From the vibrant Caribbean coral to the majestic Piton peaks, St. Lucia captures the spirit of everything exotic. The island is framed by beautiful white sand beaches and hosts more than 230 square miles of the wildest and most rewarding terrain in the world. Journey to a land dressed in cascading waterfalls, stunning botanical gardens and 19,000 acres of lush rainforests that graciously ascend to the pinnacle of St. Lucia’s visage, the Piton Mountains. Perhaps more exciting is the myriad of famous buildings, heritage sights and abandoned forts that attest to St. Lucia’s vivid past. Centuries of world history have culminated into a rare harmony of natural splendor and modern comforts, preserving the vacation experience known as St. Lucia.
The Caribbean’s Playground
Ocean aficionados will undoubtedly see St. Lucia as a magnificent Caribbean playground. The translucent waters surrounding the island are filled with elaborate coral reefs, brilliant tropical fish and mysterious sunken ships for divers to explore. Those searching for treasures above the surface will find a chest of hidden coves and modern ports for every kind of maritime endeavor. World famous yacht regattas and fabulous big-game fish have hailed St. Lucia as one of the premier nautical destinations in the world.
Tropical Terra Firma
Grab a map and begin your journey through the tropical terra firma that dominates St. Lucia’s landscape. Twenty-nine miles of both simple and challenging trails spread through this rainforest and afford breathtaking views of the island’s waterfalls, foliage and diverse fauna. Beyond the jungle fringe is a land strewn with the relics of wartime history and ancient civilizations. Large sugar mill plantations and abandoned military bases tell the story of St. Lucia before tourism. And a host of friendly tour operators make it easy and fun to get the comprehensive picture of this overwhelming island.
Exceptional Resort Areas
Though wild at its core, St. Lucia offers a handful of exceptional resort areas for exploring the tamer side of the island. Elegant beachfront hotels and casual in-land accommodations are never more than a few minutes from the many restaurants, nightclubs and shops that fill St. Lucia’s streets. Take a peaceful tour through the sugar mill plantations or bargain with a local merchant for that perfect souvenir; no matter your endeavors, the genuine smiles of St. Lucia will pervade every outing. Exercise caution when venturing out of the resort.
Weddings and Romance
Seemingly created for the world’s true romantics, St. Lucia’s palm fringed shores and mountainous skyline invite couples to share in something genuinely unique. Say “I do” on the soft, white sands of a secluded beach or make an intimate escape to a cascading waterfall. Flexible laws and a handful of wedding specialists make tying-the-knot in St. Lucia practically effortless and perfectly unforgettable.
‘Simply Beautiful’
The grandeur of St. Lucia climbs uninterrupted from intricate coral reefs to mountainous tropical regions, firmly distinguishing it from every other Caribbean island. Friendly resort areas and bustling towns blend seamlessly into the geography and provide a safe launch for discovering its secrets. St. Lucia’s reputation as ‘simply beautiful’ is secured in the dramatic backdrop that penetrates even the most developed regions of the island. Those who journey here are drawn by nature’s extreme beauty and will surely leave under its inspiration.
Destination information is subject to change without prior notice. Travelers are advised to use extreme caution and common sense when venturing out in any foreign destination. While luxury beach destinations can be quite alluring, remember to keep your guard up when approached by locals in any foreign area. We advise guests to attend the resort orientation upon arrival(if provided) and conduct plenty of research prior to arriving at your destination. The information provided on this site is not comprehensive and we advise travelers to utilize the official tourist board site for each resort area, the CDC, travel.state.gov and other official sources for up to date destination information.
All travelers between the U.S. and the Caribbean are required to carry passports beginning January 1, 2007 as mandated by the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative. We encourage you to begin the passport application process early to avoid unexpected delays. Travelers should allow a minimum of six weeks between their application submission and receipt of passport. Passports can be expedited for an additional fee. Visas are not required for US passport holders.
Foreign residents of the United States and all other foreign visitors not holding a US Passport must contact the appropriate government authorities to determine the entry and visa requirements. Please visit travel.state.gov for the most current entry requirements.
Vaccinations
Immunization is not required unless traveling from an infected area within six days of arrival to St. Lucia. Recommended immunizations include Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. Health information is subject to change. We recommend visiting www.cdc.gov for the most up to date health requirements.
Departure Tax
There is a Departure Tax of $22 U.S. ($54 EC) for passengers 12 and over. (Subject to change)
What to Wear
Light shirts and shorts are best suited for the warm year-round weather and swimwear should be kept near the beach and pool areas. Some restaurants may require jackets for men and dresses for ladies. Resort restaurants typically require a collared shirt and long pants for gentlemen and island casual for ladies when dining in the evening.
Banks & Currency
Currency exchange and ATM’s are easily accessed through the many banks available in St. Lucia’s major resort areas. The Eastern Caribbean Dollar is the unit of currency and is fixed to the U.S. dollar at a rate of U.S. $1.00 = E.C. $2.70
Customs
The following duty free items can be brought into St. Lucia:
1.) 200 Cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco or 50 cigars
2.) 1 liter of spirits or wine
Luxury items include Jewelery, Batiks, Giftware, Local Crafts, Liquor, Cigarettes and Cigars. Duty free allowances are subject to change.
Driving
Like most islands in the Caribbean, driving on the left is customary. International driver’s licenses are accepted. Those without an international drivers license can purchase a 3 month permit for $20 U.S. Driving is best left to professional taxis or resort provided transportation.
Communications
Cable and wireless systems support the telephones and cellular connections on St. Lucia. Public card and coin telephones are available throughout the island. Calling cards can be purchased at Cable and Wireless offices, St. Lucia Tourist Board Information Centers and other outlets. Cellular phones can be rented through the Cable and Wireless Caribbean Cellular offices. Most shopping malls provide Internet access and facsimiles can be accessed through most hotels or through the Cable and Wireless offices in Castries.
The international dialing code for St. Lucia is 1 758. To call the U.S. dial 1 plus the number.
Electricity
St. Lucia uses 220 Volts/50 cycles and 3 pin square plugs. Some venues use 110 volts/60 cycles, 2 pin round plugs or flat American plugs. Adaptors can normally be found at the hotels.
Water
The water in St. Lucia is safe from the tap and bottled water is available for those wanting an alternative.
Airports
Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort and the George Charles Inter Island Airport just outside Castries are the 2 airports in St. Lucia. Care should be taken in selecting your arrival airport. Resorts may be situated very near one airport and an hour's drive from the other. Convenience, price, and the type of plane enter into the decision on the arrival airport. Smaller commuter-type planes service the George Charles Airport(Vigie Airport- code SLU) while larger jets fly into Hewanorra(UVF).
Geography
St. Lucia’s geography boasts the complete character of an exotic Caribbean destination. White sand beaches, verdant plains, tropical forests and towering mountains all flourish within the islands 238 breathtaking square miles. The central mountain range runs the length of the island and escalates to the twin volcanic peaks of the Piton Mountains. Cascading waterfalls, botanical gardens and therapeutic sulfur springs are hidden throughout the island. And its volcanic history provides the only drive-in volcano in the world. Just off the shore is the equally impressive geography of St. Lucia’s coral reefs.
Climate
St. Lucia boasts a sub-tropical climate that is cooled by gentle trade winds year-round. The average year-round temperature is near 80 degrees.
Language
The official language of St. Lucia is English, but the common patois of the St. Lucians is a French Creole.
Government
St. Lucia stands as an independent country and a member of the British Commonwealth. The Queen serves as the Ceremonial Head of State and is represented by the Governor General at proceedings. A two-house system of parliament consisting of a Senate and House of Assembly also preside with the Governor General.
History
St. Lucia’s far-reaching history began with the peaceful tribe of the Arawak Indians and has since spawned a history of war for the many nations and tribes desiring its beauty. Columbus’ initial discovery of St. Lucia in 1499 gave way to European influence and eventual domination. Two centuries after his arrival, French and British armies arrived to lay their claim, and would ultimately end up in a 150-year war over the island. Remnants of this long conflict can still be seen through the many forts and military structures scattered along St. Lucia.
Cultural Experience
The Caribbean culture comes well blended in St. Lucia, with a unanimous passion for cricket, rum and traditional island music shared by the locals. Sip the locally brewed ale, savor the delicious Creole cuisine or dance to the rhythms of traditional calypso tunes. You’ll find many ways to sample the culture through the myriad of carnivals, festivals and bustling markets found here.
Time Zone
St. Lucia is set in accordance with the Eastern Time Zone (4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.
Attractions
Beaches
Fine black and white sands lined with swaying palms and verdant flora adorn the many beaches on St. Lucia. Crystalline waters lap gently against the shores as mild trade winds breeze through the towering mountain backdrop. The experience of St. Lucia’s beaches is truly without equal.
Dining
An impressive number of fine restaurants and casual cafes are found along the shores of St. Lucia. International and Creole flavors comprised of fresh produce offer visitors a taste of the native flambeau. And specialty restaurants ranging from French and Italian to Indian and American will treat the varied connoisseur to excellent world cuisine.
Excursions
The lush rainforest, rolling mountains and historic ruins of St. Lucia are ripe for excursions. Trek through the wilderness on an ATV. Explore the many beaches and coves on horseback. Wander through the passages of an old British fort. Or escape to a waterfall hidden in the jungle foliage. Miles of uncharted territory and natural wonders challenge the most avid adventurer to enjoy the secrets of St. Lucia.
Sports and Recreations
St. Lucia’s position at the tip of an underwater volcano has produced a unique environment for experienced and beginning divers to explore. Sunken ships, elaborate coral reefs and vibrant marine life cater to some of the world’s finest dive spots just off the coast of St. Lucia. Seafaring sportsmen will quickly recognize the island as a haven for yachts and sea vessels. The constant trade winds and intricate shoreline make St. Lucia a grand location for boating of every kind. Once you’re anchored in, head to the links and perfect your swing on the breathtaking fairways that are masterfully set in St. Lucia’s tropical landscape. A number of resorts offer instant access to the golf courses on St. Lucia and golf packages are available.
Nightlife
The nightlife in St. Lucia is filled with the sights and sounds of live entertainment and local performances. Many of the resorts offer evening entertainment, and a handful of bars, restaurants and popular clubs invite guests to celebrate the culture and enjoy the island festivities. Extreme caution should be taken when making a decision to venture out for nightlife in any foreign country.
Destination information is subject to change without prior notice.
Weddings and Honeymoons
Seen by many as a haven for honeymoon getaways and blissful wedding escapes, every element of St. Lucia seems to whisper something about the nature of true romance. Its unique environment of breathtaking mountains, blossoming rainforests and picturesque beaches offers limitless settings for your nuptial union. Say “I do” on a mountain summit or embrace each other on a secluded beach. The many resort packages and local wedding specialists let you take effortless advantage of St. Lucia’s charms.
Necessary Documents:
Passport
Birth Certificate
Proof of Status- If divorced, proof of Decree Absolute is required. If a Widow/Widower, the Death Certificate and original marriage certificate is required.
If there’s been a name change by Deed Poll or Adoption, proof is required.
If one of the parties is under the age of 18, evidence of parent’s consent is required in the form of a sworn affidavit stamped by a Notary Public.
If any required documents are not in English, an authenticated translation must be available
Restrictions:
Normal wedding licenses require a residency of 4 days before the ceremony, after which a solicitor can apply for a license on your behalf.
The Special License requires no residency period, but costs $202 U.S.
Fees:
The Marriage License fee is $125 U.S.
The Special Marriage License Fee is $202 (Requires no residency period)
Registrar Fees are $37
The Marriage Certificate fee is $3.00
Wedding requirements subject to change without prior notice. This is not a comprehensive list of St Lucia requirements.
Destination Wedding Resorts
The following resorts are recommended for destination weddings:
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