As you may know, everything good— sometimes comes with bad, so we have prepared a few guidelines that you should take heed to when traveling to St. Lucia, to ensure that you have a great experience on your visit. We use some essential cookies to make this website work. These lists aren’t exhaustive and the absence of an airline from this list doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s unsafe. If you need a little more room for your passport and other travel valuables, have a look at a full-size money belt that tucks under your clothes instead. Taxis are safe in Saint Lucia, for the most part, there aren’t too many scams going on – the most unsafe thing you could do is get into an unlicensed taxi. It seems like, and in some ways is, more of a place for cruise ships, couples, honeymooners and families who stay at all-inclusive resorts. Apart from that, taxis are a good way to get around. Tax Law. Travel with enough money. It is a friendly, laid back Caribbean destination where locals are up for a chat and where the weather is (almost always) fine. You should also contact your insurance company right away, preferably before you arrive at the medical facility. Reconsider travel to in Saint Lucia due to health and safety measures and COVID-related conditions. There you have it – a whole lot of safety tips for travelling around Saint Lucia to bear in mind when you touch down on the Caribbean island. This keeps you both safer and more comfortable. Cariblex Labour Legislation Contracts of Service Act Employees (Occupational Health and Safety) Act Equality of Opportunity and Treatment in Employment and Occupation Act . OSAC Bureau of Diplomatic Security U.S. Department of State Washington, D.C. 20522-2008 Phone: 571-345-2223 To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. When you are walking around in local areas, walk around purposefully like you know where you’re going (even if you don’t). This also applies if you are staying on a yacht. The GRAYL GEOPRESS water bottle is the ONLY all-in-one filter water bottle setup you’ll need. Close, I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. Get your phone stocked up with apps. That said, there are plenty of places to eat outside of the resorts which are family friendly and cater to children, such as La Petit Peak in Soufriere, with local Creole food and great views. Err on the side of modesty, see how other women are dressed around you and try to blend in as much as you can. Take care when walking alone off the busy main roads and avoid isolated areas, including beaches, particularly after dark. There is also Tapion Hospital, located in the south of Castries, which is private. However, solo travellers do come here. It’s really not a good idea to go out by yourself, so if you want some night time fun, it’s best to go as a group with some people that you’ve met at your accommodation or something. We always recommend that solo female travellers trust their gut. Take care when walking alone off the busy main roads and avoid isolat… Since March, many countries have implemented lockdowns and shelter in place orders for citizens. If possible, leave valuables and travel documents in a safety deposit box or hotel safe. Another way to get around is a water taxi. Public transport is available and cheaper. There is real life on this island and there is crime, too; not just petty crime, but serious crime has made the news a few times – especially when tourists have been the targets. 14 of 2002 St. Lucia International Mutual Funds Act St. Lucia International Trust Act. Generally, Saint Lucia is fairly safe, but let’s get into the details…. Is it Safe to Visit Saint Lucia Right Now? The sisters managed St. Jude Hospital until 1992, at which time the Saint Lucian Government awarded a management contract to Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa, USA. Now, the world of money belts has a lot of choice and they’re not all great: many are bulky, obvious, uncomfortable and over complicated. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services. To drive on the island you must get a local temporary driving licence. Be vigilant at all times. Catching one of these is the way that locals get around: to work, to school, to go shopping. Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean gem, with a volcanic landscape, plenty of beaches and rainforests thrown in for good measure. For more information, you can check out our comprehensive review of World Nomads detailing their policies and coverage. You can hop on one of these on the west side of the island. All that sort of stuff will help you and means you won’t have to get your laptop out every time you need to do something. The Landings Resort & Spa pledges to provide the highest level of protection and comfort to our guests. Even with the levels of crime, St Lucia, for the most part, is safe for visitors. It’s a very popular destination for people who rock up on cruises and honeymooners, but independent travellers do also find their way to this island – and they have a fun time. Advice for All Destinations Immunisations Malaria Other Health Risks Alerts News. Keep car doors locked when driving. In particular, street parties (or jump ups as they are called) can get particularly rowdy and would not be a good idea for a solo female traveller. It is incumbent on planners and sponsors of gatherings, meetings or events to ensure that there is compliance. Just be aware of your belongings, try not to get lost, plan routes ahead of the journey, and make sure you are able to get on a bus to your accommodation before they stop running. In fact, in many cases, you can arrange for a taxi driver to take you around for the day, which is something that can be organised through your accommodation and a great way to see the island with a local. By doing this, you are able to stay indoors while waiting for your ride, which will arrive at the time requested. At the same time, however, it’s not quite the paradise that everybody thinks it is…. Combine this with pristine beaches, a laid back lifestyle, plenty of rum, street parties and Creole culture and cuisine and we have Saint Lucia – a destination that’s so much more than just all inclusive resorts. That number is up 10.2% from 2017 – or 113,000 more visitors – which is a huge jump in popularity. This will help you steer clear of any confusion when you’ve reached your destination. You can often pay in US dollars as well as EC dollars. Saint Lucia is concerned for its citizens and wishes to ensure full safety protocols are in place. Whether you need to purify the water from a hostel sink in Kathmandu or a stream trickle in the Andes, the Geopress has got you covered. Heading somewhere local mid-afternoon (i.e. Hurricane season runs from June to November and can batter this part of the Caribbean; if you are heading to Saint Lucia at this time of year, you should pay attention to the local news and follow international advice. Basically you should feel safe and secure in your room; if you feel anything less than that, you can ask to see another room. The only person who is looking out for you is you and whatever God you believe in! That said, there are a number of resorts out there which are geared up for families (and children) specifically, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble at all finding one to suit you. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented international border closures and travel restrictions being imposed without notice. Your hotel or accommodation is a good place to ask about the minibus network. It may just help out in a sticky situation. Avoid walking around looking like a lost tourist who has no idea what’s going on because, chances are, this will make you a target. Most of it happens in local communities away from tourists. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The International Civil Aviation Organisation has carried out an audit of the level of implementation of the critical elements of safety oversight in St Lucia. Saint Lucia: Food & Water Safety. St. Lucia The Dominican Republic As we noted, however, tourists are rarely targets of violent crime, so it’s also helpful to look at property crime rates, like robbery. You should take extra care on minor roads and in rural areas where there are narrow roads and blind corners. Of course, it isn’t all palm trees and pina coladas. At the same time, if there’s a clean place with no customers next to a place that looks rougher around the edges, but which is packed with people, chances are the “dirty” one will be a better bet. We are all for it. In 2014, Saint Lucia was ranked as one of the top 10 most dangerous cruise destinations in the world, reporting instances of sixty nine cruise passengers being robbed at gun point on just two excursions. In the event of an accident, call the police and don’t move the vehicle. When you return, follow the rules to enter the UK from abroad (except from Ireland). Young children are affected much more than adults by the symptoms of sunstroke. Yes, it’s true that you have to be more than a little bit careful in certain areas, however, you should still be fine. You must present a valid UK driving licence. Home » Central America » Saint Lucia » Travel Safety. It’s good company, a go-to local expert and will act as security. All too often, travellers abruptly find themselves suffering from a gastrointestinal infection. However, most shockingly, in 2o13, 55 cruise ships passengers were all robbed at gunpoint. You might be thinking that Saint Lucia isn’t a solo travel spot – you’re probably right. 7 was passed, providing for an independent Board of Directors to manage the hospital. Saint Lucia is a beautiful tropical island – that much we can all agree on – and it’s not a very crowded one, either. Being in Saint Lucia means you can make yourself very busy eating a lot of tasty food. Then there’s the natural world to worry about such hurricanes. This Caribbean island is definitely known as a couples getaway and family holiday destination. All this crime, and not a lot of people coming to justice for it (owing poor police procedures) led the Saint Lucia Police to make a public statement. We are a leading First Aid and CPR training provider in St Lucia. The oldest, 16–18 Ma, volcanic rocks are exposed from Castries northward and consist of eroded basalt and andesite centres. When you want to get off, you simply say, “Stopping, driver!” It’s as simple as that. Tourists are still told, however, to be aware of and report any suspicious behaviour. Road signs and hazards may not be easily visible. To protect yourself from sunburn and potential skin damage, always wear a sun cream. There are a number of Statutory Instruments governing the public safety at gatherings, meetings or events. A big tip from our side would be to ensure you can make your way back to your accommodation before the buses stop running. The Caribbean islands have some pretty tasty food on offer and Saint Lucian cuisine is no different. Bonneterre is also nearby and has a mix of easy access to entertainment and a population of young professionals and young families. Follow my adventures on Instagram here. Dress to fit in as much as possible. They drive on the left hand side of the road here (good news if you’re from the UK) and the main roads of the island tend to be in a pretty good state. Saint Lucia (Caribbean) Share. © 2021, The Broke Backpacker. Answer 1 of 4: How safe is it to travel around Saint Lucia without a guide? It’s also possible to hop on a ferry to hitch a ride to another country entirely: Dominica, Martinque and Guadalupe, to be precise. Of course, it will also help you out if you get lost somewhere on the island. Keep your important documents, including your passport, safe. Expect an old school way of life in some areas – places that have small, independent stores where you can buy things like one stock cube, or one nappy, for example. Check our advice for each country you will visit or transit through. UVF Airport, otherwise known as Hewanorra International Airport HIA, is the larger of the two airports serving the Caribbean island of St. Lucia and can be found about 40 miles south of Castries in the town of Vieux Fort. These can be a fun way to get around for a tourist as well – plus it’s pretty cheap, which is great if you are on a budget. The St. Lucia Minibus System is perfect for visitors looking to navigate the island like a local (and enjoy a cruise with a view). Again, children are more at risk than adults, so ensure to use a child-friendly mosquito repellent, burn mosquito coils (if possible), and make sure your little ones are covered up in long sleeves and pants – especially at dusk and around standing water. For the sake of transparency, some of the links in our content are affiliate links. Book yourself on tours, get a guide, hire a driver, but most of all keep yourself safe and secure as you explore this chilled island. All in all, robbery of all kinds is an issue in Saint Lucia and tourists are often targets. Guest safety is the primary concern of all reputable accommodation providers. Rule of thumb: beachwear for the beach, party-wear for the party, Tyne-on-Wear for Newcastle. One great thing about travelling solo as a female is the amount of female-specific resources there are on the internet. This means that if you book your accommodation, buy a book or sort your insurance, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. More than likely, they will have a map that they can give you and will be able to tell you which bus routes are good, how to get from A to B most efficiently, and all that sort of stuff. It makes for a charming, chilled out place to live. Thanks for your support. It’s chlorinated and totally safe to drink. Equal parts beauty and mystique, Saint Lucia captivates anyone who sets foot on her coastline. We would love to tell you that there is Uber to use in Saint Lucia, but it’s just not the case. With all these goings-on, and many tourists coming in, you’re probably wondering to yourself, “Well, is Saint Lucia safe to visit right now…?”, The answer is: yes, it is. Safety. There are also two district hospitals and one polyclinic. Note that you have to be over the age of 25 years in order to rent a car, and have at least 3 years worth of driving experience under your belt. I only link to stuff I’ve actually used and never endorse products or services that are not up to scratch. In England, you must have a permitted reason to travel abroad and complete the declaration form. Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. Whilst solo travelling isn’t common in Saint Lucia, it can still be done. St Lucia Last Friday night, Roger and Margaret Pratt, a retired couple from Warwickshire, were attacked by robbers on board their yacht while it was moored off St Lucia. Your petty cash is not worth dying for, so diffuse the danger by just giving them what they want. Don't worry you will be perfectly fine and love the island it beautiful and so are the people so enjoy Follow current COVID-19 rules where you live: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Getting out of the house is a major goal for most families right now, but doing so safely should always be paramount. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Be vigilant at all times. It’s probably a good idea to be a digital nomad, already employed by somebody on the island, or otherwise remote working. GET FREE AWESOME DEALS & PROMOTIONS FROM ST. The FCDO can’t offer advice on the safety of individual airlines. The key is to enjoy yourself – and if enjoying yourself means getting out there and seeing what real life is like in Saint Lucia, it’s totally possible. The Creole culture means a mouthwatering mix of European and African cuisine. Standard taxi fares exist for most destinations. Coolest Airbnb Rentals in St. Lucia . There are a lot of options, from. Getting an estimate from World Nomads is simple – just click the button or image below, fill out the necessary info, and you’re on your way! Authorised taxis can be spotted by their light blue number plate with a “TX-” at the start of the registration number. Be aware of flooding, transport disruptions, flight cancellations. Violent crime against tourists isn’t unheard of and neither is petty theft. Saint Lucia, with something a reputation for robberies in recent years, is somewhere that you are going to want to keep your money as safe as possible – a just-in-case sort of scenario could, in the wrong place at the wrong time, be a reality here. These are numbers that you’ll want to be able to call without scrolling through your contacts, so save them with a # before their name to make sure they appear at the top of your contacts. Saint Lucia may not be the best destination in the world for solo female travellers. Along with that, there is the natural world to be aware of. The routes for this water-based system of public transport usually run between Rodney Bay in the north to Soufriere or Marigot Bay in the south. 23 Top Safety Tips for Traveling to Saint Lucia. Generally, the people are pretty laid back and friendly. Some of them are unsealed, others are simply filled with potholes. Taxis are a pretty standard way to get around in Saint Lucia. Don’t ignore that gut feeling. Sun Cream – St Lucia is a tropical country that receives a lot of hot, warm sunlight. Pack a longwearing sun cream with no lower than SPF 50 to maximise protection. That was an unfortunate incident and an even worse one recently happened in Antigua. In towns and urban areas, the bus will stop at bus stops, but if you’re somewhere a little rural between towns there won’t be any specific bus stops. The incident occurred in the middle of the day, at the very popular tourist spot that is the Botanical Gardens in Soufriere. With St. Lucia Taxi, we encourage riders to make reservations in advance. To conclude, the public transportation in Saint Lucia is safe. There are all sorts of ways to enjoy Saint Lucia as a solo female traveller, so let us run through those with you so that this laid back destination seems like a less daunting option…. Though it may seem like a lot to remember, in a way it sort of all boils down to two things: not standing out too much and being sensible. Make sure that your doors and windows can lock. Please visit the link to find out how you can help keep the site going . The main road leading around the island is a comprehensive loop that’s dotted with minibus stops. Being a female you will most likely be used to being on guard anyway, but that feeling comes into play especially when you’re in a situation that feels like it isn’t right. Pedestrians often walk on the roads and indicators are not always used. If you are heading off the main roads at all, or plan to, then you should probably opt for a four wheeled drive (complete with a spare wheel). You should maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as you would in the UK and make sure your accommodation is secure. I understand in certain Carribbean islands ( Jamaica, Dominican Republic) you do not leave your all inclusive resort due to safety concerns outside the resort. If you want to go somewhere local to eat, then make sure you go somewhere that’s filled with locals. I have been 8 times and never once seen any trouble. If you feel like being on the extra safe side, boil your water vigorously for a minute or more – though it really doesn’t need to be done. St. Lucia International Business Companies Amendment Act No. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. You should check that the hotel safe is securely fixed before using it to store your items. You can pick up a taxi at the airport, at the harbour, in front of hotels, at taxi ranks in towns – those sorts of places. Hiring a car is most easily done at the airport or in a larger town (we would recommend pre-booking, for ease and possible savings). The culprits are bacteria, protozoa, viruses, and toxins that are transmitted through contaminated food and water, and poor hand hygiene practices. We’ve created this epic guide to staying safe in Saint Lucia, so you can travel around with plenty of tips and information that will put your mind at ease. It partners you with licensed taxi drivers and any qualified driver across the island. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone. The healthcare for expats in Saint Lucia is not the best. In addition to your Driver s License, you will need to be issued a local driving permit. While there are pickpockets virtually everywhere there are travelers, exercising a few basic precautions can help you make sure it doesn’t happen to you. Your hotel will most likely offer an abundant array of dishes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and everything in between. Why not get a quote from them yourself? When it comes to safety, pay attention to the weather, not just in terms of hurricane season and downpours, but the sun. Dangers & Annoyances St Lucia gets a lot of visitors and things are pretty well set up to look after them, so problems are rare. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. In St. Lucia we drive on the left hand side of the road as they do in England. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level … It’s generally pretty easy to get around if you know what you’re doing. Make sure to eat at places where food has been freshly cooked; if you can see something being fried up right in front of you, chances are it won’t make you feel ill later on. Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. It seems paradise comes at a price! Romantic Break - The 'Harmony' wing of hotel is adults … However, the International Air Transport Association publishes lists of registered airlines that have been audited and found to meet a number of operational safety standards and recommended practices – IATA Operational Safety Audit and IATA Standard Safety Assessment. It’s not a good idea to walk around wearing flashy and/or revealing clothes when you’re a solo female traveller. St. Lucia is safe. Take care when driving on the roads as there can be potholes and speed bumps. Though it’s not always possible, try to choose places to eat that look clean. They are located around towns and urban areas; your hotel may even have its own chemist and a doctor on-call. Do you need travel insurance for your trip? Final thoughts on the safety of Saint Lucia, Whilst there aren’t many party hostels, or many hostels at all for that matter, there are some good options for solo travellers out there. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Some countries have closed borders, and any country may further restrict travel or bring in new social distancing rules with little warning. Possibly the most annoying thing that can happen to any traveller pretty much anywhere in the world is having your money stolen. Don’t stop if you’re flagged down by pedestrians. Much more annoying than losing it yourself, it can mean having to cut a whole trip short, which definitely isn’t cool. It’s the kind of place where you’ll casually get offered drugs (not aggressively), and locals travelling around in the backs of trucks with machetes. Pick up an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure. Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home. St. Lucia is considered a very safe island, with a minimal crime rate. Another thing to note is the necessity of protecting against mosquito bites. In 2003 the St. Jude Hospital Act No. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Crime happens everywhere and if you live in Ontario you are more than aware of that. Robberies and break ins also do occur. In fact, the murder rate has been on the rise in recent years. Here’s how to eat your way around like a pro…. Make sure your travel insurance provider covers this. Is Saint Lucia Safe? Be aware that some hotels have an adults only policy, whilst others won’t take children under a certain age. 2017 – or 113,000 more visitors – which is a tropical country that receives lot... 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