Living in Paradise
Living in St Lucia grants homeowners economic and political stability. Furthermore the friendly, easygoing population, and surroundings of natural beauty are also a bonus. Ex-patriots live in St Lucia for a number of reasons. Firstly some choose to invest in St Lucia property as a holiday home. Other home owners take the plunge to relocate and work remotely. Likewise other purchasers enjoy living in the Caribbean in their retirement.
Saint Lucia is ideally situated midway down the arc of islands of the Caribbean chain. The 27-mile long and 14-mile wide island is serviced by two international airports. Saint Lucia is the perfect launch pad for sailing expeditions to the nearby Grenadines. Additionally one of the perks of St Lucia is the proximity and ease of access to a host of nearby islands
A Little History
The island’s earliest history is marked by the presence of the Arawak and Carib peoples, who were the indigenous inhabitants of the region. Christopher Columbus was among one of the first Europeans to set foot on St. Lucia in 1502. It wasn’t until the 17th century that the island was colonized by the French. Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, St. Lucia shifted between French and British control fourteen times. 7 times to the French and 7 to the British.
The island’s economy was driven by sugar plantations, which relied heavily on enslaved African labour. This period had a lasting impact on its cultural landscape, with African traditions blending with European influences. The abolition of slavery in the 19th century led to a decline in the sugar industry and a shift towards other endeavors.
On February 22, 1979, St. Lucia finally gained independence from British rule. Sir John Compton, a prominent political figure, became the country’s first Prime Minister. Tourism has now become a major driver of growth, as visitors are drawn to the island’s stunning landscapes, climate, and culture.
St. Lucia’s history is reflected in its diverse population, which includes people of African, European, and mixed heritage. The island’s cultural festivals, music, and cuisine showcase this rich blend of influences. The iconic Pitons, two volcanic peaks that rise dramatically from the sea, have become a symbol of St. Lucia and are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
In recent years, St. Lucia has focused on sustainable development and ecotourism, aiming to protect its natural beauty while fostering economic progress. Despite its challenges, the island’s history of overcoming adversity and embracing its cultural heritage serves as an inspiration to its people and visitors alike. Saint Lucia has created a tapestry of experiences that make it a captivating destination in the Caribbean.
Modern Day St Lucia
The education, judicial and traffic systems are still quite distinctly British. Living in St Lucia comes with moderate temperatures year round and its lush volcanic terrain is spectacular.
Local people embrace their history through historic sites like Pigeon Island and Soufrière. They are also looking forward with a growing focus on sustainable practices and preserving their unique environment for generations to come
There are a multitude of activities available to those who are considering living in St Lucia. Please click here for our blog and Island Events page for more information
What else can Saint Lucia offer?
Weddings and Honeymoons
As an island named the “World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination” by the World Travel Awards fourteen times. Weddings, honeymoons, and romantic getaways of your dreams can take place in Saint Lucia.
Sailing
Sailing in Saint Lucia is a wonderful experience, as the island offers stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and a variety of sailing opportunities. The Caribbean generally experiences trade winds that provide good sailing conditions. The peak tourist season is from December to April when the weather is drier and less humid. You can charter a sailboat or yacht to explore the waters around Saint Lucia. There are various charter companies that offer different types and sizes of boats, depending on your preferences and group size.
Diving
Diving in Saint Lucia offers an incredible underwater experience, thanks to its clear waters, diverse marine life, and captivating dive sites. Popular dive sites include Anse Chastanet Reef, The Pitons and Superman’s Flight. Saint Lucia’s waters are home to a diverse range of marine life. Divers can expect to encounter various species of fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, wrasses, and moray eels. Larger creatures like turtles and rays are also common sights, especially in the deeper waters.
Golf
Playing golf in Saint Lucia can be a fantastic experience, as the island offers stunning landscapes, beautiful weather, and a few nice golf courses. Here are a couple of golf courses in St. Lucia that you might consider. Sandals Golf and Country Club located in Cap Estate in the north. This is an 18-hole championship course and Sandals Regency La Toc 9-hole golf course. While smaller than some other courses, it still provides an enjoyable golfing experience, with lush greenery and very pretty views of the ocean.
