Travel Essentials › St. Lucia
Travel Essentials
Plugs: Type G (some A and B), 240 V. Emergency: One number for everything 911 or 999. Tipping: A 10 percent service charge is often added to restaurant bills; if not, leave about 10 percent. Tap water: Tap water is generally safe in towns; use bottled water if unsure, especially after storms.
Type G (some A and B), 240 V
| One number for everything | 911 or 999 |
A 10 percent service charge is often added to restaurant bills; if not, leave about 10 percent.
Greetings. Say good morning or good afternoon when you enter a shop, bus or restaurant; skipping it is seen as rude. Handshakes are normal, and friends may hug or kiss on the cheek.
Beachwear. Swimwear is for the beach and pool only; cover up in towns, shops and churches.
Photos. Ask before photographing people, especially market vendors and children.
Most visits are trouble-free, but petty theft and some violent crime occur, so take normal care in Castries and Rodney Bay at night.
Unofficial guides and hawkers. Some people near beaches and sights offer unrequested tours or crafts; politely say no and agree a price first for any service.
Unmarked taxis. Use licensed taxis (marked with a taxi plate) and agree the fare before you start.
Women travelers. Women traveling alone may get unwanted attention; avoid isolated beaches and trails alone.
Legal · Use Caution
Same-sex relations between adults were struck down as a crime by the court in 2025, but society is conservative and public affection is best avoided.
| Coffee (café) | XCD 10 | $3.70 |
| Local bus or metro ride | XCD 3 | $1.10 |
| Mid-range restaurant meal | XCD 70 | $26 |
| Hostel bed / budget room (night) | XCD 160 | $60 |
| Mid-range hotel (night) | XCD 540 | $200 |
| Daily budget, mid-range traveler | XCD 540 | $200 |
2026-09
December to April is the dry, sunny season with the best weather; June to November is hurricane season, with the most risk from August to October.