The Arawak and Carib Indians were the first to settle on St. Lucia, followed by the French and British. Today St. Lucia is a member of the British Commonwealth. Still, the island’s French heritage is apparent in the patois spoken by most residents and the cuisine served in most restaurants. Castries, the capital, contains fine examples of French colonial architecture. One road circles the entire island. Travelling counterclockwise from Castries you will come to Marigot Bay, a picturesque natural harbour which was the backdrop for the film, Dr. Doolittle. Further south is the town of Soufriere, with its buildings decorated with West Indian fretwork.

Near Soufriere the Diamond Baths and Waterfalls and Botanical Gardens beckon visitors to bathe in refreshing mineral springs and enjoy the island’s exotic flora. South of Soufriere, the majestic twin peaks fo the Pitons tower over the Caribbean Sea. Slightly inland, Sulphur Springs are home to the world’s only “drive-in” volcano, which is also named Soufriere.

St. Lucia’s main draws are tranquility and beauty, from its sandy beaches to its lush rain forest.