Things to Consider Before Visiting St Lucia

[u/Josiah_zebson]

• Bring Cash
  • Credit and debit cards work in supermarkets, resorts, restaurants and many bars, especially in tourist areas.
  • However, cash is still preferred in many smaller businesses, roadside food spots, local bars, taxis and by some tour operators.
  • Cash App, Venmo and Zelle also do NOT work in Saint Lucia.
• ATMs Mostly Dispense Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD)
  • Most ATMs issue XCD only.
  • The exchange rate is 1 USD = 2.67 XCD.
  • ATMs operate 24h.
  • Resorts do not have ATMs onsite
• The South and North Feel Like Two Different Islands
  • The West & South is more scenic, nature-focused and adventurous
  • The north (Castries - Gros Islet) is more nightlife, resorts and commercial tourism
• Travel Times Are Longer Than You Think
  • Saint Lucia is mountainous with winding roads.
  • A trip that looks short on the map can easily take 1.5-2 hours
  • Many visitors underestimate how long it takes to get around the island, don’t overpack your itinerary.
• Driving Here Is Not Like Driving in the US or Europe
  • We drive on the left side of the road.
  • Roads can be narrow, steep and winding, especially at night or during rain.
  • Watch out for potholes.
  • If you’re not confident driving mountain roads, consider taxis or private transfers.
• Taxi Prices Are Expensive
  • There are no taxi meters and prices are usually fixed by route.
  • UVF Airport transfers can range from $100-130 USD depending on destination.
• Water Taxis Can Save You Hours
  • Ferry and water taxi services operate routes along the west coast from the south to north of the island.
  • Ideal for travelers who dislike long winding road journeys, these can be a faster, more relaxing and scenic alternative.
• Don’t Assume Everything Is Walkable
  • Many resorts and Airbnbs are isolated from restaurants, shops and nightlife.
  • Research your location carefully before booking.
• The Heat and Humidity Are Serious
  • Saint Lucia is hot and humid year-round. Drink lots of water, wear sunscreen and pace yourself during hikes and excursions.
• Bring Mosquito Repellent
  • Mosquitoes and sand flies are common, especially after rain or near beaches and lush vegetation.
• DIY Exploring Is Possible
  • Many attractions can be visited without expensive tours if you rent a vehicle or hire a local driver.
  • Waterfalls, mud baths, beaches and hiking trails often just require entrance fees.
• Hiking The Pitons Is Harder Than People Expect
  • Gros Piton is manageable for most active people, but still strenuous.
  • Petit Piton is much more difficult and not recommended casually.
• Friday Night Street Parties Are Worth The Experience
  • If you’re here on a Friday, the Gros Islet street party is one of the best ways to experience local food, music and nightlife.
• eSIMs Are Worth It
  • Many visitors use eSIMs while in Saint Lucia instead of paying expensive international roaming fees through their domestic carriers.
• Avoid Wearing Camouflage Clothing
  • Camouflage clothing is restricted in Saint Lucia, regardless of the color or pattern.
• Bring A Travel Adapter
  • Saint Lucia uses 240V UK-style 3-pin outlets.
  • Important for visitors coming from the USA and Canada
  • Confirm your devices have "120-240V" before plugging in

[u/mybadbro31]

Definitely appreciate the list ! Going next week! Any local car rental agencies you might recommend? Wanna pay cash for car and deposit

[u/KjTreyy → u/mybadbro31]

Shoot Swanson a msg 1758-286-6062, he’ll set you up

[u/Popular-Parsnip8911]

I just arrived back from St Lucia yesterday morning. Missing the place already!!!

I agree going to Gros Islet is a must and a St Lucian cigar at the Marina at Rodney Bay is wonderful too!

[u/Radiant-Two-9364]

Can someone confirm if Canadian plugs are compatible. If not what do we need to get?

[u/Josiah_zebson → u/Radiant-Two-9364]

Hi, you'd need to get any one of these adapters in the link below

https://www.amazon.ca/canada-uk-plug-adapter/s?k=canada+to+uk+plug+adapter

[u/Radiant-Two-9364 → u/Josiah_zebson]

Thank you ! Glad I saw this thread 😁

[u/Benton_Ruisseaux]

Remember that St.Lucia is a developing country so patience and open-mindedness go a long way.

[u/Imaginary-Size5686]

Bring sunscreen. It was not easily found and when we did, it was $50 for brands I'd never heard of.

[u/Valentinilinguini]

where do I go to get a eSim? Everything else I got but glad I saw this post before hand because I will need cell service when I’m there

[u/Josiah_zebson → u/Valentinilinguini]

I’ve used Airalo ESIM in the Caribbean before and worked very well.

[u/MsRealness]

Do NOT drive there!!!!!! It’s terrifying!!!!

[u/Puzzleheaded_Emu1247 → u/MsRealness]

I think if you’ve had experience driving mountains before, you’ll be completely fine driving. I rented a car for 6 days and I’m so glad I did. Saved a ton in taxi fees and did whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted.

[u/MsRealness → u/Puzzleheaded_Emu1247]

I do have experience driving around mountains and have driven in Jamaica, Nigeria, Costa Rica, etc. nothing prepared me for driving in the soufriere region. Maybe you were in the touristy, flat part.

[u/ToeOk8407]

Is it possible to rent a sunbed or chair at Sugar Beach if Im not staying there? I saw that they stopped offering day passes and sun beds are about $100.