Fly on most international flights fly into Hewanorra International, St. Lucia's larger airport.
Stay at Ladera. This stunning resort features white cedar interiors plucked from the hillsides nearby, winding pathways and mountain views that are second to none on St. Lucia. If you're not staying in one of the 22 suites (each with its own spectacular sweeping view of the Pitons and many with a private plunge pool) stop at the Dasheen for a blended Julie mango smoothie (the island's best variety), ladera.com. The Landings, a newly opened resort, offers a new option in the heart of Rodney Bay where, until now, all- inclusives reigned supreme. The property is being built in four phases, but the soft opening has been successful. Ask for an ocean-view room on the fourth floor to enjoy the most privacy and a plunge pool, landings.rockresorts.com. Coco Resorts is right in the thick of things in Rodney Bay, perfect for travelers who want to mingle with locals, especially since the owner is one her- self. The property is modeled on an old, Creole plantation, to a greatlycharming effect. Reserve one of the swim-up rooms for a little more space. coco-resorts.com
Eat at the Edge, this oh-so-hip open-air spot. It's situated on the water, the edge, so to speak, and mixes the Scandinavian chef's European flair with the local palate for a cuisine he's dubbed "Eurobean." Order the Mango Tease Me, a cocktail fusion of fresh mango, lime juice, triple sec and rum for a delightful beginning to the evening. eurobbean.com
Walk through the fishing village of Soufriere and notice the paved streets (newly added for Prince Charles's 2008) visit, and the contrast of old and new; the concrete buildings on one side of town were built after a massive fire, while the lattice work on the west side of town survived.
See the picturesque landmark of the UNESCO World Heritage Monument to the Piton Mountains. Also, the Canaries -- a Creole name literally meaning "cooking bowl" -- is located in a mountain valley. This quaint town is as peaceful an island village as there is, and home to a favorite local bakery, specializing in freshly baked Creole bread -- though the building is unmarked. The name of this small fishing village of Anse La Raye actually means "Bay of the Ray" in Creole. Head here on Friday night for a street party and the freshest lobster (in season) on the island).
Hop aboard the Sunshine Express (featured on ISLANDS 2007 Blue List) for the short ride from the Marigot Marina to Las Bas beach. At the Boudreau Restaurant try the fish n' chips, served in yesterday's edition of the St. Lucian Star. discoverystlucia.com
Stop at the Casteries Market for fresh Julie Mangos, ripe Rosa Valley bananas, St. Lucian Pineapples or try a traditional island breakfast of salt fish sandwich with cocoa tea. The market is open and bustling every day with local shopping peddling and buying their wares and weekly groceries.
Jump at Gros Islet for the Jump Up party. If loud music, BBQ, and partying is your scene, this weekly local event is not to be missed.
Experience Sulphur Spring, the Caribbean's only drive-in volcano. Though it rages with unbelievable heat (the gray liquid is actually violently hot water, laced with sulphur deposits), the volcano is dormant. It fuels the area surroundingthe spring with nutrient rich soil, creating a lush environment. The steamy site is a reminder of St. Lucia's volcanic geological past.
ISLANDS Twitter Updates
