About Region Number 1
Region Number 1 in Saint Lucia is the vibrant Castries Quarter, the island's bustling capital region and main gateway. This area offers a captivating blend of urban energy and natural beauty, centered around Castries Harbor—one of the Caribbean's most picturesque ports. Travelers can explore the colorful Castries Market, where local artisans sell spices, crafts, and fresh tropical produce, or visit the historic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception with its stunning murals. Just minutes from the city center, Morne Fortune provides panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding hills. The region serves as the perfect base for exploring Saint Lucia's wonders, with easy access to nearby attractions like Pigeon Island National Landmark, a historic site with military ruins and beautiful beaches. From lively Friday night street parties to serene sunset views over the Caribbean Sea, Region Number 1 immerses visitors in authentic Saint Lucian culture while offering modern amenities and convenient transportation connections to the island's famous Pitons, rainforests, and resort areas.
Places to visit in Region Number 1
La Quinta Inn & Suites El Paso East
La Quinta Inn & Suites El Paso East, 7944 Gateway Boulevard East, El Paso, TX 79915, United States of America
Cortez Motel
Cortez Motel, Alameda Avenue, El Paso, TX 79915, United States of America
Fabens Inn
Fabens Inn, 1884 Fabens Road, Fabens, TX 79838, United States of America
Courtyard by Marriot Juárez
Courtyard by Marriot Juárez, Calle San Antonio 9020, Pradera Dorada, 32668 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
InTown Suites Extended Stay El Paso
InTown Suites Extended Stay El Paso, 7984 Gateway Boulevard East, El Paso, TX 79907, United States of America
Ramada El Paso
Ramada El Paso, 8250 Gateway Boulevard East, El Paso, TX 79907, United States of America
Consulado Inn
Consulado Inn, Avenida Ejército Nacional, Pradera Dorada, 32543 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
La Quinta
La Quinta, Avenida Ejército Nacional, Pradera Dorada, 32319 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
Extended Suites Ciudad Juárez Consulado
Extended Suites Ciudad Juárez Consulado, Calle Almeno, Pradera Dorada, 32618 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
Value Place El Paso, Texas (Gateway)
Value Place El Paso, Texas (Gateway), 12215 Gateway Boulevard West, El Paso, TX 79936, United States of America
Holiday In Ciudad Juarez
Holiday In Ciudad Juarez, Avenida Tecnológico 3620, Pradera Dorada, 32617 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
Motel Lebaron
Motel Lebaron, Avenida Tecnológico, Pradera Dorada, 32500 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
Holiday Inn Express
Holiday Inn Express, Calle Paseo de la Victoria 4202, Pradera Dorada, 32618 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
Mickey Mouse aereo
Mickey Mouse aereo, Paseos del Alba, 32692 Ciudad Juárez, CHH, Mexico
La Quinta Inn
La Quinta Inn, 11033 Gateway Boulevard West, El Paso, TX 79935, United States of America
Travel Tips for Region Number 1
Getting Around
Mini-buses (vans) are the main public transport—look for 'C' route codes for Castries areas. They're affordable but can be crowded. Licensed taxis are plentiful (no meters—negotiate fares first). Popular taxi stands at Castries Market and harbor. Car rentals available at Hewanorra Airport and in Castries (require local permit). Driving is on the left with narrow, winding roads. Water taxis connect Castries to Vigie Beach. Walking is practical in central Castries but challenging in hilly areas. No ride-sharing apps operate, but local taxi services can be booked by phone.
Best Time To Visit
December to April offers dry, sunny weather with lower humidity—perfect for exploring markets and outdoor attractions. January-April has minimal rainfall and temperatures around 27-29°C (80-85°F). May-June and November provide good weather with fewer crowds and lower prices. Avoid September-October, peak hurricane season with highest rainfall. Major festivals include Saint Lucia Jazz (May) and Carnival (July), offering vibrant cultural experiences.
Local Customs
Greet people with 'Good morning/afternoon' before conversations. Dress modestly when not at beaches—cover shoulders and knees in towns and markets. Swimwear is for beaches/resorts only. Tipping: 10-15% in restaurants if service not included; small change for taxi drivers and porters. Respect religious sites—dress conservatively for churches. Friday night is 'Jump Up' with street parties featuring soca and reggae music. Always ask permission before photographing locals. Haggling is acceptable at Castries Market but not in shops.
Safety Information
Castries is generally safe during daylight hours, especially in tourist areas and markets. Exercise normal precautions: avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes, and be cautious in isolated areas after dark. The Vigie area near the airport and beaches is well-patrolled. Common concerns include petty theft from vehicles and opportunistic bag-snatching in crowded areas. Use licensed taxis (identified by 'TX' plates) rather than unofficial transport. Avoid walking alone on deserted beaches at night. Hurricane season (June-November) requires monitoring weather alerts.
Health Information
Region Number 1 has the island's best medical facilities including Victoria Hospital (public) and Tapion Hospital (private) in Castries. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and chikungunya are present—use insect repellent. Tap water in urban areas is generally safe, but bottled water is recommended for sensitive individuals. Pharmacies are widely available in Castries. The tropical sun requires strong sunscreen protection.
Languages Spoken
EnglishSaint Lucian Creole French
Quick Facts
Currency
Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD)
$
$
Timezone
America/St_Lucia -04:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+1
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
70,000
Area
79 km²
Government
Local district council under central government administration