Travel tips · Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Caribbeandy, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Saint Lucia changed hands between France and Britain many times before independence in 1979, and its culture mixes African, French and British roots. English is the official language, but most Saint Lucians also speak Kwéyòl, a French-based creole. The island has produced two Nobel laureates, the poet Derek Walcott and economist Sir Arthur Lewis.
Key facts
- Language
- English and Saint Lucian Creole
- Currency
- XCD
- Plugs
- Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is treated in the main areas, though many visitors prefer bottled or…
- Emergency
- 911 or 999
Things to know
- Greet people before asking questions; 'good morning' and 'good afternoon' are expected.
- Beachwear is for beaches; cover up in towns, shops and churches.
- A firm 'no, thank you' is usually enough with persistent beach vendors and unofficial guides.
- Ask before photographing people, especially in markets and villages.
- Use licensed guides at sites such as Gros Piton and Sulphur Springs.
- Fly into the airport closest to your hotel where you can; the UVF transfer to the north is long and costly.
Tipping
A 10% service charge is commonly included in restaurant bills. Where it is not, about 10–15% is normal. Tip guides, drivers and boat crews for good service.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bonjou | Good morning (Kwéyòl) |
| Sa ka fèt? | How are you? (Kwéyòl) |
| Mèsi | Thank you (Kwéyòl) |
| Liming | Relaxing and hanging out |
What to wear
Bring light clothing, a rain jacket for the interior and sturdy shoes for hiking. Some resort restaurants expect smart-casual dress in the evening.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is treated in the main areas, though many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, especially after heavy rain.
- Emergency number
- 911 or 999
- Phone and internet
- Wi-Fi is standard at hotels; local SIMs and eSIMs give good coverage on the west coast, with weaker signal in the interior and on the east coast.
- Time zone
- America/St Lucia
Petty theft and persistent vendors are the most common issues; keep valuables secure and use licensed taxis at night. Swim on the calmer west coast, as Atlantic beaches on the east coast have strong currents, and hike steep trails with a guide.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Saint Lucia's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Saint Lucia?
A 10% service charge is commonly included in restaurant bills. Where it is not, about 10–15% is normal. Tip guides, drivers and boat crews for good service.
+Can you drink the tap water in Saint Lucia?
Tap water is treated in the main areas, though many visitors prefer bottled or filtered water, especially after heavy rain.
+What plugs are used in Saint Lucia?
Type G sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in Saint Lucia?
English and Saint Lucian Creole.