We have been to SXM a number of times and to Barbados once and have enjoyed both a lot. This year we have some friends who would like to try St. Lucia in January for 2 weeks. We are looking for any suggestions as to areas to stay, beaches etc. We are two couples 50-60ish. Have found a few places around Marigot Bay on Homeaway that sound great. Thanks.

St Lucia is a huge island and has very different areas. The north is more beachy, boaty, bar-y (?) and the south is more eco-touristy. We spent a wonderful vacation at Fond Doux in Soufriere. It isn't on the beach, but I don't think the southern beaches are as nice as the ones in the northern Caribbean. The creole food is delicious- fresh fruits, veggies, fish, chocolate, spices...Great hiking- Tete Paul, the Pitons. Bathing in the hot springs at the volcano. And the Lamontaignes are the best advertisement for small innkeepers in St Lucia. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" />

Be sure to ck the drive time between airport and resort.

And there are two airports! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Wink.gif" alt="" />

Thanks for the info. I see the int'l airport is at the southern tip, so the drive to Marigot Bay or Rodney Bay would be a long one.

the drive to rodney bay is closer to 1.5 hrs as i recall. many people mention the windy roads... but since i am near the rocky mountains, they looked fine to me. (well, aside from a land slide here and there which compromised the lane)

rodney bay is touristy with plenty of beach bars which close early on week nights to encourage tourists to spend at the many resorts. alcohol and food is a bit pricier than sxm. the taxi ride is negotiable and anywhere from $70-90.

on your way home, stop just before the airport near the coast and take your farewell photos. it's a spectacular photo op waiting to happen no matter the time of day.

i recommend the central harmony suites for a very reasonable rate.

lots of options in st lucia. it's a lovely island.

stop at the rhum factory. OMG. for $3 a tasting, you will be hard pressed to see so many open bottles in one spot again. go ahead.. serve yourself!

i think the coconut rhum bottle i purchased was around 8 buckaroos.

don't forget the pitons, of course. look for sulfur soap here if you know anyone with skin conditions.

also, eastern caribbean dollar is their currency but usd are accepted everywhere (for a small premium, of course)

enjoy!