Tired of those pesky check-in luggage fees? How about unexpectedly paying extra for overweight bags? Save $$ and avoid the heavy bag drag by learning how to travel with only the stuff you really need. By packing just the bare essentials, you can focus on your vacation instead of worrying about your luggage. Here are 8 tips to get you on your way!

1. Dress in layers. As a general rule, try to wear your heaviest wardrobe items so you can avoid carrying them. This will also save room in your suitcase. Consider wearing your jacket and heavier footwear such as tennis shoes or boots. For comfort, stash a pair of light-weight slippers in your carry-on luggage to switch into while on the plane.
    
2. Bring multipurpose clothing. Focus on separates that will do double duty for day or night depending on how you mix and match them. A lightweight casual black dress made of soft material can be dressed up or down, serve as a beach cover-up, and do double duty as a nightgown in a pinch.
    
3. Plan on doing laundry. Packing lightweight separates you can wash and dry in your hotel room extends your wardrobe dramatically for longer trips. Pack a quart-size Ziplock bag or two of laundry detergent to wash your undergarments or other small pieces of quick dry items.
    
4. Coordinate packing with your travel partners. If you’re traveling with your spouse or a friend, you may be able to avoid some duplication. Share your guidebook, reading material, shampoo, or toothpaste.
    
5. Get an ebook reader. For many people, books were always the heaviest item and it was difficult to predict if you were bringing enough reading material. Now, with an ebook reader, you can carry as many titles as you want.
    
6. Minimize souvenirs and gifts. Digital photos can be easily transformed after you get home into souvenirs such as canvas prints, mugs, or calendars. Online shopping makes it much easier to buy goods from around the world so there’s less need to bring back a bottle of that Texas barbecue sauce your neighbor likes. Send people a postcard instead.
    
7. Leave stuff behind. After reading a book or using a guidebook, leave it behind for the next traveler or hotel housekeeper. Many bed and breakfast inns will have a library where you can leave behind a paperback you’ve finished.
    
8. Evaluate what you really use. When you get home, take a quick look while you’re unpacking to spot anything that didn’t get used. Make a mental note to leave it out next time.

I specialize in serving all travel needs of empty nest moms. Join my Facebook Group Empty Nest Mom Travelers for more travel tips, news, and destination info. I’m planning retreats. I’d love to have you come with us to Italy in 2022!

Leah Goerke
Escape The Nest Travel, a specialty brand of Caribbean Family Cruises, LLC
leah@escapethenesttravel.com
https://www.facebook.com/escapethenesttravel
(stay tuned – website coming soon!)
833-326-8728

Key West is a popular port of call during Caribbean cruises and a favorite land destination for those seeking a tropical isle accessible via car from the U.S. mainland. But did you know that there are 39 other populated isles that make up the Florida Keys? How fantastic is it to island hop via car???

Our tour of the Keys covers so many ways to experience the Florida Keys, the 5^th U.S. Caribbean destination where you can visit without having to worry about the latest CDC testing for returning from international locations.

1. Key West. There are so many facets of Key West. What began as a sleepy hideaway for celebrities like Ernest Hemingway to escape, is now a bustling destination with well-developed tourist services. If you only have a few days to explore the Keys, fly into Miami, rent a car, and drive 3 ½ hours to Key West. Stay at one of a number of lodging choices ranging from resorts to cottage rentals. You’ll be in the southern-most point of the U.S…take the iconic pic next to the marker. Celebrate sunset on the docks in Mallory Square with the locals – a tradition not to be missed. Duval Street is for the night owls with its abundant bars. Contrast this with day visits to the Ernest Hemingway House and Audubon Tropical Gardens.

2.  Three National Parks. If you have more time, plan at least three days to drive from Miami to Key West. Spend a couple of nights in Miami. For your first day, plan a visit to the Everglades National Park. Schedule a tour on one of the airboats – an experience itself with the flat bottom and huge fan propelling the boat across the swamps. You’ll see an abundance of wildlife to include crocodiles, manatees, sea turtles, and indigenous and migratory birds – over 350 species! On land there are hiking trails to get you closer to the beautiful foliage. Biscayne National Park is also accessible from Miami and would be a great choice for Day 2. Most of the action at this national park is underwater. The easiest way to access the underwater wonders is taking an organized tour from the main visitor center 35 miles south of Miami. You’ll marvel at the abundance of sea life, coral, and sea fans as you snorkel or dive through this National Park. Dry Tortugas is the third national park you’ll need to check out while in the Keys. A ferry from Key West will take you 68 miles west to this gem. This unique National Park is comprised of the former Fort Jefferson, a 19^th century U.S. fortification above land, and an abundance of underwater sea life waiting to be discovered by snorkelers and divers. Camping is also offered in Dry Tortugas National Park.

3.  The Middle Keys. Midway between Key Largo, the closest isle to Miami, and Key West is Marathon. It is here that you will find the best beach of the Keys, Sombrero Beach. It is the most developed isle with plentiful lodging options, a commercial airport, and other tourist services. Stay here a night on your way to Key West and enjoy the surrounding isles. Islamorada is noted for its wonderful seafood, and fishing village vibe. Feed large tarpon by hand on Robbie’s Pier. Nature trails and deep-sea fishing excursions are abundant here.     

Before traveling to the Florida Keys, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

https://floridahealthcovid19.gov/

Still have questions about this stunning destination? Contact me at:

Leah Goerke

leah@caribbeanfamilycruises.com

833-326-8728 Empty nest mom? Connect with me and other passionate travelers on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/emptynestmomtravelers

Puerto Rico became part of the U.S. commonwealth after the Spanish-American War, which makes it our fourth U.S. Caribbean destination where you can enjoy the sandy beaches, sun, and fun without worrying about the latest CDC testing for re-entry into the US after international travel. Check out my previous blogs for info I covered in previous weeks about the three U.S. Virgin Islands St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John.

1. San Juan. Many travel blogs, publications, and reviewers describe San Juan as a “cosmopolitan city with a beautifully preserved colonial core.” This magnificent city would be a great choice for first time visitors. Cobblestone streets lined with restored 17^th and 18^th century Spanish buildings give San Juan Viejo, Old San Juan, a quaint feel. Pay homage to the statue of Ponce de Leon who founded the first settlement and named the island Puerto Rico – Rich Port. If you’re a rum fan, Bacardi Rum Distillery might be on your list of things to do.

2.  San Juan National Historic Park. Plan to spend a day exploring San Juan’s magnificent National Historic Park. The Spaniards began construction on this massive military complex in 1539 and finally completed in 1786. Two castles, Castillo San Felipe del Morro, and Castillo San Cristobal dominate the landscape and were intended to protect invasions from the sea and land. The onsite museum provides historical information and a collection of military artifacts.

3.  El Yunque National Forest. The U.S. National Forest service manages this amazing rainforest full of diverse foliage and wildlife. Start your visit at El Portal Rain Forest Center to pick up the latest info and advice on how to get the most out of your visit. There are a number of hikes ranging from easy to strenuous offering some of the best wildlife viewing in Puerto Rico. As you make your way to the summit of Cerro El Toro, you’ll experience a number of diverse ecosystems and breathtaking views of plunging waterfalls.

4. Vieques. This isle just off the east coast of Puerto Rico holds a wonderous experience. Diving in Mosquito Bay on a moonless night amidst the bioluminescent glow is a surreally beautiful must do experience. Tiny single-celled organisms called dinoflagellates emit a blue light when disturbed by passing fish…or humans. The entire lagoon lights up as you swim in this magical bay.

5.  Luquillo Beaches. Many tourist publications highlight the gorgeous golden-white sand beaches between the towns of Rio Grand and Luquillo. Located just 45 miles east of San Juan, visiting these reef-protected warm water locales is doable as a day trip. Snorkel and explore the tidepools in these out of the mainstream beaches. Or choose to stay at nearby upscale resorts for the ultimate Puerto Rican getaway.

Before traveling to St. John, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/

Check out this sneak peak video:

Still have questions about this stunning destination? Contact me at:

leah@caribbeanfamilycruises.com

833-326-8728

Empty nest mom? Connect with me and other passionate travelers on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/emptynestmomtravelers

St. John is the third U.S. Caribbean destination where you can enjoy the sandy beaches, sun, and fun without worrying about the latest CDC testing for international travel. As part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John is a territory of the U.S. and super easy to visit! Check out my earlier blogs for the first two destination I covered, St. Thomas and St. Croix. It’s all about the bays in St. John!

1. Trunk Bay. Start your exploration with this stunning location. Trunk Bay is perennially noted by many travel publications, influencers, bloggers, and reviewers as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Follow the snorkeling trail and marvel at the abundance of tropical fish and coral amidst crystal clear blue water.

2.  Cruz Bay. Tourists needing a variety of lodging, dining, and shopping opportunities enjoy this well-developed main town of St. John. Ferries from St. Thomas and the British Virgin Islands bring a steady stream of day visitors. History buffs will enjoy the Battery which dates back to 1852, and the restored plantation converted to the Elaine Ione Sprauve Library.

3.  Coral Bay. St. John is a favorite destination for the affluent traveler because of the natural, unspoiled beauty and serenity of this less visited locale. Coral Bay, St. John’s largest harbor, is often filled with many yachts moored just off the coast. Visitors can enjoy nearby historical sites of Emmaus Moravian Church, established in 1756.

4. Virgin Islands National Park. Two thirds of St. John was declared a national park in 1957. Nature lovers will appreciate opportunities to explore on land and in the water. Hiking trails bring visitors alongside plantation ruins and abundant flora. Well-developed snorkeling trails are perfect for both experienced and novice snorkelers to explore the underwater beauty.

5.  Cinnamon Bay. If camping in paradise is on your list, reserve your campsite early in Cinnamon Bay. The National Park Service manages this unique campground. Wake up to the natural beauty and breathtaking views just outside of your tent flap. There is an onsite restaurant and water sports center for visitors enjoy.

Before traveling to St. John, click here for the latest travel conditions and protocols.

Still have questions about visiting this stunning destination? I’m happy to help! Contact me at:

leah@caribbeanfamilycruises.com

833-326-8728

Empty nest mom? Connect with me and other passionate travelers on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/emptynestmomtravelers

Maximize your time and money by escaping to one of 5 U.S. Caribbean destinations to enjoy the sandy beaches, sun, and fun. No passport required or additional testing and quarantine requirements that were recently added by the CDC for international travel – easiest way to paradise!

Check out my blog at caribbeanfamilycruises.com for the first destination I covered, St. Thomas. This week I’m spotlighting St. Croix.

1. Christiansted and Frederiksted. There is so much to love about the largest island of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The U.S. purchased St. Croix along with St. Thomas and St. John in 1916 for $25 million. You’ll see remnants of Danish heritage on St. Croix reflected in the names of the two major towns Christiansted and Frederiksted. Both towns are on the U.S. National Historic Registry. Christiansted has the largest variety of accommodations and developed tourist services. Seek a quieter experience in the smaller Frederiksted. Both towns have lovely beaches to explore in Christiansted Harbor and north of Fort Fredrik.

2. St. Croix Heritage Trail. A great way to start your exploration of the island is with this driving tour. You’ll discover several historical and cultural sites that include Hamm’s Bluff, where runaway slaves sought refuge. Lesser-known churches, plantations and isolated villages are waiting on this trail to be explored.

3.  Buck Island. This small island located just north of the eastern tip of St. Croix was established as a protected area to preserve the beautiful marine gardens. You’ll find the Buck Island Reef National Monument on this tiny island. Snorkel along the reef by following marked trails. Reserving a boat ride via sailboat or powerboat from Christiansted early is a must since space is limited.

4.  Cane Bay Wall. Scuba divers should make a beeline to Cane Bay Wall. Accessible from the beach for novices or via boat with dive operators for the more adventurous, divers will explore thousands of feet underwater canyons. The reward is well worth the effort – abundant tropical fish, sponges, colorful corals, the rare black coral. Don’t forget to save time to hang out on beautiful Cane Bay Beach.

Before traveling to St. Croix, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

https://usviupdate.com/st-croix/

Still have questions about this stunning destination? Contact me at:

Leah Goerke
leah@caribbeanfamilycruises.com
833-326-8728

Empty nest mom? Connect with me and other passionate travelers on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/emptynestmomtravelers

Did you know that you can escape to the Caribbean even with the latest CDC travel requirements? There are five destinations that travelers can go to without needing a negative COVID-19 test before returning to the U.S. I’ll be spotlighting these wonderful Caribbean destinations for the next 5 blog posts. These tropical locales are exempt because they are either part of the U.S. or a U.S. territory.

Our first tropical paradise is St. Thomas, the most visited destination in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and busiest cruise port in the Caribbean. Start with the Skyride to Paradise Point up Flag Hill. You’ll be rewarded with breath taking views of the bay in Charlotte Amalie, the capital. Here are five more must sees and dos while you are visiting St. Thomas.

1.  Magens Bay. Frequently noted as the world’s ten best beaches by travel bloggers, magazines, and other destination specialists, Magens Bay is a must see in St. Thomas. To avoid the crowds, stroll down to either end of this u-shaped bay. Don’t forget to save an hour or two to visit Magens Bay Arboretum before leaving the area. 

2.  Duty-free Shopping. St. Thomas’ free trade status is why Charlotte Amalie is a destination of choice for bargain hunters. Boutiques featuring souvenirs, jewelry, gemstones, designer bags, clothing, alcohol, and other favorites are tucked away in remodeled Danish warehouses. But this area isn’t just about shopping. Within walking distance is Fort Christian, built by the Danish in 1672. By 1917, the U.S. purchased St Thomas, St. John and St. Croix for $25 million – the best bargain for 3 tropical paradise islands!

3.  Outdoor activities. Golf, tennis, and water-sports are in abundance on St. Thomas. Golfing amid the tropical scenery is breathtaking and should not be missed by avid golfers. The aquatic surroundings of St. Thomas are often noted as the world’s most beautiful waters by sailing aficionados, snorkelers, divers, and various publications.

4.  Carnival. For two weeks in April, the entire island lights up with celebrations full of parades, elaborate costumes, and Caribbean music. And if you are visiting at another time, there are numerous fishing and golf tournaments; and art and dance festivals throughout the year. St. Thomas has a celebration for everyone!

5. Pirate for a Day. Visit the 17th century watchtower, Blackbeard’s Castle, and Bluebeard’s Tower to round out your St. Thomas experience. Pirate history abounds on this island. There are numerous tour options for you to become immersed in pirate lore. 

Before traveling to St. Thomas, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

https://usviupdate.com/st-thomas/

Still have questions about this stunning destination? Contact me at:

Leah Goerke
leah@caribbeanfamilycruises.com
833-326-8728

Empty nest mom? Connect with me and other passionate travelers on Facebook at  https://www.facebook.com/groups/emptynestmomtravelers

Two islands, two very different vibes, and multicultural traditions make up Trinidad and Tobago. Located just shy of 7 miles north of the Venezuelan coast, Trinidad is industrialized, commercialized, and the most populous of the two islands. Tobago is 21 northeast of Trinidad and is largely unspoiled and teeming with abundant wildlife and lush vegetation.

The home of the Trinbagonians is one of the five safest Caribbean destinations highlighted by Let’s Get Checked, a health insights firm, in their September 2020 study Wrath of the Diseases. Check out my blog at caribbeanfamilycruises.com for info on the other 4 destinations: Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Martin/Sint Maarten, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

If you want excitement and a vibrant nightlife, Trinidad is your place. If you are looking for tranquility and escape, head over to Tobago. Or split your time enjoying both! Let’s dive into my top five reasons to go to Trinidad and Tobago.

1.  Carnival. Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is second only to Rio’s pre-Lenten celebration. Proud Trinbagonians showcase calypso and steel pan music, colorful feathered costumes, and dancing in a week-long party before Ash Wednesday. You do not want to miss this iconic celebration if planning a trip to Trinidad.

2.  Port of Spain. So…where do you start to experience the excitement of Carnival? Port of Spain, the country’s capital vibrates with the sounds of steel pan bands, singing, and celebration. The best hotels, restaurants and bars on the island are located here, and everyone caters to visitors who want to immerse themselves in Carnival. The morning after spend time enjoying the peace and quiet of the National Museum and Art Gallery, and Royal Botanical Gardens. On your way to see the less hectic northern part of the islands, spend some time on Maracas Bay, Trinidad’s most popular beach.

3.  Asa Wright Nature Center and Lodge. Already experienced Carnival and returning to see the incredibly diverse natural beauty of Trinidad? Start with the Asa Wright Nature Center and Lodge. This tranquil place is located high in the rainforest hills of northern Trinidad. The center is a world-famous birdwatching locale where guests can marvel at over 150 species of birds including the stunning scarlet ibis. Guests can stay overnight at the lodge, a converted colonial great house or opt for a day tour.

4.  Speyside. Combine birdwatching above the waters and snorkeling or diving amid massive coral reef formations at Speyside on Tobago. Do not miss hanging out with the iconic scarlet ibis and observing leatherback turtles nesting on the beach or swimming in the sea. Approaching Speyside on the Scarborough road will give you a great view of this quaint colorful village. Little Tobago, an islet just off the coast and one of the Caribbean’s main seabird sanctuaries, can also be seen along this route.

5. Tobago Forest Reserve. Marked by a huge rock, the entrance to this preserve is just off a scenic road in the northern part part of Tobago. The forest is the oldest protected rainforest in the Western Hemisphere and provides a great variety of majestic trees and lush vegetation. A hike through the reserve requires a guide.  

Before traveling to Trinidad and Tobago, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

http://tourism.gov.tt/

Take a sneak peak at the wonders of this destination at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qxt8G9oeLg&feature=youtu.be

Still need more info? Schedule a complimentary Tropical Escape Planning Session with me at https://calendly.com/caribbeanfamilycruises/vacation-planning

Did you know that the first scenes of Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed in these beautiful islands? With 32 islands, most uninhabited, it is not surprising that St. Vincent and the Grenadines were the locations of choice for the swashbuckling adventures of Jack Sparrow.

Photo credit: https://beach-weather.com/blog/47-Movies-Filmed-On-Beaches-You-Should-Visit/

This wonderful destination is the fourth island I’m spotlighting from the research study that LetsGetChecked, a health insights company, published in September 2020. The Wrath of Diseases study identified the Caribbean as one of the safest places in the world, and specifically mentioned five Caribbean islands. Check out my blog for info on the previous three spotlighted islands Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Martin/Sint Maarten.

Let’s dive into my top five reasons to go to St. Vincent and the Grenadines!

1.  Visit the Tobago Cays. Swim with sea turtles, hang out with iguanas, and birdwatch. Tobago Cays is a string of 5 beautiful pearls south of St. Vincent. These magical cays are uninhabited and teeming with wildlife and exotic fauna. The cays were declared a natural preserve to protect the beauty of these gems.

2.  Stay in the City of Arcades. Kingstown is called the City of Arcades not because of gaming, but because of the many arched walkways in the downtown area. This lively capital of St. Vincent provides a completely different vibe than the tranquil Tobago Cays. It is a busy port town with a bustling market area, historical sites, and active nightlife. Hang out in the Villa strip, 3 miles from Kingstown with restaurants, bars, and clubs.

3.  Sail between the cays. The best way to see the Grenadines is to sail between the isles. The smaller cruise ships, yachts, sailboats, and catamarans are the best way to sail between the five major islands of the Grenadines: Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Mayreau, and Union Island. Spend a day snorkeling amid the abundant fish, eagle rays, and sea turtles. Top a perfect day off with the lobster barbeque on Petite Bateau.

4.  Hike up an active volcano. For the more adventurous, plan a 4-hour hike up La Soufriere, St. Vincent’s active volcano. It’s located in the northern portion of St. Vincent with the easiest trek on the Atlantic side. You’ll enjoy the change in vegetation as you proceed up the 4000 foot climb and rewarded with breathtaking views of the island.

5. Relax on the beach. What Caribbean vacation would be complete without a relaxing time at the beach? St. Vincent and the Grenadines does not disappoint! Your best bet is on the isle of Canouan, 14 miles south of St. Vincent. The white sand, crystal clear waters, and swaying palm trees of this off the beaten track isle is just the ticket for relaxation.  

Before traveling to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, check the latest travel conditions and protocols:

www.discoversvg.com

Take a sneak peak at the wonders of this destination:

Still have question about this stunning destination? Schedule your complimentary Caribbean Tropical Escape Session at a time that is convenient for you at

https://calendly.com/caribbeanfamilycruises/vacation-planning

Would you rather go to the country of St. Martin or the country of Sint Maarten? Great news – you can go to both in one day! This week’s destination is a two-fer…experience the lively, tourist-catering Dutch side of this island, Sint Maarten, or the relaxed, sophisticated French side, St. Martin.

This wonderful destination is the third island I’m spotlighting from the research study that LetsGetChecked, a health insights company, published in September 2020. The Wrath of Diseases study identified the Caribbean as one of the safest places in the world, and specifically mentioned five Caribbean islands. Check out my blog for info on the previous two spotlighted islands Barbados and St. Lucia.

Let’s dive into my top five reasons to go to St. Martin AND Sint Maarten!

1.  Two countries on one island. In 1648, an agreement was peacefully struck between France and the Netherlands to share the island. Legend has it that a Frenchman and a Dutchman set off in opposite directions agreeing to partition the island when they met on the other side. The Frenchman walked faster so the French ended up with the larger part of the island. St. Martin is the northern part and is 21 square miles. Sint Maarten is the southern part of the island and is 16 square miles.

2.  The wide range of accommodations. On the Dutch side you’ll have your pick of large resorts located near a vibrant nightlife of casinos, and variety of duty-free shopping areas. Philipsburg is the capital and you’ll fly into this bustling city at Princess Juliana Airport, or stop at it’s well developed cruise port. On the French side, you’ll encounter boutique hotels, houses, and smaller resorts in a more relaxed atmosphere.

3.  The Gastronomic Capital of the Caribbean. Where there are French, there is exquisite food! Head over to Grand Case, 4 miles northeast of the French side capital of Marigot. This quaint village has just one main road – but what a wonderful road! Internationally trained and local chefs offer a dizzing variety of French cuisine to island specialties. The cafes, bistros, and intimate eateries are close to each other making it easy to sample from multiple venues.

4.  Sunbathing under landing airplanes. Take that iconic picture on Sonesta Maho Beach on the Dutch side as an airliner makes its final approach. Or escape to the seclusion of the less crowded beaches on the French side. Be forewarned – the beaches on the French side are topless.

5. The natural beauty of Ilet Pinel and Ile Tintamarre. Grab a rental car for the day and head north to catch a ferry to Ilet Pinel and Ile Tintamarre. These two small islands lie within the protected waters of a marine preserve. So the snorkeling and diving is phenomenal. Ile Tintamarre is farther and less visited but worth the effort. Uncrowded white sand beaches are a great escape, and don’t forget to slather the mud all over your body which allegedly has healing powers.

Still have questions about this stunning island? Schedule your complimentary Caribbean Tropical Escape Session at a time that is most convenient to you at https://calendly.com/caribbeanfamilycruises/vacation-planning

Before traveling to St. Martin and Sint Maarten, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

St. Martin Tourist Office (French-side)
www.stmartinisland.org

St. Maarten Tourist Office (Dutch-side)
www.st-maarten.com

Take a sneak peak at the wonders of this destination at:

St. Martin

Sint Maarten

Did you know that Saint Lucia is often referred to as the Helen of the Caribbean because of it’s natural beauty and how it was fiercely fought over by the French and British? It switched hands 14 times with England being the last victor before gaining independence in 1979.

Saint Lucia is the second island I’m spotlighting from the research study that LetsGetChecked, a health insights company, published in September 2020. The Wrath of Diseases study identified the Caribbean as one of the safest places in the world, and specifically mentioned five Caribbean islands. Check out my blog for info on Barbados, the first island I covered last week.

So what makes Saint Lucia so desirable? Here are my top five!

1.  It has an exotic South Pacific island vibe. The natural beauty, swaying tropical palm trees, lush vegetation, and uncrowded beaches give Saint Lucia a South Pacific island vibe. It is one of the southernmost islands in the Caribbean region – closer to the coast of South America than the tip of Florida. The temperatures stay pretty close to 80 degrees F year-round with mid-November through March being the best time to visit during dry season.

2.  The beautiful Pitons. The twin iconic Gros Piton and Petit Piton volcanic cones provide a stunning backdrop to secluded beaches and warm tropical breezes. They appear side by side but are actually about 3 miles apart and are connected by a volcanic ridge and white sand beaches. You can take a guided 5-hour hike to the top of either peak stopping to see waterfalls, bubbling mud pools, and other natural wonders. Or you can enjoy the beauty of these 2500 ft landmarks while boating in the bay. Insider tip: Take a shower under the Piton Falls while hiking up Petit Piton.

3.  The unique confluence of British, French, and Creole culture. Rental cars are a great way to see this small island and a great way to sample the unique island culture. You might find yourself driving on on the left side of the road and running into friendly townspeople speaking a combination of French, English, and Creole depending on where you stop. This easy coexistence of cultures gives Saint Lucia a unique cultural heritage that should not be missed. Much of the island’s history can be sampled on Pigeon Island, a national landmark with remnants of military barracks and encampments.

4.  The variety of accommodations range from all-inclusive resorts to secluded hideaways. Although largely noted as a romantic retreat for honeymooners, Saint Lucia is becoming a destination of choice for families that prefer not to be in the mainstream Caribbean tourist areas. The north and western coasts of Saint Lucia are ideal for honeymooners and family groups because of the abundance of all-inclusive resorts, sandy beaches, and calm seas. The Atlantic-facing east coast is best for adventure-seeking surfers, divers, deep-sea fishing, and high-energy water sports. The international airport can accommodate the largest airliners and the cruise port is a stop on selected itineraries. Travel is regulated by Saint Lucia to ensure the protection of its natural wonders, keeping the crowds down.

5. The drive-in volcano. Gotcha! Although it is often referred to as the drive-in volcano, you can only drive up to the Soufriere Volcanic Area, but not in the crater. Otherwise you’d be stuck in one of 24 bubbling mud pools. Guides can walk you in through marked paths. It’s located on the southwest coast of the island just north of the Pitons and a fantastic natural feature to check out.

Before traveling to Saint Lucia, check the latest travel conditions and protocols at:

www.stlucianow.com

Take a sneak peak at the wonders of Saint Lucia by clicking here.

Still have question about this stunning island? Schedule your complimentary Caribbean Tropical Escape Session at a time that is convenient for you at www.ConsultationWithLeah.