Solo Traveler Secrets: Creating Memories St. Lucia

Sometimes when you are ready to go and need a break but can’t find anyone to join you on your adventures, you have to go it alone. Back before I was a confident solo traveler, I was confronted with going alone or not going at all. I chose to go alone to St. Lucia. An excellent choice.

Nestled in the east Caribbean Sea where it meets the North Atlantic Ocean, you will find a sanctuary of natural beauty in the island nation of St. Lucia.   Welcoming locals, an unhurried pace and an environment where you can embrace pure relaxation is what you will find in St. Lucia. However, that’s only after you figure out the the shortest journey to get you to your lavish accommodations.

Getting There

St. Lucia has two airports. Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort (UVF) is located on the southern end of the island and George F.L. Charles Airport. Most international flights will arrive into UVF which is about 40 miles from the capital city of Castries.

Like many small islands with rainforest, volcanos and mountains, there is no real direct route from airport to hotel. Unless you have access to a helicopter, as I found out were readily available in St. Lucia. Taking helicopter might feel extra but when you compare this option to driving for an hour around tight curves hugging the edge of the mountain, it was definitely the right choice for me. It takes about 15-20 minutes from pick up to drop off and will cost you about $200. In addition to a quick transfer, you get a great helicopter tour of the island in route.

Where to Stay

There is no shortage of hotel options on the island of St. Lucia. You can find anything from hotels ranked top in the world to quaint AirBNB options. Your choice really depends on what you are looking to experience. For me, it was all about relaxation. I headed to Soufriere one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island because of its breathtaking views of the Pitons. Also there is a bit more infrastructure and the locals are used to tourist. A plus for a solo traveler.

Here you will find some of the most extravagent hotels on the island like Ladera perched high in the mountains with sexy three-walled rooms. This one gets top marks for rooms with a view. Or you can choose to indulge in mindfulness and relaxation at The Body Holiday where attentive service and daily spa treatments help you to check out of it all. This is where you go to pamper yourself. Don’t sleep on Viceroy Sugar Beach and its beach front bungalows with easy access to the Pitons.

I chose the Body Holiday primarily because of the daily spa treatments and extensive onsite activities included. They cater to the solo traveler and even offered communal tables for dinner so you don’t have to eat alone if you want company. At the beach, you simply lift a flag and like magic someone shows up to bring your choice of libations. If that wasn’t enough, you can opt for a number of water sports and classes like sailing. I did a little bit of everything; sailing, archery classes, yoga and morning nature walks.

What To Do

Now for the good stuff. You might find it hard to peel yourself off the beach lounger to explore but you really should get out. The landscape is a masterpiece, adorned with lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and the iconic Pitons – twin volcanic spires that rise majestically from the sea, creating a photogenic backdrop to the country.

For outdoor enthusiast take the four-hour hike up to the summit of Gros Piton. It will be well worth it for the views and at four hours, you have plenty of time to rejuvenate on the beach or at the spa after.

Descend into the world’s only drive-in volcano at Sulphur Springs for exploration and adrenaline-pumping escapades. Once you get pass the smell, you can indulge in a mud bath or simply soak in the natural hot springs.

Spend the morning on a catamaran searching for humpback whales or snorkeling the clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Additionally, you may opt for a sunset sail with cocktails and music. If you’re up for bit of a road trip or want to be closer to the airport, head over to Sandy Beach. Here you can test your balance with some kitesurfing.

While you’re on the island, take the obligatory horseback ride in the ocean. The waves are pretty manageable making it ideal for horses that like to swim. My horse appeared to be making a swim for the border but I survived to tell the story.

For the laid back adventurer, take a tour of a chocolate plantation and learn about the history of chocolate on the island. Find an indulgent cacao massage at one of the island spa resorts to cap off the day. Visit the sites like the Diamond Botanical Gardens or one of the vibrant markets in town for a relaxed day on the island. That said, if you happen to be around on a Friday night, grab a taxi to  Anse La Raye for a Friday Night Fish Fiesta. It’s like a weekly street party with food, music and lots of dancing.

My View

St. Lucia is still one of those islands where you can enjoy the simple pleasures and embrace the tranquility of the island. You can also go all out for some heart pumping adventures. As a solo traveler, I felt safe venturing out and catered to when I chose to stay in. You can’t go wrong with this Caribbean gem.