Saint Lucia
About Saint Lucia
| Currency | East Caribbean dollar (XCD) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | Castries |
Saint Lucia is an island in the eastern Caribbean, part of the Lesser Antilles and one of the Windward Islands. It is north of Trinidad and Tobago and south of Martinique. The estimated population is 161,000 people. While English is the official language, French patois is also spoken.
The government is a parliamentary democracy and St. Lucia is a Commonwealth realm. The chief of state is the monarch of England, with a governor general as the monarch’s representative and appointed by the monarch. The head of government is a prime minister. In 1979, Saint Lucia became an independent state of the British Commonwealth of Nations.
Tourism is the mainstay of St. Lucia’s economy and the largest source of employment. The island has a mountainous terrain with hills leading up to active volcanoes. Tourist attractions include many sandy beaches, rain forests and walking trails. Scuba diving and sailing can be found almost anywhere. St. Lucia’s culture is a reflection of West Indian life with its unique cuisine and reggae music.
Recommended Vaccinations For Saint Lucia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country. Therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Yellow Fever Vaccine
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in Saint Lucia. However, this country requires a certificate of yellow fever vaccination from all travellers aged 9 months or older if they are arriving from a region where there is a risk of yellow fever.
Recommended Medications For Saint Lucia
There are no recommendations for Saint Lucia at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Saint Lucia
For Most Travellers
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever outbreaks have occurred in Saint Lucia, and the risk to travellers is significant.
Hepatitis B
There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in Saint Lucia.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in Saint Lucia through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
For Some Travellers
Zika Fever
There is transmission of the Zika virus in this country.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in Saint Lucia, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in Saint Lucia. However, this country requires a certificate of yellow fever vaccination from all travellers aged 9 months or older if they are arriving from a region where there is a risk of yellow fever.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Safety & Security in Saint Lucia
Personal Safety
Travellers should be aware of their personal safety in Saint Lucia as the country has a moderate crime rate. Petty crime, such as theft and pick-pocketing, is common in tourist areas, and increases during annual festivals. Travellers should ensure their personal belongings, valuables, and travel documents are kept safe at all times.
Violent muggings can also occur. Travellers should avoid isolated areas and unpatrolled beaches, particularly after dark.
Same-sex sexual activity is illegal. Those convicted can be sentenced up to 10 years of imprisonment. LGBT+ travellers should note that due to the conservative nature of the country, there could be intolerance towards public displays of affection.
Areas To Avoid
The following areas should be avoided as they are unsafe and experience high criminal activity: Marchand, St. Grass, St. Leslie Land, and Wilton Yard.
