Monday, September 7, 2009

Island Paradise - St. Lucia

This weeks feature island is the exotic and picturesque St. Lucia. Located in the Eastern Caribbean, St. Lucia is the sort of island that travelers to the Caribbean dream about-a small, lush tropical gem that is still relatively unknown. One of the Windward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, it is midway down the Eastern Caribbean chain, between Martinique and St. Vincent, and north of Barbados. St. Lucia is only 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, with a shape that is said to resemble either a mango or an avocado (depending on your taste). The Atlantic Ocean kisses its eastern shore, while the beaches of the west coast owe their beauty to the calm Caribbean Sea.

In natural beauty, St. Lucia seems like an island plucked from the South Pacific and set down in the Caribbean. Its dramatic twin coastal peaks, the Pitons, soar 2,000 feet up from the sea, sheltering magnificent rain forests where wild orchids, giant ferns, and birds of paradise flourish. Brilliantly-plumed tropical birds abound, including endangered species like the indigenous St. Lucia parrot. The rain-forest is broken only by verdant fields and orchards of banana, coconut, mango, and papaya trees.


St. Lucia is an ideal dream getaway for weddings and honeymoons, family vacations, soft adventure such as diving, snorkeling and sailing,  and for events such as Jazz and International cricket.


Feature Attraction - Soufriere Sulphur Springs
Soufriere's backdrop of the Pitons, sea and rainforest provides a picture perfect setting for a visit to this laid-back and relatively undeveloped town in the south of St. Lucia. Considering that its name is French for "sulphur," it should be no surprise to discover the wealth of hot springs and mineral baths. Other great spots to visit include Diamond Botanical Gardens, a slew of pretty beaches and the bike trails that wind through sugar plantation Anse Mamin. Rent a car to see the town.


Feature Hotel - Harmony Suites
This hotel has a British colonial style 2 storey buildings set in a semi-circle surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. Warm and intimate atmosphere that is unobtrusive. Among the facilities, is a beautiful fresh water pool with pool deck and lounge chairs, for your sunbathing and relaxation. A wide variety of freshly caught and expertly prepared seafood, as well as our highly recommended Caribbean and European cuisine is served daily beneath the elegance of our gazebo styled waterfront restaurant. 

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