Day 2 -- ShopaholicWhen you wake up -- however late that may be, due to your rum-induced haze -- check out of the resort and head northwest into Castries, the capital of St. Lucia. As you make your way, be sure to arrange a tour of the Sulphur Springs, the island’s famous “drive-in” volcano. Afterward, check in to the hip four-star boutique Coco Palm hotel at Rodney Bay. Centrally located, you won’t need to walk far or fritter away your travel budget on taxi after taxi.
Spend the morning wondering around the town, ensuring that you check out Derek Walcott Square and its 19th-century cathedral (also be sure to note the 400-year-old Samaan tree that stands next to it). With your cash at the ready, browse the 100-year-old market in the same square, which is usually bustling with eager sellers and enthusiastic shoppers. Don't forget to pick up some local goods like handmade crafts, pottery, baskets, woodcarvings, and paintings for those back home.
If you’re after duty-free goods, your best bet is to check out the stores around Point Seraphine and La Place Carenage, which are modern shopping centers near Castries’ port. Here, you’ll be able to snap up luxury watches and jewelery for half the usual price at Colombian Emeralds and Little Switzerland, Cuban and Dominican Republic cigars at Corpelon Liquor & Tobacco, original works by local artist Llewellyn Xavier at St. Lucia Fine Arts, Caribbean music and electronics at Paramount Electronic and Music Centre, and imported goods from England at Pickwick & Co. While you’re here, have a spot of lunch at one of the center’s many restaurants. If you’re feeling daring, try Conch fritters -- a Caribbean specialty that will have your taste buds dancing.
Weighed down with your wares, finish off your whirlwind tour of Castries by taking a wander up to Morne Fortuné, known as the “hill of good luck,” which boasts panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Here you will find the 18th century Fort Charlotte, which was a key battleground during the colonial possession of St. Lucia. Even if you’re not a history buff, the sight is something to behold.
Spend your second evening soaking up some traditional culture at the Derek Walcott Centre Theatre at the Cap Estate plantation. Take in an evening show -- whether that be music, dance or drama -- and experience the wonder of an open-air performance. Named after the West Indian writer, the 200-seat theater is a must-visit when on the island, as it showcases the very best of St. Lucian talent.
With all that culture whetting your appetite, head over to the historic San Antoine restaurant at Castries harbor after the show is finished and dine on five-star fare. Originally built in the late 1800s, the restaurant itself is as much of an experience as its fresh seafood with thick stone walls, stylish arches, winding staircases, and vaulted doorways.
Feeling delightfully plump, head back to your hotel to hanker down for the night.
