Trinidad & Tobago (tuh-BAY-go)

Trinidad & Tobago

"Rainbow Country", "Land of the Humming Bird", & "Together We Aspire, Together We Achieve"

Why visit Trinidad?

For the ecotourism nature lovers to enjoy bird watchers, biking, boating, butterflies, caves, cultural festivals, diving, golf, hiking, kayak, mangrove swamps, mountains, nightlife, rainforest, sailing, temples, and zip lining.

History

• Around 5000 BC, inhabited by Mesolithic Indians.
  
• In 1498, Christopher Columbus arrived.
• 1595, Walter Raleigh discovered Pitch Lake, the natural lake of tar which was used to asphalt and to caulk his ship.
• In 1797, the British invaded.
• In 1834, slavery emancipated.
• In 1877, became a British Colony.
• In 1899, Trinidad and Tobago united politically.
• In 1962, became an independent member of the British Commonwealth.
• In 1976, became a Republic.

Fun Facts

• Trinidad's economy is petroleum and petrochemicals. 
• Tourism economy is strongest at Tobago. 
• Asphalt from Trinidad is not only used locally but throughout the world as well.
• Trinidad is the birthplace of the acoustic steel pan. Inspired after World War 11 from oil drums left on the island. 
• Creator of the limbo dance.
• Angostura Bitters, was used to calm upset stomachs in battle. Today, a secret recipe used to flavor cocktails.
• Leatherback Turtles, in one season are known to nest up to six times; at intervals of 9-11 days and laying over 700 eggs. Hatchlings developing between 55-70 days. 

Photo Credit: Kevin Langaigne/Pixabay 

Good to Know

• Ferries connect Port of Spain with Scarborough & San Fernando.
• Due to low salinity and high silt Trinidad has no significant coral.
• On Little Tobago, red billed tropic birds are best sighted between October - June.
• It's illegal to wear camouflage clothing.
• Island plentiful in snack stands and stalls, has no commercial fast food chains.
• An Island Drink is made with ginger beer (or sorrel) from hibiscus blossoms mixed with cinnamon and spices.
• You may enjoy reading, The House for Mr Biswas written by V.S. Naipal.
• You could be inspired to visit after watching, Swiss Family Robinson (1960).
• Trinidad is largely industrial.
• Topless sunbathing is illegal.
• Leatherback Turtles usually nest between March - September, ideally from April - July. 

Hurricane Season is June - November. 

Bordering the Hurricane Belt they usually escape most hurricane, however are subject to tropical storm conditions between August - September.

• Coolest Season: December - February
• Humid & Hottest: May
• Peak Season: November - April
  
• Shoulder Season: October - December & April - June

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Archbishop’s House, Childhood Home of V.S. Naipaul, Fort George, Fort Abercromby, Glenroy Tunnel, Hayes Court, Lopinot Historical Complex, Mille Fleurs, Roomor, Stollmeyer's Castle, The Arima Dial & The Lion House.
• Museums: Chaguaramas Military History & Aerospace Museum, National Museum & Art Gallery, The University of the West Indies Zoology Museum & Woodford Square.
• Popular Attractions: Arima Valley, Asa Wright Nature Centre, Banwari Trace Archaeological Site, Caroni, Caroni Bird Sanctuary, Caroni Swamp, Central Bank Auditorium, Chaguaramas Peninsula, City Centre Mal, Cleaver Woods Park, Dorrington Gardens, Dragon's Mouth, El Cerro del Aripo, Emperor Valley Zoo, Galera Point Lighthouse, Glenroy Tunnel, House of Angostura, Little Carib Theater, Macqueripe Bay Zip Line, Magnifient Seven, Maracas Bay, Maracas Beach, Mille Fleurs, Mount St Benedict Monastery, Nariva Swamp, Oropuche Rivers, Ortoire, People's Mall, Pitch Lake, Port of Spain, Pointe-a-Pierre Wildfowl Trust, Royal Botanic Gardens, San Fernando Hill, The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, The Drag, Tobago Forest Reserve, Queen's Park Savannah and Yerette - Home of the Hummingbird. 
• Annual Events: (March) Carnival, (August) Santa Rosa Carib Festiva, (September) Film Festival, (October) Festival of Lights

Maracas Beach, Maracas Bay Village, Trinidad & Tobago. Photo Credit: Thruston Benny/Unsplash

Why visit Tobago?

Ideal for the traveler seeking a secluded tropical paradise in an uncrowded atmosphere with for beautiful lush beaches, biodiversity, diving, Hindu temples, relaxation, rain-forested hills, unspoiled scenery and water sports.

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Courland Monument, Fort King George, Fort Milford, Mystery Tombstone & Speyside Water Wheel.
• Museums: Tobago Museum.
• Popular Attractions: Argyle Falls, Buccoo Reef, Crown Point, Englishman's Bay, Gilpin Trail, Ingram Island, Little Tobago, Main Ridge, Pigeon Peak, Plymouth, Scarborough, Store Bay, Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve and Turtle Beach.
• Annual Events: (March) Buccoo Goat & Crab Race Festival, Carnival, Tobago International Game Fishing Tournament, (July) Tobago’s Heritage Festival, (August), Santa Rosa Carib Festival, (September) Film Festival, San Fernando Jazz Festival, (October) Blue Food Festival, Festival of Lights

Photo Credit: siddeek1978/Pixabay 

My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice. 

Grenada (grih-NAY-duh)

Grenada Flag

"Spice Island"

Why visit Grenada?

Travelers seeking a distinctive culture to enjoy deep sea fishing, diving, fresh spices, hiking, history, mountain waterfalls, unspoiled landscapes, picturesque seaports, sailing, snorkeling, thick forest, water sports and white sand beaches.

At a Glance

• Souvenirs to Buy: Baskets, chocolate, fudge, jam, jewelry, rum, spices, and stamps.
• Local Cuisine to Try: Callaloo (soup). Coconut Drops (snack). Curry Goat (popular). Lambi (conch dish). Nutmeg Ice Cream (dessert). Oil Down (national). Pelau (chicken dish). Sweet Potato Pudding (dessert).
• Local Drink to Try: Carib (beer). Cocoa Tea.

History

• In 1498, Christopher Columbus arrived.
• In 1520, named by the Spaniards.
• In 1649, the French settled on the island.
• In 1783, Treaty of Versailles, the French lost power to Britain.
• In 1834, slavery was abolished.
• In 1950, began working towards as a tourism destination.
• In 1961, Bianca C (a 600 passenger Italian ocean liner) caught on fire and sank. The largest Caribbean ship wreck.
  
• In 1974, became a sovereign state.
• In 1983, with threats to American Medical Students at St George University, late President Ronald Reagan had forces from the United State and Regional Security System invade.

Levera Beach, Grenada Photo Credit: Elaine Brewer/Unsplash 

Fun Facts

• Consists of the main island and six smaller islands south of Grenadine.
• Provides an estimated 20% of the world's supply of allspice, cinnamon, clovers, ginger, mace and nutmeg.
• It takes between 7 - 15 years for nutmeg to mature bearing any fruit. Production begins after twenty years. Nutmeg, is the seed of the tree and mace, is the reddish dry lacy covering of the seed.
• Nutmeg is abundantly grown.

Special Holidays/Occasions

• Annual Events: (January) Annual Spice Island Billfish Tournament, Grenada Sailing Festival, Port Louis Grenada Sailing Festival, (March) Carriacou Carnival, (April) Carriacou Maroon Festival, (May) Grenada Chocolate Fest, (June) Fisherman's Birthday Festival, (August) Carnival, Carriacou Regatta, Sailing Regatta, Spice Mas, & (December) Parang Festival.
• Holidays: New Year's Day, Independence Day, Good Friday. Easter Monday, Labor Day, Whit Monday, Feast of Corpus Christi, Emancipation Day, Carnival, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & Boxing Day.

Good to Know

• Offers small rivers with waterfalls flowing from the mountains into the sea.
• Situated on the southern edge of the hurricane belt.
• Popular island day trips to Carriacou & Petite Martinique.
• On Carriacou a fire truck meets all incoming flights.
• Story telling is a tradition you may hear tales about, "Anancy", a trickster spider (originating from West Africa), "La Diablesse", the well dressed drive and "Ligaroo", the werewolf (both French inspired).
• You may enjoy reading, Island in the Sun written by Alec Waugh.
• To inspire your trip you may enjoy watching, Heartbreak Ridge (1986) and Island in the Sun (1957).
• Known for the collectible postage stamps.
• Home to five chocolate factories.
• Daylight savings not observed.
• Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and safety do not commonly occur. 
• Possession, trafficking, or using illegal drugs are severe with fines and long jail sentences.
• Most hotels and restaurants accept USA currency; change tends to be in local currency.
• Consensual same sex sexual relations is illegal and punishable up to 10 years’ in prison.
• Traffic moves to the left side of the road. 
• Seat belts are mandatory, violators are fined 1,000 XCD ($400USD).

Photo Credit: Gary Stephen/Pixabay 

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport with six months of validity upon return and one blank page for entry stamp.
• Tourist VISA not required for visits under 3 months.
• Required Vaccination from select countries. 

Hurricane Season is June - November. Usually impacted between July - September.

• Coolest Season: January - February
• Humid & Hottest: April - September
• Peak Season: December - April
  
• Shoulder Season: June - November

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Christ of the Deep, Duquesne Petroglyphs, Fort Frederick, Fort George, Leapers Hill & The Priory.
• Museums: Carriacou Museum, Grenada National Museum & Rome Museum.
• Popular Attractions: Annandale Falls, Blessed Sacrament Church, Carenage,  Concord Falls, Dougaldston Estate, Esplanade, Gouyave, Grand Anse Beach, Gouyave Nutmeg Processing Cooperative, Grenada Golf Course, Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, Grand Etang National Park, Grenville, L'Anse Aux Epines Beach, Levera Beach, Magazine Beach, Melville Street, Morne Rouge Beach, Mount St Catherine, Mt Carmel Falls, Pearls Beach, Point Salines, Portici Beach, River Antoine Rum Distillery, Sauteurs, Seven Sisters Falls, Spice Island & St George.

Saint George, Grenada. Photo Credit: Richard Todd/Pixabay 

My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice. 

St Vincent & the Grenadines (grehn-uh-DEENZ)

Saint Vincent & the Grenadines Flag

"Peace & Justice"

Why visit St Vincent?

A great tropical escape for the adventurous traveler not requiring pampering with cultural courtesy to enjoy beautiful white sand beaches, culture, fishing villages, hiking, lagoons, sailing, waterfalls and water sports.

History

• In 1675, the Carib's welcomed a ship wreck of survivors.
• During 1700, the islands frequently changed control between Britain and France.
• In 1797, several Carib's relocated to the Bay Islands, Honduras and Roatan. 
• On 1832, slavery was abolished.
• In 1979, volcano La Soufriere erupted.

Photo Credit: Ernie A Stephens/Pixabay 

Fun Facts

• Light industry, offshore banking and tourism is expanding; during the interim their economy is agriculture, arrowroot and bananas.
• The Grenadines, consists of nearly 600 islets extending 60 miles between St Vincent and Grenada.
• Royal yacht, HMS Britannia was presented to Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Bequia.
• Mustique, an exclusive isle is home to celebrities for privacy.
• Arrowroot can grow to the height of five feet.

Good to Know

• Daylight savings time not observed.
• Ferry service between St Vincent & Bequia.
• Some areas offer few to no commercial restaurants.
• On St Vincent, the west coast offers the most sights and the east coast boasts dramatic scenery.
• Bequia is popular amongst cruising yachts given their boat building and repair expertise.
• You may enjoy reading, City of Arches written by Vivian Child and Wild Majesty: Encounters with Caribs from Columbus to Present written by Peter Hulme and Neil Whitehead.
• Movie to inspire your travels, Pirates of the Caribbean (2003).
• Grenadines is not recommended for limited accessible travelers.
• Watchout for Sea Urchins. Quick treatment, urinate on quill infected area.
• Blackouts are common in Grenadines. 

Photo Credit: Richard Todd/Pixabay 

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
• Tourist VISA not required for visits under 12 months.
• Required Vaccination from select countries. 
• Currency Restrictions for Entry/Exit: $10,000USD.

 

Hurricane Season is June - November.

• Coolest Season: December - April
• Humid & Hottest: June - July
• Peak Season: December - April
  
• Shoulder Season: May - June and November

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Fort Charlotte
• Museums: Bequia Boat Museum & National Trust
• Popular Attractions: Barrouallie, Basil's Bar, Belmont Lookout, Black Point Tunnel, Botanical Gardens, Caribbean Lifestyles, Cumberland Bay, Dark View Falls, Falls of Baleine, Fort Duvernette, Georgetown, Indian Bay Beach, Kingstown, Layou, Marriaqua Valley, Montreal Gardens, Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, Owia Salt Pond, Soufriere Volcano Trail, St Mary's Church, St George's Cathedral, Petit Byahaut, The Fish Market, Trinity Falls, Upper Bay Street, Vermont Nature Trail, Wallilabou Anchorage, Wallilabou Bay, Wallilabou Heritage Park, & Young Island

Photo Credit: Ernie A Stephens/Pixabay 

Why visit Grenadines?

A great tropical escape for the adventurous yachting traveler not requiring pampering with cultural courtesy.

 

Your Must-See & Do

• Popular Attractions: Canouan, Grand Bay, Mayreau, Moon Hole, Mustique, Mt Toboi, Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary, Palm Beach, Saltwhistle Bay, Petit St Vincent, Tobago Cays and Union Island.

The Grenadine Islands trail south from St Vincent in order of: Bequia (BEK-way), Mustique, Canouan (can-ah-wan), Mayreau (and Tabago Cays), and Union Island (Palm Island and Petit St Vincent to the south).

• Bequia and Union Island cater to budget conscious travelers.
• Unspoiled beaches with turquoise waters attract travelers to Mayreau, Mustique, Palm Island and Petit St Vincent.

Photo Credit: Ernie A Stephens/Pixabay 

My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice. 

Barbados (bahr-BAY-dooz)

Barbados Flag

"Little England"

Why visit Barbados?

Perfect for multigenerational travelers seeking a tropical destination with a British flare to enjoy fishing villages, golf, history, horseback riding, little gardens, nightlife, polo, rolling hills of sugarcane, sailboarding, stone parishes, surfing, white sand beaches, and windsurfing.

The "Soup Bowl" in Bathsheba, Barbados. Photo Credit: Jen Porter

At a Glance

• Souvenirs to Buy: Bamboo candles, baskets, beauty products, gemstones, glass art, jewelry, leather goods, pottery, jam, rum, rum cake, soaps, sunglasses, wire sculptures, wood carvings, and woven goods.
• Local Cuisine to Try: Bakes (fried dough). Bajan (pepper sauce). Barbecued Pig Tails (BBQ ribs). Black Cake (dessert). Conkie (snack). Cou Cou (cornmeal dish). Fried Flying Fish. Pepperpot (stew).
• Local Drink to Try: Banks (beer). Ginger Beer (nonalcoholic) Mauby (cholesterol benefits). Rum Punch (cocktail). Sorel (blood pressure benefits).

History

• In 1625, discovered by British Explorer.
• In 1536, discovered by Pedro a Campos, Portuguese Explorer.
• In 1627, English settlers arrived.
• In 1740, Codrington College was founded.
• In 1751, former President George Washington stayed at Crofton House with his half-brother in hopes of the tropical climate that would cure his tuberculosis. 
• In 1970, the daily tradition of rum distribution for the British Royal Navy crew on ships ended.
• In 1996, became an independent member of the British Commonwealth.
• In 1999, the government changed the name of Trafalgar Square to National Heroes Square.

Photo Credit: Mika Pukkila/Pixabay 

Fun Facts

• Historically, their primary economics was from sugarcane with expanded growth into the manufacturing and tourism industry. Also, offshore finance and information services. 
• Sometimes, not all plans are well thought out! Moongoose (day time feeders) were bRats (late night animalism effort, to reduce cane field rats,  Mongoose were brought in.
• The Chattel Houses were historically constructed for plantation workers to easily assemble and disassemble while moving to various plantations.
• The island is divided into eleven parishes (regions).
• History says, Sam Lord knowingly hung lanterns in trees to simulate port lights. Following the shipwreck, he would loot the cargo. 
• The Sam Lord's Castle was where distinguished British royalty would stay. In 2010, both the house and the hotel burned. However, as a Heritage Site, it may not be demolished.
• Birthplace (1936) to Sir Garfield St Aubrun Sobers (aka: Sir Gary or Sir Garry Sobers), former Cricket Player.
• Birthplace (1988) of Robyn "Rihanna" Fenty, Actress & Singer.
• Has one of the highest literacy rates in the world.
• Centuries ago, Barbados Green Monkeys were brought from West Africa. Often seen during early morning and late afternoon.

Bathsheda Rock, Bathsheba, Barbados. Photo Credit: Pixbay

Special Holidays/Occasions

• Annual Events: (January) Annual Flower Show, Chelsea Flower Show, Slam a Dom Extravaganza,  (February) Barbados Holetown Festival, Waterman Festival, (March) Holders Season, Sandy Lane Gold Cup, (April) Barbados Ragge Festival, Oistins Fish Festival, Reggae Festival, Vujaday Music Festival, World Surfing League - Barbados Surf Pro Men & Womens, (May) Barbados Celtic Festival, Celtic Festival, Gospel Fest, (June) FABA Fest, Sol Rally, (July) Crop Over Festival, (October) Food & Rum Festival, Jazz Excursion & Golf Tournament, (November) National Independence of Creative Arts, ProAm Cricket Festival, Reef Surf Competition, Spirit of Nation Show, Wine & Rum Festival, and (December) Run Barbados Festival.
• Holidays: New Year's Day, Errol Barrow Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, National Heroes Day, Labour Day, Whit Monday, Emancipation Day, Kadooment Day,  Independence Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Good to Know

• Daylight savings time not observed.
• Embrace the British tradition of afternoon tea, cricket, and polo.
• Experiences infrequent natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and hurricanes.
• Ocean beach swimming on the east coast side is not advised considering the strong current.
• The western coast is best for beach swimming.
• Surfers go to Bathsheba for the "Soup Bowl" style waves.
• You may enjoy reading, The Castle of My Skin written by George Lamming.
• Inspire your visit by watching, The Tamarind Seed (1974). 
• No nude beaches and topless sunbathing is illegal.
• Avoid flashing wealth.
• Drug use is illegal including marijuana.
• Without prior express consent from the Barbados Government do not enter with ammunition and/or firearms.
• Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur. 
• Illegal to wear camouflage clothing.
• Same sex sexual relations is punishable to life in prison.
• Not considered a mobility friendly destination.
• Ambulance Emergency Responders are prohibited from applying lifesaving techniques during transport.
• Prevalent Diseases: Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika.
• Traffic moves to the left side of the road.

Photo Credit: Antonio Rodriguez/Pixabay 

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
• Tourist VISA not required for visits under 6 months.

Hurricane Season is June - November, given their location slightly outside the principal hurricane zone.

• Coolest Season: January
• Humid & Hottest: August - September
• Peak Season: December - April
• Shoulder Season: June - November

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Sunbury Plantation House
• Museums: Arlington House, Barbados Museum, George Washington House, Museum of Parliament & National Heros Gallery, Nidhe Israel Museum, Pavillon Court, Sir Frank Hutson Sugar Museum, Springvale Eco-Heritage Museum and Sunbury House Plantation & Museum.
• Popular Attractions: Andromeda Gardens, Arbib Heritage & Nature Trail, Barbados Concorde Experience, Barbados Wildlife Reserve, Barclay's Park, Bathsheba, Bridgetown, Carenage, Christ Church, Folkestone Marine Park, Garrison Savannah, Harrison's Cave, Holetown, Mount Gay Rum, Mount Hillaby, Oistins, Old Synagogue, Ragged Point Lighthouse, Sam Lord's Castle, Sandy Lane, Scotland District, Speightstown, St Andrew, St James, St Michael, St Michael Cathedral, St Phillip, Queen's Park and Welchman Hall Gully.

Bridgetown, Barbados. Photo Credit: Scott S Bateman/Pixabay 

My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice. 

Saint Lucia (saint-LOO-shuh)

Saint Lucia Flag

"The Land, the People, the Light"

Why visit St Lucia?

A tropical destination for bird watching, diving, fishing villages, forests, exotic wildlife, hiking, history, kite sailing, mountains, plantations, sailing, shopping, snorkeling, yachts, water sports, and windsurfing. 

Photo Credit: Corinne Kutz 

History

• 200 AD, occupied by Arawak Indians.
• 800 AD, Carib Indians arrived.
• In 1502, Christopher Columbus sighted the island.
• In 1814, England conquered the island.
• In 1979, gained their independence from England.

Fun Facts

• An independent member of the British Commonwealth.
• Established the National Trust to preserve the historical heritage and natural island.
• Named after Saint Lucy of Syracuse by the French also referred as Helen of the West Indies.

Photo Credit: Jolyne D/Pixabay 

Special Holidays/Occasions

• Annual Events: (January) Nobel Laureate Week, (March) Cooking In Paradise, (April) Kalalu World Music Festival, (May) International Jazz Festival, St Lucia Jazz Festival, (June) Fisherman's Feast, Mango Madness Festival, Saint Lucia Carnival, (July) Carnival, (August) La Rose Festival, Roots & Soul Festival, St Lucia Flower & Creole Festivals, World Travel Awards, (September) Dive Fest, Saint Lucia Food & Rum Festival, Wellness Music Festival, (October) Arts & Heritage, Food & Rum Festival, Jade Mountain's Chocolate Festival, Les Marguerite Festival, Saint Lucia Bill Fishing Tournament, (November) Atlantic Rally for Cruisers, Saint Lucia Triathlon, (December) Festival of Lights, and Spices of the Caribbean.
• Holidays: New Year's Day, Independence Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day, Whit Monday, Feast of Corpus Christi, Emancipation Day, Thanksgiving, National Day, and Christmas Day.

Good to Know

• A popular Honeymoon Destination.
• Daylight savings time not observed.
• The economy is based on agriculture, some manufacturing, and tourism.
• A ferry connects neighboring islands of Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Trinidad.
• Atlantic Coast beaches are difficult to access, rugged with rough waters.
• Do not swim in freshwater pools due to Bilharzia (Schistosomiasis), an infection caused by a parasitic worm.
• Sulfur Springs will discolor your swimwear. So, avoid wearing your favorite swimsuit.
• Rodney Bay is one of the most popular beaches. 
• You may enjoy reading, Don't Stop the Carnival written by Herman Wouk.
• Movies that may inspire a trip, Pitons & Superman II (1981) and Doctor Dolittle (1967).
• The Bus System is inexpensive for getting around.
• Between March - July on Grand Anse Beach Leatherback Turtles lay eggs.
• Do not wear camouflage clothing, it's illegal!
• Great souvenir shopping at Anse La Raye Market, Castries Market, and Soufriere Market.
• Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur. 
• Consensual same sex activity is illegal, and punishable up to 10 years in prison.
• Not considered mobility friendly.
• Prevalent Diseases: Chikungunya, Dengue, and Zika.
• Traffic moves on left side of the road.

Photo Credit: mimi_s/Pixabay 

This international destination requires:

• A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.

                                                                           Hurricane Season is June - November.

• Coolest Season: January
• Humid & Hottest: May - September
• Peak Season: December - April
• Shoulder Season: June - November

Your Must-See & Do

• Historical Sites: Fond Doux Plantation, Fort Rodney, Gros Piton, Morne Coubaril Estate,  and Petit Peton.
• Museums: Pigeon Island National Landmark.
• Popular Attractions: Anse la Raye & Canaries, Castries, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Choiseul, Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & The Baths, Edmund Forest Reserve Rain Forest Trail, Fregate Islands, Government House, Mamiku Gardens, Marigot Bay, Maria Islands, Morne Fortune, Moule a Chique Peninsula, Mount Gimie, National Rainforest, Pigeon Island National Park, Point Seraphine, Rodney Bay, Roseau Sugar Factory, Soufriere, Steaming Sulfur Volcano, Sulphur Springs, The Maria Islands Nature Reserve, The Pitons and Virgie Beach. 

Photo Credit: Jolyne D/Pixabay 

My industry designation earned as a Caribbean Specialist combined with our local connections with Cruise Lines, Tour Operators, Hotels, Resorts, Airlines, Villa Rental Companies, Adventure Travel providers and Limo companies will offer you Exclusive Benefits that you won't be able to achieve on your own. Such as: Complimentary Breakfast for Two Daily, Dining or Resort Credit, Spa Treatment, Airport Transfer, or other privileges. Even Room Upgrades, Early Check-In and Late Check-Out when available. 

Ready to embark on custom and personalized services, your journey begins with Louvet Travel? Your one stop source: Accommodations I Air I Car Rentals I Cruises I Disney I Excursions I Tours I Transfers I Travel Insurance I Villa Rentals

Stay connected, find us online: Alignable Facebook  LinkedIn  Pinterest  Twitter 

"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

                                        All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.