Traveling to St. Lucia is an unforgettable journey, filled with volcanic beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cuisine.
The island’s beauty is unparalleled, with breathtaking views of the iconic Pitons that come into sight as flights approach.
Local culinary treasures, like freshly made bakes and accras, capture the heart of anyone who tastes them, offering a true sense of the island’s rich culture. Renowned for it's tranquility and stunning scenery, St. Lucia is a top destination in the Caribbean.
For first-time visitors, common questions often arise: How can the island’s charm best be enjoyed? What clothing works best for the tropical climate? How should travel plans account for hurricane season? And is it suitable for solo travelers? Here’s everything to know!
1. A Greeting Goes a Long Way
Courtesy is deeply ingrained in St. Lucian culture, and greetings are a natural part of daily life. Whether entering a store, restaurant, public bus, or other spaces, expect to hear variations of good morning, good afternoon, or good night.
Not responding may raise eyebrows and could even earn the label of being unmannerly. Politeness is highly valued, and engaging in light conversation, especially with vendors or service providers, is often appreciated. Additionally, elders in the community are shown particular respect, and a friendly greeting or acknowledgment goes a long way.
2. Marijuana Is Decriminalized, Not Legalized
While the casual use of marijuana may be associated with the Caribbean, St. Lucia only decriminalized – not legalized – the personal use of up to 30 grams of cannabis in 2021. The same legislation cleared the criminal records of those previously convicted for possession of small amounts.
3. Always Carry Some Cash
While credit and debit cards are accepted at most major establishments like hotels and larger businesses, cash is still king in St. Lucia. The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC), and having some on hand is especially useful for public transportation, roadside vendors, and smaller businesses.
4. Roads Can Be Tricky to Navigate
Driving in St. Lucia requires some caution. The island’s roads are known for their sharp turns, steep inclines, and occasional hazards. Drivers should note that St. Lucians drive on the left-hand side of the road, which might differ from what many visitors are used to. Public buses and cars may stop abruptly, and speeding is relatively common.
5. Hurricane Season Is Manageable
St. Lucia enjoys warm, balmy weather year-round, but hurricane season, which coincides with the rainy season, runs from June to November. Fortunately, it’s rare for rain to persist for an entire day or several days in a row.
6. Dress for the Occasion
During carnival celebrations, vibrant costumes and minimal attire reflect the festival’s deep-rooted history in emancipation. However, there are cultural norms to keep in mind, especially at the beach—nudity or going topless is not permitted.
7. Don’t Hesitate to Feed the Strays
Pet-friendly accommodations, such as Airbnbs and villas, often welcome dogs and cats. It’s also common to spot free-roaming cats around hotel grounds and outdoor restaurants. Dogs, however, are generally not permitted in businesses or eateries.
8. Is St. Lucia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
St. Lucia is considered relatively safe for solo female travelers, and public transportation options, such as taxis and buses, are reliable and low-risk.
To ensure safety, here are a few tips:
1. Always carry a cell phone for emergencies. Prepaid SIM cards and mobile phone cards are widely available from Digicel and FLOW.
2. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay with debit or credit cards where possible, keeping only small bills for places that don’t accept cards.
3. Share your itinerary with someone you trust, letting them know your plans and when you expect to return.
4. Never accept rides from strangers, even if they seem friendly. Stick to public transportation or licensed taxis.
