11 2025 Saint Lucia, Castries
Saint Lucia embodies the essence of the Caribbeans. Life moves at a relaxed pace, with a touch of Rastafarian influence. While the island faces its challenges, its diversity and creativity shine through, offering inspiration at every turn—including the constant “hustling” to spark conversation and make a sale. Yet, despite the hustle, the friendliness of the people is undeniable, and the food is good.
A massive cruise ship spits out 2,435 passengers who vanish into the island. They’re nowhere to be seen in the bustling market or the streets of Castries.
When night falls, the atmosphere shifts. The sounds of lively music lead me to a youth steel band rehearsing for a national competition. I arrive just after their official performance, but the impromptu jam session that follows proves just as thrilling, a raw burst of energy and rhythm.
Next day life feels like a true celebration during the Caribbean Heritage Day festival. At roadside food stalls, DJ’s play high-energy music (Soca), the beats reverberating for hundreds of meters. Locals don traditional attire, and the streets are alive with sound and color. The children of my host—a local policeman—pose hesitantly for photos before going to school. Meanwhile, in the town, local banks offer Creole snacks for all to enjoy.
Ricardo, featured in the cover photo, has no qualms about posing for a picture. In fact, he seems to have few worries at all. A dive instructor I met at the marina in Castries, Ricardo had just returned from a diving trip when we crossed paths.
Saint Lucia caught my eye when Julian Alfred won a first gold medal ever on the Olympics in 2024. Understandibly she is a local celebrity inspiring the local population.
The island, a former British colony, lives on tourists. Apart from he cruise ships there habitat is expensive heavily guarded “adults only” resorts that have appropriated the most attractive beaches. Fortunately they (must?) allow outsiders access.
Kwenlyn walked to the beach on foot. Currently she is on maternity leave to look after her 6th child. No husband, she cleans holiday villa’s. She needs 700 ECD (270 E) per week for food. While the schools are not so bad here, in her opinion a lot depends on the children themselves. Some learn anywhere but her little son needs more focussed attention. 
I’m visiting at the tail end of the rainy season, and the occasional light, sometimes heavy, showers don’t bother me one bit in the 34°C heat. When the sun breaks through, my clothes dry in minutes, and the sky often rewards the wait with a stunning rainbow, creating beautiful, artistic vistas.
