Nestled within the chain of tropical island gems of the Eastern Caribbean, lies Saint Lucia, ‘Helen of the West’. An island destination not only of pure beauty but one of considerable history, and rich culture which offers beyond sea, sun, and sand to its numerous visitors.
Its splendiferous natural landscape is widespread throughout the various districts making sightseeing one of the many tourist activities. Luxury accommodation, nightlife, cuisine, underwater exploration form part of the myriad of attractive features of this tropical paradise.
Historically, Saint Lucia was fought over by the Caribs and Arawaks prior to the fights between the British and the French. Following the eventual British takeover, the island became a crown colony within which a plantation economy and slave worker population from Africa resulted. Following the abolition of slavery, the island later acquired independence.
Saint Lucia’s cultural heritage, therefore, is largely influenced by its Anglo-French and African history. For instance, many of the island’s natives speak Creole or French patois dialect aside from the main language, English. The stories and numerous artifacts coupled with the various historical sites are quite fascinating.
Naturally, aside from the very inviting and warm weather, the sparkling and calm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea with its never-ending gently rippling waves ensure serenity from the world’s mundane life or even its madness. St. Lucia’s natural splendor expands towards the island’s interior with flora and fauna immersed in unending greenness.
One district, in particular, Soufriere is the home of the magnificent twin peaks, The Pitons, a World Heritage Site. The very distinctive picturesque location is also not far away from magical waterfalls, and refreshing mineral baths all surrounded by the lushness of the rainforest, and songs of the birds.
As a place to visit, a variety of affordable luxury accommodation many of which are all-inclusive resorts and spas offer architecture, settings, and ambiances like no other. Many are adjacent to a beach, have their own restaurants, and host their own nightly events. Other boutique luxury resorts offer a three wall room concept allowing for impeccable views to be continuously enjoyed while relaxing.
Activities on the island are plentiful. On top of all the wonderful and must-see scenery, an array of ‘things to do’ ensure a beyond extraordinary experience for visitors. Tours vary from land tours to sea tours to include buggy, safari, or ATV adventures, catamaran tours, cruises, and sailing. The rainforest adventures do not disappoint with the experiences of hiking, tram riding, and zip lining.
The amazing beach and trail horseback riding absolutely cannot be left out of a visitor’s plans. Beneath the warm water is the underwater lover’s best snorkeling tour ever. There is also the option to go on a chocolate decadence tour at Hotel Chocolat. One certainly cannot afford to miss out on making his or her own chocolate bar. The possibilities are endless, and the nightlife brings even more excitement.
Numerous restaurants day and night offer exquisite cuisine from local delight to international dishes that are all undoubtedly delicacies to one’s taste buds within the best of ambiances. Nightclubs come alive to get visitors grooving to the rhythm of the beat, but there is no party like the island’s open-air parties.
These include the Gros Islet Street Party, the Anse La Raye Fish Fry, the Dennery Seafood Fiesta and the Festen Labowi which bring cuisine, music, and dance to all.
Beautiful memories are endless in such an amazing place which has gained recognition as, ‘The World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ on more than one occasion and continues to attract many because of its simple allure. It is an absolute natural paradise waiting to welcome all who seek its charm.
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