey: I like the rum! I’ve tried the local homemade spiced rum that’s sold roadside; it’s like Christmas in a bottle! TT: Which restaurants would you recommend? Mickey: We like J’s Wrap City, opposite Harbor Club, for a fantastic range of wraps and quesadillas, and the prices are reasonable. TT: What have you found memorable? Tamela: We like the island vibes and mixing with the local people; they are friendly and sure know how to cook some tasty stuff! TT: Are you planning a return visit? Tamela: We’ve left our four kids back home with family so we’re already saving to bring them over to see their grandpa and this beautiful island. 6

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

TT: Hello. You all look happy. Sara: We’re going with the Caribbean flow! TT: What has inspired that? Sara: We’re thoroughly enjoying the resort. The nightly entertainment has been good, especially the limbo dancing and fire-eating. The bay is sheltered and the boys, who are water babies, have been learning to water ski. Jacob (age 12): It’s been the best thing so far! Alex (age 9): But the 'Wet & Wild' was brilliant! Ian: It was certainly a full and packed day. We sailed on the Queen of the Carnival from Castries to Soufriere and drove buggies between the Pitons and on a black sand beach. We had lunch at Fond Doux plantation then did the mud bath and sulphur springs and visited a waterfall. We went snorkeling and there was a party on the boat as the sun set. Alex: The little fish in the sea nibbled my feet! TT: Have you tried our local drinks? Ian: I like the Piton beer, especially ice-cold. Alex: There was rum punch on the boat and they said it’s the ‘baby maker’! I’m not sure why. (Mum and Dad blushing now!) TT: Where would you recommend to eat? Sara: We like Upper Deck here at the resort. TT: What do you like about the island? Sara: It’s pretty and everything has been good, even the ‘liquid sunshine’! The sea temperature is great so the boys have spent a lot of time in the water. I like the tropical plants and fruits - the guy at the plantation cut a tasty mango for us to try - and I wish I could grow them at home.

TT: Please tell us what you’ve been doing. Will: We really enjoyed a catamaran trip to Soufriere which included visits to the volcano, waterfall and a cocoa plantation where we had an amazing local lunch. Andrew: Another great trip was to the rainforest where we zip-wired around the tree tops. Will: We also visited Splash Island Water Park which was fun but exhausting. And we went on the inflatable rings around the bay at Reduit Beach, climbed Gros Piton, visited Castries, took the water taxi to Pigeon Island and went snorkelling. TT: So what have you done to relax? Andrew: Aside from chilling out in the sun, I went to the Daren Sammy stadium for a CPL match between the St Lucia Stars and Jamaica Tallawahs. I love cricket and I enjoyed meeting Daren Sammy and having my photo taken with him. TT: Which local food have you enjoyed? Will: Jerk chicken, lamb shank and mocktails. Andrew: Goat curry and banana milk shakes, and smoothies from Felly Belly. TT: Which restaurants would you recommend? Will: The Pink Plantation for superb food and stunning views of the whole of Castries, and Flavours of the Grill in Gros Islet for its local vibe! Andrew: Buzz served a wonderful homemade cottage pie, and Spinnakers is right on the beach! TT: Any special memories to take home? Will: I loved visiting the SLAPS animal clinic and meeting all the dogs looking for new homes. They were so pleased to see us! I would love to have adopted three of them in particular.

Culture

re-invented

Saint Lucian

MASQUERADE

Exciting, energetic and most times terrifying to children (and adults of a nervous disposition), Masquerade is a local tradition that stems from our African and European ancestors.

Photos courtesy of Cultural Development Foundation

In the 16th and 17th centuries, when slave-owners celebrated with Christmas and New Year festivities, they would allow the slaves to have their own fun. Masquerade was formed, encompassing African dance rituals, drumming, chanting and costumes imitating plantation life. The participants would form a parade and make their way to other plantations, even sometimes performing in the plantation houses. Only men took part so some of them had to dress as women. A prominent element of the costume is that the face is always covered, be it with paint, a mask or cloth. After slavery was abolished in Saint Lucia, Masquerade moved from the plantations to village streets. It became one of the major traditions of the Christmas season. The horned, fork-tailed lead character of the procession, Papa Djab (Devil), would direct the parade around the community. Other characters included Uncle Sam and Seraphina, Chouval Bois and Mary Anset. The rest of the group comprised Pay Banans and Ti Djabs, stilt walkers and masqueraders. Spectators would throw money to masqueraders; any profit left after covering the expense of costumes would be shared amongst the performers. Masquerade is no longer community-led, and is seldom enacted in village streets. The dances and music are usually witnessed in stage performances and at organised events depicting Saint Lucian culture. You will have the chance to enjoy (be frightened by!) Masquerade at the annual parade of lanterns, part of the Festival of Lights and Renewal (see page 8) in Castries on the evening of 12th December.

Water’s edge al fresco dining specialising in the island’s freshest seafood. 2 happy hours daily from 5-7 p.m. + 10-11 p.m. Live entertainment Saturday evenings featuring saxophonist Barbara Cadet. Dress code - resort casual Complimentary ferry ride

TELEPHONE (758) 451 4974 North Side, Marigot Bay

Come and see what the

is all about Great food, cocktails and vibes!

Located opposite The Royal St Lucian Hotel, Rodney Bay

For Reservations call 458-0450 www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Events

National Day

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AND RENEWAL

lthough the origin of the name Saint Lucia is unclear, most of the island’s first European settlers, or visitors during the Age of Discovery, recorded our island’s name as some translation of Saint Lucia. The feast of Saint Lucy, the patron saint of blindness, is celebrated on 13th December, the date on which this young Christian martyr is believed to have been born. One story claims that French sailors were shipwrecked on our island on that date in 1506, leading them to call the land “Saint Alouzie”. We have deemed 13th December our National Day, making Saint Lucy of Syracuse our patron saint. The story behind the martyred virgin has been handed down since the fourth century. At that time Christians were persecuted for their faith, and legend has it that young Lucy declined a pagan bridegroom in dedication to Christ. The governor of the day was furious and attempted to

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

sully and hurt the maiden through various means. But, protected by her faith, Lucy could not be burnt, or defiled by men. Legends also claim various ways in which Lucy’s eyes were gouged out but, whatever the cause, those burying her noticed her eyes restored after she died. Lucy is the patron saint of the blind and of light, because her name means “light” or “lucid”. In Saint Lucia, National Day or the feast of Saint Lucy (Saint Lucy’s Day), is celebrated with

a Festival of Lights and Renewal. It begins with a parade of lanterns on the evening of 12th December when people display in central Castries their home-made, creative, themed lanterns assembled from recycled items and coloured paper. The night continues with song, dance and musical performances with appearances by masqueraders (see page 7) and stilt walkers. Then it’s the grand fireworks display followed by the ‘lighting’ of the city with strings of Christmas lights switched on, particularly at Derek Walcott square. The Festival of Lights and Renewal represents the triumph of light over dark, good over evil and the renewal of life. It also signifies the opening of the Christmas season in Saint Lucia. Most households and local businesses that set up displays of Christmas lights usually follow tradition and do so on 13th December. However, Christmas carols will be playing in supermarkets from early November, to put you in an early festive mood.

Photos courtesy of Cultural Development Foundation

13th December is when the citizens of Saint Lucia celebrate National Day, honouring our patron saint, Lucy.

DAY TOURS TO ALL THE BEST EXPERIENCES IN ST. LUCIA Volcano • Mudbaths Estate Tour • Waterfall Snorkelling • •

IF YOU’D LIKE A PRIVATE LUXURY TOUR EXPERIENCE, THEN ASK ABOUT

S UDERS, L C IN NSFE EES, TRAANCE FFT R O ENTUICE, S, RUM J NKS UM, R DRIN CH, BEERS U , P ERS H MIX& LUNC

AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS, CRUISES & SUNSETS FOR SMALL OR LARGE GROUPS

For information on our tours call or check our website:

Tel (758) 450 8651 www.stluciaboattours.com

Events ARC-RELATED ACTIVITIES IN SAINT LUCIA – OPEN TO ALL!

Sunday 19th November FLOTILLA Starting from the IGY Marina and dockyard, private vessels and spectator party boats will sail into Castries harbour and back to the marina.

ARC+ VIA CAPE VERDES 5 Nov Start of Gran Canaria - Sao Vicente leg (865nm)

15 Nov Start of Sao Vicente - Saint Lucia leg (2090nm)

26 -30 Nov Arrival in Saint Lucia (Rodney Bay Marina)

5 Dec ARC+ finish line closes, 12:00 local time

Saturday 2nd December LIVE MUSIC – IGY Marina From 9.30 p.m. at the Boardwalk.

Thursday 7th and 14th December ANSE LA RAYE STREET PARTY Special Thursday night street parties to accommodate the ARC. Enjoy great lobster and steamed fish.

ATLANTIC RALLY FOR CRUISERS Sailors around the world and all the residents of this beautiful island know that the annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers ends in fanfare in Saint Lucia. Join in the fun events and activities at Rodney Bay IGY Marina, the official finish line, to celebrate the arrival and accomplishments of the intrepid participants.

very November since 1986, the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers has set sail from Las Palmas in Gran Canaria, bound 2,700 nautical miles westward across the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean. Some boats sign up for ARC+ which follows a slightly longer route via the Cape Verde islands. This year almost 300 boats have registered for the rallies. World Cruising Club, as organiser, emphasizes that the ARC is not a race but safe and social cruising with an element of fun competition. Its rallies are about crossing oceans with friends;

feeling confident and prepared on departure day; having support and friendship at sea; and providing a welcome at the finish to salute the achievement. And in Saint Lucia we know how to greet those who have spent weeks at sea: regardless of the hour - day or night - the crew from every arriving boat is met with rum punch, fresh fruit and chilled beer! Entertainment for the crew, supporters and visitors includes plenty of live music, cultural activities, lectures, cooking demonstrations and parties. Do join in! For information on ARC entrants and logs, visit worldcruising.com

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Wednesday 13th December BEACH FUNTASTIC DAY - St Lucia Yacht Club. Entertainment and good times for all the family: beach games, prizes, DJ.

Prize-giving ceremony in Saint Lucia

ARC GRAN CANARIA - SAINT LUCIA DIRECT START DAY! 19 Nov 12:30 Multihulls 12:45 Racing Divisions 13:00 Cruising Divisions

6-11 Dec Majority of ARC boats arrive in Rodney Bay

15 Dec ARC finish line closes, 12:00 local time

16 Dec Prize-giving ceremony

Sunday 17th December CAROLS AFLOAT - IGY Marina. Decorated boats, Christmas parade, lots of singing!

Saturday 6th January, 2018 WORLD ARC START With flotilla for send-off!

St. Lucia 2017 Mango Bowl Regatta November 24th – 26th The Mango Bowl Regatta, hosted by the St. Lucia Yacht Club, takes place on the doorstep of the clubhouse, on the waters of Rodney Bay, and what a beautiful sight all those boats make! There will be four classes of race Racing, J24/Surprise, Cruising I and Cruising II on Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th November starting at 9 a.m. At 7 p.m. on the Saturday, the St. Lucia Yacht Club will be the venue for prize-giving and a fete with a live band. Sunday from 4 p.m. will see more prizegiving and a barbeque. Club members, participants and visitors are welcome.

Photo by Christiane Beaubrun courtesy of the St Lucia Yacht Club

ARC

Saturday 9th December EXTEMPO - St Lucia Yacht Club. Cultural evening with local food and improvised Calypso.

6 Dec

begins at

Pigeon Island

RAZMATAZ WORLD FAMOUS TANDOORI

National Landmark

As recommended by The New York Times

aint Lucia’s original curry house is celebrating a milestone, two decades after Razmataz opened its embellished doors to a satisfied clientele of thousands. Back in the days when Nepalese regional cuisine was an exotic new kid on the culinary block, Sue Wright and her late husband, John, took a leap of faith and opened up a whole new world of flavour to Saint Lucia’s restaurant-going public. After more than twenty years on the island, Sue is much more than the owner of the ‘World Famous Tandoori,’ she’s the inspirational leader of the Razmataz team. Since the very first day, Nepalese Chef of Distinction, Dipendra Bahadur K.C., has been firing up the authentic tandoori oven to create dishes that combine fresh local ingredients with East Indian spices and techniques. Dipendra and his culinary point of view have proven immensely popular throughout the years, with worldwide accolades and awards achieved. His passion for the food of the Indian subcontinent is another secret ingredient to success. The menu at Razmataz is totally authentic, every spice artfully blended to fulfill the maximum flavour of each individual dish. Nepalese influences are everywhere on the menu, though fans of Indian food willl find everything they are looking for. Despite having to import the spices and special ingredients, Dipendra uses fresh local fish and seafood with farm fresh vegetables. Plus the very best of imported meats wherever possible. All dishes are individually prepared in the genuine Nepalese Tandoori charcoal oven that is kept burning 24 hours a day − just take a walk past Razmataz any time of day and you’ll notice that

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World Famous Years

delicious aroma. And why does Razmataz’ sign say ‘World Famous Tandoori’? Well, what other Indian restaurant do you know that sends takeout to India? That’s right, one devotee of Chef Dipendra’s Nepalese regional cuisine has his family’s favourite dishes frozen, sealed, packed and stowed in the holds of two connecting flights when he visits home in Kerala − more than 8500 miles away from Saint Lucia. So good is Razmataz food that this particular businessman can’t leave the island without a family-sized takeaway of vindaloo and Makhan chicken, excess baggage costs and all! For more about Razmataz, please visit the Rodney Bay restaurant, opposite the Royal St. Lucian Resort or check www.razmatazrestaurant.com. Happy hour 5-7 pm 10% Discount on all Take-aways OPENING HOURS: 5pm to 10pm daily Closed Tuesdays Tel: (758) 452 9800 for reservations Email: razmataz@candw.lc www.razmatazrestaurant.com

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Wedding Bells

Love

LUCIAN

When your family hails from Castries, then even if you live in Washington DC, the only place to get married is Saint Lucia. That’s what brought debonair Sean Jorn Mitchell and his beautiful bride Kathryn to our island shores for their wedding.

EXTRACTS FROM THE VOWS “You are the one I want to laugh with, cry with, talk with, and be silent with. So today I am proud to be here with you and call you my husband. I vow to base my life with you on love, caring, and respect. I will support your dreams and goals and strive to keep our lives filled with joy, adventures, and of course laughter. - Kathryn

I vow to be your navigator, your protector, your sidekick, your best friend and your husband. I vow to give you all of myself. I see these vows as not just promises but also as privileges. - Sean

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

other family members were there for him although his grandmother, aged 92, who still lives in Castries, was unable to attend. The ceremony took place on the somewhat overcast afternoon of Friday 7th July on the beach at Windjammer Resort. Sean is a stickler for punctuality and it was Kathryn who followed ‘Lucian time’ and was late! The couple wrote their own vows and, while Kathryn recited hers, a rainbow appeared. One of the groomsmen perceived the magic of the moment and whispered to Sean, “That’s your Mom.” Sean and Kathryn have high praise for Melanie Reynold, the resort’s wedding co-ordinator, who ensured that every aspect - other than some “liquid sunshine” - was perfect. A Lucian violinist serenaded the couple and the amazing buffet was, of course, typically Caribbean, featuring saltfish and bakes (Sean’s favourite), jerk chicken wings and chicken curry. The team at Tropical Traveller wishes Kathryn and Sean extreme health and happiness and plenty of ‘Lucian love’ in their lives.

• Passports (valid for a minimum of six months) • Birth certificate • Two witnesses (stand-ins can be arranged) • Deed poll certificate (if your name has been changed) • Parental consent by way of an affidavit if below 18 • Death certificate and previous marriage certificate (if you have been widowed) • Decree absolute (if you’re divorced) • Only originals or certified copies • All legal documents should be faxed to the resort you are staying at to start the legal process. Documents in a foreign language require authorised English translation.

Fees in EC: • Marriage License: $335 (seven days before marriage) • Special Marriage License: $540 (less than seven days before marriage) • Registrar fee: $160 • Marriage Certificate: $8

Photos by Bill Mortley

ean and Kathryn are American. He owns a chain of beauty shops and barber salons while she is a Public Health Advisor. They crossed paths through work and started out as friends. Sean recalls, “When I first met her I thought, ‘She’s pretty! I’d like to get to know her.’ And I knew after the first day that she was the one.” Kathryn remembers the evening in February 2013 when their relationship moved up a notch: “I was in the bathroom and texted a friend: ‘How do you know if it’s a date?’ because I could feel the attraction. But Sean was a real gentleman, and that night he kissed me only on the cheek.” The couple became engaged on Valentine’s Day 2016 and considered just one destination for the wedding: Saint Lucia. They brought a party of 60 people to stay at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort including Sean’s daughters, Alexis and Ava, plus Kathryn’s daughter, also called Ava. Sean’s Lucian-born mother had already passed; his aunt Juliet and

What you need to know to tie the knot in St. Lucia

HOME TO

Live Demonstrations of:

Organic Chocolate Factory, bean to bar experience and chocolate making classes. Experience the natural extraction process of extra virgin coconut oil. Christi Creations - unique fashion bags hand sewn and painted on site. Other Artisanal Demonstrations & An Incredible view of Castries

By Land

Piton

Photo by Ciara Devine

PETIT

It’s an amazing opportunity to climb the majestic Petit Piton, a more difficult ascent than taller Gros Piton. As first timers, we didn’t know what to really expect . . .

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Diamond Botanical Gardens

TO ARRANGE A HIKE UP P E T I T P I T O N C O N TA C T Real St. Lucia Tours tel. (758) 460 1352 or 721 0949 petitpiton.com Rainforest Adventures St. Lucia tel. (758) 458 5151 rainforestadventure.com For information about Diamond Botanical Gardens tel. (758) 459 7565

is only a short drive away so, wanting to enjoy more of Saint Lucia’s beauty, we popped over and did a mini tour of the botanical gardens and the dazzling diamond waterfall. Then off we went to the hot mineral baths - hands down the best thing to do after so much physical exertion. The waters were soothing and relaxing, and calmed our muscles from the aches and pains we would have surely otherwise felt over the next days. This was a fantastic, memorable day. However, if you are not physically fit or you have certain health issues, you should refrain from doing this adventure. But if you’re afraid of heights yet willing to lose that fear – go for it!

Diamond Botanical Gardens photos courtesy of www.diamondstlucia.com

ear in mind that it’s advisable to climb the Pitons early in the day, when the sun doesn’t make you feel like you’re about to catch fire. We set off a few hours after dawn and, having paid the entrance fee of US$5, our team of five, including the guide, hit the trail. Though we were eager to reach the top - at an elevation of 739 meters (2,425 feet), we commenced at a moderate pace. None of us was out of shape but the first fifteen minutes on a steep incline had us gasping and questioning ‘Why?’ We pushed on and, as we adjusted to the ascent, the hike became less strenuous but never easy. It helped our bodies and spirits that we stopped every now and again to drink our bottled water and take in the view. Another point to remember is that the weather in Saint Lucia can change quickly. We experienced rain, thunder and lightning, making this journey not only cooler but unforgettable! The fun certainly began when we had to use ropes to haul ourselves up the steepest parts. The adrenaline kicked in when we had to pull ourselves up on a rope hanging between two bulldozer-sized rocks. That was also a sign that we were half way there - Yay!! After two hours of physical effort we reached the peak. Our instant reward: the astounding view! It was as if we had hiked up to another world. Looking down over the landscape – the hills, fields villages, rivers, coastline - and out across the Caribbean Sea, we appreciated how high we had climbed and how much the struggle had been worth it. The strong winds felt more than stimulating; they were much needed! Thankfully, the weather was then kind to us: it stopped raining so we got some great photo opportunities. In total the climb took four hours – descending was as tough as going up. At the bottom we cracked open bottles of ice-cold Piton beer; it went down smoothly and was super refreshing (Piton beer is always best when icy, icy cold!)

ZIPLINE

AERIAL TRAM

moc.erutnevdatserofniar.www

ADRENALINE ZIP LINE | AERIAL TRAM | ULTIMATE THREE | BIRD WATCHING | JACQUOT TRAIL

REAL NATURE, REAL FUN for bookings call: (758) 458-5151

www.rainforestadventure.com

Tours

Great

ESCAPES

Discover the beauty and excitement of Saint Lucia through sightseeing, sports and soft adventure. There’s a tour for all tastes on our beautiful island.

VOYAGES OF DISCOVERY

Joe Knows Tours 728 4049 joeknowsstlucia.com

humpback whales migrating to local waters, while sperm and pilot whales and playful dolphins can be sighted all year long.

DAYTIME & SUNSET CRUISES Visit Soufriere by sea, explore our unique attractions, have lunch then snorkel on the voyage back to Rodney Bay. Or charter your own sunset cruise . . .

POWERBOATS & SPORTFISHING Spend a great day at sea and take a chance at landing the ‘big one’!

Capt. Mike’s Sports Fishing & Whale Watching 452 4845/452 7044 captmikes.com Hackshaw’s Boat Charters 453 0553 hackshaws.com Exodus Boat Charters 485 3966 exodusstlucia.com Mystic Man Ocean Adventures 459 7783 mysticmantours.com

Endless Summer Catamarans 450 8651 stluciaboattours.com Southern Breeze 46' Catamaran 450 8651 stluciaboattours.com Mango Tango Catamarans 452 8644 seaspraycruises.com Black Magic Pirate Ship 452 8644 seaspraycruises.com Carnival Sailing 452 5586 carnivalsailing.com Jus’Sail Laid Back Caribbean Sailing 458 0069/287 1071 jussail.com

Capt. Mike’s Sports Fishing & Whale Watching 452 4845/452 7044 captmikes.com Hackshaw’s Power Boats 453 0553 hackshaws.com Exodus Boat Charters 485 3966 exodusstlucia.com Mystic Man Ocean Adventures 459 7783 - Soufriere mysticmantours.com ECO Dive St Lucia Charters 713 6047 - Soufriere ecodivestlucia.com WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING An unforgettable adventure for the entire family! The winter months bring massive

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Discover St Lucia Yachting 452 8531 dsl-yachting.com First 4 Sail Learn to sail on a 40ft racing yacht. 518 1187 first4sail.com St. Lucia Yacht Club 452 8350 stluciayachtclub.com

SAILING & YACHT CHARTERS Sail the crystal Caribbean sea and experience the beauty and excitement of Saint Lucia’s coastline. You might even want to learn to sail yourself.

WATERSPORTS Try Hobie Cat sailing or take a water taxi to Pigeon Island; Saluna Watersports on Reduit Beach, one of the most popular on the island, has beach kayaks, paddleboards, pedaloes and fun watersport toys.

Bateau Mygo Private Sailing Charters 458 3947 info@bateaumygo.com

Saluna Watersports 518 8720 or 518 8236 saluna-watersports.com

ADVENTURES ON LAND ZIPLINING Soar through the rainforest canopy in a flash of lush greenness. Rainforest Adventures at Chassin, Babonneau. Try combining a canopy ride by gondola with ziplining, or the exhilarating but less strenuous AdrenaLINE course. 458 5151 rainforestadventure.com TreeTop Adventure Park 458 0908/724 7256 - Dennery adventuretourstlucia.com Hotwires at Morne Coubaril 459 7340 stluciaziplining.com SEGWAY TOURS St. Lucia Segway 452 8300 or 724 8300 stluciasegway.com Experience the fun, safe and environmentally friendly Segway X2, LucianStyle! Practice on the “Segway Adventure Track” then glide up the scenic nature trail on beautiful Mount Pimard, along an extensive nature trail created on an old US WWII military base, and enjoy breathtaking views. ATV TOURS 455 3245 atvstlucia.com Splash through rivers into a 1,000-acre plantation exploring rainforest, beaches and experiencing the thrill of all-terrainvehicles, stopping for fresh local juice along the way. OFF-ROAD BIKING Bike St Lucia 457 1400 bikestlucia.com Saint Lucia’s complete biking centre with a beginners' circular trail and an expertsonly mountain climb, all nestled within the pleasant setting of Anse Mamin, Soufriere. Treetop Adventures 458 0908 adventuretourstlucia.com Rainforest Waterfall Cycling combines a plantation tour with gentle biking trails in Dennery. HORSEBACK RIDING Ride along the beach and swim with the horses for an unbelievable adventure! Check out any one of the island’s stables. Trim’s National Riding Academy 450 8273 trimsridingstlucia.com International Pony Club 452 8139 internationalponyclub.net North Point Riding 488 2013 northpointriding.com Island Riders 584 7555 stluciahorserides.blogspot.com Holiday Riding Stables 714 7433 horse-riding.net

Hoofprints – Roseau Valley 520 5102 Atlantic Shores 285 1090/454 8660 atlanticridingstables.com

WILD WATERSPORTS KITESURFING AND WINDSURFING Check out Cas en Bas beach for kitesurfing lessons and an amazing flat-water area for surfers of all levels. Aquaholics 726 0600 aquaholicsstlucia.com Kitesurfing St Lucia 714 9589 kitesurfingstlucia.com The Reef - Vieux Fort 454 3418 slucia.com/reef PARASAILING Parasail St Lucia 485 8484 stluciaparasail@yahoo.com For a tranquil glide, way above the sea’s surface, tinged with just a bit of a rush. FLYBOARDING/JETOVATOR Jetovator 484 7433 jetovatorflight.com The latest adrenaline rush on the island. Fly like Ironman with jets on your feet or on a specially built jetovator toy! KAYAKING Jungle Reef Adventures at Anse Chastanet offers expert instruction in this awesome yet gruelling sport. 457 1400 junglereefadventures.com DFH Kayaking offers river and sea adventures by kayak in Marigot Bay. 451 7716 dfhkayaking.com

HERITAGE & CULTURE ST. LUCIA HERITAGE TOURS 458 1454 heritagetoursstlucia.org Out-of-the-ordinary experiences based on the cultural and historical heritage of Saint Lucia. Choose from half day, full day or overnight tours or have them customise an experience for you! PIGEON ISLAND NATIONAL LANDMARK 468 5649 slunatrust.org A 44-acre peninsula under the stewardship of the National Trust. In the mid-16th century it was the home of French pirates, and from the 17th to 19th centuries the French and British military battled to use it as a naval base, the ruins of which are all around the park. Walking trails are well-marked and the ‘island’ has some of the north’s most captivating sea vistas and cosy coves.

RUM TASTING Rhythm of Rhum 456 9110 saintluciarums.com Take a ride to Roseau Valley where St. Lucia Distillers blends the history of rummaking on the island with a little Carnival followed by a sampling of the island’s award-winning rums and liqueurs.

NATURAL WONDERS DIAMOND FALLS AND MINERAL BATHS 459 7155 diamondstlucia.com In Soufriere, experience the lush, tropical gardens and picturesque waterfall, within a historical plantation that includes eighteenth century mineral baths, nature trails and the Old Mill restaurant. MAMIKU GARDENS, PRASLIN 455 3729 Enjoy tropical flora at the island's largest gardens where you can also hike, swim in the river and enjoy some local hospitality at the Brigands Bar and Restaurant. ST LUCIA FORESTRY DEPARTMENT 468 5646 stlucia.org Whether it’s a hike into the lush rainforest or a specialised bird-watching tour, the Forestry Department has complete domain over the verdant interior of the island. A guide must accompany all forest forays. TORAILLE WATERFALL 459 7527 soufrierefoundation.org Located close to Fond St Jacques, a short walk along a path edged with tropical blossoms leads to the waterfall, where bathing in the pool below offers the most natural water-massage in the world!

TET PAUL NATURE TRAIL 459 7200 soufrierefoundation.org Nestled on six acres of lush, verdant land in the farming community of Chateau Belair, the trail is located in the Piton Management Area, Saint Lucia’s World Heritage Site. The hike is rated easy to moderate and is roughly 45 minutes long. PITON HIKES 486 1561 grospiton.com/petitpiton.com Hike to the top of the island on Gros or Petit Piton. Guides are there to lead the way and your strenuous efforts will be rewarded with spectacular views of Saint Lucia's lush terrain and emerald seas.

UP AND AWAY! BIRD’S EYE VIEW St. Lucia Helicopters 453 6952 stluciahelicopters.com

Discover Saint Lucia via helicopter, a tour that can only be described as amazing. North island, south island or both, these excursions are breathtaking and not for the faint-hearted. ISLAND HOPPING Sunlink Tours 452 8929 stluciareps.com A brief jaunt by plane to Martinique's capital Fort de France provides a delightful experience of FrenchCaribbean culture. Or try a quick flight to the blissful paradise of Union Island in the Grenadines for a day of snorkeling, diving and sailing.

UNDERSEA SPECTACLE Saint Lucia's coastline is blessed with fabulous coral and abundant sea life which can be enjoyed from as little depth as 25 feet. DIVE SCHOOLS Dive Saint Lucia – Rodney Bay 451 DIVE/451 3483 divesaintlucia.com Scuba St. Lucia – Anse Chastanet 457 1400 scubastlucia.com DIVE SHOPS (In addition to those at major resorts.) Scuba Steve’s – Rodney Bay 450 9433 scubastevesdiving.com Island Divers – Anse Cochon 456 8110 tikaye.com/diving Dive Fair Helen – Marigot Bay 451 7716 divefairhelen.com

ISLAND SPORTS GOLF Sandals Golf & Country Club 450 8523 stluciagolf.com Golf along the beautiful terrain of Saint Lucia with sea views and mountain vistas from the 18 hole course at Cap Estate. TENNIS St. Lucia National Tennis Centre 450 0429 saintluciatennis.com Tennis is also available at many major resorts. SQUASH St. Lucia Yacht Club 452 8350 stluciayachtclub.com The island’s only international standard squash courts are located at the clubhouse on Reduit Beach. Call after 3 p.m. daily to book court time.

LA TOC BATTERY 452 7921 Another naval history site, revealing the complex technology of British engineering in the late 19th century within its series of underground rooms, ammunition lifts and tunnels. Incredible views over the north of the island all the way to Martinique.

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Island Map

Pointe du Cap Pointe Hardy

Smugglers Cove Pigeon Island National Landmark

STAR Publishing Co. Ltd.

Gros Islet

The Yard

Donkey Beach Secret Beach

Golf Course

Rodney Bay Reduit Beach

Anse Lavoutte

Commerette Point

Rodney Bay Marina

Esperance Harbour

Cuti Cove Labrellotte Bay Marisule Estate

Monchy

Grand Rivière

Choc Bay Rat Island Vigie Beach

Castries

George FL Charles Airport

Marquis Plantation Mount Monier Marquis La Gare

Anse Massacré Marigot Bay

Boguis Garrand

Rain Forest Sky Rides Des Caille

Vanard River Rock Waterfall

Anse Galet

La Sorcière

Piton Flore

La Croix Maingot Bexon

Anse La Raye

Piton Flore Trail Marc Marc

Dernière Rivière

Fond d’Or Bay La Croix Point

Mount La Combe

Anse la Verdure

Mount Tabac

Colombette

Diamond Waterfall

Soufrière

Mount Gimie Mount Cochon Descartiers Trail Mahaut Toraille Waterfall Mount Casteau

Petit Piton

Anse l’lvrogne Caraibe Point

Vierge Point

Desruisseaux Anse Ger

Giraud

Belle Vue

Anse Ger Pointe Lamarre

Reunion La Fargue

Balembouche Estate Area: 238 sq. miles Size: (27 miles long, 14 miles wide) Terrain: Volcanic and mountainous with some broad fertile valleys Highest Point: Mount Gimie: 950m Population: 183,000 Language: English; French-based dialect with West African, English, and Spanish influences (Kwéyòl) Climate: Tropical with temperatures ranging from 70 – 90 Fahrenheit Rainfall: 90” per year Geography: latitude 13 54’ north of the Equator and 60 50’ west. 21 miles south of Martinique and 90 miles northwest of Barbados.

Anse Canelle

Pierrot

River Dorée

Augier Pomme

Piaye

La Resource

Laborie

Anse L’Islet

Pointe De Caille St Urbain Scorpian I. Savannes Bay

Derrière Morne

Black Bay Georgie Point

Vieux Fort

Vieux Fort Bay

Mankoté Mangrove BelVue Sugar Mill Hewannora International Airport

Anse de Sables Maria Islands Moule à Chique Cape Moule à Chique

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Troumassée Bay

Blanchard

La Riche

Choiseul

Micoud

Latille Falls

Saltibus

La Pointe

Choiseul Bay

Anse Chapeau

Fond Bay

Ti Rocher Mongouge

Anse Patience

Anse Violon

Fond Waterfall Anbre

Mount Grand Magazin

Gros Piton Gros Piton Trail

Trou Gras Trou Gras Point

Patience

FondSt Jacques

Fond Doux Etangs

Gros Piton Point

Mon Repos

Piton St Esprit

Sulphur Springs

Anse desPitons

Mandelé Point

Frégate Islands Praslin Island Praslin Bay Martelly Point

Praslin

Petit Piton Point

Dennery Bay

FOREST RESERVE

Bouton

Anse Mamin

Dennery

Errard Plantation

Belvedere Mahaut

Anse Chastanet

Anse Povert

La Caye

Jambette Point

Anse Louvet

Au Leon

Barre de L’Isle Trail

Canaries

Anse Jambon

Louvet Point

Louvet Estate

L’Abbayée Barre de L’Isle Ridge Riche Fond Ravine Poisson Grande Rivière

Theodorine

Anse La Voutte

Anse La Liberté

Petite Anse

Paix Bouche

Forestiere

Roseau Bay

Port Dauphin Cassimi Point Marquis Bay

Grande Anse Grande Anse Cabiche Golf Estate Babonneau Course Morne Fortuné Bocage Fond Latisab Creole Park Fond Chassin Desbarra Assor Four Roads Guesneau Ciceron Tortue Point Junction

Grande Cul de Sac Bay

Anse Cochon

Monier

Balata

La Toc Bay

Marigot Harbour

Cape Marquis

A-Z Saint Lucia

Out & About

GETTING TO

CAN I

KNOW US

HELP YOU?

BUSES

AIRPORTS

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING AROUND

You may know them as vans but in Saint Lucia they’re public transport. To hail one, just stick out your arm! Their license plates are green and begin with an ‘M’. Bus Fares Castries to Gros Islet: EC$2.50 Castries to Rodney Bay: EC$2.25 Castries to Choc/Vigie: EC$1.50 Castries to Vieux Fort: EC$8.00 Castries to Soufriere: EC$8.00

CLIMATE

From November to February the approximate temperatures are 81˚F/27C by day and 71˚F/22C at night. December and January are the coolest months of the year. From April to October the day temperature is approximately 84˚F/29C and the night 73˚F/23C. June to August is the hottest period of the year.

CREDIT CARDS

Widely accepted at all major shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, etc.

CURRENCY

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) is tied to the US$. Bank exchange on US Traveler's Cheques is EC$2.68 and on US cash EC$2.67.

DRIVING LICENSE

Visitors must have a Temporary Driving Permit, obtainable from the Immigration Office at Hewanorra Airport or the Gros Islet Police Station. A 3-month permit is US$20/EC$54. Driving permits are also issued by major car rental firms. We drive on the left hand side of the road.

ELECTRICITY

220 volts AC, 50 cycles. Please be energy conscious.

GOVERNMENT

The current prime minister is the Honourable Allen Chastanet, Minister for Finance, Economic Growth, Job Creation, External Affairs and the Public Service. Since 1979 Saint Lucia has been an independent state within the British Commonwealth.

TELEVISION

Local stations: HTS Channel 34 or 47, CHOICE Channel 39 or 50 and DBS Channel 35 or 46, Visitors Channel 50 or 51. There are two main cable TV providers in St Lucia.

TAXIS

Our taxi drivers take special training courses and are friendly, knowledgeable guides. Their license plates are blue or red and begin with ‘TX’. Taxi Fares Castries to Gros Islet: EC$66/US$25 Rodney Bay to Gros Islet town: EC$20/US$8 Rodney Bay to Pigeon Island: EC$20/US$8 Castries to Soufriere: EC$424/US$160 Castries to Vieux Fort: EC$212/US$80 Castries to Anse La Raye: EC$160/US$60 Prices provided by Courtesy Taxi

TIPPING

Most places include a 10% service charge on top of any government tax. Your server will appreciate a gratuity. Tipping tour guides is acceptable and appreciated.

TOURISM INFORMATION

Saint Lucia Tourist Board Head Office 452 4094 Saint Lucia Hotel & Tourism Association 452 5978

LOCAL NUMBERS TO HELP KEEP YOUR VACATION STRESS FREE

George F L Charles Airport Castries 457 6149 Hewanorra International Airport Vieux Fort 457 6160

AIRLINES

America Airlines 1 800 744 0006/459 6500 Air Canada 454 6038 Air Caraibes 453 0357 British Airways 1 800 247 9297/484 6172 Delta Airlines 1 800 221 1212/454 3119 LIAT 1974 Ltd 452 2348/453 1219 Virgin Atlantic 1 800 744 7477/454 3610 West Jet 1 800 204 0409

AUTOMOBILE RENTALS

Contact the United States Embassy in Barbados. Telephone: 1 (246) 227 4000

Adventure Leisure Car Rental Rodney Bay 452 0777 Email: info@al-rentals.com Web: al-rentals.com Avis Rent-a-Car Castries 452 2700 George F L Charles Airport 452 2046 Hewanorra Airport 454 6325 Email: avisslu@candw.lc Web: avisstlucia.com Best Rates 24 Hours Car & SUV Rental Castries 452 1330 Email: 24hourscarrental@candw.lc Web: 24hourscarrental.com Budget Rent-a-Car Bois d’Orange 452 9887 Hewanorra Airport 454 7470 Email: budgetcars@candw.lc Web: budget-stlucia.com Courtesy Car Rentals Ltd. Bois d’Orange 452 8140 Email: info@courtesycarrentals.com Web: courtesycarrentals.com Operative Car Rental Corinth, Gros Islet 450 9272 Email: operativecarrentalslu@gmail.com Web: operativecarrental.com

CITIZENS OF CANADA

BANKS

HIGH COMMISSION OF THE UNITED KINGDOM

High Commissioner: Mrs. Annie McGee Francis Compton Building, 2nd Floor P.O. Box 227, Waterfront Castries Saint Lucia Telephone: (758) 452 2484/5 Email: britishhc@candw.lc Website: www.ukinbarbados.fco.gov.uk

EMBASSY OF THE FRENCH REPUBLIC TO OECS MEMBER STATES Ambassador: M. Philippe Ardanaz Nelson Mandela Drive, Vigie P.O.Box 937 Castries Saint Lucia Telephone: (758) 455 6060 Website: www.ambafrance-lc.org

CITIZENS OF THE UNITED STATES

Contact the High Commissioner of Canada in Trinidad. Telephone: 1 (868) 622 6232

1st National Bank All Branches 455 7000 First Caribbean International Bridge Street 456 1000

Rodney Bay Marina 456 1500 Soufriere 459 7255 Vieux Fort 454 6255 Bank of Nova Scotia Vieux Fort 454 6314 Rodney Bay 452 8805 Castries 456 2100 Bank of St Lucia All Branches 456 6000 RBC Royal Bank Castries 456 9200 Baywalk Mall 457 6300 RBC/RBTT Caribbean Micoud Street 452 2265 Gablewoods Mall 453 2265 Baywalk Mall 457 4371

DRUG STORES

R.J. Clarke Ltd. Castries 452 2727 Rodney Bay 456 0361 M&C Drug Store Bridge Street 458 8147 Gablewoods Mall 458 8151 Baywalk Mall 458 8153 Daher Mall 458 8155 Massy Pharmacy Castries 457 2227 Rodney Bay 457 2090 Vieux Fort 457 2090

MEDICAL CENTRES

Rodney Bay Medical Centre Rodney Bay 452 8621 Tapion Hospital La Toc 459 2000 Gros Islet Polyclinic 450 9661

TAXI SERVICES

Courtesy Taxi Co-op Society Point Seraphine 452 1733 Email: courtesy@candw.lc Web: courtesytaxi.com Vigie Airport Taxi Service George F L Charles Airport 452 1599 North Lime Taxi Association Rodney Bay 452 8562 Soufriere Taxi Association Soufriere 459 5562 Vieux Fort 454 6136 Email: info@southerntaxi.com Web: southerntaxi.com

EMERGENCY

Police 999 Fire/Ambulance 911

Please note that rates, regulations and general information are all subject to change without notice.

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Castries Map

CASTRIES A CITY OF CULTURE

BES

Professional Service

providing routes to all the other districts in Saint Lucia. There is also a ferry service that goes between Castries and Fort-deFrance in Martinique. Though the cruise ships are the largest vessels to dock in Castries, yachts are able

ATES 24 HO R T

CAR & S.U.V. RENTAL

Opposite Carilec Bldg, Sans Souci, Castries, St. Lucia, W.I. Tel: 1 (758) 452-1330 dy/ng Mobile: 1 (758) 584-4502 • Fax: (758) 450-1632 P.O. Box CP 5694, Castries Email: 24hourscarrental@candw.lc www.bestratescarrental.com www.24hourscarrental.com

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Reliability

as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Derek Walcott Square and the library add charm to the city, and are places to repose while watching Lucian life unfold. Castries has a well-established and reliable bus and taxi system,

Vendors spring up like mushrooms on the sidewalk as the sun rises. Schoolchildren clutching satchels run left and right to get to the bus stops. Cheerful chatter fills the air. Welcome to Castries! Founded in 1650, Castries is a melting pot of Saint Lucian culture and a major tourist attraction. Named in 2016 as one of the top three markets in the world by National Geographic, the Castries Market is a showcase of the island’s many exotic spices, fruits and vegetables. The Craft Market contains the best of Saint Lucian handicrafts with intricately handwoven baskets and bags, jewellery and leather sandals. Castries Harbour houses duty free shopping facilities at Point Seraphine and La Place Carenage. Saint Lucian history is embedded in the streets of Castries. Several government buildings dot the waterfront. Landmarks such

10-15%

t Discoun

We are committed to providing efficient, excellent services of high integrity, along with client/ customer satisfaction while visiting St. Lucia

to anchor in the area providing that they first clear customs. Truly a busy Caribbean capital, there is so much of Saint Lucia concentrated in the downtown area that you can experience a little bit of everything.

KEY Port Authority Customs Office Court House Government Offices Town Hall House of Parliament Bank Library Post Office Police Station Fire Station

Rodney Bay Map

RODNEY BAY VILLAGE & MARINA There is always something happening in the north of Saint Lucia

Restaurants Hotels Fast Food Entertainment Shopping Malls

Happy Day Bar

Trios

n Bosu

Bay Gardens Beach Resort

’s Ba

St. Lucia Yacht Club

sket d Ba Brea Olé Cafe o Bistr

KEY

r and

Spinnakers

Police Station Clinic

The Royal St Lucia by rex

Buzz Restaurant

Chic Restaurant

Restaurants Hotels Fast Food Entertainment Shopping Malls

Memories of Hong Kong

Rituals Sushi

Razmataz

Glace Minimart Elena’s Cafe

L'Epicure Beach Tent

Police Station Clinic

Luc

ian Coconutz Coco Palm KeeBees

Degrees

B ill &

za Piz za Piz

Blu eO liv Sty Wingz e le T N our Ting s z

Dive Saint Lucia Scuba Diving School

t Gr Spo Hot fel dap Gol

La Terrasse Delirius Domino’s Pizza Big Chef Steakhouse Tapas on the Bay ice of India

Matthews Casino y Ba Treasure opping Mall Baywalk Sh

Felly Belly Smoothies Blue Monkey Cafe Mini Bakery JQ Rodney Bay Mall

Rodney Bay is filled with history, scenic views, fun and friendly Saint Lucian people and it is the night life Mecca of the island! Rodney Bay, named after Admiral Rodney who established the fort at Pigeon Island, is part of the Gros Islet district. A trip to the nearby Pigeon Island will present you with a rich history lesson of how Admiral Rodney, in 1782 from his lookout point at Pigeon Island, saw that the French were amassing their naval strength and gave chase to successfully defeat them. Apart from history, Rodney Bay has some of the best beaches on island - a perfect place to get a tan or take in the beautiful sunset. Rodney Bay Village is the place to find the best choice of restaurants, watering holes and nightclubs, not to mention great places to get local cuisine. On the road to Rodney Bay Village are vendors selling their locally made crafts, everything from beaded necklaces to grass woven hats, and let’s not forget the island’s two largest shopping malls! From many spots you can get a spectacular view of Pigeon Island and, of course, there’s the view of Rodney Bay at night—simply breathtaking!

Colletta’s

Boutique

NOW OPEN at The Yard

French Creole & Seafood Cuisine Old World Charm in a Rustic Caribbean Setting netted in the romantic Marigot Bay Village, Largest Seafood Menu on the Island.

Open all day 11am till late

Come visit us for an unconventional shopping experience Up to and

Up to 70%

70%

Great Deals!! Open 9am - 5pm

O Gros Islet, Located at Massade at The STAR Publishing Company compound

off

For reservations! Call 451-5889 or 728-1340 or Opening Soon visit us on facebook.com/piratebaymarigot

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Beneath the Waves

SCUBA DIVING A Family Journey 25 years ago (wow! Did I just say that?) my then new wife and I were lying on the beach in Kenya on honeymoon enjoying the sun and each other’s company. Little did we know that our world was about to change . . . By Nick Mobley of Dive Saint Lucia

German chap, Bernd, wandered past our loungers gently asking, “Anyone want to try scuba diving?” This piqued our interest and so Samantha (Sam) and I decided to give it a go; this was an activity that had never really crossed our paths before. We were guided to the pool, given a concise but informative briefing, and kitted up in scuba gear. Bernd then explained the next steps of placing the regulator (the thing you breath through) in our mouths, dropping to our knees and going for an underwater swim. We followed his guidance and were immediately hooked! We signed up for the Open Water Certification and spent the second week of our honeymoon gaining this qualification. The next few years were spent finding diving destinations for our new scuba addiction on our annual holiday and we travelled to many destinations to ‘get our fix’. One year, however, the diver’s curse struck! We had booked a diving holiday to the Maldives and were excited by the prospect of the underwater world in this region. Just before departure we received some news: Sam was pregnant! Ecstatic as we were by this, it did create an issue: what were we going to do about diving? Diving was our thing; we had always dived together as a buddy pair, never without the other. The answer was clear - neither of us would dive. And so we succumbed to the diver’s malady - children. We sat on the beach and had a lovely holiday, listening jealously to the stories from the divers just off the boat about all the wonders they had seen. I must admit taking my frustration out on the beach volleyball court on a few occasions! Fast forward a few years: two kids, a girl and a boy, now 19 and 16 respectively, and we dive together regularly as a family; the pleasure is immeasurable! Let me tell you how we got there. 22

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

From the age of eight, children are able to experience the underwater world through the PADI Bubblemaker programme, a fun and safe way to introduce them to scuba. Seal Team Aquamissions follow on from this for the slightly more adventurous youngsters; these creative activities start honing scuba skills without any pressure of academic learning. From the age of 10, children are able to take the world’s most popular scuba certification: the PADI Open Water Course. Once certified, they are able to dive, buddied with a parent or PADI professional, up to a depth of 12 metres at PADI centres around the world. Think of what possibilities (and amazing fun!) this gives our kids. I recall with both of my children my trepidation and excitement of them completing their diving courses. Will they enjoy it? What if they do something stupid? Will they hurt themselves? Would I be able to live with myself? The PADI system, though, is designed to guide

people of all ages through the process of learning to dive, and safety is paramount. At every stage of the journey this is a key emphasis and delivers confidence to the student and parent alike. Once the academic side is done, and confined water skills have been honed in a pool-like environment, it is time to conduct the four open-water qualifying dives. Both of my children completed their certifications here in Saint Lucia where there were, and still are, a number of top quality dive centres. I have an indelible memory of the first occasion when, as a family of four, we dived together. I was buddied with our daughter and Sam with our son. Finally, after a 13-year gap, our diving journey could properly continue, and it continues to this day. As all parents will know, having a shared and common interest with your children keeps you closer together. What better way to enjoy the Simply Beautiful underwater world of Saint Lucia than as a family?

www.tropicaltraveller.com â&#x20AC;˘ 2017

Shop

Shopping Directory

WHERE TO

OF TOP ST LI OUR

STUNNING JEWELLERY. Who doesn't appreciate something that glistens or sparkles? From chic to cheap, our shops and boutiques can supply your needs. For quality jewellery and time-pieces we recommend Harry Edwards Jewelers. www.harryedwardsjewelers.com SHOP WITH A GOOD CONSCIENCE: Effy has a great collection of jewellery plus, when you purchase their pieces, Effy will donate 10% of all proceeds to the Betterment Foundation to aid Caribbean victims of the recent hurricanes. SEA ISLAND COTTON SHOP stocks a great selection of costume jewellery. In fact, this store could be your one-stop stocking-filler emporium. It's full of interesting and affordable knick-knacks to please children, has fun clothing and beach shoes for any age, and stocks a whimsical array of Christmas tree baubles and decorations. WHAT DO WE ALL LOVE AT CHRISTMAS? Chocolate! At Howelton Estate you can buy organic chocolate made here in Saint Lucia; you can even attend chocolate-making classes! And if your answer to the question is 'Alcohol' then you will find a terrific selection of rums, liqueurs and fizz at the supermarkets and liquor stores on island.

Enjoy the festive season!

STOCKING FILLERS

The best gifts come in small packages! Here in Saint Lucia there are wonderful opportunities to buy something special for those you love. IGY RODNEY BAY MARINA The Rodney Bay Marina is not only for yachties! It’s a great spot to eat, take a coffee break and shop tax-free for resortwear and souvenirs, designer sunglasses, local rums and fine wines. There’s a bank ATM, grocery store and yachting superstore. Open every day.

colours, beckoning you to dine, lime and shop. Open every day.

JQ SHOPPING MALL For convenient shopping in air-conditioned comfort, visit JQ Mall in Rodney Bay. There’s a supermarket, drugstore, bank, gift and craft shops, shoe and clothing stores, plus a rum retailer, all under one roof. A food court serves a selection of locally-loved fare. Free internet access. Open every day (limited opening on Sunday).

CASTRIES MARKET The best part of shopping in Castries is mixing with the locals who make this island so unique! Outside the market building, local produce is laid out by vendors in a dazzling array of colour. Come face-to-face with craftsmen and artists at the Craft Market where there’s a wealth of woven baskets, leather sandals and coal pots, along with local spices and herbal remedies, fresh produce, and tasty treats. Castries Market has been listed by National Geographic as one of the Top Ten Markets in the world. Open Monday to Saturday, some stalls on Sunday.

BAYWALK SHOPPING MALL The renovated Baywalk Mall features international brands such as US Polo and Hugo Boss, plus regional and local designers. Find great resortwear, T-shirts, souvenirs, pefumes and jewellery, even brand-name jeans. Baywalk houses a gourmet supermarket and several restaurants and cafes plus an ice cream parlour. The complex stands out with its Caribbean style architecture and vibrant 24

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

GABLEWOODS MALL Gablewoods Shopping Mall in Sunny Acres has a supermarket, drugstore and food court. Open every day (limited opening on Sunday).

CASTRIES VENDORS’ ARCADE The Castries Vendors' Arcade is a potpourri of Saint Lucian arts and crafts mixed with imported

sarongs, shirts and beachwear. Beaded necklaces, crocheted bathing suits, coal pots and other locally made gifts are on offer. Open Monday to Saturday. POINTE SERAPHINE Pointe Seraphine, located at the Castries Harbour, is Saint Lucia’s largest duty-free shopping complex. Quality jewellery, clothing and souvenirs are available. Open Monday to Friday and halfday on Saturday. LA PLACE CARENAGE Located on the Castries north wharf, La Place Carenage blends island architecture with modern design. The stores offer jewellery, clothes and keepsakes. Open Monday to Friday and half-day on Saturday. BLUE CORAL MALL Located in the heart of Castries, on the William Peter Boulevard, this shopping plaza offers a variety of boutiques and cafes. Open Monday to Friday and half-day on Saturday. MARIGOT MARINA VILLAGE This picturesque marina mall is merely steps away from the water. A supermarket, café and boutique are on site. Open daily. VIEUX FORT PLAZA Vieux Fort Plaza is located in the island’s south. With a supermarket, toy store, Internet café, hairdresser and several clothing stores, there’s something for everyone. Pop in when you’re sightseeing the island’s breathtaking southern coast.

THEBIGGEST SOUVENIRSHOP

BAYWALK SHOPPING MALL

RODNEY BAY ST LUCIA

SOUVENIRS

INST.LUCIA

EDIBLES

T SHIRTS

RESORT WEAR

OPENING HOURS:

Monday - Saturday 9am - 8pm | Sunday & Holidays 9am - 2pm Tel: 458-4220 | www.seaislandstlucia.com Remember to walk with your travel itinerary and photo ID for DUTY FREE shopping

Dining out Guide

Great

FOOD

From the finest in international cuisine to local fare on the beach, it’s all possible!

CAP ESTATE

RESTAURANT REVIEWS PAGES 28 & 29

ANSE LA RAYE TI KAYE RESORT & SPA: KAI MANJE Cuisine: Fine International Caribbean Fusion Atmosphere: Elegant, with Cliff Ocean View Spectacular 500 bin Wine Cave Open: Daily 6.30 p.m. - 9.30.p.m. (reservations required) Tel: 456 8101/718 1122 Email: info@tikaye.com TI KAYE RESORT & SPA: TI MANJE Cuisine: International Caribbean Beach Fare Atmosphere: Barefoot Casual on the Beach Open: Daily 12 noon - 3 p.m. (reservations required) Tel: 456 8101/718 1122 Email: info@tikaye.com

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

ELEGANCE CAFÉ Cuisine: Indian/International Atmosphere: Casual Outdoor Open: Mon - Sat 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tel: 450 9460 CAP MAISON: THE CLIFF AT CAP Cuisine: International Atmosphere: Cliffside Elegance Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 457 8681 CAP MAISON: THE NAKED FISHERMAN Cuisine: Seafood Atmosphere: Beach Casual Open: Daily 12.30 p.m. – 4 p.m. Wed - Sun 6.30 p.m. – 9.30 p.m. Tel: 457 8694 LE SPORT RESORT: TAO Cuisine: East-West Fusion Atmosphere: Elegantly casual Open: Daily 7 p.m. - 9.30 p.m. Tel: 450 8551 SANDALS GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Cuisine: Emphasis on fresh and local Atmosphere: Casual Open: Daily for lunch BBQ dinner Friday 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tel: 450 8523 Email: info@stluciagolf.com

CASTRIES BROWN SUGAR Cuisine: International & Local Atmosphere: Waterfront, Casual Open: Tue - Sun 11 a.m. - 2.30 p.m. Tue - Sun 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. (Bar open all day) Tel: 458 1931 Email: brownsugarrestaurantandbar@gmail.com AUBERGE SERAPHINE Cuisine: International/Caribbean Atmosphere: Open air/waterfront Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 453 2073 THE COAL POT RESTAURANT Cuisine: French Caribbean Atmosphere: Waterfront, Casual Open: Mon - Sat 12 noon - 3 p.m. Daily 6.30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 452 5566 Email: coalpot@candw.lc PINK PLANTATION HOUSE Cuisine: Lucian Homestyle Atmosphere: Historic verandah with panoramic view Open: Daily for Lunch (Dinner by reservation) Tel: 452 5422 Email: wildorchidstlucia@hotmail.com

EAST COAST

MARISULE

FOX GROVE INN Cuisine: International & Local Atmosphere: Countryside Sea View Open: Daily 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tel: 455 3800 Web: foxgroveinn.com

CALABASH COVE: WINDSONG RESTAURANT Cuisine: French Creole/Asian Atmosphere: Elegant, Ocean View Open: Daily Breakfast - Dinner Tel: 456 3500 Web: calabashcove.com

LABORIE

RODNEY BAY

COCO PALM: TI BANANNE CARIBBEAN BISTRO & BAR, and CREOLE GRILL Cuisine: French Caribbean Atmosphere: Poolside Bistro Open: Daily 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Tel: 456 2800 IL PAPPA PIZZERIA (Key Largo) Cuisine: Authentic Italian Pizza Atmosphere: Open Air & Indoor Open: Tues - Sun, 5 p.m. - 11 p.m. Tel: 452 0282/719 6535

DEBBIE’S PLACE, SAPPHIRE ESTATE Cuisine: Homemade Local Atmosphere: Creole, Friendly Open: Daily 7 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 455 1625

BIG CHEF STEAKHOUSE Cuisine: Angus Steak & Seafood Atmosphere: Elegant Air-conditioned Open: Daily 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tel: 450 0210 Email: bigchefsteakhouse@gmail.com Web:bigchefsteakhouse.com

JAM ROCK Cuisine: Caribbean Influenced Atmosphere: Reggae Cafe and Grill Open: Noon till late. Buffet lunch and theme night specials. Tel: 452 9365, 729 JAMS Email: jamrockcafeslu@gmail.com

BLUE OLIVE RESTAURANT & WINE BAR Cuisine: Home-made Pasta & International Atmosphere: Waterside Dining Open: 6.30 p.m. - 10 p.m. (Closed Friday) Tel: 458 2433, Mobile: 730 2433

MEMORIES OF HONG KONG Cuisine: Chinese/Cantonese Atmosphere: Casual Open: Daily for Dinner Tel: 452 8218

LABRELOTTE BAY EASTWINDS INN Cuisine: Caribbean/International Atmosphere: Beachfront Open: Daily 12.30 - 11 p.m. Tel: 452 8212 WINDJAMMER LANDING: DRAGONFLY Cuisine: Euro/Caribbean/Asian Atmosphere: Elegant; No children Open: Tue - Sun 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 456 9000 WINDJAMMER LANDING: JAMMER’S BEACH BAR Cuisine: International/Barbecue Atmosphere: Beachfront Casual Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 456 9000

MARIGOT BAY CHATEAU MYGO Cuisine: Seafood/East Indian/Creole Atmosphere: Waterfront, Friendly Live music Tues/Thurs evening Open: Daily 8 a.m. - late Tel: 451 4772 Email: info@chateaumygo.com Web: chateaumygo.com HURRICANE HOLE Cuisine: Bar Food Atmosphere: Casual/waterfront Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 451 4772 CAPELLA MARIGOT BAY Cuisine: International Atmosphere: Water view, colonial setting. Lunch-relaxed, Dinner-elegant Open: Daily 7 a.m. - late Tel: 458 5300 DOOLITTLE'S RESTAURANT + BAR Cuisine: Seafood, Local Atmosphere: Waterfront Dining Open: Daily 8 a.m. - late Tel: 451 4974 MASALA BAY Cuisine: Indian Regional & Hakka Atmosphere: Waterside balcony Open: Tues - Sun 12 noon - 3.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 451 4500 PIRATE BAY Cuisine: French Creole/Seafood Atmosphere: Waterside Casual Open: Lunch & Dinner Tel: 451 5889 THE MANGROVE Cuisine: International. Stone pizza oven. Atmosphere: Dining and entertainment ground. Social media: themangrovestlucia

BONNE BAGUETTE CAFE Cuisine: French, International Atmosphere: Al Fresco Open: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday, Sunday till 1.30 pm Tel: 452 0671 BOSUN’S BAR & BISTRO (At IGY Rodney Bay Marina) Cuisine: Thai Gastropub Atmosphere: Casual Open: Daily 8 a.m. - 11 p.m. Tel: 458 4190 Email: bosuns.bar.bistro@hotmail.com BUZZ SEAFOOD & GRILL Cuisine: Seafood, International Atmosphere: Open Air, Garden & Indoor Open: Tue - Sun 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. Tel: 458 0450 Email: buzzreservations@gmail.com Web: buzzseafoodgrill.com CHIC AT THE ROYAL ST. LUCIAN Cuisine: International Fine Dining Atmosphere: Upscale elegance, AC Open: Mon - Sat, 7 p.m. - 10.30 p.m. Tel: 452 9999 L’EPICURE & BEACH TENT AT THE ROYAL ST. LUCIAN Cuisine: International & Caribbean Atmosphere: Beachside Casual Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 452 9999 DELIRIUS Cuisine: Smokehouse Barbecue Atmosphere: Casual, Open Air Open: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. (Closed Thurs) Tel: 451 3354 Web: deliriussstlucia.com DOMINO’S PIZZA Cuisine: Pizza Atmosphere: Open Air, takeaway Open: Sun - Thurs 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Fri - Sat, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. Tel: 458-0002 BAY GARDENS BEACH RESORT: HI TIDE RESTAURANT Cuisine: Caribbean & International Atmosphere: Beachfront Casual Open: Daily 7.30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 457 8500 BAY GARDENS BEACH RESORT: SEAGRAPES BEACH BAR & GRILL Cuisine: Caribbean & International Atmosphere: Barefoot Casual Open: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tel: 457 8500

RAZMATAZ Cuisine: Nepalese/Indian Atmosphere: Indoor & Open Air Open: 5 p.m. –10 p.m. (Closed Tuesday) Tel: 452 9800 SPICE OF INDIA Cuisine: Indian Regional Atmosphere: Indoor & Open Air Open: 12 noon – late (Closed Monday) Tel: 458 4243 Web: spiceofindiastlucia.com SPINNAKERS BEACH BAR & GRILL Cuisine: European and Local Atmosphere: Casual Beachfront Open: Daily 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 452 8491 Web: spinnakersbeachbar.com TAPAS ON THE BAY Cuisine: Tapas & International Atmosphere: Waterfront, Casual Open: Brunch & Dinner (Closed Tuesday) Tel: 451 2433 Web: tapasonthebay.com THE LANDINGS: BEACH CLUB, CALLALOO & THE PALMS Cuisine: International Atmosphere: Casual, Beachfront, Indoor Days: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 458 7300 LA TERRASSE Cuisine: French. Atmosphere: Casual Garden Setting Open: Lunch 12 noon - 3 p.m., Dinner 5 - 11 p.m. (Closed Sunday) Phone: 458 0392, Mobile: 730 0392 Web: www.laterrassestlucia.com MATTHEWS BAR & RESTAURANT Cuisine: International Atmosphere: Cool & Casual Open: Mon – Sat 11 a.m. – late Sunday 5 p.m. – late Tel: 572 0202/712 1134 COCONUTZ Cuisine: Mexican & International Atmosphere: Open Air, Casual Open: 5 p.m. – late (Closed Monday) Tel: 723 0751/284 9222

SOUFRIÈRE STONEFIELD ESTATE: MANGO TREE Cuisine: Creole/West Indian Atmosphere: Open air, Piton view Open: Daily 7.30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Web: stonefieldresort.com MARTHA’S TABLE Cuisine: Creole/West Indian Atmosphere: Homestyle Open: Mon – Fri 11.30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Tel: 459 7270 ANSE CHASTANET HOTEL: APSARA Cuisine: East Indian-Caribbean fusion Atmosphere: Open Air, Beachfront Open: 6.30 p.m. – 9 p.m. (Closed Tues) Tel: 459 7000 Web: ansechastanet.com LADERA RESORT: DASHEENE Cuisine: Upscale Creole Atmosphere: Piton View, Open Wall Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 459 7323 Web: ladera.com FOND DOUX ESTATE Cuisine: Caribbean/International Atmosphere: Tropical Garden Open: Daily 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Tel: 459 7545 Email: fonddoux@candw.lc LA HAUT RESORT Cuisine: Local and Seafood Atmosphere: View of the Pitons Open: Daily 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Tel: 459 7008 Email: lahaut@candw.lc THE CABIN RESTAURANT Cuisine: Creole & Cajun Atmosphere: Open Air, Rustic Open: Daily from 8 a.m. (Dinner by reservation) Tel: 457 1418 THE STILL BEACH HOUSE Cuisine: Creole/West Indian Atmosphere: Open Air, Beach Open: Daily 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Dinner by reservation) Tel: 459 7620 Web: soufrierebeachhouse.com ORLANDO’S Cuisine: Creole Flair Atmosphere: Casually elegant, Indoor/outdoor Open: Wed – Sun for Lunch, Mon - Sun for Dinner Tel: 722 6265 Email:orlandosatsoufriere@gmail.com HOTEL CHOCOLAT: LE BOUCAN Cuisine: Creole/West Indian Atmosphere: Cocoa Estate Chic Open: Daily Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Tel: 572 9600 Web: hotelchocolat.com

VIEUX FORT THE REEF RESTAURANT & BAR Cuisine: Creole/International Atmosphere: Beachfront Open: Monday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Tuesday – Sunday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Tel: 454 3418 Email: reef@slucia.com

JAMBE DU BOIS - PIGEON ISLAND Cuisine: Good local fare Atmosphere: View of Rodney Bay Open: Lunch every day Dinner Wednesday - Sunday Tel: 450 8166

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Restaurant Reviews

SPINNAKERS

BEACH BAR AND RESTAURANT Saturday evening when there is live music and on Sunday with the lunchtime steel pan performance. Its New Year’s Eve party sells out in advance so our advice is to obtain your ticket early. Spinnakers is family-friendly and has high chairs for toddlers. The fact that present-day adults who were brought to the restaurant as children, now bring their own kids, is testament to its winning formula and enduring charm.

Spinnakers has been a firm favourite of tourists and locals since it opened in 1993, and with good reason: superb location, great food, friendly service and a relaxing atmosphere.

veryone at Tropical Traveller enjoys going to Spinnakers, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just drinks. The most obvious reason is the pictureperfect location: beachside on Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay. The view of the bay, the boats and Pigeon Island is unforgettable. There are few simple pleasures in life that surpass sitting at one of the tables closest to the water, with a refreshing drink in hand, and listening to the waves lap the shore while you people-watch, enjoy the sunset or are amused by the antics of playful children and dogs on the sand. Having been in business for almost a quarter of a century, the management and staff at Spinnakers know how to make you feel welcome, please your palate and ensure that you leave feeling satisfied and happy, vowing to return soon. The restaurant is open seven days a week with different menus according to the hour. Breakfast choices range from lighter options such as a fresh fruit platter, eggs, omelette, croissants and pancakes, through to B.L.T., Continental, Full English, and saltfish with cucumber - as loved by Lucians. The lunch menu incorporates soups, salads and sandwiches plus delicious fish and meat dishes that change daily, such as the popular pepper pot - another favourite of locals. There is no need to sit in the restaurant for lunch; if you prefer, staff will gladly prepare your order in a ‘to go’ pack so that you can eat while sitting on the beach. One of the most buzzing times of the day at Spinnakers is during its ‘happy hour’ from 5 - 6 p.m. daily. Many drinks are ‘two for the price of

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

one’ so this is a great occasion to indulge in a cocktail. After watching the sun go down we recommend that you loiter and order food. The dinner choice is comprehensive, the quality is high and the portion sizes are generous. The wide selection of appetizers is complemented by pastas, burgers, fish and seafood, steaks, chicken, lamb and pork dishes. Most main courses are served - at no extra charge - with a choice of potato, rice or vegetables, and all sauces that feature in meals - such as the heavenly honey mustard glaze on the fish kebab - are home-made on the premises. We suggest that you take a break and savour the atmosphere while preparing to tackle one of the divine desserts. For those whose eyes are bigger than their belly, our tip is to order the passion fruit and lemon curd meringue - it’s light, fruity and bursting with zesty flavour. Spinnakers pulls in the crowds on

SPINNAKERS Rodney Bay Tel. (758) 452 8491 Open 7 days a week 9 a.m. - 11 p.m. excluding Christmas Day. NB. The premises close when the sea is rough and high.

DOOLITTLE’S RESTAURANT + BAR MARIGOT BAY

You know that you will enjoy DOOlittle’s restaurant and bar before you set foot inside: the waterside location, the beach with picture-perfect palm trees; the setting on the north side of Marigot Bay is superb. And we promise that the menu, incorporating locally sourced, seasonal and sustainable ingredients, will have you vowing to return and DO more.

arigot Bay is one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean. Doubtless this is a reason why the location was chosen for part of the shooting of the 1967 musical film Dr. Dolittle. (Film buffs and mature readers will know this as the version with Rex Harrison in the lead role.) DOOlittle’s restaurant and bar is the first establishment to greet arriving boats as they enter Marigot Bay, and crew can easily tie up alongside. In fact, the only way to reach DOOlittle’s is across the water - those who drive to Marigot Bay take the complimentary ferry for the final approach which, by day or night, is captivating. DOOlittle’s lies at the foot of Marigot Beach Club and Dive Resort and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The atmosphere is always relaxed but takes on charm and style in the evening when the tables are prepared for dinner. You are guaranteed a warm welcome by the friendly staff but especially so whenever Pepsi the (teetotal) dog hangs around the bar. The lunch menu offers something to please all tastes, from soups and salads, through sandwiches, burgers and gourmet thin crust pizzas, to main courses of fish, meat and tofu. The dinner menu is comprehensive and reflects the chef’s desire to use the finest, freshest local ingredients, creating a selection that combines delicious Saint Lucian cuisine with favourite dishes from around the world.

We were tempted by one of the ‘DOOshare’ starters, rumrunner mussel pot: steamed rope-grown mussels seeped in Chairman’s Forgotten Cask rum, sherry, garlic, chicken stock, butter and herbs. Divine! Having once seen a fisherman bring his catch to the restaurant’s dock, we could not resist the cioppino - a tomato-based one-pot with mahi-mahi, scallops, mussels, shrimp and squid. This was full of flavour, with a sauce that could have been cooked by an Italian grandmother. Immensely satisfying! A fun way to dine at DOOlittle’s is by ordering a ‘sizzle’ dish. Your chosen steak or seafood is presented on a hot stone plate with your selection of a rub, a sauce and a butter, and you allow it to cook as much as you like. No under- or over-cooked issues! Turn a wonderful meal into a great night out by dining when there is live music. The saxophonist Barbara Cadet performs on Wednesdays while Sunshine Duo entertains guests on Saturdays. DOOlittle’s has an inviting bar area and an impressive cocktail list. It also has a daily happy hour. Despite the venue’s name, patrons can have plenty of fun by playing pool, fusball and backgammon, with a dip in the swimming pool or with a flutter in the small casino. But if you want to chill out and do as little as possible, that’s fine. At DOOlittle’s, do what makes you happy.

DOOLITTLE’S RESTAURANT + BAR Marigot Bay Open daily 8 a.m. - late. Tel. (758) 451 4974

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Nibbles

NIBBLES

Tropical Traveller gives you the 411 on things Saint Lucian.

So nibble on these tidbits!

CHRISTMAS HAM Non-meat eaters should read no further. Meats have always been a staple of any local traditional Christmas celebration in Saint Lucia. Stewed and roasted pork, beef and sometimes goat are easy to find at Christmas dinners, and locals usually secure their meat weeks before the animals Ingredients are slaughtered on 23rd and 24th Store bought ham December. (In the Caribbean we don’t 15 cloves all buy our meats from a supermarket 5 pieces cinnamon bark cabinet. As fresh as possible is 2 slices lemon/lime considered best. And yes, the animal 3 cups water may have been considered a pet by someone, with a name, even!) Directions Only in the past generation or two has ham become a part of the usual 1. Defrost ham thoroughly. fare on the glittering, green, red and 2. In a large pan, place cloves, gold-laid dinner table. Apart the frozen lime and cinnamon. Place ham bundles now found year-round in the into the pan and submerge in water. supermarkets, hams at Christmas-time 3. Leave to boil on coal pot until are also sold in cute little cloth sacks. meat begins to fall off the bone. The local traditional method is to cook 4. Place on a platter, carve a Christmas ham on a coal pot (a vessel and serve. made out of clay which uses coal for fuel) but many now opt for convenience and stick it in the oven. Unlike our other highly seasoned meat dishes, we generally bake our hams pretty simply!

Coal Pot Method:

BLACK CAKE/FRUIT CAKE The memory of tasting potent black cake - our version of Christmas fruit cake - will remain with you for years after your visit to Saint Lucia. Fruits are collected and soaked in rum for weeks, even months. They are then mixed into a cake batter already infused with spices and sometimes gravy browning. The result: a sweet, moist, rich and moreish cake that packs a punch! So be careful on the portion sizes for youngsters. Black cakes are a common gift from one family to another at Christmas, especially by those who have perfected a recipe that maintains their reputation as a top-notch baker.

Christmas-time Drinks Sorrel and ginger (beer) beverages are essentials for the holiday season in Saint Lucia; they are flavourful and all natural. Preparing and soaking the sorrel flowers or ginger roots contributes to the delectable, spicy, fragrances filling the air. They are also the least alcoholic beverages for the season! Bottles of Chairman’s Rum, Spiced Rum (a local concoction), Ponche Caribe (a cream liqueur based on rum, vanilla, eggs and herbs/spices) plus homemade rum punches and wine all flow copiously during the festivities.

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

MAKE EVERY OCCASION SPECIAL

Fine Dining at the Royal A restaurant like no other in the Caribbean. Cool, sophisticated with an accent on art, music and wonderful food complimented with unobstrusive service. A truly unique dining experience.

1/4 AD BIG CHEF

Be “Chic” by the Royal Open from Monday to Saturday. Also available for Private Dinners & Receptions. Reservations Recommended. Royal by Rex Resorts, Reduit Beach, Gros Islet, St Lucia, WI

T:1 758 457 3131

E. royal@candw.lc W:http://www.rexresorts.com

Why not tonight? Call us to book.

+1 (758) 450 0210 / 485 7189 Rodney Bay • MC / VISA bigchefsteakhouse@gmail.com www.bigchefsteakhouse.com

be a part of our paradise...

GLOBAL TASTES FROM PARADISE

Enjoy our Breakfast, Beach Lunches and Themed Dinners at the Royal Steak House & Seafood Dinner Menu Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat Italian Influences Dinner Menu Tue, Thu & Sun

Seaside Beach Creole Barbeque Every Saturday on the Beach with live Entertainment OPEN DAILY Breakfast - 7:00 am - 10:30 am Lunch - 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm Dinner - 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm

Private Dinners & Receptions

Royal by Rex Resorts, Reduit Beach, Gros Islet, St Lucia, WI

T:1 758 457-3131

E. royal@candw.lc W:http://www.rexresorts.com

be a part of our paradise...

TO RESERVE YOUR WATERSIDE TABLE CALL:

+1 (758) 451 2433 • +1 (758) 485 7189 Rodney Bay MC / VISA | www.tapasonthebay.com

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Entertainment Guide

A LUCIAN

Ole Year Night

After all the Christmas excitement come the New Year thrills! In Saint Lucia we use the term ‘Ole Year’s Night’ rather than ‘New Year’s Eve’. Just as at Christmas, and like so many places worldwide, there is an air of anticipation and hope, and a desire to see out the old year and to welcome in the new year in party mode. Royal St Lucia Resort and Spa Unlike places further north, from where many of our visitors arrive, Saint Lucia offers wonderful warm evenings, perfect for outdoor festivities and for viewing the firework displays. One of the most popular places to congregate is Rodney Bay where revellers line the main street to soak up the atmosphere and voice ‘ooohs!’ and ‘aaahs!’ as the fireworks explode. The crowds emerge from the bars towards midnight, ready for the illuminated action. A new venue to bide your time until midnight is Jam Rock Reggae Café and Caribbean Grill. There is plenty of time for dinner beforehand. We recommend Big Chef Steakhouse which will offer party favours plus live music by Boo Hinkson. At Tapas on the Bay Rob Zi Taylor and Phyness will entertain diners. Many resorts are offering special event nights and packages to usher in 2018. Here are some of them.

Rodney Bay, tel. 457 3131 Royal Ball 7.30 p.m. – 2 a.m. $350 inclusive of welcome cocktails, horse and carriage photo moment, Royal buffet, theatrical love stories under the stars, fireworks, special entertainment. (Special package 11 p.m. – 2 a.m.)

Coco Palm

Rodney Bay, tel. 456 2800 Old Year’s Night of Phantom Six-course menu, entertainment, party favours, half a bottle of wine and bubbles for midnight. $68 USD ($180 XCD) early bird pricing ($75 from 1st December, 2017). Add free-flowing, selected drinks from the Phantom’s Bar for a total price of $90 USD ($240 XCD) early bird pricing ($100 USD from 1st December, 2017).

Spinnakers

Reduit Beach, Rodney Bay, tel. 452 8491 Gala Dinner 8 p.m. - 1.30 a.m. US$115 for an all-night dinner party with live entertainment and a wonderful view of the firework displays. The price includes all taxes, a welcome drink and a half bottle of wine per person.

The Landings

Near Pigeon Island, tel. 458 7300 Gourmet four-course Dinner at The Palms Restaurant US$90 to include one glass of champagne. Gala Buffet at The Beach Club US$225 inclusive of food and beverages ($150 dinner only option, to include one glass of champagne), New Year’s Eve party with live band 8.30 p.m. – 11 p.m. then DJ until 1 a.m. (Prices subject to tax and service charge.)

The Bodyholiday at Le Sport

Cap Estate, tel. 457 7800 New Year’s Eve Red & Silver Ball Commencing 7 p.m. at the Oasis with a champagne cocktail party. Grand buffet, live bands 8.30 p.m. – 2 a.m. DJ until 4 a.m. Firework display at midnight. Non-resident dinner pass US$275.

Ladera

Soufriere, tel. 459 6600 Wear White New Year’s Eve Party Dinner with exclusive menu and inclusions 6 p.m. - 9.30 p.m. (Reservations required.) Countdown party with DJ Hollywood HP 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. Admission fee for party only: EC$100. Includes welcome drink, party favours and midnight snacks.

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

The best beach bar and restaurant in St. Lucia by day and also the best on the beach for dinner!

Open everyday FOr BreakFast, Lunch & dinner.

happy hOur 5-6 daiLy

Available every evening our fabulous menu features such delicacies as Coconut Battered Shrimp, Fresh Lobster Thermidore, USDA Steaks, the freshest fish available prepared in at least a dozen different ways, Bouillabaisse or Seafood Platter.

Come and dine in our thatched deck just inches from the water’s edge. Listen to the music of the waves and relax with good food, good service and great prices!

RESERVATIONS - TEL: 452-8941

RODNEY BAY

TRADITIONAL

MEXICAN FOOD & DRINK

TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 5PM UNTIL

Recommended

TEL: (758) 723-0751

coconutzslu

www.tropicaltraveller.com • 2017

Villages

THE SERENITY OF Dennery sits peacefully on the eastern side of Saint Lucia and, physically, is one of the island’s largest districts. This part of the island focuses on agriculture rather than tourism. However, the few attractions that Dennery offers are of higher quality and intrigue, and are less commercial, making the area an ideal venue for a recuperating getaway.

nlike many other communities whose settlements are predominantly found on the coast, most of Dennery’s population is in the Mabouya Valley (or The Valley), a wide area cuddled by surrounding mountains. Many inhabitants have earned their livelihood through farming of crops, especially bananas. The valley is also home to pathways that lead to waterfalls, streams and lush rainforest trails. If you are staying in the north and have been seduced to go ziplining with Rainforest Treetop Adventures, you would inevitably bypass the entrance of Mabouya Valley. The wide, smooth, main road in Dennery is dotted at the sidelines with shops, vendors, well-kept public facilities such as the Dennery 34

TROPICAL TRAVELLER, SAINT LUCIA • VOL 295

Dennery

Police Station and the artistic exterior of the Multipurpose Centre. Keep an eye out for the sign indicating the Fond d’Or Nature Historic Park, a tranquil park with historical remnants that is often the venue for concerts. You can catch more than a glimpse of the ocean during the journey through Dennery after leaving The Valley. Dennery Village is located nearer to the coast making it one of Saint Lucia’s many fishing villages. On Saturday nights the usually peaceful and serene area comes alive with not only music and people but with the aromatic smells of seafood - grilled, baked, stewed and marinated in an array of styles. Dennery Fish Fiesta is a less congested version of Gros Islet’s Friday Night street party. This makes it easier, between the hours of 4 p.m. - 2 a.m., to enjoy the tasty food and manoeuvre towards the seashore to find a comfortable spot to eat and take in the sounds selected by the DJ. Dennery residents have recently become the vanguard of local music by creating a whole new genre, popular in the entire Caribbean,

called the Dennery Segment (Kudoru). It’s impossible to attend any Lucian party, fete or street lime without experiencing a few minutes of catchy tunes and heavy Kweyol lyrics that excite every local within hearing range. The Dennery Segment encourages plenty of gyrating and waist movement. Beware of asking for a translation of the lyrics or vernacular heard in these songs as it might be alarming to find out what they actually mean! Don’t be surprised, whilst in Dennery, eating seafood and homemade bakes, to suddenly hear bursts of excitement initiated by music. Join in! Like the west coast village of Choiseul, Dennery has some locally renowned bread. But in contrast to the one bakery frequented in Choiseul, Dennery has several options, both in the village and beyond, for yummy, baked goods. Vending in Dennery also features fresh and local foods similar to any other district. So take the uncommon trip and enjoy the delicacies, music, sights and serenity of Dennery.

Dennery residents have recently become the vanguard of local music by creating a whole new genre, popular in the entire Caribbean, called the Dennery Segment (Kudoru)

Happy Hour Weekdays

(6) draft and craft IPA beers on tap.

SUN- THURS 4pm - 6pm

Buffet Lunch Specials Daily 12:noon - 4 pm

LIVE SPORTS on 8 Big Screens. Catering services also available.

T: 1.758.452.9365 / 1.758.729.JAMS E: jamrockcafeslu@gmail.com FB: facebook.com/Jamrockreggaecafe

By Sea

CARNIVAL LUXURY

Sailing

In August Carnival Sailing brought to Saint Lucia an outstanding addition to its fleet – a catamaran that is leaps and bounds ahead of the competition. A warm welcome to Carnival Luxury, a state-of-the-art catamaran that is available for private charter and shared charters.

arnival Luxury is all about effortless elegance and style. She is here to cater for discerning clients who seek exclusive, premium service. The design of the catamaran is focused on outdoor relaxation and entertainment, complemented by a spacious, chic interior and deck. 36

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It gets better. Guests are provided with a chef on board when chartering the upscale catamaran for a half-day, whole-day or sunset cruise, or even overnight and for weekends away. So don’t forget your passport as you could easily sail away and visit other Caribbean islands. “We’re able to provide an ultra luxury service for our clients with food and drinks packages to

choose from,” said General Manager of Carnival Sailing Limited, Peter Byrne. “If they wish to charter the boat for a few days and travel to other islands but provision and cook on the boat themselves, they can do this as well.” Carnival Luxury is for people who enjoy being pampered. “The guests usually request to stay on the water and have their chef cook a lunch or dinner to the standards of the best restaurants on-island; their drinks chilled and poured to perfection,” revealed Byrne. Carnival Luxury is decked with a 70ft. mast with large sails and there are two inboard Yamaha engines. The vessel is fully air-conditioned with four guest cabins (fully en suite). The 50-foot Lagoon catamaran has trampolines out-deck, and beanbags for added comfort. Other amenities include a spacious open-air cockpit, a comfortable dining area, snorkel equipment, stand-up paddle-board, kayaks, dinghy tender, fishing gear and WiFi. Guests also receive complimentary underwater photos. The boat can hold up to 18 guests on a dinner cruise, which includes chefs preparing plated meals on board, and 30 guests on a cocktail cruise that comes complete with finger foods. When overnighting, a maximum of six guests can occupy the bedrooms. The idea of bringing a luxurious catamaran to Saint Lucia came to GM Peter Byrne when he travelled to other islands and saw that this kind of service was successful. “Saint Lucia has been honeymoon destination of the year for many years and has many top quality hotels with clientele and celebrities crying out for this service,” he explained. Carnival Sailing is the first and only company to provide this kind of luxurious charter service in Saint Lucia. Try it – you deserve it!

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N

visit the website www.carnivalsailingluxury.com, or visit Carnival Sailing’s Facebook page. For package rates please telephone (758) 452 5586, or email carnival@candw.lc

Come do it all!

vOlCANO mudbATH ZIPlININg PITONs WATERFAll

sNORkElINg EsTATE TOuR

Experience ’S St luCiA y Onl Newest & PlINE Tandem ZI

No Better Way to SpeNd your day! For more information on any of our tours please contact: T: (758) 458 0123/452 8644 E: info@seaspraycruises.com | www.seaspraycruises.com

PIRATE’s Full dAy, HAlF dAy, suNsET CRuIsEs & PRIvATE CHARTERs All tours include refreshments & transfers

 Children under 12 hAlf priCe 

Property Spotlight

WINDJAMMER LANDING

– BIGGER AND BETTER

Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort recently completed the second phase of its expansion and enhancement project. It has invested more than $7.1 million to expand the resort to include four additional luxury estate North Point villas as well as renovate some of the existing villas. The construction of the new North Point villas has raised the bar for luxury holiday standards. The villas are available for vacation accommodations as well as shared ownership. Comprising three-bedroom configurations, the four new luxury villas expand the collection of villas at North Point, bringing the total so far to eight, and plans for phase three are already underway. The North Point villas are available as upper level or ground level units. All include a private master en-suite bedroom with a king-sized bed, as well as second and third en-suite bedrooms, each with two queen-sized beds. Ground level villas feature

outdoor showers, generous outdoor living spaces, a private garden and lavish infinity-edge pools, while the upper level villas boast outdoor kitchens and dining areas under a rooftop terrace with a sun deck and oversized rooftop plunge pools that appear to flow into the ocean. The interior aesthetic of each villa is contemporary and comfortable. Furnishings feature a Caribbean-style, easy living flair. The texture of natural wood contrasts with limestone floors, crisp white walls and natural shell stone bordering the exterior spaces. These are accented by tropical shades reflected in the artwork by local artists; this rich culture breathes life and personality into the interior space. “The North Point villas bring luxury vacations to a whole other level; they are truly amazing in every way,” said Scott Seger, managing director at Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort. “From the beachfront location to the state-of-the-art appliances - and everything in-between - these villas will exceed the expectations of those looking for a luxury vacation.”

The North Point villas are available as upper level or ground level units. All include a private master en-suite bedroom with a king-sized bed, as well as second and third en-suite bedrooms, each with two queen-sized beds.

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SANDALS HALCYON BEACH RESORT

INTRODUCES BEACHFRONT CRYSTAL LAGOON SUITES In keeping with Sandals Resorts International’s commitment to continuously develop and deepen its investment in Saint Lucia, Sandals Halcyon Beach Resort has debuted its new Beachfront Crystal Lagoon Suites. These romantic suites are just steps away from one of Saint Lucia’s finest beaches, with convenient swim-up access from the Crystal Lagoon pool. This is the latest offering in an ongoing overhaul and modernization campaign at Sandals Halcyon, which is itself part of a group-wide development initiative that is redefining the all-inclusive vacation concept. Over EC$13.5 million has been invested in Halcyon alone over the past 12 months. Recently the resort undertook a complete overhaul of its signature Kelly’s Dockside Restaurant. The new rooms offer gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea and the lush tropical landscape surrounding the beach. Each patio has a tranquility soaking tub, around which guests can draw privacy curtains for maximum romance. Inside the new Butler Elite escapes, guests will find an airy master bedroom with contemporary hardwood furnishings, a plush king-sized bed and a large HD Smart TV. The lavish spa-style bathrooms include a soaking tub, oversized walk-in showers, dual back-lit mirrors, his-and-hers sinks and mosaic tile accents “Sandals Halcyon is a special resort within the Sandals group for both our guests and our chairman. Its size and landscape allow for ultimate relaxation and tranquility. We have improved the quality of the Halcyon offerings without affecting the feel of the resort,” said Christopher Elliott, General Manager for Sandals Halcyon.

WWW.LA ND IN GS RES ID ENC E S . C O M

Own the view. Luxury 1, 2 and 3 bedroom waterfront homes from US $450,000 to US $4 Million Discover The Landings for yourself, call +1 758 452 0422 email michaelg@landingsresidences.com or visit www.landingsresidences.com

WEDNESDAY GAMES NIGHT 7:30 - 9PM

BRING YOUR FRIENDS & BRING YOUR GAME, MEET NEW FRIENDS & AND GAIN THE FAME!

Open for Breakfast from 9am Lunch from 11:30am – 3pm Daily lunch special available: 2 courses $50 3 courses $55 Vegetarian available High Tea available from 4pm

GOLF CLASSES TUESDAY @ 10AM Ladies Swing and Sip 1h WEDNESDAY @ 10AM Golf Clinic 1h

EVERY FRIDAY BRING YOUR FRIENDS!!! AFTER WORK LIME 4 - 7PM & BBQ DINNER 7 - 9PM DRINK SPECIALS

HAPPY HOUR

SPECIAL EVENT SPACE FOR WEDDINGS, PARTIES AND CATERING,

please contact us for pricing and availability

MONDAY TO SUNDAY 4 - 7PM & 2:4:1 DRINKS SPECIAL BAR SNACKS MENU ALL ARE WELCOME

THURSDAY @ 10AM Ladies Swing and Sip 1h FRIDAY @ 10AM IInter Hotel and Villa Guest Competition 4.5h SATURDAY • Ladies Swing and Sip 1h @ 11am • Mens Swing and Sip 1h @ 1pm • Kids Golf Clinic 1h @ 1:30pm All are welcome, sign up required for all classes

Sandals Golf and Country Club

758.450.8523

info@stluciagolf.com

AvAilAble At All leAding SupermArketS

CHARMING COTTAGE FOR SALE

Comfort, Beauty, Serenity in the South

Tranquility Getaway

La Grace De Dieu

come as guests

leave as family

• Pretty land of 51,400 Sq. Ft. (1.18 Acres) • Spectacular views of Caribbean sea • Vast potential for expansion

BOOK YOUR VACATION WITH TRANQUILITY GETAWAY.

We are located in one of the oldest communities in St. Lucia overlooking the beautiful Cul De Sac valley. Rest, relax and enjoy our hospitality. Pack light. We have everything you need for an enjoyable stay.

Price: US$ 265,000

For more info call 758-458-0684 or email: barattray@gmail.com

AvAilAble At All leAding SupermArketS 40

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S I G N AT U R E C O L L ECT I O N

# 14 P O I N T E S E R A P H I N E , CAST R I E S, ST. LU C I A

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