With its awe-inspiring white sand beaches and breathtaking rainforest, St Lucia is one of the most beautiful Caribbean islands. Its lush volcanic mountains are the perfect place to hike and explore – you might even be lucky enough to spot a pair of twin cone-shaped volcanoes known as Gros Piton and Petit Piton towering over the southwestern coast. The island also boasts magnificent natural harbors, which make it easy to sail in and explore.
St Lucia’s awe-inspiring beauty isn’t all there is to offer, however, with a wide array of exciting attractions, from ziplining over the rainforest to driving through an active volcano, there’s something for everyone on this charming island. But don’t forget the food – a true blend of influences, the cuisine on this Caribbean jewel is as spicy and flavorful as its culture. Take West Indian spices and cooking techniques, add a dash of French flair, and toss in some herbs and African influence and you get Saint Lucian cuisine, a delicious combination that you can’t find anywhere else.
The country has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 26-32° C at sea level to 13-18° C in the mountain peaks. The island is blessed with a rich supply of rainfall and fertile soil, making agriculture the backbone of its economy. It is also home to a vibrant banana industry, which accounts for more than half of its export earnings.
In addition to bananas, the island’s other major export is cocoa, a product that has become a coveted ingredient in chocolate around the world. Tourism is also a significant contributor to the economy, with visitors flocking to the island to experience the stunning vistas, gorgeous coastline and natural wonders that St Lucia has to offer.
Amid the island’s natural beauty, it is also home to a wealth of cultural traditions and events. From dance to theater, art and music, St Lucia’s a thriving hub of culture that celebrates its roots with festivals throughout the year.
After centuries of colonization by France and Great Britain, St Lucia gained its independence within the British Commonwealth in 1979. It has since enjoyed a stable government and a booming economy.
The majority of the population on the island is Christian, with a large percentage of those being Catholics. There is also a strong African influence, which is evident in the island’s culture and language. The island is a multicultural society that has a diverse population with people of both African and European descent. A strong tradition of private-sector dynamism and a well-developed legal and commercial infrastructure have contributed to the country’s economic strength. It ranks 79th in our 2023 Index of Economic Freedom, higher than the regional average but lower than the global average.