Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia is called the Helen of the West Indies because it has bounced between French and British rule so often as to be compared to Helen of Troy. The cultural imprints of both of these nations, mixed with the input of the Caribbean native tribes and African immigrants, have made Saint Lucia into a unique tropical island. The capital, Castries, is the most common port-of-call for cruise ships that frequent the island. Castries is a fairly modern city, but has many historical landmarks and a colorful downtown marketplace, filled with local delicacies and handmade crafts. Soufrière is famous for its drive-in volcano, where visitors can actually drive into the crater and bathe in the natural sulfur springs. Of course, Saint Lucia has breath-taking beaches. Among some of the most beautiful are the crescent-shaped bay of Anse des Pitons, which lies at the foot of The Pitons, Cas en Bas, where windsurfers flock for great conditions and personal lessons; and Marigot Bay, which author James A. Michener called "the most beautiful bay in the Caribbean." Along with water sports of every variety, including yachting, visitors to Saint Lucia can hike Mount Gimie, go horseback riding along the beach or on trails through the mountains, explore the beauty of the rainforest, and visit any of the many nature preserves, including Pigeon Islands National Park, the Botanical Gardens, Sulfur Springs, Millet Bird Sanctuary, and more. There's truly something for all tastes on this small island paradise.