Let your heart be light on this Caribbean island in the sun.
There are few places left in the world where you can truly have a romantic and relaxing vacation. Well, if you're looking for a romantic interlude during the cold winter months in Canada, we've found just the place for you. Allow us to introduce you to St. Lucia. Warm temperatures, plush and sandy beaches, breathtaking views of mountains and a Caribbean vibe that will ease your stress and teach you to enjoy life to the fullest. As a small island (roughly 3.5 times the size of Washington D.C.) made out of volcanic rock -- you will be treated to a gorgeous mountainous view from every corner. It's all for the taking (and sunbathing) in this small island gem of the Caribbean. And with non-stop flights offered by the friendly Canadian airline Westjet, hopping on a flight has never been easier. Not yet completely embedded with American tourists and resorts -- you can get the true Caribbean feel and learn to just sit back and relax and let your romantic imagination wander.
Ti Kaye Village:
An absolute must for the romantic at heart is Ti Kaye Village located in Anse Cochon on the western side of the island. With private bungalows stilted on the steep mountains overlooking the gorgeous Caribbean sea you may never want to head back to the chilly weathers of home. The small village geared to honeymooners or the couple looking for some privacy, also has a private beach that touches the pristine waters and an amazing restaurant on site -- so you never really have to leave your own private paradise. Who could want more?
Pigeon Island:
Maybe hiking to the top of a mountain in 30-degree weather near dusk isn't your idea of romance -- but we beg you to give it a try (just pack lots of bug spray!). Pigeon Island, located just north of Castries, was used as a major look-out point for the French military during their occupation. What remains today are the ruins of the forts that are all accessible to the public either through a private tour, or on your own to explore. Along the hike up the mountain to the look-out point, you will catch breathtaking views of the island and the harbour of Castries -- and once at the top you and your beau can look out at the Caribbean sea while the hot sun sets -- creating the perfect romantic getaway. Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and it's a romantic dinner you will never forget.
A romantic stay at the Coco Palm:
With an amazing location in Rodney Bay Village (close to just about everything!), the Coco Palm Resort is an ideal getaway for the romantic couple. The cozy hotel designed to remind us of the French-Caribbean influence and plantation history in St. Lucia is a short drive away from a pristine beach, Pigeon Island, and Castries. The laid back atmosphere from the staff will ensure you will have tons of privacy, or they can help you arrange a romantic St. Lucia rendezvous. The swim-up pool to your room isn't so bad either!
Rain forest canopy ride:
The earthy green forest and the fresh moist air is just right for a romantic setting au naturel, so why not take a trip through the amazing rain forest in St. Lucia? Enjoy a ride through the rain forest and all it's wonders to the top of the mountain where the view itself will provide more romantic inspiration.
Hit the beach:
Let's face it -- beaches are serene, peaceful, beautiful and conjure up many romantic ideas. Take advantage of St. Lucia beaches all over the island with calmer waters on the Caribbean Sea side and a slightly more rocky feel on the Atlantic Ocean side. Sure, you can both lounge all day in the sand and soak up those gorgeous rays -- or you can go snorkeling, horse back riding along the beach, go on a sailboat ride, scuba diving -- the possibilities are endless for you to enjoy the sun, sand, and water in St. Lucia.
Catamaran cruise around the island:
Take an entire day to relax, soak up the sun and be enchanted by the coastline of St. Lucia -- trust us, once you step off the catamaran in the evening any stress you may have had will have melted away in the sun. Cruises are readily available for a reasonable cost and many stop at gorgeous points along the way -- so you can take a peek at Marigot Bay on the west side of the island where Oprah has a mansion, and stop by the spectacular focal point of the island, the Pitons on the southwestern tip. As the boat motors around the intricate coves and bays, you can lounge together while looking at the glistening waters. For the ultra-romantic take a sunset catamaran cruise to catch the brilliant last moments of the day. Ahh, the romance.
