St Lucia flights and travel guide

Language

English is the official language, but St Lucian Creole is widely spoken.

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Communications

The international access code for St Lucia is +1 758. The outgoing code is 011 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 01144 for the United Kingdom), the outgoing code is not needed for calls to Canada and the US. City/area codes are not in use. Pay phones accept coins and pre-paid card phones, available at shopsthroughout the island. AT&T calling cards can be used for cheaper international calls. Mobile phone operators provide good GSM 900, 1800 and 1900 network coverage of the island. Email and Internet access is available at Internet cafes throughout the island.

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Tipping

A service charge is not automatically added to bills and about 10 per cent of the bill is expected. Taxi drivers, porters and chambermaids also expect to receive tips.

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Safety

Most visits to Saint Lucia are trouble-free, but visitors should take common-sense precautions against robbery and theft. Isolated areas, such as beaches, should be avoided after dark. Hurricane season is generally from June to November.

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Health

There are few health risks associated with travel to St Lucia, although the mosquito-carried dengue fever is a risk throughout the island. HIV is prevalent and precautions are advised. No vaccinations are required, however a yellow fever certificate is necessary for travellers arriving from infected areas. Health care costs are high on the island and health insurance is recommended, which should cover medical evacuation. EHIC card holders are entitled to emergency medical treatment in the case of evacuation to Martinique, on the same terms as Martinique nationals, of which 70 per cent of the costs can be reclaimed.

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Electricity

240 volts, 50Hz. Three square-pin plugs are standard.

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