LOGISTICS NOTE
Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs looks forward to welcoming you to our beautiful island. Here are some guidelines to help make your stay comfortable and productive.
🌴 Quick Facts About Saint Lucia
LOCATION
Second largest of the Windward group in the Lesser Antilles. Capital: Castries.
POPULATION
171,834
(Saint Lucia 2022 population and housing census - Provisional Results - Release 1)
LANGUAGE
Official: English. Widely Spoken: Saint Lucian French Creole.
CLIMATE
Tropical maritime. Mean temp ≈ 80°F. Dry season: January-May. Rainy season: June-December.
POWER
Type A and B sockets. 220-240v, 50HZ.
TIME ZONE
Atlantic Standard Time (AST) UTC-4.
CURRENCY & EXCHANGE RATE
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). While the exchange rate remains largely stable, it is subject to prevailing market rates. US Dollars are widely accepted, typically at the following conversion:
1 USD = 2.71 XCD (selling) / 2.67 XCD (buying)
Major credit cards and ATMs are readily available.✈️ Travel & Transportation
Airports
- Hewanorra International Airport (UVF): Located in Vieux Fort (South). For international travel.
- George F.L Charles (GFL): Located in Castries (North). For regional travel.
Ground Transportation
- Taxis: Readily available. UVF to the North (Rodney Bay) is approx. 1hr 30min, costing ≈ 120 USD.
- Rental Cars: Available, but note that driving is on the left side of the road.
- Public Transport: Buses and mini-buses (route taxis) are also readily available.
🏥 Health & Medical Services
Saint Lucia's healthcare system offers a mix of public and private medical services. For urgent, non-life-threatening conditions, services can be accessed at the polyclinics and wellness centers.
Emergency & Hospital Contacts
| Health Facility | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Millennium Heights Medical Complex (Castries) | 758 458 6500 |
| St Jude Hospital (Vieux Fort) | 758 459 6700 |
| Gros Islet Polyclinic | 758 468 7630 / 7637 |
| Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic (Castries) | 758 468 8880 |
| Tapion Hospital (Private - Castries) | 758 459 2000 |
🚨 Safety and Emergency
EMERGENCY NUMBERS (911 / 999)
POLICE
999
FIRE
911
AMBULANCE
911
General Safety Guidelines
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Avoid displaying signs of affluence (loud jewelry, large sums of cash).
- Use only licensed taxis and avoid travelling alone if possible.
- Inform a family member or hotel reception if venturing out alone.
- Keep valuables secure in your hotel safe.
🛂 Immigration and Entry Requirements
MANDATORY Electronic Immigration Form
All air travelers are required to complete this form 72 hours before arrival.
Complete Immigration Form →- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
- Visa Requirements: Most nationalities need only a passport, but some require a visa.
- Vaccinations: Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if traveling from an endemic region.
👔 Dress Code and Local Advice
Formal / Work Attire
- Formal business attire is expected for work, meetings, and consultations.
- Not accepted: Jeans, strapless shirts, t-shirts, or revealing clothing.
Casual Attire & Tips
- Sundresses, shorts, T-shirts, lightweight pants, and tops with sandals/sneakers are accepted for casual outings.
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk are highly recommended.
- Bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen for protection.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
- • Mosquito repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET is encouraged.
- • Camouflage prints are illegal to wear in Saint Lucia.
⛰️ More About Saint Lucia
We encourage you to interact with our friendly people and explore our beautiful island. Saint Lucia offers a variety of vacation experiences, from relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring lush rainforests.
Popular Attractions & Activities
- Attractions: The Pitons, drive-in volcano, mud baths, mineral springs, and historic plantations.
- Activities: Zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.