SAINT LUCIA

The top reasons to visit Saint Lucia are popularly referred to by different forms of media. And if you have followed up on your intent to visit the Caribbean, you might have already come across them during your search for favorable destinations within the area. But what makes the sights of Saint Lucia worthwhile to see are the activities you can actually pursue when you are in them. With that said, here are some of the things you can do when you are in this country.

Port of Castries, Saint Lucia

Now, it is no secret that one of the top reasons to visit Saint Lucia has always been its beaches. So you can always count on being able to swim, snorkel and dive in this place. Among the most popular diving sites in the territory is the Anse La Raye Wall, which is 50 to 60 feet. And here, guests can fully appreciate the diversity of Saint Lucia’s marine life, characterized by brightly colored fire corals, purple vase sponges as well as a multitude of jacks, spotted drums and Bermuda chubs. An easier alternative for beginners would be the Anse Cochon North and South Reef, which can already be appreciated at a depth of five feet. And just like the former, guests would be able to encounter schools of tropical fishes here, from damsels to grunts, parrot fishes, yellow snappers and wrasses.

As far as wreck diving goes, thrill seekers will certainly enjoy exploring the Daini Koyomaru wreck found on the southern Anse Cochon, which spans 244 feet. It is a deeper destination at 108 feet. So those looking for a challenge will surely find one in its pursuit. In addition to the aforementioned, folks can also go sailing, surfing, jet skiing and fishing if they want. All they have to do is coordinate with local tour agencies and hotels for equipment.

Ecotours are also part of the top reasons to visit Saint Lucia. And those who want to get down and dirty will surely enjoy rainforest hikes in Soufriere as well as climbing excursions, which involve the Pitons – basically two volcanic plugs that measure 771 (Gros Piton) and 743 (Petit Piton) meters above sea level. Right on the two hour commercial trail are a number of sulfur springs and hot mud pools tourists can indulge in so as to refresh their bodies and provide them that needed recharge to reach the summit. You could also choose to take advantage of ATV and bike trails as well as go horseback riding if you do not wish to tire your feet. And for that breath-taking sightseeing experience, you could pay for a helicopter tour, which should take you around the island.

Gros Piton seen from the Piton Mitan ridge

As a final installation to this list of vacation activities you can pursue in Saint Lucia, you should make it a point to participate in any of its cultural events. The Heritage Tourism Program will expose you to some of the local traditions observed in the area like crayfish catching and cassava making. So see to it that you coordinate with the Ministry of Tourism. And if you so happen to have a trip scheduled in May, you should not miss out on the Jazz Festival Celebration which introduces some of the nation’s best local musicians as well as a number of international acts.