Saint Lucia Travel Forum

Hi Guys,
My husband and I are planning our 5 year anniversary. We can't decide between St. Lucia and Barbados. We are in our early 30's and are mainly looking for a great beach, good food, an island with character and culture, and a little bit of nightlife. Any suggestions?

Barbados has about twice the population of Lucia, and its'capital, Bridgetown is fairly vibrant , it is easy to get around and has a distinct English flavor. There's plenty of different dining venues, and Speightstown is worth a day trip. The best beaches are probably on the west and South coasts. The east coast has more of the big Atlantic style waves, and the Soup Bowl at Bathsheba has a long history for surfboarders. Harrison's cave is very interesting, also. and there are a lot of wrecks and reefs for divers and snorkelers.

Lucia is gorgeous, a lot more mountain scenery, a drive-in volcano, and is more French influenced. Castries, the capital, has lots of historic buildings, and Scenic views rise above the city. The local market used to be particularly fascinating. The beaches are smaller, some are accessible only by boat or private means and there is also a nature reserve on the nearby Maria Islands. Music of all types abounds, and you would probably want to take a day trip to Soufriere ( I think it means pig's ear?). I think a lot of films have shot here, including The Bounty and Pirates of the Caribbean? The two peaks of the Pitons dominate the landscape. Choc Bay and Marigot Bay used to be two of the prettiest beaches on the island. There also used to be a Friday night party at Gros Islet- but I haven't been on Lucia for several years, and I heard they have taken considerable beatings from hurricane. so much may have changed. Lucia is less populous and perhaps less touristy?

Either should be fun- why not try Barbados for your 5th anniversary and Lucia for your sixth? Hope you have a grat time, wherever you decide.

The above poster has given a good description of both islands. I've been to each several times, and of the two, I'd probably choose Barbados. However, I'm not a big Caribbean fan, so give me the South Pacific islands any day! You might like to Google Aitutaki in the Cook Islands.

thanks for the tips guys, i will make great use of this.