Tropical Traveller ( Feb. Mar. Apr. 2020)

Feb/Mar/Apr 2020

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TRAVEL

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TRAVEL PULL-OUT MAPS

ROMANCE

EQUINE

FOOD & DRINK

Find your way around the island

Ideas for Valentine’s Day Eco-friendly wedding celebration

Swimming with horses Have a flutter at the new racetrack

Restaurant reviews A sommelier’s story Happy hour guide

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

www.tropicaltraveller.com

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FEB/MAR/APR 2020

Vol 304

Cover photo Renewable vows on Pigeon Island Photographer: Dani Devaux www.danidevaux.com Models: Tasneem and Shavak Location: Pigeon Island

TOURS 20. BY SEA Southern Breeze Making your dreams come true 22. BOTANICAL Mamiku Gardens An unforgettable natural experience

SPORT 30. HORSE RIDING A visitor’s experience

SHOPPING 32. WHAT TO BUY Take these home with you

DIRECTORIES

CELEBRITY PROFILE

48

Tours

49

Shopping

50

Wine & Dine

52

Local Info

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VIEWPOINTS

OUR ISLAND

34. JOSEPH MARCELL Shakespearean actor

4. TEAM TT Hello from us!

18. HORSERACING The new racetrack in Vieux Fort 2020 racing calendar

FOOD AND DRINK:

6. TOURIST TALK What visitors are saying

EVENTS

25-28. PULL-OUT MAPS Find your way around

8. CALENDAR OF EVENTS Festivals and holidays 10. EASTER How the holiday is observed in Saint Lucia

ROMANCE 12. VALENTINE’S DAY What to buy, where to dine, what to do 14 & 16. WEDDING Tasneem and Shavak renew their vows on Pigeon Island

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

36 & 38 RESTAURANT REVIEWS Spinnakers - all day dining Treetop at Crystals Villa Hotel 39. LOCAL FOOD Gluten-free star fruit muffins 40. HAPPY HOUR GUIDE In and around Rodney Bay 42. WINE A sommelier in Saint Lucia

REGIONAL 44. The Eastern Caribbean 10 issues to follow in 2020

WEIRD & WONDERFUL 46. Mis-spellings You have to smile!

Mae Wayne Publisher and Editor in Chief Doretta Francois Editor doretta.f@stluciastar.com Contributing Writers Doretta Francois Dean Nestor Catherine Morris Liberata Torlontano Angela Coleby Marcy Kubbs Jeremy Franklin Bill Mortley Director of Photography Contributing Photographers Dani Devaux Doretta Francois Dean Nestor Rosalind Milner Jessica Anthony Layout and Design Osbans Gonzague Michelle Callender Advertising Vanessa Julien vanessa.j@stluciastar.com Distribution Sancha Didier sancha.d@stluciastar.com Star Publishing Company Ltd Rodney Bay Industrial Estate, Massade, Gros Islet, PO Box 1146 Castries, St Lucia Telephone: (758) 450 7827 Fax: (758) 450 8694 TROPICAL TRAVELLER IS A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE ON STANDS Publication dates for 2020: FEB, MAY, AUG, NOV All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the prior consent of the publishers.

Printed & Published by STAR Publishing Company Ltd

#EffyMoments

EffyJewelr y.com FINE

JE WELRY

E S T.

1979

#14 Pointe Seraphine, Duty Free Complex, Castries, St. Lucia.

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Team TT SMALL ISLAND

WITH LOTS TO OFFER We at TT are immensely proud of Saint Lucia, and justifiably so. Wonderful climate, stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, Caribbean Sea, friendly people . . . The list goes on.

Here our Publisher, Editor and Graphic Designer reveal what stands out for them and how easy it is for you to have a slice of our lovely island life.

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t the end of the working work (TGIF!) there is no better place to hang out with friends than IGY Rodney Bay Marina. It has a great local vibe and it’s always buzzing with people, music and activity from the yachties.

I go early for happy hour, to get my special, favourite poison, not once but twice!

There is a good selection of restaurants at the marina. For years I’ve been a regular at the sushi bar but these days I can often be found at La Mesa where the ambience is casual yet elegant. The food there is a combination of Argentinian, Venezuelan and Latin Spanish cuisine. It’s fresh, authentic, light and exotic. Best of all, the prices don’t make me feel I’ve been robbed.

La Mesa is open for lunch but I prefer dinner because I get to watch the sunset while sipping on wine and fantasizing that one day I’ll sail away on one of the mega yatchs in the harbour! It’s a popular restaurant so I suggest you book. See the ad on page 13 for opening hours and contact info. Enjoy your meal!

Mae Publisher

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here is a romantic charm about Saint Lucia so it’s no wonder that our island is consistently voted one of the top wedding and honeymoon destinations in the world. It’s why our cover couple, Tasneem and Shavak, chose to come here, specifically to Pigeon Island, for their eco-friendly, vegan wedding celebration.

Read their story on page 14.

With so much love in the air, Saint Lucia is the ideal place to be on Valentine’s Day. For suggestions on what to buy, where to dine and what to do, turn to page 12.

If you love horses, there are plenty of stables around the island where you can book a tour to go riding. Marcy from Seattle wrote about her experience for TT. You’ll find it on page 30. And the big news in the equine world is that Saint Lucia now has a racetrack. Read more on page 18.

We wish all our readers a happy spring season, but especially those visiting our shores for their wedding, honeymoon or anniversary. May your trip be as memorable as your love is strong!

Doretta

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Editor

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am a nature lover, so I am blessed to be in Saint Lucia with its mountains and beaches, lush vegetation and delightful little birds. Every day my spirit is lifted by a sight or sound from the glory of Mother Nature, be it a tiny, delicate hummingbird hovering over a flower while it drinks the nectar, or the magnificent hues of a Saint Lucian sunset.

I also love my family!. At least once a month I enjoy nothing more than taking my family to the beach — usually Pigeon Island because it’s easily accessible — and having a superb family day out. We swim, I cook, we eat, we play, we laugh. Often it’s the simple things in life that bring the most pleasure.

Whatever brings you happiness, whether it be simple or classy and elegant, I know that you will find it in this island that I am proud to call home.

Osbans Graphic Designer

CAR IB B E AN M U ST- H AVES Turning moments into memories

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FINE

JE WELRY

E S T.

1979

#14 Pointe Seraphine, Duty Free Complex, Castries, St. Lucia.

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Visitors Q&A

TOURIST TALK Tourists can’t get enough of Saint Lucia!

Whether a first-time visitor or a repeat vacationer, here's what they enjoy.

AGNES AND REYNOLD LEMASSON Nantes, France

TT: Bonjour! What brings you to our island?

Agnes: We were visiting family in Martinique and they recommended that we spend a week in Saint Lucia.

TT: Is this your first time here?

Reynold: Yes, but it’s been wonderful so it won’t be our last!

TT: Where did you stay?

Agnes: Hummingbird Beach Resort. It’s a nice hotel, right on Soufriere beach.

CAROL LAVENDER London, UK

TT: You’re a familiar face.

Welcome back!

Carol: Thank you. I’ve been coming here for 15 years because of the fantastic climate and beautiful scenery. More than that, the pace of life is relaxing.

People, smile; they stop and chat. Sometimes they even dance in the supermarket!

TT: What do you do when here?

Carol: I like to help. I sponsor a beekeeper in Desruisseaux and I support local charities. There is a great yoga community here — I go to Jill at Harmony Suites in Rodney Bay — and I’m learning to play golf.

TT: What is your favourite sight?

Carol: It has to be the view from the sea when approaching Soufriere and seeing the Pitons. Breathtaking!

Carol: I have two: Cliff at Cap Maison for the superb setting, food and service; and Buzz in Rodney Bay for its charm, friendliness and great menu.

TT: What local foods do you enjoy?

Carol: I am vegetarian so I indulge in the fresh local fruit and vegetables. Full of flavour!

TT: What do you take home with you?

Carol: Local honey, freshly picked nutmeg and cloves and a cocoa stick. Occassionaly I buy artwork and wood sculptures from artist Mo Jean. But I always leave here with a yearning to be back in Saint Lucia again.

Share your pictures with us

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TT: What do you think of the island and people?

Agnes: We liked very much the area in and around Soufriere, with beautiful forests and beaches, and friendly people, always happy to meet visitors.

TT: And your favourite restaurant?

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

TT: What places did you visit?

Agnes: The Sulphur Springs, Diamond Botanical Gardens and the mineral baths, which was very relaxing.

Reynold: The Tet Paul Nature Trail, with its ‘Stairway to Heaven’ offers a beautiful view of the Pitons, and we enjoyed the organic farm where we tasted delicious fresh fruits, straight from the tree.

TT: What local food did you try?

Agnes: We liked chicken rotis, green fig salad, curries and, of course, the Piton beer!

TT: Any special memories?

Reynold: I like to dive and I appreciated very much the diving sites around Soufriere.

@tropicaltraveller

#tropicaltraveller

THE CHAKMAKIANS West Virginia

TT: How many years have you been coming to Saint Lucia?

Peter: 17 years, to Windjammer TT: You must love our island! Why? Barbara: Aside from the tropical splendour, it’s the people. They are happy, kind, and helpful. I feel we have a Saint Lucia family that we visit once a year.

TT: Which restaurants do you recommend?

Peter: We always go to the Coal Pot and The Cliff at Cap Maison.

The girls usually sneak off and go to lunch at Pink Plantation for good food with a side of shopping.

We are all fans of Michele Elliot’s pottery that’s on sale there.

TT: Which local foods do you enjoy?

Barbara: I love the roti and curried lamb and lobster when we can get it; don’t care how it’s fixed, it’s good! And, of course, all the fresh tropical fruit.

TT: What souvenirs do you take home?

Barbara: I buy the cushion covers with the brightly coloured tropical flowers and butterflies.

The grandsons get shirts, and the granddaughters the local craft jewellery. We always take home the banana rum for Christmas drinks — Peter’s special concoction that reminds us of our beautiful island home.

Couture Collection

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Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage Castries, Saint Lucia • 1-758-457-4200 DiamondsInternationalSTL

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Diamonds International, Castries 7

Events Calendar

Jul Monday 20th and Tuesday 21st Carnival Two days of music and processions

Aug Feb

May

Friday 14th Valentine’s Day

Friday 1st Labour Day public holiday

Saturday 22nd Independence Day Saturday 29th Leap year extra day One more day to have fun in Saint Lucia!

Mar

Thursday 7th - Saturday 9th Jazz Festival produced in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center The number one jazz festival in the Caribbean..

Tuesday 17th St. Patrick’s Day

Apr 8

Sunday 10th Mother’s Day

June Monday 1st Whit Monday public holiday

Friday 10th Good Friday public holiday

Thursday 11th Corpus Christi public holiday

Monday 13th Easter Monday public holiday

Sunday 21st Father’s Day

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

Saturday 1st Emancipation Day Sunday 30th La Rose Festival

Oct

Creole Heritage Month Monday 5th Thanksgiving public holiday Saturday 17th La Marguerite Festival Friday 23rd - Sunday 25th Arts & Heritage Festival Sunday 25th Jounen Kwéyòl

Exclusively sold at Diamonds International SafiKilima.com Pointe seraphine Castries 1 758 457 4208, La Place carenage Castries 1 758 457 4211, Windjammer Landing Labrelotte bay 1 758 457 4216

Events

EASTER

Easter this year runs from Good Friday on 10th April through to Easter Monday on 13th. Religion is strong in Saint Lucia and Easter is observed by many as a time of solemnity and for reflection. Even so, remembering the resurrection of Christ is a cause for celebration. Here’s how we do it in Saint Lucia.

GOOD FRIDAY The Catholic churches hold a procession that we call “Way of the Cross’. Early in the morning, people walk slowly through the streets, following a group carrying a wooden crucifix. Some carry candles; all are praying and meditating.

Many Lucians spend Good Friday in fasting and prayer. It is not a day for merriment. We generally avoid the beach as our tradition is that one should not wash in rivers that day, or bathe in the sea, or do gardening. The thought is that ploughing the ground would prick Christ’s body and that rivers and seawater would turn into his blood.

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EASTER FARE EASTER EGG HUNT EASTER MONDAY This is the day of celebration, with the fun of beach parties and family gatherings. There is a glorious, colourful sight in the skies: kite-flying, by children and adults. For generations, kite-flying has been an Easter pastime here, originally with home-made kites but increasingly with shop-bought ones. Friendly rivalry exists: who can fly their kite the highest? For the longest time? Do the most dives and swoops and acrobatic manoeuvres? It’s a joy to watch but feel free to join in.

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

Imported from other countries, the tradition of an Easter egg hunt is now an annual event in some communities and at many resorts. Mix in a little face painting and an Easter bonnet competition, and the kids are well and truly happy.

A delicious ginger wafer biscuit is consumed over the Easter period that we call ‘penepis’. This derives from the French ‘pain d’espice’ (spiced bread) although there is another explanation for the name: that it is the shortened version of ‘penny-a-piece’ as the wafers used to be sold for a penny each in days gone by when the currency here was the British pounds, shillings and pence.

Like many other countries, Hot cross buns are now popular at Easter.

P O I N T E S E R A P H I N E , C A S T R I E S 1-75 8 - 4 5 7- 4 2 0 8 , L A P L AC E C A R E N AG E , C A S T R I E S 1-75 8 - 4 5 7- 4 2 11 W I N D J A M M E R L A N D I N G L A B R E L O T T E B AY 1-75 8 - 4 5 7- 4 2 16 FAC E B O O K : @ D I A M O N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L S T L

I N S TAG R A M : @ D I S T L U C I A

T R I PA DV I S O R : D I A M O N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L C A S T R I E S

Romance

Valentine's Day Saint Lucia is a brilliant place to be on Valentine’s Day. Our island oozes romance - that’s why it’s one of the world’s top wedding and honeymoon destinations. But whatever stage you are at in the dating game, you can impress your partner with these suggestions for celebrating love, Lucian style.

A GIFT

DIAMOND NECKLACE

Set her heart ablaze with the world’s most perfectly cut diamond engagement ring from the Hearts On Fire collection at Harry Edwards Jewelers.

SAPPHIRE/DIAMOND RING This 14K yellow gold, watercolour ring is a hand-crafted design by Effy Hematian, founder of EFFY. The gorgeous multicolour sapphires come together with diamonds to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

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MEAL

Plenty of resorts and restaurants are featuring a special Valentine’s Day menu. One of the most romantic spots for a meal any time of the year is Dasheene at Ladera Resort near Soufriere (see advertisement on page 19) with its incredible view of the Pitons and some amazing sunsets.

Another magnificent spot to woo your loved one is BUZZ in Rodney Bay (see advertisement on page 17) with its delightfully lit garden setting. For elegance and a gourmet Valentine’s dinner, Chic at Mystique Royal (see opposite) is the place to be.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and do your own thing then TT suggests packing a cool bag with ice, a bottle of bubbly, fruit and cheese, and heading for a beach or hill on the west coast. Pigeon Island in the north, Anse Chastanet at Soufriere and Black Bay in the south are among our favourites. Time your arrival for late afternoon so that you can enjoy the last rays of the day and watch the sun set (it will be at 6.08 pm on 14th February). Seal the moment with a kiss!

A SENSUAL INDULGENCE

What could be more appropriate on Valentine’s Day than a couple’s massage? Saint Lucia has plenty of spas that are within resorts or that stand alone. We recommend the couple’s massage at The Landings Resort & Spa in the north (tel. 458 7300, www.landingsstlucia.com) and at Stonefield Villa Resort in Soufriere (tel. 459 7073. www.stonefieldresort.com).

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

The Landings Resort & Spa

DIAMOND RINGS

The elegant Crown Heart collection is a beautiful celebration of love and eternal relationships featuring a natural brown Crown of Light diamond set in a heart-shaped pave halo. The heart is flanked by three bezel set round brilliant diamonds on either side of this rose gold pendant.

Available from Diamonds International

Dasheene at Ladera Resort

Who doesn’t appreciate the gift of a piece of jewellery or a timepiece? For a small island we have a large selection of quality jewellery stores so finding the perfect present will be easy.

Tropical Traveller recommends Harry Edwards Jewelers at Pointe Seraphine and La Place Carenage in Castries, and also at Hewanorra Airport; Diamonds International at Pointe Seraphine, La Place Carenage and Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort; and EFFY at Pointe Seraphine. Choose from superb selections at different price points. Treat yourself and purchase matching items for you and your sweetie!

FINE DINING AT

MYSTIQUE ROYAL ST. LUCIA A restaurant like no other in the Caribbean. Cool, sophisticated with an accent on art, music and wonderful food complimented with unobstrusive service. A truly unique dining experience. Be “Chic” by the Royal OPEN FROM MONDAY TO SATURDAY. Also available for Private Dinners & Receptions.

Reservations Recommended.

Mystique Royal St Lucia, Reduit Beach, Gros Islet, St Lucia, WI

T:1 758 457 3131 www.mystiqueresorts.com/resorts/mystique-royal-stlucia

IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Saint Lucia ENJOY OUR BREAKFAST, BEACH LUNCHES AND THEMED DINNERS AT THE MYSTIQUE ROYAL ST. LUCIA MON Certified Angus Beef Feature, TUE Local Fisherman’s Catch WED Western BBQ, THU Salsa Night Paella Special FRI Certified Angus Beef Feature, SAT Creole BBQ Menu SUN Traditional Italian Pasta feature

OPEN DAILY Breakfast: 7:00 am - 10:30 am Lunch: 12:00 pm - 5:30 pm Dinner: 6:00 pm - 9:45 pm Private Dinners & Receptions

Great atmosphere, amazing food of different cuisines;

Mystique Royal St Lucia, Reduit Beach, Gros Islet, St Lucia, WI

LATIN, SPANISH, ARGENTINIAN, VENEZUELAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN

T:1 758 457-3131 www.mystiqueresorts.com/resorts/mystique-royal-stlucia

OPEN DAILY FOR LUNCH DINNER: 6:00 PM TO 10:00PM TEL: 452 0647

12 NOON - 3:00 PM.

SUNDAYS OPEN ONLY FOR DINNER

Connect with us LaMesaSlu

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Wedding Bells

HARUSIBACCHANAL! Harusi - Swahili for wedding or marriage ceremony.

Bacchanal - Trinidadian slang for riotous or noisy behaviour, most commonly in celebration.

Blending the traditions and flavours of their homelands, Kenya and Trinidad, Tasneem and Shavak celebrated their union in fun, casual and eco-friendly style on Pigeon Island.

THE LOVE STORY

TASNEEM AND SHAVAK 7th December, 2019 Pigeon Island

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asneem and Shavak have known each other since their days at Warwick University when she was studying law and he, mathematics. After graduating, Tasneem remained in London while Shavak returned to his native Trinidad, and they embarked on a five-year, long-distance relationship. Not

even the Atlantic Ocean could dampen their love!

In 2015 Shavak upped the ante, flying six thousand miles to join Tasneem and her friends in Turkey where he went down on bended knee and proposed. In unconventional style, the couple eloped to St. Andrews, Scotland, intending to hold a ceremony with family and friends at a future date.

That date was to be 7th December, 2019 and Saint Lucia was the destination of choice! Pigeon Island proved to be the perfect venue to fulfil their wish for a natural, eco-friendly wedding.

The combination of the sandy beach with the lush vegetation provided an ideal setting for the couple to realise their vision of an elegant affair with

party favours: a fetching cotton tote bag containing organic sunscreen; a safari animal soapstone figurine; a cotton kikoy (similar to a sarong), organic kombucha tea, and an eco-friendly pencil for the personalised crossword, designed to encourage guests to mingle and trade answers.

The next day the party continued with a fun catamaran cruise. Sun, sea and Soca; a perfect welcome to the Caribbean for those travelling from colder climes. Then Saturday was the main event: the wedding at Pigeon Island.

Continued on page 16

minimal impact on the environment.

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Why have just one day of celebration when you can have three? Festivities kicked off with a Mehndi night at Mystique Royal Resort in Rodney Bay, where guests were staying. Ladies had their hands painted with henna while Tasneem and Shavak greeted their friends and family with eco-friendly

What you need to know to tie the knot in St. Lucia Passports (valid for a minimum of six months) • Birth certificate • Two witnesses (stand-ins can be arranged) • Deed poll certificate (if your name has been changed) • Parental consent by way of an affidavit if below 18 • Death certificate and previous marriage certificate (if you have been widowed) • Decree absolute (if you’re divorced) • Only originals or certified copies • All legal documents should be faxed to the resort you are staying at to start the legal process. Documents in a foreign language require authorised English translation. Fees in EC: • Marriage Licence: $335 (seven days before marriage) • Special Marriage Licence: $540 (less than seven days before marriage) • Registrar fee: $160 • Marriage Certificate: $8

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T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

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Wedding Bells

THE BIG DAY Stage 2: A vegan dinner on the lawn, under a burlap-trimmed tent, and it was a feast! Guests were impressed by the tasty and filling fare: lasagne, rice and peas, a tofu noodle wok station, even a vegan chocolate cake! True to the green aspect, there was not a piece of single-use plastic in sight; even plastic wrap that is used to cover buffet items was substituted by a re-useable waxed cloth alternative.

The African theme was promoted with the decor: colourful kente cloth table runners and Masai statuettes; the Caribbean influence was the steel pan band which was a hit with all nationalities.

With the party in full swing, drinks flowing and guests dancing, there was only one item that could be served as a midnight snack: vegan Trini doubles!

Tropical Traveller commends Tasneem and Shavak on their innovative approach and congratulates them on achieving it with so much style and fun.

Tasneem and Shavak wanted a relaxed and informal affair — definitely no jackets required, shoes optional — with a Kenyan theme and plenty of revelry — the bacchanalia. Above all, it was eco-friendly, from the use of glass drinking vessels and bamboo straws through to seating and a tiki bar made from recycled wood.

Wedding planner: Michele Ince of Awesome Caribbean Weddings Decor: Teige La Borde Cruise: Carnival Sailing Photographer: Dani Devaux Food and beverage: Chef Richard Skinner; Alva (F&B Manager) and bar staff from Coco Palm Resort Choreographer: Anabelle Lawrence of Dance Buzz, London, UK

Stage 1:

A traditional Indian Panu ceremony on the beach. The women from Tasneem’s side of the family, together with Shavak’s mother, performed the ritual that signifies joining the new family: adorned in a gold necklace and new shoes, Tasneem’s head was covered with a red veil and a coconut passed over it. This was an excellent prelude to popping champagne corks, sipping rum and taking a refreshing drink from the coconut man while enjoying vegan canapés.

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Stage 3: Dancing until 3 a.m. at the illuminated ruins. The tiki hut was brought up from the beach and repurposed as the DJ booth while old barrels made perfect tables for drinks. Tasneem and Shavak had a “first dance” but in their own unique style — in London they had practised with a choreographer and perfected a dazzling routine, combining the music and moves of Bollywood and Soca. Dancing under the stars, they wowed the audience! Ten! Ten! Ten!

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

begins at

Pigeon Island

National Landmark

COME AND SEE WHAT

RESTAURANT

IS ALL ABOUT

Great food, cocktails and vibes!

Located opposite The Royal St Lucian Hotel, Rodney Bay

For reservations call 458-0450 E: buzzreservations@gmail.com

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Atlantic Shores RIDING STABLES

BOOK YOUR DREAM RIDE TODAY!

Like us on FACEBOOK

Contact us today: weddings@slunatrust.org (758) 452-5005 / 453-1495 www.slunatrust.org

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Horseracing

SAINT LUCIA JOINS

INTERNATIONAL HORSERACING COMMUNITY

On Friday 13th December, 2019 Saint Lucians celebrated National Day. It was also an historic occasion for our island, when international horseracing commenced at the newly-opened track in Vieux Fort. And they’re off!

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fter years of planning and preparation, the Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club (www.rsltc.com) had a resoundingly successful first day of international horseracing. Fans of the ‘sport of kings’ came from North and South America, Canada, Europe and Asia, and from all over our island, gathering for the Caribbean Equine Cultural Festival (CECF), Saint Lucia.

Thoroughbred horses had been flown in for an afternoon of four races in the 2019 CECF The Pitons Cup Race, the final event bearing the Caribbean’s richest prize of US$150,000. For the patrons, it was a day of festivity, fun and style. Most Saint Lucians had never before attended a horseracing event but they had obviously paid attention to advice about the dress code, donning their Sunday best, with colourful hats and fascinators adding to the sense of occasion.

The new race track is the first completed aspect of the Pearl of the Caribbean, a largescale project that will cater for business, tourism and leisure. In the pipeline are a marina, resort, shopping mall, casino, free trade zone, entertainment facilities and private residential villas and apartments. The developer is DSH Caribbean Star Limited, a

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subsidiary of Hong Kong-based Desert Star Holdings Limited which has expertise in real estate and equine property.

Among the great and the good in attendance for the races were US Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith, Saint Lucian cricketer Daren Sammy and Saint Lucia’s prime minister, Allen Chastanet, as well as representatives of the China Horse Club International Advisory Council, the US Jockey Club and International Federation of Horseracing Authorities.

Teo Ah Khing, Chairman of DSH Caribbean Star Limited, and a horseracing aficionado, declared, “We are honoured by the support the Saint Lucian people are giving this project and horseracing. Today the track couldn’t have held any more people. We have also been overwhelmed by the support of the international business community

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

and international racing community who descended on Saint Lucia to play a role in an historic occasion.”

The island’s governor general, Sir Neville Cenac, addressed the crowd: “The symbolism of today’s Pitons Cup cannot be lost on anyone. The running of the inaugural Pitons Cup stamps Saint Lucia as the newest member of the international racing family.

More importantly, it launches the Pearl of the Caribbean development, a project of such breadth and sophistication, it may not only regenerate Saint Lucia’s south, but be positively transformative to the nation as a whole.”

Internationally acclaimed local sculptor Jallim Eudovic designed the trophies that were presented to the winning owners and trainers. Then, after an exciting day of racing, patrons were treated to a free concert featuring Jamaican reggae artist Jah Cure plus other regional and local performers.

2020 Royal Saint Lucia Turf Club (www.rsltc.com) racing calendar (Sundays) 16th February 15th March 5th April 1st May 31st May 28th June

26th July 23rd August 20th September 25th October 8th November 13th December

sAint LUCiA’s most UniqUe LUxUrioUs resort Savor a dish for every appetite and every occasion at Dasheene, where the spectacular views of the Caribbean and St. Lucia’s twin volcanic Piton peaks are as inspiring as the award-winning cuisine. Eclectic and innovative, yet just as casual and inviting, Dasheene offers an authentically local culinary experience highlighting the bounty of St. Lucia on land and sea.

ENjOY THE BEST SUNSETS

wHEN dINING AT dASHEENE 6PM – 8PM EVERY FRIDAY

dAILY LIVE ENTERTAINMENT 7PM - 9PM SATURDAY THROUGH THURSdAY

ST. LUCIA’S GROOVY SOCA MONARCH

EVERY FRIdAY NIGHT AT LAdERA FROM 8pM TO 10pM COME LISTEN TO GROOVY TUNES wHILE ENjOYING A LAdERA pASSION

CREOLE BRUNCH LAST SUNdAY OF EVERY MONTH 10:30AM - 3:00 PM

#laderaresort Ladera Resort @ladera_resort

Ladera Resort is a luxury retreat for couples and adults only.

For Reservations: Phone: 1-758-459-6623 / 1.758-459-6612 Email: dasheene@ladera.com Website: www.ladera.com

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Tours ~ Sea

SOUTHERN BREEZE The crew slips off the lines, Captain Andy eases the sleek Southern Breeze out of its slip and you are offered another mimosa or rum punch. You could be forgiven for wanting to pinch yourself awake, but this is not a dream!

Back on Southern Breeze, let the crew sail you back with the wind in your hair, the sun on your back and gentle island tunes brushing your ears. You may experience the added excitement of catching a large pelagic or game fish; and there’s a possibility of seeing dolphins play with the wake of the boat, perhaps even catching sight of a whale or two!

At Southern Breeze, tell us your dreams and we’ll make them happen.

Southern Breeze Tel. (758) 450 8651 www.stluciaboattours.com See advertisement opposite

Sailing on Southern Breeze is indeed a dream way to spend part of your vacation. She’s a sturdy, elegant and luxurious 46-foot Leopard Catamaran, available for hire with a full professional crew, to go exploring in the clear, blue waters off the calmer, leeward coast of Saint Lucia.

Relax and let the sea breezes blow away the cobwebs! All of the trips can be completely customized, whether a full day trip, a half-day, a romantic sunset cruise or an evening dinner cruise for two or sixteen. If you are getting married or marking a special occasion, a reception on board, for up to 24 guests, is a magnificent way to celebrate.

A full day trip takes you all the way down to the majestic Pitons, near the town of Soufriere. The area is rich in culture, history and natural wonders. Stepping ashore, you may choose to visit the only drive-in volcano in the Caribbean and see the bubbling geysers; then bathe in the incredibly soothing mud baths heated by the volcano’s vents. Marvel at the abundance and colour of tropical flora at the botanical gardens or take a dip in the refreshing cool water at the base of a waterfall.

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Lunch will be exactly how you prefer: either on board, at a great restaurant on the beach or perhaps at a centuries-old, working chocolate plantation. In the afternoon, stop and anchor for a swim and a snorkel, then cruise gently around Marigot Bay where scenes of the classic 1967 movie Doctor Dolittle were filmed. The Great Pink Sea Snail may be long gone but the magic still remains.

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

DAY TOURS TO SEE THE BEST EXPERIENCES IN ST. LUCIA WE VISIT: Volcano • Mudbaths Estate Tour • Waterfall Marigot Bay • Snorkelling

INCL TRANSUDES ENTRA FERS, N JUICE CE FEES, DRINK,SSOFT PUNC , RUM MIXERSH, RUM, , EERS & LUNB CH

Tell us your dreams, we’ll make them happen... Let us custom design a tour onboard our sister luxury yacht for a smaller more intimate experience

FOR INFORMATION ON OUR TOURS CALL OR CHECK OUR WEBSITE:

Tel (758) 450 8651 www.stluciaboattours.com AVAILABLE FOR WEDDINGS, CRUISES & SUNSETS FOR SMALL OR LARGE GROUPS 21

Tours ~ Botanical

MAMIKU BOTANICAL GARDENS An unforgettable natural experience!

Located on the east coast, between the villages of Praslin and Mon Repos, Mamiku Gardens is a world of colour, serenity, history, flora, birds, butterflies, relaxation.

Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in this horticultural oasis.

The Baron turned Mamiku Estate into a successful sugar plantation. By the end of the 18th century, when the island changed hands from French to British rule, the land and aristocratic home had to be handed over to the British who set up a military post. Unfortunately, battles were raged, lives were lost and the elegant home was left a burnt-out ruin.

HISTORY

The present Mamiku Gardens is part of an estate that was gifted in 1766 by the King of France to Baron de Micoud, a colonel in the French army and a Governor of Saint Lucia. The Baron married a French Creole woman from Soufriere who was known as Madame de Micoud. Over the years her name was corrupted to Ma Micoud, eventually becoming Mamiku in the local dialect.

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Tours ~ Botanical No trip would be complete without marvelling at the stunning flora. Guided tours are available for a nominal fee or, furnished with a map and a numbered plant guide, you can venture forth on your own. Differently themed areas are connected by woodland walks: amble through Mystic Garden, with its displays of orchids; meander through Secret Garden, over to Grandpa’s Old House and the Medicinal Herb Garden; trail through Veronica’s Garden, up to the rainforest-like Casse with a natural spring.

The estate has been owned and operated by the same family since 1906 when it was purchased by Henry Shingleton-Smith for 500 pounds. His daughter-in-law, Veronica, is a landscape designer who dreamed of creating a garden of flowers and woodland for the enjoyment of locals and visitors. Helped with planting by her husband and their four children, she opened Mamiku Gardens in December 1997. Today, this mature, natural tropical paradise is a delight for gardeners, birdwatchers, wedding parties and anyone who appreciates beauty and tranquility.

displayed on the balcony area. Then, treat yourself to a drink, snack or ice cream at Brigands Bar. The nearby Fox Grove Inn is recommended for lunch and dinner.

Mamiku Botanical Gardens Open 7 days a week, 9 am - 5 pm (Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day) www.mamikugardens.com Email: gardengate@candw.lc Tel. (758) 455 3729/714 4824

Speciality tours are on offer including a hike up a rainforest mountain ridge and through a mango grove. An early morning birdwatching tour is available as well as the Garden Lover’s Delight. These tours must be booked in advance as they include transportation, refreshments or lunch, and last a half/full day.

TOURS

If you are touring round the island, then Mamiku Gardens makes a wonderful addition to your itinerary. Visitors are welcome to drop in and stay for an hour or two, or all day — bring a book and chill out in the gardens, or on the balcony where there is free Wifi.

ACCESS

The tour of the gardens is a gentle walk, suitable for all ages. Some parts are navigable by wheelchair. There is a ramp on to the balcony from where a large part of the gardens is visible. The toilets are wheelchair-accessible.

REFRESHMENTS

At the end of your tour, take a few moments to examine the archaeological finds from the estate,

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Polyclinic RC

RODNEY BAY

Bus to Castries

Gros Islet $

TX

Red

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Bea ch Ave nu

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Bus to Castries

TX

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JQ Rodney Bay Mall

Baywalk Shopping Mall $ $

TX

$ TX

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Buses to Castries & Gros Islet

GSPublisherVersion 0.0.100.100

ADVERTISERS IN RODNEY BAY

Pg 13 - Mystique Royal St. Lucia -

Pg 21 - Endless Summer Cruises

Chic and L'Epicure Restaurants

& Southern Breeze Private Charters

Pg 13 - La Mesa Restaurant

Pg 24 - Laser Acne Botox

Pg 17 - Buzz Restaurant

Pg 29 - Sea Island Cotton Shop

Pg 31 - Bonne Baguette

Pg 35 - Treasure Bay Casino

Pg 37 - Razmataz Restaurant

Pg 41 - Island Adventures

Pg 37 - Sakuragi Restaurant

Pg 45 - The Landings Resort & Spa

Shopping

Polyclinic

RC

Church

St. Joseph the Worker Parish

TX Taxi

Pharmacy

Bus Stand

$

Bank

Police Station

Petrol Station

Post Office

Fire Station

Pg 41 - Matthews Restaurant Pg 43 - Spinnakers Restaurant

RODNEY BAY Rodney Bay is the main tourist area with accommodation options, plenty of bars and restaurants, and a pulsating nightlife. The beautiful beach has chairs and parasols for rental, and watersports. Baywalk Mall and JQ Rodney Bay Mall offer shops, supermarkets, dining and Treasure Bay Casino. Vendors selling hand-crafted wares, fruits and local snacks can be found on the beach and at roadside stalls. IGY Rodney Bay Marina is the island’s main anchorage for sailors. The complex includes a boardwalk, bars, restaurants and shops. To the north is the town of Gros Islet, famous for its Friday night ‘jump-up’ street party. Pigeon Island, linked to the mainland by a man-made causeway, is accessible by road and water taxi.

It has beaches, trails, stunning viewpoints, historical ruins, and a couple of bars/restaurants. Both the English and French stationed their military forces on the island - Saint Lucia changed hands between these countries’ rule 14 times. Pigeon Island is a 44-acre National Landmark administered by the Saint Lucia National Trust. There is an admission charge by day. An 18-hole golf course is located to the north, on Cap Estate.

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Originals

Orange

Teal

pg 31

Colombette, Soufriere, St. Lucia

Anse Jambon Anse Mamin

Grand Caille Trou Diable Key Hole Pinnacles

Petit Piton

Colombette

Bouton

Petit Piton Pt

Anse des Pitons Jalousie

Praslin

Frégate Islands

Martelly Pt

Praslin Island Praslin Bay

Trou Gras Trou Gras Point

Mon Repos Anse Patience

Anse Violon

Anse Chapeau

Fond Bay

MICOUD

Airport

Vierge Point Troumassée Bay

Anse Canelle

Pointe Lamarre

Anse Ger

Patience

Mamiku Gardens

Fond Waterfall

Anbre Latille Falls

Ti Roche

Desruisseaux

Blanchard

Pierrot

Atlantic Shores Anse L’Islet Riding Stables Pointe De Caille

Scorpian I. Savannes Bay

Mankoté Mangrove

Nature Reserve

Maria Islands

Moule à Chique

Cape Moule à Chique

pg 13

VIEUX FORT Hewannora International Anse de Sables

St Urbain

Mount Gimie Mount Cochon Descartiers Trail Mahaut

Piton St Esprit

Mount Casteau

Toraille Waterfall

Mount Tabac

Diamond Waterfall

Sulphur Springs

Fond St Jacques

Augier Pomme

La Resource

Belle Vue

Mount Grand Magazin

Giraud

Saltibus

Soufriere Hot Wire

Morne Coubaril

Mongouge

Piaye

Vieux Fort Bay

RIDING STABLES

Area: 238 sq. miles Size: Approx. 27 miles long, 14 miles wide Castries co-ordinates: 14.01˚ north, 60.98˚ east Sunrise: 21 June 5.37 a.m., 21 Dec. 6.22 a.m.

Sunset: 21 June 6.34 p.m., 21 Dec. 5.41 p.m.

Castries maximum daytime temperature: 28˚C/82F winter, 31˚C/88F summer Castries minimum nighttime temperature: 22˚C/72F winter, 26˚C/79F summer Castries annual rainfall: 2035mm/80 inches main rainfall June - November Average sea temperature: 27˚C/81F winter, 29˚C/84F summer Highest Point: Mount Gimie (950m/3,117ft) Population: Approx. 185,000 Language: English, local French-based Creole dialect (Kwéyòl) Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar US$1 = EC$2.67

BOOK YOUR DREAM RIDE TODAY!

pg 17

Atlantic Shores

Georgie Point

Black Bay

LABORIE

Balembouche Estate

La Fargue pg 17

Kitesurfing

Horseriding

Beach

Marina

Harbour

Dive Sites

Shopping

Adventure

Nature

Historical

River Dorée

Reunion

La Riche

La Pointe

KalimÉ

Beach Bar pg & 31 Grill

CHOISEUL

Choiseul Bay

Caraibe Point

Anse l’lvrogne

Gros Piton Pt

Gros Piton Trail

Coral Gardens

Superman’s Flight Piton Wall

pg 19

Gros Piton

SOUFRIERE

Turtle Reef Anse Chastanet Anse Chastanet Reef Fairyland

pg 19

Treetop is a rustic, open-concept restaurant in Soufriere, that offers an intimate yet al fresco dining experience.

Imagine, a double decker treehouse, draped in silk fabrics and built into four prolific mango trees above a lively, natural pond. The eclectic décor and meticulous table-scapes, post card worthy views and wooden thrones turn any meal into a memorable experience.

Our Chef from New Delhi prepares traditional Indian recipes for a tropical yet fine-dining setting. He offers a daily tasting simple menu with fresh ingredients that boasts a gloriously unique fusion of flavours from the East and West.

BOOK YOUR RESERVATION NOW! GROUPS BOOKINGS AVAILABLE.

Treetop offers a Bubbly Brunch on sundays. An all day affair with live entertainment, complimentary cocktails, a plenteous grazing table and an extensive a la carte menu.

Gray Email: treetopstlucia@gmail.com For Reservations: Call Mobile: 1 758 487 8867

SUNDAY BRUNCH

OPEN FOR DINNER AND

Daily Monday to Saturday 6pm - 11pm

TEL: 4551689 / 7175769 OPEN FROM 10AM MON - SUN LOCATED IN PIAYE, CHOISEUL

TEL: 4551689 / 7175769 OPEN FROM 10AM MON-SUN

LOCATED IN PIAYE CHOISEUL

13. Malgretoute 14. Anse des Pitons 15. Anse l’Ivrogne 16. Black Bay 17. Anse des Sables 18. Anse Louvet 19. Grand Anse 20. Anse Lavoutte 21. Cas en Bas 22. Secret Beach 23. Donkey Beach

Sundays: 10am - 2:00pm

BEACHES 1. Smugglers Cove 2. Pigeon Island 3. Pigeon Point 4. Reduit Beach 5. Labrelotte Bay 6. Choc Bay 7. Vigie Beach 8. La Toc Bay 9. Marigot Bay 10. Anse Cochon 11. Anse Mamin 12. Anse Chastanet

pg 21

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pg 33

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Reduit Beach

Pigeon Point

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Secret Beach Anse Lavoutte

Monchy

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SAINT LUCIA

PULL-OUT MAPS OF SAINT LUCIA

Cape Marquis

Cassimi Pt

Port Dauphin

Esperance Harbour

DAUPHIN

Marquis Bay

Tanti Pt

Petite Anse

Anse Louvet

Louvet Pt

Chaloupe Bay

Tortue Pt

Turtle Watching

Grande Anse Grande Anse Beach Estate Desbarra Des Caille La Sorcière Louvet Estate

Anse Povert

La Croix Pt

Fond d’Or Bay

DENNERY

Dennery Bay

Mandelé Pt

Frégate Islands

Trou Gras

Martelly Pt

Praslin Island Praslin Bay

Au Leon La Caye

Errard Plantation

Mamiku Gardens

pg 21

pg 29

pg 24

pg 7,9, 11

pg 3, 5 Inside back cover

Inside front cover, pg 1, 15, back cover

SEE ADS ON PAGES

See detailed maps of Rodney Bay on page 21 and of Castries on page 24.

Donkey Beach Sandy Hoofs

Cas en Bas

Pointe du Cap

Grand Rivière

Rodney Bay Marina

Trim's Riding Stables International Pony Club Commerette Point

Golf Course

GROS ISLET

Smugglers Cove Bird’s Rock

pg 17

Berger Rock Cuti Cove Labrellotte Bay Marisule Beach Choc Bay Choc Beach Rat Island Vigie Beach

Riche Fond

Dernière Rivière

Assor Chassin

Fond Latisab Creole Park

BABONNEAU

Paix Bouche Boguis Garrand

Marquis Plantation Mount Monier Marquis Monier La Gare

Cabiche

Balata

George FL Charles Airport

Marisule Estate

RODNEY BAY

Pigeon Island National Landmark

Bone Yard

CASTRIES

Pointe Seraphine La Place Carenage Shopping Mall

Bocage

Forestiere Piton Flore

Marc Marc

Piton Flore Trail

Mount La Combe

Barre de L’Isle Trail

Praslin

Tree Top Adventure

Barre de L’Isle Ridge Ravine Poisson Grande Rivière

L’Abbayée

Bexon

Four Roads Guesneau Junction

Morne Fortune

La Croix Maingot

Ciceron

La Toc Bay

Grande Cul de Sac Bay Anse Massacré

MARIGOT BAY

Marigot Harbour

Roseau Bay

ANSE LA RAYE

Mount Gimie

RAINFOREST

Vanard River Rock Waterfall

Anse la Verdure

Theodorine

Anse Galet Anse Cochon Anse La Voutte Jambette Pt

Daini Koyomaru Wreck

CANARIES

Mount Tabac

Belvedere

Colombette

Bouton

Mahaut

Anse La Liberté

Anse Jambon Anse Mamin Turtle Reef Anse Chastanet

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Vide Bouteille

CASTRIES

Bus to Gros Islet

Serenity Park

Pointe Seraphine Shopping Complex

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Tourist Information

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La Place Carenage Shopping Mall Vendors’ Market TX

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Derek Walcott Square

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ADVERTISERS IN CASTRIES

Airport

Inside Front Cover, Back Cover

$

e Rd

Coral St

Ho

usse

Laborie St

Micoud St

Road

Chisel St

$

$

Peynier St

La Toc

$

Bridge St

L'Express Des Îles to Martinique

TO TAPION AND VICTORIA HOSPITALS

Jeremie St

Blue Coral

Manoel St

$

Bus to Gros Islet

Cha

Port Castries

nm

Hi

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Co m

Castries Market

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Brazil St

Marchand

Bank

Police Station

Library

& Pg 1, 15 - Harry Edwards Jewelers

Cruise Ship/ Ferry Terminal

Post Office

Fire Station

Bus Stand

Pg 3, 5 & Inside Back Cover - EFFY

Shopping

Pharmacy

Immigration Office

Paid Parking

Supermarket

Hospital

Church

Petrol Station

Pg 7, 9 & 11 - Diamonds International Pg 28 - Auberge Seraphine Restaurant Pg 33 - Howelton Estate & Caribelle Batik (not shown on map)

TX Taxi

RC

Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

CASTRIES

Tel: 456-3000 For Reservations www.aubergeseraphine.com

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T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • NOV/ DE C/JAN 201 9/20

Castries is the capital of Saint Lucia. This compact city offers duty-free shopping opportunities at La Place Carenage and Pointe Seraphine, either side of the harbour. The walk between the two takes approximately 20 minutes, or you can take the ferry service. Near the waterfront are the two markets and in the city centre is Blue Coral Mall. The city’s oasis is Derek Walcott Square, named after the poet/playwright, one of two Saint Lucian Nobel laureates, the other being the economist Sir Arthur Lewis. Note the colonial-style architecture of the library. The cathedral features interesting stained glass. Serenity Park near Pointe Seraphine is also a haven. The local airport serving smaller craft is at Vigie, just north of Castries and opposite a beach. Nearby are historical military ruins and a lighthouse. La Toc Battery, an old fort, is on the other side of town, on Morne Fortune. There is a museum at Government House, a beautiful Victorian edifice overlooking Castries.

It is the residence of the Governor General, the representative of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who remains head of state. Saint Lucia gained independence on 22nd February, 1979 and is part of the British Commonwealth.

HOLIDAY LIFESTYLE SHOPPING

T H E B I G G E S T S O U V E N I R S H O P I N S T. L U C I A

SOUVENIRS

EDIBLES

T SHIRTS

RESORT WEAR

B AY WA L K S H O P P I N G M A L L , R O D N E Y B AY, S A I N T L U C I A OPENING HOURS: Monday - Saturday 9am - 8pm | Sunday & Holidays 9am - 2pm Tel: 458-4220 | www.seaislandstlucia.com Remember to walk with your travel itinerary and photo ID for DUTY FREE shopping

Sport

HORSE RIDING At TT we thought it would be interesting to have a different perspective on horse riding in Saint Lucia. We weren’t able to obtain it “straight from the horse’s mouth” so we did the next best thing: a visitor’s point of view.

Marcy Kubbs from Seattle, Washington, USA visited Saint Lucia last year and this is what she had to say.

Being a horse lover I often look for opportunities to go horseback riding while I am on vacation. When I arrived in Saint Lucia I noticed a number of horses grazing in the fields and was hoping to find a stable near where I was staying that did horse riding for tourists and, in particular, that offered the chance to ride in the ocean with the horse.

I discovered K & A Ranch Plus located close to Rodney Bay. Kirley Trim, the owner, picked me up at my hotel, Bay Gardens Marina Haven, and in minutes we were at his stable. His horses were the best I had seen on the island — well fed and healthy, obviously well taken care of.

Being a volunteer at a horse rescue back in Seattle, WA, Kirley and I were soon immersed in conversation about the challenges of caring for horses in Saint Lucia. Local grasses, he explained, lack

s

some of the nutrients horses need, making it necessary to purchase hay from other islands to keep them at a proper weight. He explained also that the salt air is hard on the tack, making it deteriorate more rapidly than in other climates.

I was introduced to Patches, my horse for my one-hour ride — a lovely pinto with a calm disposition. Then I met Kirley’s son, riding a beautiful bay. Ali was to be my guide for the afternoon. I was surprised when I realized I was the only guest but I was assured that they are happy to take out any size group.

Ali was a very personable guide, telling me about life in Saint Lucia, and conscientious, looking back at me frequently to be sure Patches was keeping up and I was comfortable. We travelled down a steep hill, past a number of homes where friendly residents chatted on the front porch, then past pastures where other horses grazed.

We arrived at Cas en Bas beach, a beautiful spot with a lovely view of the ocean and the grass hill on the other side of the bay. There were only a few people there: a few tourists, merchants and a cafe.

We stopped to rest the horses and remove the saddles to prepare for our swim in the ocean. I had been warned to wear my swimsuit under my clothes, as there were no facilities to change at the beach, and to bring a towel to sit on after our swim. Apparently I was a bit slow about hanging my clothes on a tree branch as Patches gave me several looks as if to say “hurry up”! After getting a leg up on my bareback mount, we waded deep into the water. The horses seemed to love

d

30

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

the refreshing water, as did we after our ride down the hill in the hot afternoon sun. What fun! Definitely the highlight of the ride.

All too soon it was time to saddle up the horses and head back to the stable. My guide pointed out other trails they took on longer rides and I immediately wished I had opted for one of those that also included a swim in the sea . . . next time, I decided.

Feeling refreshed, we cantered a bit — a perfect end to a lovely ride.

The ride I did would be suitable for all levels, novice up to experienced, and was catered to my level of expertise. The best part was swimming with the horses but an unexpected bonus was making friends with a fellow horseman, and sharing our love of horses, even though we lived thousands of miles apart in different countries. Once home, I was happy that I was able to arrange for some of the gear donated to the Seattle horse rescue, to be sent to Saint Lucia.

North: K & A Ranch Plus, Gros Islet Tel. (758) 450 8531/722 3514 South: Atlantic Shores, Vieux Fort Tel. (758) 454 8668/285 1090 See advertisement on page 17

KalimÉ

Beach Bar & Grill Something to write home about!

Experience the French way in Rodney Bay!

TEL: 4551689 / 7175769 OPEN FROM 10AM MON - SUN LOCATED IN PIAYE, CHOISEUL

Breakfast Lunch for The kids happy hour TreaTs

A true delight for the senses!

We await you at the French Rendez-vous in Saint Lucia

Opening HOurs: 7am tO 10pm (weekdays), 7am tO 11pm (weekends) Sidewalk main street

JQ Rodney Bay Shopping Mall

Tel: 1.758.486.5871

TEL: 4551689 / 7175769 OPEN FROM 10AM MON-SUN

2020

LOCATED IN PIAYE CHOISEUL

Saint Lucia

info@bonnebaguette.com

stlucia.org

MAY SAINT LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL produced in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center MAY 7-9

JUNE/JULY SAINT LUCIA CARNIVAL

culminating in the Street Parade JULY 20-21

OCTOBER CREOLE HERITAGE MONTH

culminating in Saint Lucia Arts & Heritage and Creole Day (Jounen Kwéyòl) OCTOBER 23-25

SAINT LUCIA ROOTS & SOUL Date TBC

31

e

Shopping

WHAT TO BUY A WATCH FOR MOTOR RACING FANS

Bags and Purses Tropical, colouful and handmade in Saint Lucia, these bags and purses will always garner admiration. Crafted by Vernesa St Marie of Desruisseaux, they evidence the skills and entrepreneurship of many young Saint Lucians. Don’t resist, treat yourself!

Papillon Handmade Tel. (758) 520 9747 Email: vernemarie@gmail.com Facebook: handmadebypapillon Instagram: papillonhandmade.758

Bare those toes!

These gorgeous sandals are another example of the creativity and commercial skills of young Saint Lucians. Handmade locally from leather, you can choose from a selection of designs or collaborate with Kayle on a customized style.

Go on, you know you want them!

FETE-ish Tel./WhatsApp: (758) 487 1425 www.myfeteish.com Email: kayle@feteish-footwear.com Facebook: myfeteish | Instagram: feteish

32

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

H

ublot presents an elegant and contemporary piece that draws inspiration from the “Gran Turismo” universe. The launch of the Classic Fusion Ferrari GT watch — with its extremely innovative design which integrates the new UNICO manufacture movement in a body with distinctive and dynamic lines — sees Hublot and Ferrari write a new chapter in their collaboration.

Diamonds International (www.diamondsinternational. com). Saint Lucia outlets: Pointe Seraphine, La Place Carenage, Windjammer Landing Resort.

Sparkle Life live - love - sparkle!

Sea Island Cotton Shop has a lovely new line of jewellery made from sterling silver with Swarovski embellishments. Put together your own design for a glittery necklace, bracelet or ear-rings. Then go dazzle!

Sea Island Cotton Shop.

See advertisement on page 29

An estate ideally located only 30 minutes from the islands north is a must visit this summer.

The estate house constructed in 1896 is beautifully preserved and has incredible views of the northern coastline and Martinique.

A VISIT TO THE ESTATE IS ABSOLUTELY

BATIK WORKSHOP AND DUTY-FREE STORE

FREE!

BAG DESIGN & PAINTING

S i gn u p fo r th e f ree estate tour or a dd to your experience by bo o k ing our highly rated 90 minute

Let’s Make Chocolate class.

CHOCOLATE CLASS

10% OFF WITH DIRECT BOOKING

ARTS & CRAFT CENTRE

CAFE

DUTY-FREE SHOPPING

PLEASE BOOK DIRECTLY ON WWW.HOWELTONESTATE.COM Book at your hotels tour desk or direct from our facebook page: www.facebook.com/HoweltonEstate/ Old Victoria Road, Morne Fortune Castries, Saint Lucia

Opening Hours: Mon to Sat: 9am to 3pm

Sun: closed

Celebrity Profile

JOSEPH MARCELL

Shakespearean Actor Most readers will recognise Joseph Marcell as the actor who played Geoffrey the butler in the American sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Here in Saint Lucia we know that this son of our island, a Shakespearean actor, has many other stage, film and TV credits to his name. In January 2020 he was also made a Goodwill Ambassador for our country.

Last year Joseph Marcell and his wife were invited to Saint Lucia to partake in the country’s celebrations for the 40th anniversary of Independence. Mr Marcell was the co-host at the Prime Minister’s Independence Ball.

Here, Mr Marcell shares with Tropical Traveller some of his life story and Lucian memories.

TT: Tell us about your childhood in Saint Lucia.

34

JM: I was born at Victoria Hospital. I grew up in Hospital Road, Faux a Chaud [in Castries] and I attended the RC Boys’ Primary School. My grandparents owned a farm in Dennery and we spent the summers there, playing games, cricket, catching lizards, swimming. I was still young when we moved to the UK, to Bermondsey in London.

TT: How did your acting

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

career start?

JM: After attending drama school I did a children’s theatre tour and worked for a year with the Sheffield Repertory Company where my confidence, but not necessarily my proficiency, grew. Then I returned to London and joined the Royal Shakespeare Company where I stayed for several years. My fame started when I was asked to play Othello, which hadn’t been played in London by a nonwhite actor for 50 years. The last person to do so was Paul Robeson.

TT: How did you land the role of Geoffrey in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air? JM: You need to know the background: I was on tour, in California, at UCLA, directed

by Patrick Stewart [of Star Trek fame]. Four years later, somebody remembered me and they tracked me down to offer me the role. And it all came from us being there with the Royal Shakespeare Company.

TT: How did you meet Derek Walcott [the Saint Lucian poet, playwright and Nobel laureate]?

JM: I was invited to San Francisco and attended a gathering of luminaries; Derek Walcott was there, with Moses Gunn and Alice Walker. Derek said, “Oh yes, I’ve heard of you.

You’re the fella that played the butler in that show.” He wasn’t impressed!

Later I was asked by Shakespeare’s Globe company to play King Lear — the first time in Britain that a black actor had done so. In 2013 we went on tour to most of Europe, the

east and west coasts of America and finally we brought it to Saint Lucia. It was a most astonishing production, and Derek came to see it so he and I met again, and this time we had a more serious conversation.

Back in London, Dominic Dromgoole, who was the artistic director of Shakespeare’s Globe at that time, suggested that we do a production of Omeros [Derek Walcott's epic poem] and surprised me by saying, “We’ve spoken with Derek and it’s you he wants to do it.” Derek did the adaptation with the Director Bill Buckhurst and we picked the relationship between Helen and Achille as the focus. We rehearsed and opened in Essex where Derek had the Chair of Poetry [at the University of Essex] and then we took it to London and it opened the Wanamaker Theatre — the first proper production there. People went berserk for it! It was so extraordinary that Dominic said we should take it to Saint Lucia and do it for Derek’s birthday, and so we brought it here; and the two of us became very close.

Joseph Marcell features in films released last year: The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, a Netflix movie and the directorial debut of Chiwetel Ejiofor; Hero, a Caribbean movie directed by FrancesAnne Solomon; and The Thin Man, produced by Dominic Drumgoole.

While in Saint Lucia, Mr and Mrs Marcell stayed at East Winds, a resort that they praise for “having its own rhythm”.

Restaurant Recommendation

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER & DRINKS

SPINNAKERS Restaurant and Beach Bar

Spinnakers restaurant, located on Reduit Beach in Rodney Bay, has been a favourite of residents and regular visitors for over 25 years. With its casual atmosphere and wonderful views, it’s a great place to dine any time of the day.

DINNER

One of the reasons why Spinnakers is so popular is its terrific food. This familyowned and operated restaurant knows how to serve good, tasty fare - be it breakfast, lunch or dinner - at reasonable prices, and with friendly service. Indeed, many of the staff have worked at Spinnakers for years and they take great pride in ensuring customer satisfaction.

BEACH TO BAR

Spinnakers sits right on the edge of the beach. By day you can watch the waves

crest towards the shore, see the sailboats in the bay and admire the sight of Pigeon Island. It is truly a wonderful setting for breakfast and lunch. It is also one of the best places to watch the sun descend and then slip beyond the horizon. Better still, you can enjoy the technicolour beauty of a Caribbean sunset while sipping on a happy hour cocktail, chilled beer or glass of wine.

Happy hour is daily 5-6 pm.

Alcoholic cocktails, wines by the glass and house spirits are two for the price of one.

Spinnakers is a great place by day and it’s magical at night. It retains the relaxed atmosphere but takes on a certain charm, enhanced by the lighting, the breeze and sometimes live music.

The dinner menu caters for all tastes, including non-meat eaters.

The choice is extensive (of the dozen starters, four are vegetarian options), featuring traditional and classic dishes plus some innovative and clever combinations of ingredients. For example, the fresh local fish and chorizo with a paprika cream sauce is a delightful mix of textures and flavours, while the pan fried pork fillet with creamy wholegrain mustard and Chairman’s Rum sauce is an ingenious way to add essence of the Caribbean to a meal.

Spinnakers has an excellent reputation for the quality of its fish and meat dishes. It is also known for its generous portion sizes. Above all, it is famous for the delicious sauces that accompany many dishes. They are all home-made, as are the delicious desserts, many using local fruits. TT recommends the passion fruit and lemon curd meringue although chocolate lovers will be tempted by the chocolate brownie sundae and the pot au chocolat. For a touch of decadence, indulge in the toasted coconut and Tia Maria cheesecake. Then, the final touch — round off dinner with a specialty liqueur coffee.

ALL WELCOME

Spinnakers welcomes families and has high chairs for toddlers. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible via a ramp at the entrance from the car park.

Spinnakers Open 7 days a week 9 am - 11 pm Tel. (758) 452 8491 See advertisement on page 43

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AUTHENTIC SUSHI RESTAURANT Open for Lunch & Dinner - 11:00am – 11:00pm Reservation: 450-9131 Baywalk Mall, Rodney Bay

• Sushi & Sashimi at the Bar • Hot meals like Teriyaki, Teppanyaki & Tempura straight from the kitchen Also serves Filipino Dishes Fully air conditioned or outdoor dining Choose from Cocktails & Japanese Teas

ur Happy Ho r yday ve e m p 5-7 on Half price s il ta cock in Beers sold a t a buckets ce ri p d te discoun

Take Away Services Available We Also Do Catering For Events Sakuragi restaurant and sushi bar

SakuragiSLU

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Restaurant Recommendation

DINNER & SUNDAY BRUNCH

TREETOP RESTAURANT & BAR at Crystals Villa Hotel, Soufriere

At Treetop Restaurant you will enjoy a rustic, open-concept dining experience — no doors or windows; just the sweet tropical breeze.

CLASSY COCKTAILS With chirpy staff and a warm, attentive atmosphere, Treetop is the perfect venue for a satisfying meal, even just a drink at the bar (although you’d miss out if you didn’t order some of the superb food). There is a glorious selection of cocktails and other beverages. Treetop’s mixologist has been called a dazzling star and a mad scientist. You can often find him stirring up a cauldron of spirits with tropical spices and aphrodisiac Imagine a double decker treehouse, draped in silk fabrics and built into four prolific mango trees above a natural pond. The eclectic décor and meticulous table-scapes, postcard-worthy views and wooden thrones turn any meal into a memorable occasion.

INDIAN INFLUENCE The head chef hails from New Delhi and has re-imagined traditional Indian recipes for a tropical yet fine-dining setting. He curates a daily tasting menu that boasts a gloriously unique fusion of flavours from the East and West. The best thing about his tasting menu is there are no hard decisions to make and it can be customized to suit any palate.

If you are looking for a food-filled Sunday, Treetop offers a Bubbly Brunch.

From mid-morning through to the afternoon, enjoy live entertainment, complimentary cocktails, a plenteous grazing table and an extensive, international a la carte menu.

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properties, filing down a bamboo straw or hanging from a tree looking for the perfect fruit for garnish. He is an encyclopedia of cocktails but ask him to make you something special instead!

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT Celebrating diverse palates is an important pillar for the Treetop brand, and so is protecting our environment. Treetop was perhaps the first restaurant in Saint Lucia to move to re-usable metal straws and is on its way to growing a fully sustainable, organic Treetop farm.

COME FOR THE FOOD, STAY FOR THE VIEW! Treetop Restaurant is located within Crystals Villa Hotel, in the hills above the town of Soufriere. The unrivalled view of the Pitons creates the ideal photo opportunity. Come early for dinner and you’ll catch a dramatic sunset; if you’re fortunate, you’ll see parrots fly by.

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Make your visit to Treetop Restaurant special by booking accommodation at Crystals.

No two villas are alike but all feature a private pool, sun deck, BBQ grill, four-poster bed, fully equipped kitchen, cable TV and air conditioning.

Note that the access track to Crystals and Treetop Restaurant is uneven in parts but it’s worth the drive to reach them.

Treetop Restaurant Crystals Villa Hotel Colombette Drive, Soufriere Open Mon-Sat: 6pm - 11pm Sunday Brunch: 10:30am - 2pm Group lunches available Tel. (758) 487 8867 www.stluciacrystals.com Email: treetopstlucia@gmail. com.

Instagram: @treetopstlucia Facebook: @treetopstlucia See advertisement on page 41.

Local Food

A word of caution for those with kidney issues. Star fruit have a high oxalate content, and this is not good for the kidneys. They are also extremely toxic to dogs.

Star fruit can be enjoyed sliced, in a fruit salad, made into a jam, relish or a juice. In this recipe, slices are used as a decorative and edible muffin topping.

Gluten-free Star Fruit Muffins Even in little Saint Lucia, we have gluten-free products. And some are locally made! Read more and then try our recipe for gluten-free star fruit muffins.

By Angela Coleby

Following a gluten-free diet in Saint Lucia could not be easier, with a great range of gluten-free flours available at many supermarkets and health stores. Gluten is a protein found in wheat. Some people will follow a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease or because they have a gluten intolerance.

Even if you are not following a glutenfree diet, try one of the locally made glutenfree flours for your baking and you may be surprised with the result. They are made from cassava, macaboo and plantain.

All can be used to make pancakes, waffles, cakes and even a fish batter. Baking with gluten-free flour is often the same volume as regular flour but we advise adding more liquid if the batter looks too thick as some gluten-free flours can soak up liquid like a sponge.

These gluten-free star fruit muffins use several Saint Lucian products: plantain flour, star fruit and cocoa. A perfect locally sourced trio of ingredients to make a sweet dessert or breakfast treat. Enjoy them with your coffee or cocoa tea.

PLANTAIN FLOUR Plantain flour is made from dried plantain slices and is a delightful gluten-free flour for sweet baking. Lower in calories than regular wheat flour, plantain flour is rich in iron, vitamin C and carotene.

This flour has a slightly heavy density and will yield a rich cake. If you are following a regular flour recipe and want to substitute it with plantain flour, we recommend that you use about three quarters of the original recipe and add extra liquid.

STAR FRUIT

Star fruit, also known as five-finger fruit or carambola, are a firm yet juicy, tropical fruit that, when cut into slices, look like a star. The whole fruit is edible and has a sweet yet slightly tart taste. Star fruit range in colour from green to yellow, with yellow being the ripest and sweetest. Lower in calories than other tropical fruit, star fruit are a great source of vitamin C and fibre, and have great anti-inflammatory properties.

RECIPE

INGREDIENTS 1 star fruit, large and ripened ½ cup butter, unsalted & softened ½ cup brown sugar 4 eggs 1 ¼ cup plantain flour ¼ cup cocoa ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat the oven to 190C/375F degrees.

Lightly grease 9 muffin cups or line them with paper liners.

Thinly cut the star fruit to 5 mm slices.

Gently remove the seeds from the fruit with a knife or spoon.

In a bowl, whisk the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs, one at a time, and continue to whisk.

Add the flour, cocoa, baking powder, salt and cinnamon and whisk until the mixture is smooth.

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pans.

Place a star fruit slice on the top of the muffin mixture.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the muffins are firm.

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for five minutes and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Makes 9 muffins For more recipes, visit: https:// divaliciousrecipes.com/

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Drinks

HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Whether you are a visitor or a local, what better way to pass an hour or two than with a friend and a refreshing drink? And it's a bonus when you don't pay full price! Tropical Traveller has done the legwork in compiling this guide to some of the bars and restaurants in and around Rodney Bay that offer Happy Hour deals. So choose your spot, place your order and enjoy!

RODNEY BAY SPINNAKERS 5-6 pm seven days a week 2 for 1 on alcoholic cocktails, wines by the glass, house spirits; $1 off all beers (bottled and draft).

COCONUTZ 5 pm-until, (closed Monday) Daily specials as advertised Tuesday 2 for 1 on mixed drinks.

KEEBEES 4-7 pm (closed Monday) 2 for 1 on cocktails (including virgin); $1 off beers, wines and spirits.

COCKPIT BAR at Harmony Marina Suites 5-6 pm Friday and Saturday 2 for 1 on full bar list (includes beers, wines by the glass, liquors and liqueurs, tea, coffee, juices).

Free bar snacks.

BUZZ 6.30-7.30 pm (closed Monday) 2 for 1 on house cocktails (excluding martinis and margaritas), house wines, beers, soft drinks.

RAZMATAZ 5-7 pm (closed Tuesday) 2 for 1 on cocktails, wines by the glass, spirits; $2 off beers.

Special bar snacks served during Happy Hour.

MATTHEWS 12-6 pm Monday-Saturday and 4-6 pm Sunday 2 for 1 on selected cocktails 4-6 pm Friday: 2 for 1 on selected bottled beers and shandy.

LIL' CHEF 4-6 pm (closed Tuesday) 2 for 1 on beers, house spirits, house wines by the glass.

Special snack menu served during Happy Hour.

WINE OH located inside Zen Nightclub 5 pm til late, Tuesday - Sunday Order before 8 pm and receive a free glass of wine.

BAY GARDENS BEACH RESORT PEBBLES BEACH BAR (AT HI TIDE RESTAURANT) 5.30-6.30 pm (closed Wednesday) Discounts on cocktails (including virgin), beers and ciders, wines by the glass, house spirits.

WINDJAMMER LANDING VILLA BEACH RESORT JAMMERS BAR 5-6 pm seven days a week 50% off drinks bill (excluding bottled wines).

RODNEY BAY MARINA BOARDWALK 5-6 pm seven days a week Discounts on cocktails, beers, spirits, wines by the glass.

SAND BEACH BAR 12-2 pm seven days a week Discounts on selected cocktails, RITUALS SUSHI selected house spirits, draft beers, house wines by the glass. 5-6.30 pm (closed Monday) Discounts on beers, rum punch, house wines by BAY GARDENS HOTEL the glass.

CINNAMON BAR 12-2 pm and 5-7 pm BOSUNS (closed Thursday evening) 5-7 pm seven days a week Discounts on cocktails, beers, 2 for 1 on house spirits; wines by the glass, house discounts on beers, house spirits. wines by the glass, cocktails.

MYSTIQUE ROYAL ST LUCIA HARBOR CLUB 5-6 pm Pool Bar HARBOR BAR, POOL BAR, 6-7 pm Mistral Bar SKY LOUNGE 2 for 1 on cocktails.

Daily 5–7 pm 2 for 1 on all drinks by the TREASURE BAY CASINO glass.

5-11 pm every night with ‘Thirsty Thursday’ extended hours: 11 am – 1 am (14 hours!)

Half price on all drinks.

Tuesday is ‘Ladies Night’ with a free drink for the girls.

CAP ESTATE

SAKURAGI Daily 5-7 pm Half price cocktails.

Discounted beers.

SANDALS CAP ESTATE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB 4-6 pm seven days a week 2 for 1 on most drinks.

KEY LARGO Daily 5:30-6:30 pm (closed Monday) Buy eight beers in a bucket, get two free.

THE LANDINGS RESORT TURQUOISE BEACH BAR 5.30-6.30 pm Saturday - Thursday (live Country and Western music on Wednesday).

5.30-8 pm Friday (live music) 50% off drinks bill (excluding bottled wines).

ORLANDO’S RUM & COCKTAIL BAR Daily 5-7 pm (closed Tuesday) Drink specials, including on beers..

TT staff have spent many happy hours researching this guide. The information is accurate for 2020 although bars reserve the right to amend (and extend!) their Happy Hour deals. Wherever you go, you will be assured of a warm welcome, especially when you mention that you read this feature in TT.

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Colombette, Soufriere, St. Lucia

Treetop is a rustic, open-concept restaurant in Soufriere, that offers an intimate yet al fresco dining experience.

Imagine, a double decker treehouse, draped in silk fabrics and built into four prolific mango trees above a lively, natural pond. The eclectic dĂŠcor and meticulous table-scapes, post card worthy views and wooden thrones turn any meal into a memorable experience.

Our Chef from New Delhi prepares traditional Indian recipes for a tropical yet fine-dining setting. He offers a daily tasting simple menu with fresh ingredients that boasts a gloriously unique fusion of flavours from the East and West.

Treetop offers a Bubbly Brunch on sundays. An all day affair with live entertainment, complimentary cocktails, a plenteous grazing table and an extensive a la carte menu.

BOOK YOUR RESERVATION NOW! GROUPS BOOKINGS AVAILABLE. Email: treetopstlucia@gmail.com For Reservations: Call Mobile: 1 758 487 8867

OPEN FOR DINNER AND SUNDAY BRUNCH

Daily Monday to Saturday 6pm - 11pm Sundays: 10am - 2:00pm

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Wine

WINE AND MAGIC IN SAINT LUCIA! Saint Lucia has in its blueprint a heritage of being governed seven times by the French and seven times by the British, resulting in a joyful melting pot of culture, colours and tastes. This has long applied to the people and cuisine, and now extends to the availability of wines on the island.

By Wine and Sake Sommelier Liberata Torlontano

after such a long journey!

Adding those niche wines to the wine list at Rendezvous reaped more rewards than I had anticipated. Not only did the guests give high praise, but the resort won for the first time the “Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for Wine List and Wine Program”.

SURPRISES

Stealing a quote from Sir Derek Walcott, one of Saint Lucia’s two Nobel laureates: “Visual surprise is natural in the Caribbean, it comes with landscape, and faced with its beauty, the sigh of history dissolves”.

It will not take a tourist long to discover another surprise about the island — Saint Lucians are friendly people and this is demonstrated to a high level in the hospitality business where you will encounter a warm greeting, professionalism and courtesy. You may also be surprised to learn that Wine Education has becomes a milestone for the professional growth of the tourist industry, and that most of the young staff here in Saint Lucia obtained their WSET (Wine and Spirit Education Trust) qualification on-island.

There are numerous resorts and restaurants in Saint Lucia that stock exceptionally good wines. Of particular note are: Cap Maison, Jade Mountain, Anse Chastanet, Ladera, Sugar Beach, Ti Kaye, Rendezvous, The BodyHoliday, The Landings, East Winds, Big Chef Steakhouse and Jacques Waterfront Dining.

You will be pleasantly surprised by the selection of top quality wines that can be found; even Petrus is stocked here!

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SHIPPING WINES

I remember that when I had the pleasure of working at Rendezvous Resort, I arranged to bring over from Italy some niche wines, including Fiano, Falanghina, Nero d’Avola, Uva di Troia and Aglianico. I knew that guests already enjoyed the choice on the wine list and would certainly appreciate these additional quality offerings.

It was a bold move, logistics-wise.

Through my Italian connections I was able to ensure safe delivery of the wines to Livorno for loading onto the ship. It took almost two months for the vessel to reach Saint Lucia and in all that time I did not rest easily. One of my biggest (and silliest) worries was that the ship would encounter a storm and be tossed around by waves, with bottles breaking, but fortunately the crossing was smooth.

Temperature is a key factor for the storage of wine, and one of the challenges faced was keeping the bottles stored at the optimum temperature during the transoceanic journey. This also applied after the cases were offloaded in Saint Lucia and before they could be released from the bonded warehouse. Then I had to give the wines time to settle before they were ready to be served and drunk.

Just like a person, the wine needed to rest

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Drinking good wines doesn’t have to be a pretentious affair. At Rendezvous we created a relaxed and fun event for the Malabar Beach Club — “Wine and Lime”, a toes-in-the-sand wine-tasting experience, paired with Caribbean food and a Saint Lucian saxophonist.

I believe that a good wine can be enjoyed in a casual setting as much as in a fine-dining restaurant. Here in the Caribbean, a magical evening for me includes sipping a glass of champagne while watching the sunset and then savouring a dinner of local food paired with a complementary wine. Saint Lucia is my “genius loci”, a place where the whole world is contained!

Liberata Torlontano was born in Pescara, Italy. She studied wine with the Italian Association of Sommeliers in Italy, Court of Master Sommeliers in San Francisco and Wine and Spirit Education Trust in London.

Email address: torlontano@yahoo.it Facebook and Instagram: Torlontano Liberata Twitter: Libby@LTorlontano

Photo by Ashley Anzie

Rendezvous Resort

WINE AND LIME

The best beach bar and restaurant in St. Lucia by day and also the best on the beach for dinner!

Open everyday FOr BreakFast, Lunch & dinner.

happy hOur 5-6 daiLy

Available every evening our fabulous menu features such delicacies as Coconut Battered Shrimp, Fresh Lobster Thermidore, USDA Steaks, the freshest fish available prepared in at least a dozen different ways, Bouillabaisse or Seafood Platter.

Come and dine in our thatched deck just inches from the water’s edge. Listen to the music of the waves and relax with good food, good service and great prices!

RESERVATIONS - TEL: 452-8491

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Regional

10

ISSUES SET TO SHAPE THE EASTERN CARIBBEAN IN 2020

1. GREEN AND BLUE GROWTH

Blessed with an expansive and rich marine environment, Eastern Caribbean states will play to their strengths with a renewed emphasis on the economic power of their natural resources. The Organsation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), United Nations and Caribbean Natural Resources Institute are instrumental in plans to harness the blue and green economies.

2. THE RISE OF RENEWABLES

To combat the problems of climate concerns and soaring energy costs, the region has plenty of potential for solar and geothermal power. Here in Saint Lucia, a solar farm in Vieux Fort is feeding energy into the island’s electricity grid.

3. TOURISM TRENDS

The break-out trends of 2020 will be ‘authentic tourism’, with an emphasis on community and social benefit, and ‘achievement tourism’ whereby travellers are looking to tick items off their bucket lists. For Caribbean visitors this could mean hiking the Pitons, gaining a diving certification, learning to sail or taking a Caribbean cookery course.

The cruise industry is also set to soar in 2020. To accommodate expansion in this sector, Saint Lucia recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with cruise companies to redevelop the Castries terminal and develop a new cruise port in the south of the island.

4. GREATER CBI COMPETITION

Several Eastern Caribbean states, including Saint Lucia, have thriving Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programmes. They will face more global competition in the coming years as Greece

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launches its own CBI programme and other jurisdictions eye the market.

5. SHIFTING GEOPOLITICS

This year Britain will exit from the European Union and the US will hold elections. These factors, among others, will have far-reaching implications for Caribbean trade, diplomacy and foreign direct investment.

6. REGIONAL UNITY

As world politics destabilise in 2020, regional unity will become even more important for Caribbean states, both in terms of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the sub-region of the OECS. Progress on transportation, sports, trade, agriculture and tourism will help the Eastern Caribbean strengthen its economic resilience to external shocks.

7. ECONOMIC SLUMP

The Caribbean’s economic recovery will continue to be sluggish in 2020, according to the International Monetary Fund. To mitigate the slowdown, the Caribbean will need to practise better fiscal responsibility and renew its focus on economic diversification.

8. NEW WAYS TO MANAGE DEBT

Nearly 75 per cent of small states with unsustainable debt are Caribbean countries, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. This means governments must look at new ways of balancing their budgets. In this vein, Saint Lucia will be the first in the region to trial the World Economic Forum’s Country Financing

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • FE B / M AR /AP R 2020

Roadmap, which aims to make development financing more holistic by creating the right enabling environment to attract high-quality investment and private capital.

9. TRACKING THE NUMBERS

Ensuring the public purse is spent wisely means monitoring populations and their needs. This year CARICOM will embark on a region-wide population and housing census which will use mapping, data collection, computer-assisted interviewing and other tools to determine any development gaps and how close states are to achieving their Sustainable Development Goals.

10. HEALTH AFTER HURRICANES

While there was considerable focus on building economic and infrastructural resilience during the 2019 hurricane season, this year will see more work being done to address the impact on public health.

The World Bank has approved a US$ 30.6 million regional health project to improve co-ordination for public health emergencies in the OECS. The initiative is intended to boost the capacity of health facilities, ensure continuity of services in the wake of a natural disaster and improve disease surveillance systems.

The LasT ChanCe To Buy WesT CoasT BeaChfronT freehoLd... ever

On the island’s best beach, the Landings is St Lucia’s award winning 5 star beachfront development with unrestricted freehold ownership, complete with stunning private marina and wide range of first class amenities.

We presently have a mixture of new homes and resale’s available.

Marina views from US$350k ~ Beach views from US$900k Discover The Landings for yourself, call +1 758 452 0422 email michaelg@landingsresidences.com or visit www.landingsresidences.com

Weird & Wonderful Ever since the advent of texting, and the need to abbreviate words, it seems that standards in spelling and grammar have plummeted throughout the world.

TT presents some homegrown ones that caught our eye.

“I was instructed to paint these four letters.

Nobody told me they had to be in a particular order.”

A few peas will make this more palatable.

But what about the building works?

No, that would not be a kind act to commit.

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Index

FIND YOUR WAY TOURS

POWERBOATS & SPORTFISHING Lucian Thriller Adrenaline Rush

AT SEA

Tel. 451 2424

DAYTIME AND SUNSET CRUISES

Capt. Mike’s Sports Fishing &

Join a tour or charter our own boat.

Endless Summer Catamarans Tel. 450 8651 www.stluciaboattours.com Southern Breeze Catamaran Tel. 450 8651 www.stluciaboattours.com Mango Tango Catamarans Tel. 452 8644 www.seaspraycruises.com Black Magic Pirate Ship Tel. 452 8644 www.seaspraycruises.com Carnival Sailing Tel. 452 5586 www.carnivalsailing.com

Whale Watching Tel. 452 4845/452 7044 www.captmikes.com Hackshaw’s Power Boats Tel. 453 0553 www.hackshaws.com Exodus Boat Charters Tel. 485 3966 www.exodusstlucia.com Mystic Man Ocean Adventures Soufriere, tel. 459 7783 www.mysticmantours.com ECO Dive St Lucia Charters Soufriere, tel. 713 6047

www.ecodivestlucia.com

WHALE & DOLPHIN WATCHING The winter sees humpback whales migrating to local waters, while

Jus’Sail Tel. 458 0069/287 1071 www.jussail.com Joe Knows Tours Tel. 728 4049 www.joeknowsstlucia.com

SAILING & YACHT CHARTERS Bateau Mygo Tel. 458 3947 info@bateaumygo.com Discover St Lucia Yachting 452 8531 www.dsl-yachting.com

sperm and pilot whales and playful dolphins can be sighted all year.

Capt. Mike’s Sports Fishing & Whale Watching Tel. 452 4845/452 7044 www.captmikes.com Hackshaw’s Boat Charters Tel. 453 0553 www.hackshaws.com Exodus Boat Charters Tel. 485 3966 www.exodusstlucia.com Mystic Man Ocean Adventures Soufriere, tel. 459 7783 www.mysticmantours.com

First4Sail Learn to sail on a racing yacht.

Tel. 518 1187 www.first4sail.com St. Lucia Yacht Club Tel. 452 8350 www.stluciayachtclub.com

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www.lucianthriller.com

WATERSPORTS For kayaks, paddleboards and pedaloes.

Saluna Watersports Tel. 518 8720/518 8236

www.saluna-watersports.com

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KAYAKING Jungle Reef Adventures Anse Chastanet, tel. 457 1400

ON LAND ZIPLINING

www.junglereefadventures.com Rainforest Adventures DFH Kayaking

Chassin, Babonneau.

Marigot Bay, tel. 451 7716

Also: Arerial tram and nature trails

dfhkayaking.com

Tel. 458 5151

www.rainforestadventure.com

KITESURFING TreeTop Adventure Park The Reef Kite + Surf

Dennery

Vieux Fort, tel. 454 3418

Tel. 458 0908/724 7256

www.stluciakitesurfing.com

www.adventuretourstlucia.com

Aquaholics

Hotwires

Tel. 726 0600

Morne Coubaril

www.aquaholicsstlucia.com

Tel. 459 7340

www.stluciaziplining.com Kitesurfing St Lucia Cas en Bas, tel. 714 9589

SEGWAY TOURS

www.kitesurfingstlucia.com St. Lucia Segway

WINDSURFING

Rodney Bay Tel. 452 8300/724 8300

The Reef Kite + Surf Vieux Fort, tel. 454 3418

www.stluciasegway.com

www.stluciawindsurfing.com

ATV TOURS

PARASAILING

ATV Paradise Tours Ltd. Tel. 455 3245

Parasail St Lucia Tel. 485 8484

www.atvstlucia.com

www.stluciaparasail@yahoo.com

OFF-ROAD BIKING

JETOVATOR

Bike St Lucia Soufriere

Jetovator

Tel. 457 1400

Tel. 484 7433

www.bikestlucia.com

www.jetovatorflight.com TreeTop Adventures

DIVING

Dennery Tel. 458 0908/724 7256

Scuba St. Lucia Anse Chastanet, tel. 457 1400

www.adventuretourstlucia.com

www.scubastlucia.com

HORSEBACK RIDING

Scuba Steve’s

Trim’s National Riding Academy

Rodney Bay, tel. 450 9433

Gros Islet, tel. 450 8273

www.scubastevesdiving.com

www.trimsridingstlucia.com

Island Divers

International Pony Club

Anse Cochon, tel. 456 8110

Gros Islet, tel. 452 8139

www.tikaye.com/diving

internationalponyclubslu@gmail.com

Dive Fair Helen

North Point Riding

Marigot Bay, tel. 451 7716

Cap Estate, tel. 488 2013

www.divefairhelen.com

www.northpointriding.com Morne Chouval Soufriere, tel. 730 5975 www.mornechouval.com

Island Riders

St Lucia Forestry Department

Tel. 584 7555

Rainforest hikes and bird-watching

stluciahorserides.blogspot.com

tours. A guide must accompany all forest forays.

Holiday Riding Stables

Tel. 468 5646

Tel. 714 7433

www.stlucia.org

www.horse-riding.net Piton Hikes Hoofprints

Tel. 486 1561

Roseau Valley, tel. 520 5102

www.grospiton.com/petitpiton.com

Atlantic Shores

K & A Ranch Plus Gros Islet Tel. 450 8531/722 3514

HERITAGE & CULTURE

Mix with the locals buying fish, fruit and vegetables. Meet the craftsmen and artists at the Craft Market where there’s a

Many shops offer duty-free

wealth of wickerwork, leather

prices. Simply present your ID

sandals, clothing and coal pots

and travel details.

along with local spices, sauces, herbal remedies and tasty treats.

Baywalk Mall

Castries Market has been listed

Located in Rodney Bay, Baywalk

RUM TASTING

by National Geographic as one of

Mall features international brands

the Top Ten Markets in the world.

and local designers offering

Open Monday to Saturday, some

Rhythm of Rhum

clothing, souvenirs, liquor,

stalls on Sunday.

Tel. 456 9110

pefumes and jewellery. The mall

www.saintluciarums.com

houses a gourmet supermarket,

Castries Vendors’ Arcade

drugstore, restaurants and bars

The Castries Vendors' Arcade is

plus an ice cream parlour. Open

a potpourri of Saint Lucian arts

every day.

and crafts mixed with imported

Tel. 285 1090/454 8660 www.atlanticridingstables.com

SHOPPING

Castries Market

GOLF

sarongs, shirts and beachwear.

Sandals Golf & Country Club Cap Estate, tel. 450 8523

JQ Mall

info@stluciagolf.com

Also in Rodney Bay, JQ Mall

Open Monday to Saturday.

offers a supermarket, post office,

TENNIS

Pointe Seraphine

drugstore, gift and craft shops,

Pointe Seraphine is on the north

clothing outlets and a rum retailer.

side of Castries Harbour, Quality

St. Lucia National Tennis Centre

A food court serves a selection

jewellery, clothing and souvenirs

Pigeon Island National

Beausejour, tel. 450 0429

of locally-loved fare. Open every

are available. Open Monday to

Landmark

www.saintluciatennis.com

day, limited opening on Sunday.

Saturday, and on Sundays when

trails and beaches operated by

Tennis is also available at many

IGY Rodney Bay Marina

the Saint Lucia National Trust.

major resorts.

The emphasis at the marina is on

La Place Carenage

bars, cafes and restaurants. There

Located on the 'city' side of

St. Lucia Heritage Tours Tel. 458 1454

www.heritagetoursstlucia.org

cruise ships dock.

44 acres of parkland, hsitory,

Tel. 468 5649 www.slunatrust.org

SQUASH

are a few shops selling clothing

Castries Harbour, La Place

and souvenirs. Groceries and

Carenage offers quality jewellery,

La Toc Battery

St. Lucia Yacht Club

alcohol are available, including

clothes and keepsakes. Open

Underground rooms, ammunition

Rodney Bay, tel. 452 8350

at The Marketplace supermarket.

Monday to Saturday, and on

lifts and tunnels.

www.stluciayachtclub.com

A farmers' market is held Saturday

Sundays when cruise ships dock.

morning. Open every day.

Castries, tel. 452 7921

Marigot Marina Village

IN THE AIR

Gablewoods Mall

A supermarket, café and boutique

Gablewoods Mall in Sunny Acres

are just steps from the water.

has a supermarket, drugstore.

Open daily.

Historical plantation with gardens

St. Lucia Helicopters

clothing outlets and food court.

and restaurant.

Tel. 453 6952

Open every day, limited opening

Vieux Fort Plaza

Soufriere, tel. 459 7155

www.stluciahelicopters.com

on Sunday.

This small plaza in the south of

ISLAND HOPPING

Blue Coral Mall

drugstore, dress and shoe stores

Located in the heart of Castries,

plus fast food outlets. Open

Near Fond St. Jacques

Sunlink Tours

on William Peter Boulevard, this

Monday to Saturday.

Tel, 459 7527

Tel. 452 8929

mall houses boutiques and cafes.

www.soufrierefoundation.org

www.stluciareps.com

Open Monday to Friday and half-

NATURAL WONDERS Diamond Falls and Mineral Baths

www.diamondstlucia.com Toraille Waterfall

Tet Paul Nature Trail

the island features a supermarket,

day on Saturday.

Soufriere,

JEWELLERS

Tel. 459 7200

EFFY JEWELRY

www.soufrierefoundation.org Mamiku Gardens Tropical gardens with trails and restaurant.

Praslin, tel. 455 3729 www.mamikugardens.com

#14 Pointe Seraphine, Castries | Tel: (758) 452 3339 | www.effyjewelry.com

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL Pointe Seraphine, Castries | Tel: (758) 457 4208/ 4209 La Place Carenage, Castries | Tel: (758) 457 4211 Windjammer, Labrelotte Bay, Gros islet | Tel: (758) 457 4216 | www.diamondsinternational.com

HARRY EDWARDS JEWELERS Pointe Seraphine, Castries | Tel: (758) 458 6021 La Place Carenage, Castries | Tel: (758) 458 6026 Hewanorra Int’l Airport, Vieux Fort | Tel: (758) 458 6031 | www.harryedwardsjewelers.com

49

Index

AUBERGE SERAPHINE

MASALA BAY

BUZZ SEAFOOD & GRILL

Caribbean/international

Indian regional & Hakka

Seafood/international

Vibe: Overlooks harbour

Vibe: Waterside balcony

Vibe: Garden and indoor

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Open for lunch and dinner

Open for dinner. Closed Monday.

Tel. 453 2073

Closed Monday

Tel. 458 0450

Tel. 451 4500

www.buzzseafoodgrill.com

French Caribbean

MARIGOT BAY RESORT

AMICI

- KAI MANJE

Vibe: Waterfront

- THE GRILL AT 14˚61

Italian classic, gourmet and pizzas

International/Caribbean

Open: Monday to Saturday -

International

Vibe: Indoor and al fresco

Vibe: Elegant, with cliff ocean

lunch,

- RUM CAVE

Open: Mon – Sat 12 noon – 3 pm

view. Impressive wine cave

daily for dinner

Rums and dining

& 6 – 10.30 pm

Open daily for dinner

Tel. 452 5566

- BRUT BAR AND POOL BAR

Tel. 285 9290

- TI MANJE

Email: coalpot@candw.lc

Swim-up, casual

Email: amicirestaurantslu@gmail.com

WINE & DINE ANSE LA RAYE TI KAYE RESORT & SPA

THE COAL POT RESTAURANT

- HURRICAN HOLE

Beach fare Vibe: Barefoot casual

PINK PLANTATION HOUSE

In the Village Marina

MYSTIQUE ROYAL ST. LUCIA

Open daily for lunch

Lucian homestyle cuisine

Tel. 458 5300

- CHIC

Tel. 456 8101/718 1122

Vibe: Historic; lush garden,

www.marigotbayresort.com

International fine dining

www.tikaye.com

verandah with panoramic view Open daily for lunch

CAP ESTATE

Tel. 452 5422

Vibe: Upscale elegance, AC

MARISULE

Open: Monday - Saturday 7 - 10.30 p.m.

- L’EPICURE

wildorchidstlucia@hotmail.com

CALABASH COVE

International/Caribbean

- WINDSONG RESTAURANT

Vibe: Beachside casual

French Creole/Asian

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Vibe: Cliffside elegance

EAST WINDS

Vibe: Elegant, Ocean View

Tel. 457 3131

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Caribbean/international

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Tel. 457 8681

Vibe: Beachfront

Tel. 456 3500

BAY GARDENS BEACH RESORT

- THE NAKED FISHERMAN

Open daily for lunch and dinner

www.calabashcove.com

- HI TIDE

Seafood

Tel. 452 8212

CAP MAISON - THE CLIFF AT CAP

LABRELOTTE BAY

International/local

Vibe: Beach Casual

PIGEON ISLAND

Open daily for lunch

WINDJAMMER LANDING:

Wed - Sun for dinner

- DRAGONFLY

JAMBE DE BOIS

Tel. 457 8694

Overlooking beach and pool

Good local fare

Caribbean/international - SEAGRAPES BEACH BAR & GRILL Caribbean/international Tel. 457 8500

- JAMMER’S BEACH BAR

Vibe: View of Rodney Bay

COCO PALM

Beachfront casual

Open for lunch every day,

TI BANANNE BISTRO & BAR,

THE BODYHOLIDAY

- UPPER DECK

dinner Wednesday - Sunday

and CREOLE GRILL

- TAO

Steak and seafood (dinner only)

Tel. 450 8166

French Caribbean

Asian, fusion

- EMBERS

Vibe: Fine dining

Casual beach setting

BARNACLES

Open: Daily 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Open daily for dinner.

- PAPA DON'S

Fresh and local

Tel. 456 2800

Tel. 457 7800

Italian, pizzas (dinner only)

Vibe: Historical

www,thebodyholiday.com

Tel. 456 9000

Open from 11 am.

KEYLARGO ITALIAN

www.windjammer-landing.com

Closed Monday

Authentic wood-fired Italian Pizza

Tel. 286 6944

Vibe: Open air and Indoor

www.capmaison.com

SANDALS CAP ESTATE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

MARIGOT BAY

Local/international

Vibe: Poolside bistro

Open for lunch and dinner from 11:30am (closed Monday)

RODNEY BAY

Tel. 452 0282/716 9224

Vibe: Casual, view of golf course

CHATEAU MYGO

Open daily for

Seafood/East Indian/Creole

breakfast and lunch

Vibe: Waterfront, friendly

BIG CHEF STEAKHOUSE

MATTHEWS RELAXED ROOFTOP

Tel. 450 8523

and HURRICANE HOLE

Angus steak and seafood

Caribbean & International

Email: info@stluciagolf.com

Bar food

Vibe: Elegant, air-conditioned

Vibe: Indoor & open air

Vibe: Casual, waterfront

Open daily for dinner

Open for lunch & dinner

CASTRIES

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Tel. 450 0210

7 days a week

Tel. 451 4772

www.bigchefsteakhouse.com

11 a.m. - 9.30 p.m.

BROWN SUGAR

www.chateaumygo.com

Tel 458 0200 BONNE BAGUETTE CAFE

Local fare Vibe: Waterfront, Casual

DOOLITTLE'S RESTAURANT + BAR

French, international

MEMORIES OF HONG KONG

Open for lunch and dinner (bar

Steak, seafood, local, international

Vibe: Al fresco sidewalk

Chinese/Cantonese

open all day). Closed Monday

Vibe: Waterfront dining

Open Mon - Sat 8 am - 6 pm

Open daily for dinner

Tel. 458 1931

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Sunday until 1..30 pm

Tel. 452 8218

Email:brownsugarrestaurantand

Tel. 451 4974

Tel. 452 0671

bar@gmail.com

www.marigotbeachclub.com

50 50

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RAZMATAZ Nepalese/Indian Vibe: Indoor and open air Open for dinner (closed Tuesday) Tel. 452 9800

RODNEY BAY MARINA

SOUFRIÈRE

ORLANDO’S

ANSE CHASTANET HOTEL

Vibe: Casually elegant

HARBOR CLUB

- APSARA

Open for dinner,

- 14 NORTH

East Indian-Caribbean fusion

Wednesday – Sunday for lunch Tel. 722 6265 orlandosatsoufriere@gmail.com

Asian Caribbean Fusion

- TREEHOUSE

SPICE OF INDIA

- JULIA'S

Fine dining

Indian Regional

Elevated comfort cuisine

- TROU AU DIABLE

Vibe: Indoor and open air

- DOCKSIDE PIZZERIA

Beach restaurant and grill

Open for lunch and dinner (closed

Fresh baked in a stone coal oven

- JUNGLE

Monday)

- SUSHI DECK

Beach grill at Anse Mamin

Tel. 458 4243

Gourmet sushi, sashimi and rolls

- EMERALDS

- MARKET STREET BAR

Vegetarian

Sit at the water's edge

Tel. 459 7000

SPINNAKERS BEACH BAR

- 7TH HEAVEN

www.ansechastanet.com

Local/European

Pastries, coffee and ice creams

Vibe: Casual beachfront

Tel. 731 2900

Open: Daily 9 am - 10 pm

www.theharborclub.com

www.spiceofindiastlucia.com

STONEFIELD ESTATE

Creole Flair

CRYSTALS VILLA HOTEL - TREETOP RESTAURANT Indian/Caribbean Vibe: Amongst nature Reservations required.

Tel. 285 1984/384 8995 www.stluciacrystals.com

MICOUD

- MANGO TREE

Tel, 452 8491

Creole/West Indian

FOX GROVE INN

www.spinnakersbeachbar.com

Vibe: Open air, Piton view

Local/international

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Vibe: Countryside sea view

Tel. 459 5648

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

www.stonefieldresort.com

Tel. 455 3800

LIL' CHEF International Vibe: Waterfront, casual Open for brunch and dinner (closed Tuesday)

BOSUN’S BAR & BISTRO Thai Gastropub Vibe: Casual Open daily 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Tel. 458 4190 bosuns.bar.bistro@hotmail.com

www.foxgroveinn.com MARTHA’S TABLE Creole/West Indian

LABORIE

CAFE OLE

Vibe: Homestyle

Light meals, coffes, pastries

Open: Monday to Friday for lunch

DEBBIE’S PLACE, SAPPHIRE

COCONUTZ

Vibe: Cafe and Boardwalk bar

Tel. 459 7270

ESTATE

Mexican/international

Open daily until 10 pm

Vibe: Open air, casual

Tel. 451 2433

Homemade local fare

Tel. 452 8726

LADERA RESORT - DASHEENE

Vibe: Creole, rustic

Tel. 723 0751/284 9222

RITUALS SUSHI

Upscale Creole

Tel. 455 1625

Sushi

Vibe: Piton view, open wall

CRAVE

Vibe: Casual

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Open for lunch and dinner

Tel. 459 7323

(closed Monday)

www.ladera.com

Open 5 pm – late (closed Monday)

Multi-cuisine Vibe: Relaxed Open: Daily 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Tel. 459 2452 www.craveslu.com

THE LANDINGS - THE PALMS Fine dining - dinner - BEACH CLUB International - CALLALOO Casual, on the beach Tel. 458 7300 www.landingsstlucia.com ORLANDO’S Creole Flair/Rum Bar Vibe: Casually elegant Open for dinner (closed Tuesday) and lunch Wed-Sunday Tel. 450 7544/489 6211 orlandosatrodneybay@gmail.com

Tel. 458 4344 HOTEL CHOCOLAT - LE BOUCAN ELENA'S

Creole/West Indian

Italian, pizza oven, ice cream

Vibe: Cocoa estate chic

Vibe: Relaxed

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner

Tel. 572 9600

Tel. 451 0043

www.hotelchocolat.com

LA MESA

FOND DOUX ESTATE

South American cuisine

Caribbean/international

Vibe: Casual, Latino

Vibe: Tropical garden

Open: Monday to

Open for lunch and dinner

Saturday - brunch

Tel. 459 7545

Every night for dinner

Email: fonddoux@candw.lc

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

VIEUX FORT THE REEF BEACH CAFE + RESTAURANT Creole/International Vibe: Beachfront Open: Monday 8 a.m - 6 p.m.

Tuesday - Sunday 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Tel. 454 3418 www.reefstlucia.com Email: reef@slucia.com

Tel. 452 0647 Email: lamesaslu@gmail.com

LA HAUT RESORT Local and seafood

SEA SALT

Vibe: View of the Pitons

International

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Vibe: Relaxed

Tel. 459 7008

Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner

Email: lahaut@candw.lc

Tel. 452 8732

SAKURAGI Japanese and Filipino Vibe: Indoor and open air Open daily 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Tel. 450 9131

51 51

Index

LOCAL INFO

Avis Rent-a-Car Castries 452 2700 George F L Charles Airport 452 2046 Hewanorra Airport 454 6325 Email: avisslu@candw.lc

TELEPHONE CODE

www.avisstlucia.com

The area code for St Lucia is 758.

Best Rates 24 Hours Car & SUV Rental

CURRENCY

Castries 452 1330

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar

Email: 24hourscarrental@candw.lc

(EC$) is tied to the US$. Bank

www.24hourscarrental.com

exchange on US Traveller's

Budget Rent-a-Car

Cheques is EC$2.68 and on US

Bois d’Orange 452 9887

cash EC$2.67.

Hewanorra Airport 454 7470 Email: budgetcars@candw.lc

CREDIT CARDS

www.budget-stlucia.com

Widely accepted at all major

Courtesy Car Rentals Ltd.

shopping malls, restaurants,

Bois d’Orange 452 8140

hotels, etc.

Email: info@courtesy carrentals.com

BUSES Their license plates are green and begin with an ‘M’.

BUS FARES Castries to Gros Islet: EC$2.50 Castries to Rodney Bay: EC$2.25 Castries to Choc/Vigie: EC$1.50 Castries to Vieux Fort: EC$8.00 Castries to Soufriere: EC$8.00

CHOICE Channel 39 or 50 DBS Channel 35 or 46, Visitor Channel 50 or 51.

MEDICAL CENTRES Tapion Hospital La Toc 459 2000 Victoria Hospital Castries 452 2421 St. Jude Hospital

AIRPORTS

Vieux Fort 459 6701/454 6041

George F L Charles Airport

Rodney Bay Medical Centre

Castries 457 6149

452 8621

Hewanorra International Airport

Gros Islet Polyclinic

Vieux Fort 457 6160

450 9661

AIRLINES

DRUGSTORES

American Airlines

M&C Drug Store

1 800 744 0006/459 6500

Bridge Street, Castries 458 8147

Delta Airlines

Gablewoods Mall 458 8151

1 800 221 1212/454 3119

Baywalk Mall 458 8153

British Airways

Daher Mall 458 8155

1 800 247 9297/484 6172

Massy Pharmacy

Virgin Atlantic

Castries 457 2227 Rodney Bay 457 2090 Vieux Fort 457 2090

TIPPING

www.courtesycarrentals.com

Most places include a 10% service

Drive-A-Matic Car Rentals

charge on top of any government

Opposite Rodney Bay Marina

tax. Your server will appreciate

452 0544

a gratuity. Tipping tour guides is

Email: reservationslu@carhire.tv

acceptable and appreciated.

www.drivestlucia.com

1 800 744 7477/454 3610

Operative Car Rental

Air Canada

ELECTRICITY

Corinth, Gros Islet 518 0923

454 6038

220 volts AC, 50 cycles.

www.operativecarrental.com

WestJet

CLIMATE

TAXIS

From November to February the

Their license plates are blue or

approximate temperatures are

red and begin with ‘TX’.

81˚F/27C by day and 71˚F/22C at

HTS Channel 34 or 47,

1 800 204 0409

TOURISM INFORMATION

jetBlue

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority

1 877 766 9614

(SLTA) 458 7101

Sunwing

Email: information@stlucia.org

1 877 SUNWING (786 9464)

www.stlucia.org

night.

TAXI FARES

LIAT 1974 Ltd

Saint Lucia Hospitality & Tourism

December and January are

Castries to Gros Islet:

452 2348/453 1219

Association (SLHTA)

the coolest months of the year.

EC$66/US$25

Air Caraibes

Rodney Bay to Gros Islet town:

453 0357

453 1811/452 5979

From April to October the day temperature is approximately

EC$20/US$8 Rodney Bay to Pigeon Island:

BANKS

www.slhta.com

84˚F/29C and the night 73˚F/23C. June to August is the hottest

EC$20/US$8

1st National Bank

period of the year.

Castries to Soufriere:

All Branches 455 7000

EMBASSIES

EC$424/US$160

First Caribbean International

DRIVING LICENCE

Castries to Vieux Fort:

Bridge Street 456 1000

Visitors must have a Temporary

EC$212/US$80

Rodney Bay Marina 456 1500

Driving Permit, obtainable

Castries to Anse La Raye:

Soufriere 459 7255

from the Immigration Office at

EC$160/US$60

Vieux Fort 454 6255

www.ukinbarbados.fco.gov.uk

Hewanorra Airport or the Gros

Prices provided by Courtesy Taxi.

Republic Bank

Embassy of the French Republic

Islet Police Station. A 3-month

Vieux Fort 454 6314

to OECS Member States

permit is US$20/EC$54. Driving

Courtesy Taxi Co-op Society

Rodney Bay 452 8805

455 6060

permits are also issued by major

Point Seraphine 452 1733

Castries 456 2100

www.ambafrance-lc.org

car rental firms. We drive on the

Email: courtesy@candw.lc

Bank of St Lucia

Citizens of the United States

left hand side of the road.

www.courtesytaxi.com

All Branches 456 6000

Contact the United States

Vigie Airport Taxi Service

RBC Royal Bank

Embassy in Barbados.

George F L Charles Airport

Castries 456 9200

Telephone: 1 (246) 227 4000

Adventure Leisure Car Rental

452 1599

Baywalk Mall 457 6300

Citizens of Canada

Rodney Bay 452 0777

North Lime Taxi Association

RBC/RBTT Caribbean

Email: info@al-rentals.com

Contact the High Commissioner

Rodney Bay 452 8562

Micoud Street 452 2265

www.al-rentals.com

of Canada in Trinidad.

Soufriere Taxi Association

Gablewoods Mall 453 2265

All St Lucia

Soufriere 459 5562

Telephone: 1 (868) 622 6232

Baywalk Mall 457 4371

Rodney Bay 452 0777

Vieux Fort 454 6136

Email: leisurecars@candw.lc

Email: info@southerntaxi.com

www.allstlucia..com

TELEVISION

www.southerntaxi.com

Local stations:

CAR RENTAL

52

T ROPI CAL T R AVELL ER • NOV/ FE B / M DE AR C/JAN /AP R 201 2020 9/20

Email: slhta@slhta.com

High Commission of the United Kingdom 452 2484/5 Email: britishhc@candw.lc

EMERGENCY Police 999 Fire/Ambulance 911

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