About St. Lucia
Thanks to its mountainous terrain and lush flora, St. Lucia’s beauty is unmatched by other Caribbean islands. Its culture is a unique fusion of French, British and African traditions, and its population of approximately 160,000 people brings the island’s beauty and rich heritage to life.
Quick Facts
- St. Lucia is 27 miles long by 14 miles wide (238 square miles)
- It is an independent member of the British Commonwealth
- While the official language is English, the lingua franca is a mellifluous, French-based Patois or Creol language
Food & Festivals
A variety of eateries dot the landscape around the Soufriere area, from modest lunch counters to world-class restaurants. The dominant local cuisine blends French and Island tradition with the freshest island ingredients.
The most evident and exciting expression of St. Lucia’s culture is its festivals. Carnival is by far the biggest event, which takes place each year from the end of May through mid-July. Colorfully animated parties, calypso contests and parades radiate throughout the island.
Each Friday night, the quaint fishing village of Anse Le Raye enjoys a traditional village Fish Fry, which showcases the skills of local fishermen and the abundance of their catch.
One of St. Lucia’s fastest-growing, and hippest, events is the annual St. Lucia Jazz Festival which takes place in Castries.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to these spirited happenings, there are also many other places to visit throughout the island all year long. With lovely quaint towns, beautiful beaches and bays, mineral baths, and banana plantations, you won’t tire of exploring St. Lucia. You can even visit a “drive in” volcano!