St. Lucia - Location Guide & Travel Tips 
Location
St. Lucia, "the Helen of the West Indies," so called because of its natural beauty, lies in the central part of the Windward Islands approximately 1,300 miles southeast of Florida. Its nearest neighbors are the French island of Martinique 21 miles to the north, and St. Vincent lying 25 miles south, both of which are visible on a clear day. Barbados is 110 miles to the southeast. The island possesses some of the finest natural harbours in the Caribbean.
Geography
As the second largest island after Dominca in the Windwards, St. Lucia is 238 square miles (616 sq. km), 14 miles wide and 27 miles long, with a combination of high mountains, forests, low lying lands and beaches. A central mountain range runs the length of the island, with the highest peak Mount Gimie rising 3154 feet above sea level. Forests dominate the mountains, while jasmine, scarlet chenille and wild orchids provide splashes of colour to the lush green slopes. The two towering volcanic cones on the southwest coast, Gros Piton (797m) and Petit Piton (750m) are one of the Caribbean’s most famous landmarks. The volcanic origin of the island provides visitors with an opportunity to visit a “drive-in volcano” and take a dip in the reputedly therapeutic Sulphur springs. Population is currently estimated at 150,000 with about one third residing in the capital city of Castries situated on the northwest part of the island.
Climate
The climate on island is tropical, with temperatures ranging from the mid-seventies to the mid-eighties (25°C to 30°C). June to August is the hottest time of the year and temperatures can reach the mid-nineties (32°C). Things are kept pretty cool however, by the constant trade-winds. The rainy season is from June to November, but showers tend to last only a short time. Average rainfall ranges from 60 inches in the coastal regions to 160 inches in the interior rain forests.
Language
While the official language is English, a French based Creole commonly called patois is also spoken because of St. Lucia's dual British-French heritage.
Time Zone
St. Lucia lies in the Atlantic Standard Time zone making it one hour ahead of North American Eastern Standard Time all year round. It is four hours behind Europe (GMT-4), five during daylight savings time.
Currency
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) which is linked to the US Dollar at the exchange rate of US$1.00 = EC$2.70 and varies in value along with it against the other world currencies. A wide range of currencies such as US$, Canadian dollar, Euro and British pounds are freely convertible in local banks.
Telecommunications
Both domestic and international direct dialing are available. Services in St. Lucia have expanded and are now provided by Cable & Wireless (WI) Ltd., Digicel and AT&T Wireless. Cable & Wireless offers a range of services including international direct dialing to over 180 countries worldwide; mobile cellular services; credit card calling and public payphones. Digicel's network, based on GSM technology, has introduced state-of-the art technology, smart handsets, and innovative & competitive rate plans to the mobile communications market. AT&T Wireless subscribers can take advantage of its Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and general Packet Radio Service (GPRS) networks for faster data transmission.
Electricity
Electricity is mostly 220 volts, 50 cycles, although some hotels are 110volts, 60 cycles. Unless you are coming from Europe, you will need an adapter for your travel appliances. Most sockets take 3 pin square plugs (UK standard) but some take 2 pin round plugs or flat American plugs, which are more rare. Adaptors are generally available at the hotels.
Government
St Lucia has been an independent democracy since 1979, and is a member of the British Commonwealth. The Head of Government is the Prime Minister. The Head of State is Queen Elizabeth II but a Ceremonial Head of State - The Governor-General represents the queen at proceedings. In addition to the Office of the Governor General, a two-house system of Parliament exists made up of a Senate and a House of Assembly. There is an independent judiciary, modeled on British Law and an independent Appeals Court common to most of the islands of the Eastern Caribbean.
Passports & Immigration
Visitors to St. Lucia must carry valid passports, except USA and Canadian citizens who possess valid return tickets and I.D., staying for less than 6 months. Visas are not required where the visitor is a citizen of the USA or a Commonwealth country, or where there is agreement for exemption between the home country and St. Lucia.
Entry Requirements for the United States change effective December 31, 2006 -- All air & sea travelers, including U.S. citizens, to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda must have a valid passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality, to enter the United States.
Departure Tax
There is a Departure Tax of EC $54 or US$ 22 for all passengers over 12 years old leaving the Island.
Service Charges & Tax
On hotel and restaurant bills there is a Government tax of 8%. A service charge of 10% is also applicable. In some instances these charges are included in prices quoted, so it is best to clarify. The prices on labels in shops are what you pay.
Tipping & Gratuities
Tipping is not automatically added and is customary at about 10% to 12% of bills. Tips are generally accepted by bell hops in hotels, taxis and other persons providing service.
Disclaimer
We attempt to ensure the accuracy of all information provided, however we are not responsible for the content provided herein. For the most current information, please visit the St. Lucia Tourist Board website, or contact them directly at:
St. Lucia Tourist Board
PO Box 221 Sureline Bldg
Vide Bouteille, Castries, Saint Lucia
Phone:758 452 4094 Fax:758 453 1121USA contact:
St. Lucia Mission
800 Second Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10017UK contact:
St Lucia High Commission
10 Kensington Court, London W8 5DL