“THE MAJESTIC WESTERN CARIBBEAN”

COZUMEL,"ISLAND OF SWALLOWS" 

BY CLAY LARROY

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about the wonderful vacation destinations in the Caribbean. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Cozumel is just 30 miles from north to south and 10 miles from east to west, so you can easily explore the island on your visit. But within its sandy borders, there is so much to fall in love with.

On average, the island stays around a blissful 80 degrees. The summers are slightly warmer, ranging in the mid 80s to 90s and the winters cool to the mid 70s. It's always a beach day in Cozumel, as the water ranges from a warm 77 to 82 degrees throughout the year.

Cozumel is home to the largest reef system in the Americas, the Mesoamerican Reef. Teeming with hundreds of tropical fish, turtles and other vibrant sea life, it is truly a diver's dream. But even if you don't explore down into the depths of the ocean, there is much to see for snorkelers too. There are as many as 250 different species of tropical fish including the queen angelfish and the illusive toadfish, seen nowhere else in the world.

Above the sparkling surface of the water, the trees are speckled with frigate birds, brown pelicans, olivaceous cormorants and others. If you look closely, you may catch a glimpse of a tree frog, a crocodile or the prehistoric iguana resting in the lush vegetation. But no worries, our locals are the friendliest in the world.

Tips on What To Do in Cozumel

Most travelers head to Cozumel for diving along the shallow reefs and relaxing on the beach, but land-loving travelers can take a trip to the Punta Sur Ecological Park. Writers say that experienced divers tend to migrate toward the northern beaches, while families looking for quiet sands and calm shores seek beaches toward the south. If you're an inexperienced snorkeler or scuba diver, stick to the calmer south shores. Travelers also go beyond the island to the Mexican mainland, where you can travel north toward Cancún, hit the beach at Playa del Carmen or visit the Mayan ruins at Tulum.

Beaches

You'll find excellent beaches all over the island. Mild water and white sand beaches are mostly found on Cozumel's west side, near most resorts and developments. Wild and rocky beaches lie on the east side—remember to bring water shoes to protect your feet!

Diving

Cozumel is one of the best diving spots in the world, according to travel writers. Many of the best dive spots are located off the island and accessible by boat. The Santa Rose Wall, for example, is accessible 30 minutes off shore and features a tunnels of corals and fascinating marine life. You can also snorkel off the west side of the island, but we still recommend renting a dive charter. Best of all, you don't have to be a professional to take part; you can take lessons or charter a snorkeling trip for a fair price.

Sightseeing

Outside the beach and the water, be sure to avoid the kitschy wares sold in downtown San Miguel and the Mayan ruins around the island. Cozumel's only town, San Miguel, has a laid-back elegance, combining the charming remnants of colonial Mexico with the conveniences of modern life.

REFERENCE SITES
http://www.cozumel.travel/
http://travel.usnews.com/Cozumel_Mexico

“Every time I slip into the ocean, it’s like going home.”

 – Sylvia Earle

Live, Love and Travel to create memories that will last a lifetime!

“THE MAJESTIC WESTERN CARIBBEAN”

BELIZE, "UNSPOILED"

BY CLAY LARROY

Leisure travel is a wonderful experience that everyone should have in their lifetime. Even business travel can be made enjoyable. There are some aspects of travel that can detract from your enjoyment.  When planning to fly for a trip, don't forget any frequent flier miles you might have racked up. It does you no good to hang onto those once you've already gone on your big vacation. Even if you don't have enough miles to cover the whole trip, many airlines will allow you to discount your rate using your miles. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 The article below offers a captivating perception on travel on Belize.

Travel Belize Like a Local

By David Burlison  |   Submitted On February 14, 2010

Most people have heard of Belize, a small third world country in Central America, but to consider Belize as a major tourist destination is not common. Belize is not a tourist destination that most people would place on their list of top tropical choices. Maybe a closer look at Belize will reveal a hidden gem in the maze of all the various tropical opportunities available.

Most people looking for a tropical experience think first of the Caribbean Islands from the Virgin Islands to Argentina, the Hawaiian islands, the other Pacific islands, or the other more notable islands catered to by the main stream tropical adventurers. The locals of Belize would have you know their tropical paradise is second to none.

If you are looking to enjoy a tropical experience, and want to save quite a bit from the cost that a typical tropical adventure would cost, consider Belize. This is not to say that Belize is a second class destination, but Belize is a location much overlooked. If you travel to Belize you will have a host of travel options and surely you will not be disappointed if you decide to go there, and you may be truly amazed. However, if you do go, always consider asking a Belize local and travel like a local.

Belize is a tropical country situated on the eastern coast of Central America. You will find Belize right below Mexico facing the Caribbean Sea. Belize has the second longest barrier reef in the world. Belize's reef is second only to Australia's Great barrier reef. Belize's magnificent barrier reef creates some of the best deep-sea fishing, skin diving and snorkeling in the world. Its mainland’s consist of tropical rivers and exotic jungles.

One of the great attractions of Belize is that the local language is English, even though the country is located in Spanish Central America. Once a British Colony, Belize was granted its independence in 1964 from Great Britain. Belize is also extremely close for most Americans, compared to other tropical destinations. Belize is roughly a two hour flight out of Houston, and Belize City is serviced by several major international carriers. Belize is also a relatively short boat ride to southern Mexico and Cancun, Mexico. Many of the locals of Belize actually travel by boat or car to southern Mexico on a regular basis to shop and trade.

Belize has far more territory for the average tourist to cover on a short vacation than what you will find on most tropical islands. The mainland has the capital, Belize City, an international seaport. Belize City is actually about the size of a mid-size city in the United States, with considerable poverty and crime. Belize City doesn't have much to offer for a traveler. Most travelers will have to travel to Belize City first, as Belize City is the entry point to Belize. South of Belize City is the mainland consisting of small tropical villages, and along the eastern caribbean coast you will find quaint coastal villages and gentle beaches. The interior offers the tropical jungles and the pre-historic Mayan ruins, and adventurers can find many caves, tropical rivers, exotic animals and quaint villages to explore throughout the mainland.

For the typical tropical island experience most travelers head directly out of Belize City to one of the cays (small islands) just off Belize's eastern borders in the Caribbean Sea. You can arrive at these small cays by boat or plane. The trip is a one hour boat ride out of Belize City or a twenty minute plane ride on a small plane. These small cays are the base for most travelers coming to Belize to either skin dive or enjoy the great deep sea fishing, as the barrier reef is just within sight of the shores of these small island cays.

The two main cays along the barrier reef are Caye Caulker, a small quaint island with modest accommodations and modest cafes. The main cay that most tourist end up settling is called Ambergris Cay. San Pedro is the main and only town on Ambergris Cay, and actually San Pedro is the biggest part of the island. On Ambergris Cay you can find all range of accommodations, from a small very inexpensive hotel right on the ocean, to luxury resorts and condos, and likewise with restaurants and cafes. Being somewhat different than most tropical islands, most accommodations on the cays are right on the ocean. The beaches are scattered with quaint bars and nice cafes that offer very good food at reasonable prices. There is always a live local band close by every night. Everything is very close and very easy to reach. The locals and tourist actually travel for the most part by golf carts on the sandy narrow roads.

If you set up base in one of the two cays mentioned, you are probably planning on spending some time fishing, snorkeling or skin diving. To go to Belize and not spend some time exploring Belize's magnificent barrier reef would truly be a great opportunity missed. The aquatic life along this reef is amazing and beyond words. In the town of San Pedro you will find a number of charter operations to take you to the barrier reef to skin dive, snorkel or deep sea fish. Depending on your budget, the prices are more than reasonable even for the top class charters and unbelievable low for the lower end charters, who may just pick you up in only a twelve foot boat.

Belize has much to offer to a tropical adventurer. Whether you just want to relax and enjoy the sun and surf, or whether you traveled there to conquer the magnificent barrier reef and catch the big marlin, Belize is inexpensive, the locals speak English and they are friendly. Belize is just a short flight from the mainland, and the life is easy. If you go, just remember to ask a local travel guide first.

If your planning ant trip please be sure to check out this website, it can make the trip the best you ever had. Just go to: http://www.travelaskthelocals.yolasite.com. Smooth sailing. D. Burlison, JD, Belize traveler.

Just go to this web site. http://www.travelaskthelocals.yolasite.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/David_Burlison/521650

             “After a visit to the beach, it’s hard to believe that we live in a                                          material world.” – Pam Shaw

                                 Experience life by traveling with friends and family!

x

“THE MAJESTIC WESTERN CARIBBEAN”

BELIZE,"UNSPOILED"


BY CLAY LARROY

In the world of traveling, there are plenty of great resources available to both new and experienced travelers alike. There are many websites, guides, books, videos, and other resources available. By writing this blog I hope that I am providing valuable information about the wonderful vacation destinations in the Caribbean. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

Belize is located in Central America and it is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the south and west by Guatemala and to the east by the Caribbean Sea. We are a diverse country with various cultures and languages. We also have the lowest population density in Central America with 35 people per square mile or 14 people per square kilometer. 

Belize is also known for its extreme biodiversity and distinctive ecosystems. On the coast, there is a swampy coastal plain with mangrove swamps. In the south and interior there are hills and low mountains. Most of our land is undeveloped and is forested with hardwoods. It is a part of the Mesoamerican biodiversity hotspot and it has many jungles, wildlife reserves, a large variety of different species of flora and fauna and the largest cave system in Central America. Some species of Belize's flora and fauna include the black orchid, the mahogany tree, the toucan and tapirs.

THINGS TO DO IN BELIZE

Dive the Great Blue Hole of Belize

The world famous Blue Hole is an incomparable natural wonder in Belize. It is located at the center of Lighthouse Reef and measures 1000 feet across and 412 feet deep. Giant stalactites, dripstone sheets and columns, and fascinating marine life are the enchanting geological wonders that draw divers to this site.

Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Locally known as Xibalba or ATM Cave, Actun Tunichil Muknal is one of the most breathtaking caving experiences you will have in Belize. The cave is located in the karstic limestone terrain of Roaring Creek Valley in the Cayo District and is approximately 5 km long and contains a perennial stream that runs through it including a ledge with two stelae and a large chamber full of intact human remains and Maya pots.

Visit Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is located 33 miles from Belize City in the village of Crooked Tree and is considered a birders paradise. The sanctuary was established in 1984 and is comprised of 16,400 acres of lagoons, creeks, logwood swamps, broadleaf forest and pine savanna, and it is guaranteed to see a great amount of enchanting Belizean wildlife like the Heron, Muscovy duck and the Jabiru stork -- the largest flying bird in the Western Hemisphere.

Climb Ca'ana, the tallest Maya structure in Belize

Ca'ana meaning sky place is the predominant pyramid at the ancient Maya city of Caracol which is located deep within the Chiquilbul Nature Reserve in the Cayo District. It is 140 feet tall and rises above the jungle canopy providing visitors with panoramic and breathtaking views of the Belizean Jungle that will last a lifetime.

Go on a Kayaking trip

Kayaking in Belize is a joy! The crystal clear waters, tepid sunshine and balmy Caribbean breezes that Belize offers make for an ideal kayaking expedition. As you glide across the warm waters, you will observe untouched coral reefs, white sandy beaches and abundant marine wildlife like the amazing sea turtle.

REFERENCE SITES:

https://www.travelbelize.org

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/larry-waight/10-things-to-do-in-belize_b_4489380.html

“If there’s heaven for me, I’m sure it has a beach attached to it.” 

– Jimmy Buffett

 Live life and travel often, the more you travel, the more memories you create!

“THE MAJESTIC WESTERN CARIBBEAN”

THE BAY ISLANDS, "OPULENT"


BY CLAY LARROY

A vacation can soothe the soul and leave you renewed, refreshed, and invigorated. Whether you are just now starting to plan your next vacation, or are merely looking for travel ideas and suggestions, read all the articles about the Caribbean. So take away some of the stress of making travel plans, and get started thinking about the fun and relaxing times you will soon be having on your next trip! When you are ready to plan an exciting vacation contact me!

THE BAY ISLANDS

Bay Islands Roatan, Utila and Guanaja are the three largest of several islands known as the Bay Islands of Honduras. Located in the Western Caribbean, just off the coast of Central America. These islands are each unique and very different from each other. Real Estate in the Bay Islands is amongst the most affordable in the Caribbean, attracting many foreigners who have established themselves here. Diving is the main travel attraction for the Bay Islands of Roatan, Utila and Guanaja, and is considered amongst the best in the Caribbean! English is spoken extensively on each of the islands.

Roatan is a Gem in the Bay Islands of Honduras

Roatan is the largest of the Bay Islands. It is a long, narrow, hilly island, almost 60 km long (about 37 miles) and only 5 km wide (3 miles) at its widest spot. Its rolling hills and mountains, with a maximum altitude above sea level of approximately 900 feet,  makes every piece of property virtually a unique ocean view lot.  The island is completely surrounded by a large reef system, part of the Mesoamerican reef which boasts the largest marine biodiversity in the world and is part of the second longest barrier reef in the World, extending itself from the Bay Islands in Honduras on the south end to the Mexican islands of Contoy, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel to the North.

Utila

The smallest of the three major Bay Islands, Útila lies closest to the Honduran mainland and is by far the flattest of the islands. Útila is located approximately 18 miles from the coast and can be easily reached from La Ceiba either by sea or air. The Utila Princess operates everyday, leaving from La Ceiba’s municipal dock located east of La Ceiba. The trip takes only one hour on the Utila Princess Ferry catamaran.

Although Utila is world famous for its diving, which is not only excellent, but also very inexpensive, this does not mean that Utila is necessarily a “cheap” place. Accommodations and food are much less expensive than at the other islands, but Utila also has some world class diving resorts, such as the Utila Lodge, the Laguna Beach Resort, Parrots, Deep Blue, Underwater Vision and Eco Marine and now on the Utila Cays – Utila Cays Diving Resort.

Utila, is a friendly, kick-back kind of place to visit. Just about everything you might want to do is within walking distance. Walking along the sandy paths, seeing the spectacular aqua blue ocean, and feeling the warm tropical air is about as good as it gets.

Guanaja

Guanaja is the least known of the Bay Islands, and perhaps the most lush. It has mountainous jungles, dense with tropical plants and pine trees. Guanaja also is the least inhabited bay island, allowing the opportunity to enjoy secluded beaches without another soul around. The Caribbean waters of Guanaja are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Guanaja is also a scuba divers paradise, with untouched coral reefs, and miles of ocean life to explore.

The Bay Island of Guanaja is remote. It has no roads, so transportation around the island will be by boat. In addition to the activities mentioned above, horseback riding is offered, and tours to one of the many waterfalls on the island.

If your desire is “to get away from it all”, Guanaja is the ideal vacation destination for you.

REFERENCE SITES

http://www.honduras.com/

 “Every day should be a beach day.” 

– Unknown

Live Well, Laugh Often and Travel Much!

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS, “MAGNIFICENT CARIBBEAN”

ST. LUCIA , “HELEN OF THE WEST INDIES”

BY CLAY LARROY

The preparation for a vacation is almost as exhilarating as the vacation itself. I love printing out the tickets and confirmations while thinking about how much fun I will have on vacation. I enjoy researching all the sights at the location I will see once I arrive at my destination. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

 Look at the article below for an enthralling perspective on travel in St.Lucia.

Reasons why you need a St Lucia Vacation  

 by Lyton Cazaubon

in Travel    (submitted 2007-03-05)

Why is St Lucia the perfect vacation destination? Many of us are looking for the perfect vacation and the perfect vacation also means the perfect location, but how do you choose where to go for that well deserved vacation? I mean, with so many destination to choose from, how do you which one is the most ideal for you.

I'm sure if you had the money you would just do some random traveling, but not everyone is so fortunate.

So what exactly is a perfect vacation destination? Well I'm no expert on traveling but to my mind, the perfect destination is some where you go to get those things you are looking for on a vacation. With that said, the question still remain, does St Lucia cater to those vacation needs that you're looking for?
Before we go further, let me give you a brief description on St Lucia and what you can expect on a vacation here.

St Lucia is a small Island towards the center of the Caribbean chain only 238 sq miles, which means, you can drive around the island in less than three hours. This small island is as the St Lucia tourist board puts it "simply beautiful".

Here are some of the few things you will find.

Luscious green vegetation all over the island, two majestic twin peaks (pitons) which has recently gotten world heritage site status, the only drive in volcano in the world, several scuba diving site, snorkeling sites, turtle watching, whale watching, some of the loveliest beaches in the world, night activities, top notch hotels and restaurants, golfing in close proximity to several hotels, site seeing and much more.

If you're coming to St Lucia by plane, then everyday there are several flights to and from the US, Canada and the United Kingdom, making booking your flight easy as 123. You may be traveling by cruise, well that is definitely not a problem because every year, hundreds of cruise ships grace our shores with thousands of visitors. There is basically something for everyone here.
Let me first point out to you that St Lucia's main revenue comes from tourism, so you can rest assured that a lot of emphasis is being placed on the well being of every visitor to the island. After visiting St Lucia you will realize why so many visitors keep coming back.

Finding some where to stay in St Lucia is quite easy; there are so many hotels, villas and vacation homes to choose from. You can choose an all inclusive hotel where you will have no surprise expenses or if you want to experience local cuisine from different restaurants that can also be arranged. I'm sure you will find the right deal for you because you can find high priced hotels as well low budget priced hotels. There are also several hotels that have kid's activities, living mom and dad with enough time to spend with each other.

With so many things to do in St Lucia, it's hard not to see why St Lucia is not the ideal place to have the perfect vacation whether it is with the family, traveling solo, with that special person in your life or if you planning on getting married. Every year hundreds of people all over the world come to St Lucia to tie the knot. In fact readers of the Caribbean World Magazine have voted St Lucia several times as the Caribbean Wedding Island of the Year" and Honeymoon Island of the Year.

I know that St Lucia is a wonderful country; because that's the reason I live there. So if you have never visited St Lucia before, start making plans to see why Oprah Winfrey, Harrison Ford, David Bowie, Bill Gates, Wyclef Jean, Whitney Houston, Bill Clinton, Nicolas Cage and so many prestigious people keep coming back to St Lucia.

About the Author

Lyton Cazaubon has been proactive in the tourism industry in St Lucia for the past 10 years. Due to the constant questions that he has received from visitors, he decided to build a website that answers those questions. If you would like to know more about St Lucia, you can go his website at www.st-lucia-vacation-guide.com

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

 – Jacques Cousteau

Live a Better Life Travel Often!

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS, “MAGNIFICENT CARIBBEAN”

ST. LUCIA , “HELEN OF THE WEST INDIES”

BY CLAY LARROY

We lead such busy lives working, going to school, taking children to different activities that often we do not stop and talk to our children. We usually do not have time to sit around the dinner table and ask our children what they did today. Family vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Families that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Family vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience especially in the Caribbean.  When you are ready to plan a vacation contact me!

Things to see and do in St Lucia

Anse Chastanet

Go snorkelling and scuba-diving on St Lucia's natural and artificial coral. It is not uncommon to see turtles, nurse sharks and seahorse whilst swimming in the clear blue waters. Popular diving sites include Anse Chastanet, Anse Le Raye, Coral Gardens at the base of the Gros Piton, Fairy Land at the base of Anse Chastanet and Lesleen M Shipwreck.

Anse de Sable

Get active at the sandy beach of Anse de Sable which offers ideal windsurfing conditions for both novices and experts. The waves at Cas en Bas and Vieux Fort are a challenge even for the most experienced. Island guests can enjoy waterskiing and parasailing above Rodney Bay.

Canopy tour

Soar above the rainforest on a canopy tour. Adrenaline lovers can fly along a series of ziplines from 30 to 150m (100 to 500ft) in length connecting nine platforms 9 to 15m (30 to 50ft) above the ground.

Castries

Explore Castries, a city located in one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. Surrounded by hills, its large harbor at the head of a wide bay is a constant hive of activity. Head for the spacious Derek Walcott Square which features a 19th-century Catholic cathedral, standing in the shade of a 400-year-old samaan tree. There is also a colorful, bustling market.

Choiseul

Visit the picturesque little villages of Choiseul and Laborie, which are surrounded by splendid vegetation. The Morne Coubaril Estate (www.stluciaziplining.com) is also worth a visit with cocoa, manioc and sugar cane plantations to visit, plus there are ziplining activities for the more adventurous.

Diamond Waterfalls

Marvel at the Diamond Waterfalls in the Diamond Botanical Gardens and Sulphur Springs - St Lucia's 'drive-in volcano'.

Go sailing

Hotels offer hobbycats, dinghies and small speedboats by the hour or half-day. From Marigot Bay and Rodney Bay, the more experienced sailor can hire a variety of craft. Tour operators can also arrange for stays to be coupled with a 'free floating' holiday on board a chartered yacht visiting the neighboring islands.

Gros Islet

Check out the weekly Friday street party at Gros Islet, on the northwest coast of the island, stages a street party every Friday. Nearby Pigeon Island National Landmark has a small museum telling the history of the island. It was from here that Admiral Rodney set sail in 1782 and destroyed the French fleet in the Battle of the Saintes, one of the most decisive engagements in European history.

Marigot Bay

Head to the top of Marigot Bay, a secluded, palm-fringed paradise. From here you can visit the Cul de Sac - an area famous for its three large banana plantations where the original Dr Dolittle was filmed.

Morne Fortune

Walk up Morne Fortune, where visitors have the chance to see the fortification which defends Castries. It also provides a magnificent panorama of the city and the surrounding area.

Plantation tour

Travel back in time on a plantation tour. Fond d'Or Nature Historic Park covers the Amerindian settlements and historic buildings of the sugar age and the tropical forest surrounding it.

Rainforests and mountains

Explore the island's rainforest, mountain and plantation walks. Local guides are available to help climbers tackle the Pitons. The main areas designated for birdwatching are the Bois d'Orange Swamp, Boriel's Pond and the Piton Flore Reserve.

Soufrière

Take a trip to Soufrière, the second-largest settlement on the island. This deep-water port stands at the foot of two extinct volcanoes known as the Pitons. Rising to 798m (2,619ft) above sea level, these are probably St Lucia's most famous landmarks. The town itself is typically West Indian, a cluster of brightly painted arcaded buildings set against the jungle vista.

Turtle and whale watching

Head out to sea on a turtle and whale watching trip - a great experience for all animal lovers. St Lucia is said to be one of the best places in the world to see whales - 20 species can be seen off the coast, including sperm whales, pilot whales and humpbacks.

REFERENCE SITE

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

 “Don’t grow up too quickly, lest you forget how much you love the beach.” 

– Michelle Held

Live a Better Life Travel Often!

THE WINDWARD ISLANDS, “MAGNIFICENT CARIBBEAN”

ST. LUCIA , “HELEN OF THE WEST INDIES”

BY CLAY LARROY

Across the America many couples are having wonderful wedding after months of planning. The bride and groom will need a honeymoon to rest and recuperate.  Vacations are so important, as it gives us a way to connect with each other in a stress free relaxed environment. Couples that take vacations together build memories that will last a lifetime. Couples vacations and travel can be a most rewarding experience especially in the Caribbean. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!

With lush rainforests, undulating agricultural landscapes, unspoiled beaches and trade winds keeping temperatures on the right side of hot, St Lucia is a beautiful island. So far, so Caribbean. There are a host of natural wonders here, from the UNESCO heritage site of the Pitons, the rain forested twin peaks that herald visitors in the south, to the Qualibou volcano with its boiling sulphur springs, as well as tropical flower-lined roadsides. The gorgeous landscape and relatively low key vibe of the island is one of its major draws and makes St Lucia a popular spot with many travelers, honeymooners in particular.

Still, what sets St Lucia apart from most of the other Caribbean islands is the sheer range of activities on offer. Other islands may have the sand and the sea views but beach lovers beware, for you might find yourself tempted out of that sun lounger and into the ocean – St Lucia’s coastline boasts coral reefs and a plethora of marine life, making scuba diving and snorkeling popular things to do, and there are plenty of water sports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing on offer too. 

Alternatively, head away from the sea completely and venture into the island’s interior instead. Go hiking through the lush mountains, zip lining through the rainforest canopy, and visit a volcano, all in a days’ work. And if you’ve still got the energy to go looking for some night life, there are also regular Friday night parties in the north of the island, where visitors can partake in the wonderful local cuisine, as well as the islanders’ friendliness, hospitality and leisurely lifestyle.

Aside from the activities on offer, the other factor that entices tourists is the island's unique cultural heritage, which has a considerable British and French influence still felt today - the island changed hands between Britain and France no fewer than 14 times between 1660 and 1814. The British maintained control until 1979, when St Lucia became independent but this cultural diversity is still evident in St Lucia, from the colonial-style plantations dotted about the island to the French influence felt in the patois spoken throughout the country. The result is an island that will captivate visitors, long after those emerald green peaks disappear over the horizon.

Climate

Best Time To Visit

The weather in St Lucia is typical of most Caribbean islands. There is a hot, tropical climate tempered by trade winds throughout most of the year with temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 32°C (90°F). The driest period is from December to May and there is increased rainfall in summer and towards the end of the year (June to November). Regionally, there is some variation.  The beaches around the North (Castries, Gros Islet) whilst hot, receive cooling trade winds, whilst the rain forested interior of the island can get very hot and humid. St Lucia can also suffer from hurricanes; typically the hurricane season runs from June to November.

Required Clothing

In general, light breathable fabrics are best, along with beachwear. A light waterproof jacket may also come in handy during rain showers. Hikers should pack sensible footwear and warm clothes as temperatures drop at higher altitudes.

REFERENCE SITE

http://www.travelresearchonline.com/

“The calming movement of the sea along with the restless ocean breeze gently caresses me creating a soothing trance which lulls me to a place of peace.” 

– M. L. Borges, By The Sea

Live Well, Laugh Often and Travel Much!