Saint Lucia – A One-of-a-Kind Experience

This year, Saint Lucia won the Caribbean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination for the seventh year in a row and upon arrival, it is easy to see why. The combination of luscious rainforest, sparkling blue waters and breathtaking views of the world famous Pitons Mountains are enough to make any newlywed couple swoon.

Over the past few years, Saint Lucia has had her fair share of tourist withdrawal, the most recent issue being misinformation regarding Hurricane Irma. Although some destinations suffered major destruction, only approximately 25 per cent of the Caribbean was affected by the storm and Saint Lucia is not a part of this 25 per cent. The small island was relatively untouched and is more than ready to welcome guests this high season.

Saint Lucia remains the jewel in the Caribbean crown, perfect for luxury travel, romantic honeymoons and anniversaries. The winding roads, steep cliffs and luxurious price tag make this island more of an ‘adults-only’ destination. Although there are a few family-focused resorts such as Windjammer Landing in the north and Sugar Beach by Viceroy in the south, most resorts are geared towards couples.

Secluded destinations such as Ti Kaye, Calabash Cove and Stonefields boast romantic features such as outdoor showers, private plunge pools and canopy beds built for two. The famous Jade Mountain and Ladera luxury resorts offer rooms (or ‘sanctuaries’ as they are called at Jade Mountain) with only three walls, providing unobstructed views of the Pitons and the priceless experience of waking to a panoramic view of pure paradise.

Rather than big resort chains, the majority of hotels on the island are independently owned and operated. This means that, although all-inclusive packages are available at these destinations, many of these smaller properties offer more flexible room-and-board options. They range from purely self-catering or breakfast only, to fully all-inclusive, and everything in-between. In the southwest, many resorts are within driving distance of each other and offer unique experiences property to property. Some tourists will visit a different resort for meals or stay at multiple locations over the course of their vacation. Resort staff are extremely friendly and eager to work with guests to plan excursions and create their ultimate getaway.

To ensure they are always providing the freshest dining options, some resorts on the island also operate their own farms where they grow their own fruits, vegetables and herbs. To further the fresh dining experience, many properties will look to small-scale, local farmers and businesses to provide any produce that they’re missing. This results in a true farm-to-table process and purely Saint Lucian-grown meals.

From the moment one arrives in this piece of paradise, Saint Lucia provides a one-of-a-kind experience that will differ from any other Caribbean island. From the distinctive topography, the uniqueness of each resort and the fabulously fresh food, this island is perfect for celebrating luxury, love and romance. It is no wonder Saint Lucia remains number one.

WestJet, Air Canada and Sunwing all fly direct to Saint Lucia with packages available from Air Canada Vacations, Sunwing, WestJet Vacations and Sunwing, among others.

For more information on the island of Saint Lucia, visit their website. Or visit their travel trade section for information on promoting and partners with Saint Lucia.

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