CURRENCY: St. Lucia's official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar - EC$. US Dollars are widely accepted, as are all the major credit cards. You can expect an exchange rate of US$ 1.00 = EC$ 2.65

BANKING: Banking hours are generally; Mon - Thur 8.00am - 3.00pm. Fri 8.00am - 5.00pm. Some of the major banks have their sub-branches open on Saturday mornings.

SHOPPING: Shopping hours are similar; Mon - Fri 8.00am - 12.30pm. 1.30pm - 4.30pm. Sat 8.00am - 12.30pm. Supermarkets generally stay open later.
DRESS CODE: Casual dress is normal although some hotels and restaurants require 'elegantly casual' in the evenings. Please ensure to cover up if you are venturing into the shops from the beach.

ELECTRICITY: The electricity supply is 220 volts at 50 cycles, so remember to pack those transformers if you need them!

LOCATION & CLIMATE: One of the Windward islands, St. Lucia lies between Martinique to the north and St. Vincent to the south. More precisely, between 60° 53' and 61° 05' West longitude and 13°43' and 14°05' North latitude. Typically sunny Caribbean climate and an average temperature of 28ºC (82ºF) throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from June to October. Average rainfall ranges from 60 inches at the coast to 160 inches in the rainforest areas.

TELEPHONES: Fixed line, cellular and other telecommunication services, including internet services, are reliable. Cellular roaming services are available. Phone cards are also popular.

WATER: St. Lucia's water supply is provided by natural springs and is safe to drink.