New York City 5 hrs

Miami 5 hrs

Philadelphia 6 hrs

Boston 6.5 hrs

Los Angeles 9.5 hrs

Chicago 7 hrs

Dallas-Fort Worth 7 hrs

San Francisco 8 hrs

Northern Region: Located on the northwest coast, Castries is St Lucia's capital city and cultural center. Worthwhile attractions include the open Castries Market, Derek Walcott Square, and the imposing Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. A large, natural harbor on St Lucia's northeastern tip, Rodney Bay includes the small fishing village of Gros Islet and the resort area of Reduit Beach. Boating enthusiasts can enjoy a day at Rodney Bay Marina, the island's largest yachting port. Connected to St Lucia proper by a manmade causeway, Pigeon Island National Park features the remains of centuries-old military bases.

Soufrière: Founded by the French in 1746, Soufrière is a bayside fishing community on the island's southwestern shore. Named after the nearby sulphur springs, the town emanates a provincial charm that reflects the relaxed coastal lifestyle. An interesting stone Catholic church resides in the town center, surrounded by weathered buildings that have stood for ages. Spend an afternoon at the Soufrière Market, an emporium decorated with colorful murals and gingerbread trim where shoppers can find handmade hats, baskets, and tasty indigenous spices. Not far from here are some of St Lucia's most impressive natural attractions, including the beautiful Diamond Falls, the spectacular Pitons, a rain forest, and the island's highest peak, Mount Gimie,

East Coast Nature Reserves: Two exceptional nature sanctuaries are found off St Lucia's eastern coast, offering the keen-eyed explorer an opportunity to spot many rare species of plant and animal. The Maria Islands Nature Reserves are a few miles east of Vieux Fort, St Lucia's southern most city. It is the only habitat of the Maria Islands ground lizard and an extremely rare grass snake. Since it is also home to many rare sea birds, the reserve is off limits during the nesting season, which runs from June through September. Located midway off the St Lucia's eastern coast, the Frigate Islands Nature Reserves are home to boa constrictors and the lethal fer-de-lance pit viper. The islands also serve as the nesting ground for many of St Lucia's indigenous birds, including the rare Ramier pigeon and St Lucian oriole.

At 238 square miles, St Lucia is the second largest of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, located between Martinique and St Vincent. Twenty-seven miles long and up to 14 miles wide, the island has an almond shape. The dominating twin peaks of the Pitons rise almost a half mile out of the southwest seashore, punctuating St Lucia's mountainous and alternately hilly terrain. The southwest region has a volcano and natural sulphur springs. The island's fertile volcanic soil supports the thriving orchards of bananas, coconut, mango, and papaya trees. The coast has both white- and black-sand beaches and natural harbors protected by coral reefs.

St Lucia is blessed with a year-round tropical climate that can be divided into two seasons. The winter Dry Season runs from November to April and boasts pleasantly warm temperatures with low humidity and little precipitation. The summer Wet Season runs from May to October and is accompanied by high humidity and a bit more rain. Throughout the year, however, pleasant trade winds keep the air cool. The heart of hurricane season lasts from late August to early November, though strikes are rare and there is plenty of advance notice to prepare. When threatened by a hurricane strike, one should expect a 2-day displacement from evacuation to safe return.

Spring average 75°

Summer average 81°

Fall average 78°

Winter average 72°

Like all Caribbean islands, this is a year-round destination, with some seasons that are busier than others. The most popular time to visit is December through May, when the weather is at its best and the majority of activities are scheduled. The most relaxing time, however, is really from April-November, when the crowds are smallest.

St Lucia is rightfully known as the "Helen of the West Indies" because it is as desirable to the Caribbean traveler as Helen was to Troy. St Lucia combines many qualities found on islands throughout the Lesser Antilles. There are lush rainforest, beautiful beaches, natural harbors, volcanic mountains, and friendly native people with a rich and colorful culture for you to explore.

Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths: These impressive falls come down through the sulphur springs, changing the color of the water to brilliant shades of yellow, green and purple. The warm mineral waters have colorfully stained the rock face behind the cascade, making this a truly spectacular "must see" site. Adjacent are sulfuric mineral baths built in 1784 by order of Louis XVI. French soldiers stationed in the area often soaked in the "curative" water. Bring your bathing suit and you, too, can "take the waters!"

La Soufrière (Sulphur Springs): Though touted as the world's only "drive-in" volcano, tourists should not expect to go peering down into a volcanic crater when visiting these natural springs. The crater walls have long since eroded away, leaving behind 7 acres of barren hillside terrain pocked with pools of boiling mud and steaming vents.

Discover the City of Castries: The island's capital and commercial center, Castries has several cultural and historical attractions to explore. This bustling port is set on a large natural harbor and, as a tourist hotspot, is surrounded by the majority of the island's resorts.

· Castries Market: This lively open-air market at the intersection of Jeremie and Peynier Streets, just south of the port, is a 100-year old tradition with locals selling their tropical fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade arts and crafts.

· Derek Walcott Square: Three disastrous fires destroyed most of the city's original 18th-century buildings, but a few 19th-century buildings survive in this central square, named after a St Lucian native and 1992 Nobel laureate.

· Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception: An imposing structure adjacent to the square, this cathedral reflects St Lucia's mix of English, French, African, and Caribbean influences. The building itself is of French design with an interior painted in bright African-inspired colors. It is highlighted by portraits of a black Madonna and child, and the Roman Catholic services are delivered in English.

Natural Wonders: St Lucia is treasure trove of natural attractions. Volcanic soil and a tropical climate combine to create the perfect environment for lush vegetation and exotic wildlife. The island's coasts, interlaced by coral reefs and beautiful beaches, are among the world's most beautiful, and the panoramic views from the mountainous interior will take your breath away.

· The Rain Forest: Stretching over 19,000 acres from coast to coast, the national rain forest has outstanding locales for birdwatching and hiking. The sprawling lush foliage covers mountains and valleys, interrupted only by verdant fields and plantations. There is a 7-mile nature walk with guided tours.

· The Pitons: Gros Piton (2,618 ft) and Petit Piton (2,438ft) are twin volcanic peaks that provide a stunning backdrop to the southwest coastline. Take a boat over for the best view.

· Mount Gimie: This is St Lucia's highest point. The mountaintop rises up to a pinnacle of 3,145 feet, with a great view of the rain forest and valleys further inland.

Scuba Diving: St Lucia consistently ranks tops in the Caribbean, with sites like Anse Chastanet Reef, one of the island's best spots with shallow reefs, deep walls, and a plethora of little sea creatures packing the corals. With water temperatures ranging from 78° to 82° and visibility averaging 60 - 100 feet year-round, every dive is a success!

Golf: St Lucia's only public golf course, the Cap Estate, has scenic views, a well-stocked "19th hole," and a resident golf pro who's happy to share pointers on perfecting your swing.

Water Sports: The options are plentiful in addition to scuba diving. Play at your favorite or pick up a new diversion from windsurfing, to sailing, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, water-skiing, parasailing, and good old-fashioned swimming!

Birdwatching: Home to some of the world's most exotic species of our feathered friends, St Lucia is a avian aficionado's dream come true. Several rare and indigenous birds can be seen at the rain forest, Boriel's Pond, and the 2 nature preserves found off the eastern coast.

Pigeon Island: This national park was first used as a French military base in the 16th century, was later fortified by the occupying British army in the 18th century, and then again by American forces during World War II. You'll have fun exploring the island along walking paths that wind through the scenic ruins.

The Caribbean diet is peppered with the region's many exotic victuals, and St Lucia's chefs make good use of local fruits, vegetables, spices, and fresh seafood. There is also a significant sampling of international cuisine, inspired by the island's French, British, and American influences. A food lover's dream St Lucia has restaurants to fit all budgets.

Gourmet: The Fox Grove Inn is one of the island's finest restaurants and offers a magnificent view of the Frigate Islands. The Swiss/St Lucian-owned restaurant serves all day starting with breakfast, and has a friendly country atmosphere. Always a plus, the owner is the head chef and he makes sure you get great value for your money. Mon Repos

Highly Recommended: Razmataz Restaurant is recommended by The New York Times and is St Lucia's first Tandoori Indian eatery. Beautiful sunset views over Rodney Bay accent the tasty lamb and chicken dishes served here.Rodney Bay

Local Flair: Bang is set in a collection of relocated country homes with a restaurant and rum shop best reached by boat. The delicious grilled food served from "Ye Old Jerk Pit" will give you the best taste of local fare. On the Waterfront between the Pitons

Romantic: The Captain's Cellar is a romantic tavern designed in British colonial style and preparing authentic 18th century recipes. Pigeon Island

When the sun goes down, St Lucia gets down. The local people are known to take part in some good, clean-spirited bacchanalia, and visitors to the island are expected to join in the fun. The natives enjoy a variety of musical styles from jazz to the richly accented rhythms unique to the Caribbean islands. Most hotels offer some form of entertainment, including performances by local singers, steel pan bands, and limbo dancers. There are also several nightclubs with live entertainment to keep you partying all night long.

Shamrocks Pub: Great pub food is matched with live jazz and dance music in a relaxed and informal atmosphere at this club in Rodney Bay.

Rodney Bay Marina Yacht Club: Nightly BBQs and live entertainment accent the good times at this waterfront restaurant and bar, open 7 days a week.

The Lime: With live music and an outdoor setting, this casual bar and restaurant keeps the party jamming and its patrons dancing well into the wee hours. The food is inexpensive, whether hot off the grill or from the snack bar.

The Great House: Serving traditional French cuisine with Creole piquancy, this popular eatery houses The Derek Walcott Center for the Arts, which features a variety of entertainment to please the cultured palate.

Jump Up: The whole village of Gros Islet whoops it up for this time-honored tradition, a local street party held every Friday night that lasts well into the early morning hours. Streets are filled with music and vendors selling local foods and beverages.

Carnival: Weeks of island-wide festive activity leads up to this climactic celebration, marked by a parade of costume revelers, calypso music, and band competitions. Taking place on the two days before Ash Wednesday, the exact dates fall some time in February or March.

Festival of Comedy: This 2-day comedy show is packed with leading comedians from around the world. May

St Lucian Jazz Festival: Since 1992, this 4-day musical event has been by far St Lucia's largest and most popular draw of the year. Feature performances by internationally renowned jazz stars have included Herbie Hancock, George Benson, Wynton Marsalis, and others. Shows are mostly held outdoors, including at Pigeon Island. Mid-May

Saint Lucia Bill Fishing Tournament: Serious anglers and casual casters alike meet in St Lucia for to see who can hook the biggest catch. Four days of fun and fishing. September

Atlantic Rally for Cruisers: St Lucia is the final destination for over 100 boats in one of the largest transatlantic yacht races. Held annually at Rodney Bay Marina, the event is capped off by a week of special events and parties. December

St Lucia is a tropical paradise and casual resort attire is appropriate year-round, although some restaurants require men to wear jackets and ties. Winter vacationers may want to bring a light pullover for cooler evenings. Swimwear and bare backs should be restricted to beaches and pools.

We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.

Drinking: You must be 18 years old.

Sunburn & Heatstroke: The sun can be harsh, especially in summer, so sunblock and a hat are essential. Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration.

English is the official language. A French Creole patois is also widely spoken.

The current runs on 220 volts/50 cycles AC, so you will need an adapter for American appliances.

We strongly suggest that you verify with a consulate for the most current and complete rendering of the information outlined below.

Entry: A valid US passport or an original birth certificate with a raised seal and a government-issued photo ID is required.

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: Effective January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including US citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551, if applicable.

The passport requirement does NOT apply to US citizens traveling to or returning directly from a US territory. US citizens returning directly from a US territory are not considered to have left the United States and do not need to present a passport. US territories include the following: Guam, Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Swains Island, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

St Lucia Customs: Visitors at least 18 years of age may enter the country with 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco and 1 liter (40 ounces) of wine or spirits.

US Customs: You may re-enter the US with $600 worth of duty-free merchandise. You may include two liters of wine, beer, or liquor with this exemption, as long as one of the liters was produced in St Lucia. For more information, contact the US Customs Service, phone 202-354-1000.

Departure Tax: A maximum tax of $21 will be levied when exiting the country, though you should check to see if it was included in the price of your airline ticket.

US Embassy Barbados (Jurisdiction over St Lucia): Consular Section, ALICO Building - Cheapside, Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies, phone 246-431-0225, fax 246-431-0179, email ConsularBridge2@state.gov

St Lucia Tourist Board: PO Box 221, Pointe Seraphine, Castries, St Lucia, West Indies, phone 758-452-4094/5968, fax 758-453-1121, email slutour@candw.lc

New York: 820 Second Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10017, phone 212-867-2950 or toll-free 1-800-4 St Lucia/1-800-456-3984, fax 212-867-2795, email info@st-lucia.com