Davidsbeenhere - Saint Lucia Island Travel Guide 2013: Attractions, Restaurants, and More...

Table of Contents
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Saint Lucia Island Intro
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Introduction
Saint Lucia juts out of the tropical Atlantic waters like an exotic emerald oasis. Located between the islands of Martinique and St. Vincent, this gem forms part of the Lesser Antilles. Officially, St. Lucia is considered a Windward Isle a name that arose from its easy access by sailing ships en route from Africa to the New World. The island is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, but boasts a variety of outdoor activities, spectacular views and a host of opportunities to relish in island living.

Brief History
Long before European colonists arrived, native people known as the Arawaks inhabited St. Lucia (200-800 A.D.) Eventually the Carib people, whose control extended throughout the Lesser Antilles, conquered the peaceful Arawaks. It is unknown the exact date that the first Europeans arrived, but the French did eventually established forts here in the 1550s. In 1643, the French established their first permanent settlement on the island. The British ultimately defeated the French Navy and acquired the island in 1778 after the Battle of Cul de Sac. To this day, St. Lucia remains a commonwealth territory of Great Britain.
Honeymoon Destination
Recognized as the Caribbeans Leading Honeymoon Destination for 2011 and 2012, St. Lucia is as perfect for couples as it is for families. What better way to start a new life than by experiencing the magic of the island together? Whether adventurous or laid back, St. Lucia caters to every type of couple. And the best part is that the island is a short plane ride away from major East Coast United States airports. There are also direct flights from Dallas, Texas, and London, U.K.
Geography and Climate
Similar to other Caribbean islands, St. Lucia was formed by several volcanic eruptions that occurred 40 to 60 million years ago. Its deep valleys and steep mountains are the direct result of this explosive activity. St. Lucias east coast is bordered by the wild waters of the Atlantic Ocean, while its western coast is surrounded by the relatively placid Caribbean Sea. Of all its unique natural wonders, the two volcanic peaks on the islands southwestern coast, known as the Pitons, are her most iconic. This majestic pair, known as the Gros and Petit Pitons, sits near the beach town of Soufrire. Beyond the Pitons is a verdant rainforest dotted with rural villages and banana plantations. St. Lucia has a subtropical climate that makes it a desirable destination year round.
Culture
St. Lucians are a warm, friendly people. They possess a distinctive cultural heritage largely influenced by British, French, African and Indian traditions. And there is no better way to experience this intermingling of cultures than through St. Lucian cuisine. Fresh grilled seafood, curries, and Creole-inspired soups comprise the local diet. Like all island nations, St. Lucias people are closely tied to the sea. Much like the Arawaks did more than 2,000 years ago, St. Lucian fishermen head out each day, sometimes in disagreeable conditions, in hopes of a bountiful catch. As much as they work, St. Lucians also know how to play, and they go all out. Weekends are a time to kick back and let loose. Friday and Saturday night festivities are common across the island, with the Gros Islet block party and Anse-la-Raye fish fry at the top of the must-do list for any traveler.
Overview
The islands diverse topography and distinct blend of cultures makes it an unforgettable place. St. Lucia has made extraordinary strides in all sectors of tourism, and travelers have the benefit of having dozens of world-class hotels at their disposal. The beauty of St. Lucia is that you can quite easily find or lose yourself in its wonder. So pack light, leave your worries behind and come experience the emerald isle for yourself!
*All prices listed in this guide are in USD ($) unless otherwise stated. As part of our 2013-2014 guide series, you will find additional travel information at the end of this guide.

Gros Islet/Rodney Bay
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Rodney Bay, which is located in the northwestern part of the island, in an area known as Gros Islet, is a gorgeous district with numerous hotels, dining options and shopping venues. At the center of the action is the Rodney Bay Marina and nearby Bay Walk Mall. Beach bums, deep-sea fishermen and golfers all come to Rodney Bay to enjoy its unrivaled natural beauty and multitude of activities. By day, Rodney Bay Marina is teeming with action as the yachts roll in and out of their slips. Nightfall brings shorts-clad tourists to the marinas bars and restaurants.

The Gros Islet Friday night block party is perhaps the most popular party in St. Lucia. Beginning around 8 p.m., tourists and locals crowd the streets of Gros Islet village to dance, drink, eat and socialize into the wee hours of the morning. The Gros Islet area attracts hundreds of honeymooners each year with its quiet beaches and intimate boutique hotels.

Adventure
Rainforest Adventures

Look no further for the ultimate rush. Rainforest Adventures has it all. What better way to see St. Lucias natural beauty than from the treetops? Rainforest Adventures is not only one of the most reputable adventure operators in the Caribbean, but also offers guests the opportunity to experience the rainforest in many ways. Tours offered include zip lining, bird watching, nature hikes and aerial trams. The zip lining tour ($69) is one of the most popular. Brave guests are suited up and instructed on how to zip across a series of cables and platforms, each with a different height and degree of difficulty. For those less valiant, the aerial tram tour ($72) takes guests on a relaxing gondola ride through the treetops. Rainforest Adventure provides transportation to and from your hotel, a complimentary drink with your ticket purchase and plenty of stories to tell your friends. Receive a 10% discount when you book online.

Info:
+758 458 5151
Toll free: 1-866-759-8726
www.rainforestadventure.com
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Rodney Bay Marina

The Rodney Bay Marina has become a first-class yachting destination and fishing charter hub. DSL Yachting and Island Lady are two local companies based out of Rodney Bay. Exodus Boat Charters offers sunset dinner cruises, whale and dolphin watching, deep-sea fishing and snorkeling/swimming trips. Landlubbers can hang out around the marinas casual restaurants for a little pub grub and a cold Piton Beer.