Say YES to Saint Lucia!

Falling in love with Saint Lucia is easy. From the picture postcard-perfect beaches to the lush rainforests, deep history, creole culture, warm and friendly locals and, of course, the iconic Pitons – it really captures your heart. Which is rather apt given that the recent trip I attended was centred on Saint Lucia as a romance destination! I was one of eight UK agents and tour operators that were invited to explore the Island as part of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority’s Global Romance Summit – a week-long trip that offered us access to the Island’s top resorts, activities, and wedding suppliers. This means I have specialist knowledge and access to suppliers for my clients who are planning to propose, get married or honeymoon on this fabulous island. The special guest at the Romance Summit was Dr Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Information, who explained his thoughts and vision for encouraging visitors to get out and explore and experience all the island has to offer. So that’s precisely what we did. From hiking to the top of Pigeon Island, to dancing the night away at the Gros Islet street party, chocolate making at the Howelton Estate, sailing to the Pitons aboard a catamaran, ziplining through the rainforest, bathing in mud at the sulphur springs and dashing through the hills on segways. We also squeezed in 16 hotel visits and some sensational lunches, dinners and rum cocktails enroute….all in the name of research! Weddings are really easy to arrange in Saint Lucia and there is such a broad range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. It’s worth noting that Saint Lucia does not have a residency period, so this allows marriage licenses to be obtained within 24 for hours of arrival (same day application) or the couple is required to be in Saint Lucia two days prior to their wedding (regular application). When planning a wedding I can either put you in touch with the team at your resort or one of the independent wedding experts on the island. The latter all have their own unique style and it’s a close-knit community so they will happily refer you to a colleague if they think there will be a better fit for you. The island is a story of two halves and so a split stay is a great idea. Head North first for fun and adventure, ensuring you include a Friday for the street party at Gros Islet. The land transfer north is c. 1.5 hours and the roads are bumpy, so if budget allows then a helicopter or ferry transfer could be a good alternative. Then head south for nature and serenity. Favourite properties include Jade Mountain and Anse Chasenet (the views), Cap Maison (the beach vibe) and Sugar Beach (the spa). The magic for any wedding or honeymoon comes from the extra sparkle I can help you add. I have access to all my contacts on the ground and can help my clients arrange the perfect celebration - whether that's a proposal, renewal of vows, wedding, honeymoon or wedding anniversary.

So if you're thinking of marking your special occasion overseas then I would recommend you say YES to Saint Lucia!