Aha...St. Lucia
By Susan Farewell
Photo by Susan Farewell
Certain islands in the Caribbean keep pulling me back. St. Lucia is one of them.
I first discovered this jungly, mountainous island when I was a travel editor at BRIDE’s magazine but quickly learned that its appeals far extended beyond the newlywed market.
St. Lucia is ideal for families, solo travelers and yes…it couldn’t be more romantic for couples—whether on their honeymoon, celebrating a double digit anniversary or just looking for that island escape.
Here’s what keeps pulling me back.
New Meaning to the Words “Room with a View”
Photo by Susan Farewell
The scenery in St. Lucia takes your breath away, as does the hotel architecture at some of the properties--where guestrooms are open to the elements, making them literally one with nature. Pictured at the top of this page is a Galaxy Pool Sanctuary at Jade Mountain; pictured here is a pool inside a room at Ladera Resort.
Who doesn’t love a waterfall?
Photo Courtesy of St. Lucia Tourist Board
Saint Lucia is home to several waterfalls. If you only have time to see one, head to Diamond Falls, where you’ll also find Botanical Gardens and mineral baths heated by the volcanic activity in the Sulphur Springs region.
Good for the Body and Soul
Photo by The BodyHoliday
The emphasis at The BodyHoliday is fitness and good health. This one-of-a-kind resort features dozens of exercise classes and activities (from Archery to Tai Chi) as well as spa treatments (including Abhyanga massages and acupuncture), and super healthy dining options in addition to an enticing beach and watersports you expect in the Caribbean. The BodyHoliday also has accommodations for single travelers at no additional cost.
Storybook Scenery
Photo by Susan Farewell
No matter how many pictures of the pointy peaks of the Pitons you see, having them smack dab in front of you is a truly arresting experience. You have to stop and take them in—whether you are looking up, out or down at them. These twin volcanic spires—Petit Piton and Gros Piton—almost look fictional. Hiking Gros Piton is a great way to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery.
Creole Cuisine and Then Some
Photo by Susan Farewell
The food here is inspired by both British and French cuisine, as both countries fought over the island for nearly 200 years. The result is you get to eat well, finding an assortment of Creole and other island options on menus every where. This Upside-down Pineapple Cake was served at a Creole Brunch at Ladera Resort.
And Of Course, the Beaches
Photo by Susan Farewell
Whether you’re looking for a beach with all the bells and whistles (water toys and more) or you just want to be left completely alone, you’ll find St. Lucia has its share of died-and-gone-to-heaven beaches.
Rainforest Spa Treatments
Photo by Susan Farewell
It’s not every day that you get to have a massage in a treehouse. At the Rainforest Spa at Sugar Beach, thatched treatment rooms are tucked away in the jungle foliage.
West Indian Culture
Photo Courtesy of St. Lucia Tourist Board
The open-air market in Castries is worth a visit. Six days a week (all but Sunday), it’s alive with islanders selling local fruit (including mangos, soursops, and papayas), as well as accra (fish cakes) and plantains…just to name a few. Next door is a handcraft straw market where you can stock up on handwoven straw hats and hand-carved wooden items. North of Castries, in Gros Ilet, don’t miss the Friday night street festival, where everyone turns out for dancing in the streets like a little Mardi Gras.
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