When to go

Sub tropical climate kept mild by cooling trade winds make St. Lucia a year round delight. From June to November, be prepared for sporadic tropical showers. Water temperatures range from 23-25°C year round and visibility can drop to 12m during the rainy season.

Getting there

British Airways has daily flights from London Gatwick non-stop to Antigua. From there it is a short 15 minute hop to Montserrat on WinAir. Flight time from the UK to Antigua is about 8 hours.

Getting around

Taxis are a popular means of getting around as drivers are friendly and knowledgeable about the island and you don’t have to negotiate the sometimes difficult road conditions.

However, if you feel a little adventurous and comfortable driving on bendy roads, we feel that hiring a car for at least a few days during your stay gives you maximum flexibility to explore the island at your own leisure.

All towns and villages are connected to major roads. It takes roughly one hour to drive from Castries to Vieux Fort along the east-coast road, 50 minutes from Vieux Fort to Soufriere, and 45 minutes from Soufriere to Castries along the west-coast road. Further inland, some roads may be difficult to negotiate, but just like the UK, in St. Lucia they drive on the left.

There are several reputable car rental companies on the island, whereas we can highly recommend “Ben’s West Coast Jeeps”, a professional set up with reliable cars and friendly service. Drivers need to purchase a local driving permit, which is issued on the presentation of a foreign or international license and are issued by the major car rental companies.

Entry requirements

European community nationals only require a valid passport and a return ticket.

Local airport tax

EC $54 or US$ 22 for all passengers over 12 years old

Baggage allowance

30kg per person

Language

English is the official language, but St. Lucians speak a French Creole commonly called patois

Money

The currency of St. Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, which is linked to the US Dollar at the exchange rate of 1 US$ to 2.70 EC$. US Dollars are widely accepted pretty much everywhere on the island, as are all major international credit cards at all large shopping centres, restaurants, hotels, etc.

Health

No vaccinations are required unless coming from infected areas within six days of arrival.