St. Lucia, nestled in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, is a stunning island nation known for its lush rainforests, majestic Piton mountains, and pristine beaches. Piton Mountains, are iconic twin peaks, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, rise dramatically from the sea and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They offer breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking and exploration. St. Lucia is blessed with lush rainforests filled with exotic flora and fauna. Visitors can trek through the forest to discover hidden waterfalls, natural pools, and vibrant wildlife. The island is home to numerous beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm. From secluded coves to lively strips of sand, St. Lucia offers options for every beachgoer.
St. Lucia’s history is rich and complex, marked by a series of colonial exchanges between European powers. Originally inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples, St. Lucia was first claimed by the French in the 17th century. The island changed hands 14 times between the French and the British, earning the nickname “Helen of the West Indies.” St. Lucia gained full independence from Britain in 1979 and is now a sovereign nation within the Commonwealth. Its history reflects a blend of African, French, and British influences, evident in its culture, language, and traditions.
The Same
During our Caribbean cruise, we both, the DINKs and the Family, had the opportunity to explore the enchanting island of St. Lucia, albeit for just a day while in port. Despite the brief visit, we each had unique experiences and perspectives on this captivating destination. From indulging in local cuisine to soaking in the island’s natural beauty, our takes on St. Lucia showcase the diverse ways to enjoy this Caribbean gem.
Castries
Castries, the capital of St. Lucia, is a vibrant Caribbean destination known for its picturesque harbor, colorful markets, and stunning natural surroundings. Located on the island’s northwest coast, Castries offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. Key landmarks include Derek Walcott Square, named after the Nobel Prize-winning poet, and the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with its beautiful stained glass windows. History buffs can visit Fort Charlotte and Government House in the Morne Fortune area for panoramic views and historic insights. Castries also boasts beautiful beaches like Vigie Beach and Choc Beach, ideal for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and exploring nearby rainforests.
Castries Harbor
Castries Harbor serves as a popular port of call for cruise ships visiting St. Lucia. The cruise ship terminal offers facilities for disembarking passengers, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, and tour operators offering excursions to explore the island. Castries Harbor offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, including lush hillsides and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can capture breathtaking photographs from vantage points overlooking the harbor. The area around Castries Harbor is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants where visitors can browse for souvenirs, enjoy local cuisine, and sample freshly caught seafood.
- Waterfront Promenade: A waterfront promenade runs along the edge of Castries Harbor, providing a scenic route for leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy views of the harbor, watch boats coming and going, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere.
Local Cuisine
St. Lucia’s local cuisine is a delightful blend of Creole, Caribbean, and international flavors, reflecting the island’s diverse cultural influences.
- Green Fig and Saltfish: The national dish of St. Lucia, featuring green bananas (green fig) and salted codfish, typically seasoned with onions, peppers, and spices.
- Bouyon: A hearty soup made with a mix of meat (often beef or pork), ground provisions (like yams, sweet potatoes, and plantains), and various spices.
- Accra: Deep-fried fish cakes, usually made with salted cod, flour, and herbs.
- Callaloo Soup: A rich and creamy soup made from the leaves of the callaloo plant, often mixed with coconut milk, spices, and sometimes crab or other meats.
- Bakes and Saltfish: Fried dough (bakes) served with seasoned and sautéed salted codfish.
- Breadfruit: A versatile fruit often roasted, fried, or boiled and served as a side dish.
- Piton Beer: The local beer, named after the famous Pitons mountains, is a popular beverage choice.
The DINKS
Vigie Beach
Vigie Beach, located near Castries, the capital city of St. Lucia, is a charming and picturesque beach that offers visitors a tranquil and scenic escape. Vigie Beach boasts soft, golden sand that stretches along the coastline, providing the perfect setting for sunbathing, beach games, and relaxation. The waters at Vigie Beach are calm and relatively shallow, making them ideal for swimming and wading. Families with children will appreciate the safe and inviting conditions for water activities. The beach offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including lush green hills and the sparkling Caribbean Sea. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the shoreline and soak in the natural beauty of St. Lucia’s coastline. Not the best walk but this beach is just on the other side of the airport. Because the airport was fenced in, we had to walk a little farther than we thought but it wasn’t too bad and it was the perfect small secluded beach to relax.
Antillia Brewing Company:
On our walk back to port, we stopped by a brew house for some local beer. Situated near Castries Harbor, Antillia Brewing Company is a local craft brewery that offers guided tours and tastings of its handcrafted beers. The bartender was getting ready for the evening crowd making some delicious rum punch that we sampled as well. He happened to be getting off as we were leaving and we enoyed a nice conversation while walking back to our ship.
Summary
During our Caribbean cruise, both the DINKs and the Family had the opportunity to explore the enchanting island of St. Lucia, albeit for just a day while in port. Despite the brief visit, we each had unique experiences and perspectives on this captivating destination. From indulging in local cuisine to soaking in the island’s natural beauty, our takes on St. Lucia showcase the diverse ways to enjoy this Caribbean gem.
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