“Once the travel bug bites there’s no known antidote and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life.” — M. Palin

While the greatest show on earth was taking place on the twin island of Trinidad and Tobago, 28 Trinbagonians conceded to their wanderlust and took to the skies in search of adventure! Their destination… Helen of the West Indies otherwise known as St Lucia.

The accommodation for our 4 day stay in St. Lucia was at the Harmony Suites Hotel in the vibrant Rodney Bay. The exploration of this beautiful island commenced with a visit to its small capital, Castries. Buzzing with activity on a Saturday morning the capital provided the travellers with a true sense of the Lucian life. Persons were able to taste the local spice rum of varying flavours including sorrel and ginger, visit the duty free malls, craft markets and street vendors in search of the perfect souvenir. On leaving the capital we stopped at the Mount Fortune Lookout which gave a spectacular view of the city. Marigot Bay about 10km away from the capital awaited us with its calm waters. A short water taxi ride took us there and it was the perfect way to end the first day as we eased our way into Lucian life.

Dressed to conquer the seas our travel enthusiasts were set for the Soufriere catamaran tour on Day 2. The Carnival Sailing crew who were both entertaining and accommodating welcomed our Trini Roadtrippers on board to set sail on the Caribbean waters along the western coast to the town of Soufriere. While sailing we celebrated two birthdays and enjoyed the coastal view of the many towns, beaches and resorts. Some laid back and relaxed while some took advantage of the groovy soca music and open bar. The clear sight of the benevolent Petit Piton and Gros Piton mountains, St Lucia’s landmark, was an indication that we were nearing our destination.

As soon as we disembarked we were whisked away to the Diamond Botanical Gardens learning of its diverse flora compositions. A short trek took us to the Diamond Waterfall which provided the perfect backdrop for selfies galore. A short dip in the warm waters of the mineral pools that stream directly from the Diamond Waterfall got us prepared for what came next.

From one mineral bath to another, our next stop was the Soufriere Volcano which is the only “drive-in” volcano in the world! Locally known as the Sulphur Springs these pools are blessed with volcanic minerals which are said to have healing properties and therapeutic qualities for the skin. The heat definitely took some getting used to but the smearing of the volcano’s mud over our bodies and creating fun tribal patterns was definitely a highlight.

Following the natural spa treatments we had a delicious buffet lunch at the Fond Du Plantation Restaurant before returning the catamaran for our snorkelling adventure and return cruise to the Marina.

With the camaraderie among the Roadtrippers at 100, spirits were high as we journeyed across St. Lucia to its eastern coast on Day 3. First on the schedule was a horseback ride along the beach. For most it was their first horseback ride, so the entire experience from mounting the horse, conquering one’s fear of heights (and for some horses) and descending and ascending a rocky hill while riding the horse was a thrilling and a memorable experience. The horseback ride along the secluded beach provided a scenic and majestic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean and a rustic mountainside in the distance.

Unanimously the most anticipated part of that day’s activities was the visit to Sault Waterfall known locally as Dennery Falls. A short 10 minute hike led us to the towering fall that emptied into a refreshing shallow pool on the second storey of the river bed. Many chose to simply perch themselves on the rocks below the fall and enjoy its cool refreshing shower. After a delicious lunch, a return journey took us to Rodney Bay on Pigeon Island. The calm waters surrounding the manmade causeway greeted us with opened arms. A picturesque sunset and a relaxing dip was worth the trip.

Staying just an 8 minute walk from Reduit Beach the island’s most popular beach made it an ideal way to spend our final day in the Island Paradise of St. Lucia. A mixture of relaxation and excitement we all enjoyed the sun, sea and sand while many took advantage of watersports activities on the beach. From Jet skis, to banana boat rides to being towed on inflatables by a speed boat Reduit was nothing short of adrenaline packed entertainment and fun.

With everyone packed and ready to head home to sweet Trinbago we recognised the true meaning of understanding one’s culture is to experience it.

Our Funcation Adventures is perfect way to fully immerse yourself in the experience a foreign country and our second visit to St. Lucia was no different. Road Trip TT invites you to join us for our next Destination Travel Trip! Quench your wanderlust, your passion for exploring and experiencing new cultures!