A brief guide to St Lucia - My Travel Genie

Stepping off the plane and hitting that comforting warm wall of heat and seeing tropical plants bursting from the hills, you know the week ahead in the Caribbean sunshine is going to be just what you need.

Whether that’s an adventure soaring through the treetops, beach time, partying at the jump up or tasting endless delicious dishes; there is something for everyone just over 8 hours away from the UK. We love our weeklong escapes to the Caribbean and although we would love more, often our time doesn’t allow it. People travel to Vegas for a shorter and more hectic break and so 8 hours isn’t that far for paradise.

The Caribbean's longest pool at Sandals Halcyon in St Lucia framed by palm leaves and with sun loungers resting in the water at the entrance to the pool which has steps down into the main pool. The water and sky are as equally blue and the pool is nestled in the honeymoon hideaway area of the resort in a tropical haven.

We have visited St Lucia a couple of times to explore this wonderful tropical island. The transfers are not an easy ride, so to speak, but they are rewarding. Unlike some of the other Caribbean islands, St Lucia is green, hilly and feels very genuinely Caribbean. The roads wind left to right back up and down and so take the front seat on your transfer. Or, if budget allows, enjoy a helicopter ride and sample the undulating landscape from above.

The island is sprinkled with a range of accommodation. You will find apartments, such as The Landings, all inclusive hotels, like Sandals, and more unique stays such as Boucan by Hotel Chocolat. There is an option for everyone to enjoy what’s on offer here.

The golden sands at The Landings in St Lucia scattered with sun loungers with neon royal blue shades, flanked by palm trees looking out to the aquamarine still waters.

We stayed at Sandals Halcyon, a smaller all-inclusive resort perfectly located between the other two Sandals hotels on the island. We love the grounds at the hotel which are tropically rich and make the resort a cosy haven. There is the option of a ground floor or first floor room and this low-rise approach makes The Halycon a home away from home. The smiling staff, wide ranging culinary options, activities on offer (including the Caribbean’s longest pool!) and beautifully furnished rooms make relaxing here a breeze. You are also able to explore the other Sandals hotels on the island using the free shuttle bus. The Grande is next door to Pigeon Island and the Friday night jump up which shouldn’t be missed. Also, if you are considering a wedding abroad, the Grande does have the most stunning over water chapel.

A wedding chapel at Sandals Grande St Lucia perched on the end of a secluded pier. each side has windows which can be opened and look directly out to sea and the floor has two large glass panels which look down into the sea below. There is a crystal chandelier at the end and peach voile framing the large window.

We enjoyed kayaking, paddle boarding, Big Mable (!), a boat trip to see the Pitons, Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and the Tree Top Adventure Park at Dennery. We sipped fresh coconut water from coconuts picked within the hour and watched intricate sushi dishes being made in front of us whilst also enjoying the dusky sea view below.

A green coconut which has been chopped to make way for a paper drinking straw being held out for the photo and with the background or darker sand, deep blue sea and Kelly's at Sandals Halcyon St Lucia reaching out to sea to the right.

Then, after a week of drowning our senses in new experiences, we always reluctantly step back onto the plane. We walk through the Narnia wardrobe, returning to our version or normal but already planning our return.

Get in touch today to start planning your next adventure!

toni@holidaysplease.com

07951 219293

A brief guide to St Lucia

Related