2007 NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
New Year's Day - January 1st
New Year's Holiday - January 2nd
Independence Day - February 22nd
Good Friday - April 6th
Easter Monday - April 9th
Labour Day - May 1st
Whit Monday - June 4th
Emancipation Day - August 1st
Thanksgiving - October 1st
National Day - December 13th
Christmas Day - December 25th
Boxing Day - December 26th
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St. Lucia ("saint loosha"), nicknamed "Helen of the West", is a simply beautiful island with stunning views, gorgeous beaches, interesting wildlife, and a host of options for the adventurous, and not-so-adventurous.
The island is a mere 27 miles long and 14 miles wide (a total area of 238 square miles), but presents the visitor with unique experiences and diverse attractions.
 As part of the volcanic mountain chain within the Caribbean sea, the island’s volcanic history is evidenced by the bubbling activity of the now dormant volcano of Sulphur Springs. Dramatic are the historical landmarks of the Pitons - Gros Piton and Petit Piton - rising above the sea surface in the region of Soufriere. Equally majestic though not as well known is the highest peak of the island called Mt Gimie.
The island possesses a varied culture with a history steeped in traditions influenced by English and French heritages. Though English is the official language, a French-based Creole Patois is also commonly spoken. The majority of towns, beaches, and villages are French-named: Gros Islet, Vieux Fort, Marchand, Soufriere, Grand Anse beach, Moule-a-Chique, Gros Piton, Petit Piton...to name but a few. According to cultural tradition, there are two "societies" in St. Lucia - the Roses and the Marguerites. Each year festivities are held to celebrate these two societies, typically in August and October.
DRIVING
REMEMBER that traffic moves on the left. The roads are fairly narrow with some steep inclines. If adventuring out of Castries for a round-the-island tour, four-wheel drive vehicles are more popular and easier to navigate. There are also strict seat belt laws. It is advisable to establish your travel plans before driving to your destination.
AIRPORTS
St. Lucia has two airports; the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is located in the south of the island in Vieux Fort, and is approximately a one hour drive from the other smaller airport located in Castries called the George F. Charles Airport (SLU). Typically only smaller inter-island carriers land at the George F. Charles Airport, whereas international travellers land at the Hewanorra International Airport. Helicopter transfers can be arranged between the two airports.
DRIVING DISTANCES
From/
To | Castries | Anse-la-Raye | Canaries | Soufriere | Dennery |
| Castries | - | 20 mins | 25 mins | 45 mins (west coast)
90 mins (east coast) | 25 mins |
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