St. Lucia Travel Blog

Experience the Magic of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 17:31:53 GMT

A Festival That Celebrates More Than Music

Each year, Saint Lucia comes alive with rhythm, colour, and creativity—and in 2026, the island’s most anticipated cultural celebration promises to be bigger and more inspiring than ever. The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival , taking place from April 30 to May 10, 2026 , is a vibrant fusion of world-class music, immersive art, and authentic Caribbean culture.

For travellers seeking more than just a beach holiday, this iconic festival offers an unforgettable way to experience the soul of Saint Lucia—where every note, every brushstroke, and every performance tells a story.

The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival is far more than a traditional jazz event. Since its beginnings in 1992, it has evolved into one of the Caribbean’s premier cultural showcases, blending genres such as jazz, R&B, reggae, soca, gospel, and pop with theatre, visual arts, and culinary experiences.

In 2026, the festival continues this rich tradition with an expanded arts programme running from April 25 to May 15 , transforming the island—especially the capital, Castries—into a living gallery of creativity.

Visitors can expect:

Open-air art exhibitions and installations
Theatre productions and spoken word performances
Film showcases highlighting Caribbean storytelling
Pop-up performances and cultural activations across the island

From bustling city streets to serene coastal communities, the festival invites guests to explore Saint Lucia through its artistic heartbeat.

Shervon Sealy

World-Class Performances St Lucia

The music lineup for 2026 reflects the festival’s global appeal, featuring an exciting mix of international stars and local talent. Headliners include renowned artists such as Brandy & Monica, Tems, Ella Mai, and The Original Wailers , alongside beloved Caribbean performers.

Performances take place at some of Saint Lucia’s most breathtaking venues, including:

Pigeon Island National Landmark – the festival’s iconic main stage
Mindoo Philip Park – host of the electrifying Opening Night
Scenic beachfronts and community venues across the island

Beyond the headline concerts, Community Jazz events bring music into villages and intimate settings, offering visitors a chance to connect with local culture in a meaningful way.

Art and the City: Creativity Takes Over Castries

Art and the City

One of the standout features of the 2026 festival is “Art and the City” , a dynamic initiative that transforms Castries into an interactive cultural hub. Streets become stages, and public spaces evolve into galleries where art, music, and storytelling intersect.

Highlights include:

“Life in Colour” visual art exhibitions
“Voices of the Underground” spoken word showcases
Theatre productions and film screenings
Surprise pop-up performances through ARTSCAPE

This immersive experience allows visitors to explore the island’s creativity in unexpected and exciting ways.

Nigella St Clair-Daniel

Skip Marley & The Original Wailers

Origins and evolution

Purpose

Launched in 1992 to boost tourism during the island’s off-peak season, the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival quickly grew into a major cultural attraction. In 2013, it evolved into the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, expanding its scope to include visual arts, dance, fashion, and culinary showcases alongside music performances.

Music and performers

The festival has featured a wide range of international stars, including Herbie Hancock, John Legend, Diana Ross, UB40, Santana, Sting and Amy Winehouse, as well as Caribbean icons such as Beres Hammond and Machel Montano . Its programming now spans jazz, soul, Afrobeat, and Caribbean rhythms, appealing to diverse musical tastes.

Venues

The main performances traditionally take place at Pigeon Island National Landmark, a historic fort site overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Complementary events are staged in Castries, Soufrière, and other towns, creating an island-wide celebration with open-air concerts, exhibitions, and street parties.

Cultural and economic impact

The festival has become integral to Saint Lucia’s cultural identity and tourism economy. It promotes local artisans, encourages youth participation in the arts, and draws thousands of visitors annually, helping position Saint Lucia as a leading destination for music and culture in the Caribbean.

Brandy & Monica

X-Man

Plan Your Festival Getaway

The Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival

is not just an event—it’s a celebration of identity, creativity, and connection. It brings together visitors and locals alike in a shared appreciation of music, art, and culture, all set against the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.

With its combination of world-class entertainment and authentic Caribbean experiences, it’s easy to see why this festival continues to attract travellers from around the globe year after year.

For those planning to attend, early booking is highly recommended—both for festival tickets and accommodations—so you can fully immerse yourself in everything Saint Lucia has to offer.

Discover Saint Lucia at Its Most Vibrant

Live Music needs a Vibrant Venue

From the pulsating rhythms of live performances to the colourful expressions of local art, the 2026 Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival promises an unforgettable escape. Pair that with a luxurious stay at Calabash Cove, and you have the perfect recipe for a Caribbean experience unlike any other.

This spring, let Saint Lucia move you—through music, through art, and through moments you’ll carry long after the final encore.

The Pitons

Calabash Cove

Stay in Style at Calabash Cove Resort and Spa.

Saint Lucia's Favourite Boutique Resort

After a day (or night) of music and cultural discovery, there’s no better place to unwind than Calabash Cove Resort and Spa —a tranquil, adults-only sanctuary nestled along Saint Lucia’s stunning northwest coast.

Perfectly positioned for festival-goers, Calabash Cove offers the ideal balance between excitement and relaxation. Guests can enjoy easy access to key festival venues while retreating to a peaceful haven of luxury and privacy.

Whether you’re attending a lively concert at Pigeon Island or exploring the artistic energy of Castries, returning to Calabash Cove ensures every day ends in comfort and style.

What makes Calabash Cove the perfect festival base

Secluded beachfront location with breathtaking Caribbean views
Elegant suites and cottages , many with private plunge pools
A serene infinity pool overlooking the ocean
Award-winning dining featuring fresh, local flavours
A full-service spa for rejuvenation between events

A World in Flux: Rethinking Travel Choices

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 19:43:21 GMT

A Safe Harbour in Changing Times: Why Saint Lucia Offers Reassurance for Travellers.

What's on your Checklist?

Safety, Tranquility, Karma, Wellness and Sustainability are starting to take over.

Travel has always reflected the mood of the world. In recent times, many travelers have begun reconsidering destinations that once felt effortlessly appealing. Regions like the United Arab Emirates—particularly Dubai —have long symbolised modern luxury, offering dazzling skylines, world-class shopping, and an endless stream of entertainment.

Yet, when uncertainty touches a region, even indirectly, it can shift perceptions. Safety becomes more than a checklist—it becomes the foundation of a truly relaxing holiday. Travelers are not simply seeking luxury anymore; they are seeking peace of mind.

It is in this context that the Caribbean, and especially Saint Lucia, quietly emerges as a reassuring alternative— not by competing with urban spectacle , but by offering something far more enduring: natural calm, stability, and genuine warmth.

What does Safe mean?

What defines a safe destination?

It is not just the absence of risk, but the presence of ease. In Saint Lucia, life unfolds at a gentler pace.

There are no headlines of geopolitical tension, no sense of unease lingering beneath the surface.

Instead, visitors find an island shaped by nature rather than conflict.

The rhythms here are dictated by the sea, the trade winds, and the rising and setting of the sun.

This is not to say Saint Lucia is untouched by challenge. The Caribbean has faced hurricanes and natural forces over the years—reminders of nature’s power.

We weather our Storms

These are events that communities prepare for, recover from, and grow stronger through.

They are fundamentally different from human-made crises.

For travelers, that distinction matters. One feels like a shared respect for nature; the other, an unpredictability no itinerary can accommodate.

From a Spectacle. to the Spectacular

Beauty Over Brilliance: A Different Kind of Luxury

Dubai built its reputation on spectacle—architectural marvels, vast malls, and curated experiences designed to impress. Saint Lucia offers something quieter, yet arguably more profound.

Here, luxury is not constructed; it is discovered. The iconic Pitons rise dramatically from the sea, rainforests hum with life, and beaches stretch untouched by overdevelopment.

There are no indoor ski slopes or mega-malls—but there are sunsets that stop you mid-sentence, and waters so clear they seem almost unreal.

A Warm Welcome:

Safety Through Community.

Safety is not only about infrastructure or geography—it is also about people. In Saint Lucia, visitors are not just guests; they are welcomed with genuine affection.

The island’s culture is rooted in hospitality.

From hotel staff to local artisans, there is a sense of pride in sharing this corner of the world. That warmth creates an environment where travellers feel looked after, not just accommodated.

Unlike larger, more transient destinations, Saint Lucia retains a strong sense of community.

That continuity fosters both security and authenticity—two qualities increasingly rare in modern travel.

Naturally Reassuring

Health and Environment.

For many travellers, health considerations are just as important as safety. Saint Lucia offers a naturally reassuring environment.

There are no dangerous animals to be concerned about, and marine life is typically gentle—most commonly including harmless nurse sharks. The island is free from many of the concerns that can accompany more remote or undeveloped regions.

Clean sea air, fresh local produce, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle all contribute to a sense of wellbeing that begins the moment you arrive.

It is the kind of place where you can truly switch off—because there is nothing demanding your vigilance.

Easy to Reach

Hard to Leave

Accessibility plays a crucial role in modern travel decisions. Fortunately, Saint Lucia is well connected, particularly for travellers from the United States, where flight options are plentiful and convenient.

For those travelling from the United Kingdom, service has become more streamlined, with routes operated by British Airways offering direct access to the island.

However, availability is limited compared to larger hubs. This makes early booking essential—especially for those planning travel through the remainder of the year.

Securing preferred dates now ensures you can experience Saint Lucia at its best, without compromise.

A Thoughtful Perspective: Respecting the Moment

The True Luxury: Peace of Mind

Travel is never just about destinations; it is also about context. While some regions face challenges, it is important to approach choices with sensitivity and respect.

Saint Lucia does not position itself in opposition to other destinations, nor does it seek to capitalise on difficulties elsewhere. The island understands resilience—having weathered its own storms, quite literally.

Instead, it offers an alternative grounded in positivity: a place defined not by what it avoids, but by what it provides—beauty, tranquillity, and a sense of safety that feels both natural and genuine.

In the end, the most valuable aspect of any holiday is how it makes you feel.

Saint Lucia may not compete with the scale or spectacle of destinations like Dubai. It does not try to replicate their nightlife or retail experiences.

What it offers instead is something increasingly rare: the ability to relax completely. To feel safe without thinking about it. To enjoy each moment without distraction.

In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain, that kind of peace is not just desirable—it is essential.

And perhaps that is the true message: while some destinations impress, Saint Lucia reassures.

What does the FIFA World Cup mean to you?

Sat, 28 Mar 2026 17:29:36 GMT

Escape the World Cup Frenzy

Why Saint Lucia Might Be Your Perfect Getaway.

When the FIFA World Cup comes to the United States, it won’t just be a sporting event—it will be a full-scale national spectacle. Cities like Boston, New York, New Jersey, Miami, Philadelphia, and Atlanta are all set to become epicenters of global attention.

Millions of fans, media crews, security personnel, and officials will converge, transforming these already busy urban hubs into something far more intense.

For some, that electric atmosphere is irresistible. But for others—especially travelers seeking relaxation, simplicity, and a bit of sanity— it may be the perfect time to get as far away as possible.

The Reality of a Mega-Event

Let’s be honest: the World Cup isn’t just about football. It’s about logistics on a massive scale.

Expect heightened airport security, road closures, restricted zones, and a visible, sometimes overwhelming, policing presence. These cities will effectively operate under event-mode conditions for weeks. It becomes quite frankly, intimidating and nerve jangling.

Think about what that means in practice:

Airports will be crowded beyond normal peak-season levels
Hotels will be booked solid or priced sky-high
Traffic will be relentless, with detours and delays
Security checks will be stricter and more frequent
Public transport will be stretched to its limits

And that’s before factoring in the unpredictability —protests, fan clashes, or simply the chaos that comes with large crowds and heightened emotions.

Business as usual? Don't imagine so!

Layer onto this the ongoing geopolitical tensions—particularly in the Middle East—and the picture becomes even more complex.

Large international gatherings naturally draw increased security concerns. Governments respond accordingly, often with visible and sometimes intrusive measures.

While safety is, of course, the priority, the result for everyday travelers can be a more stressful, less enjoyable experience. The joy of spontaneous exploration gets replaced with queues, checks, and constant awareness.

So, what's the alternative?

Get outta Dodge for the duration

Sometimes the best travel decision isn’t about where to go—it’s about what to avoid.

If the U.S. is going to be in full World Cup mode, why not use that time to escape somewhere calmer, warmer, and infinitely more relaxing?

Somewhere close enough to reach easily, but far enough removed to feel like a different world.

That’s where the Caribbean comes in.

Why the Caribbean Makes Perfect Sense

The Caribbean offers a unique combination of accessibility and escape. From the U.S. East Coast, flights are relatively short—often under five hours. There’s no jet lag to battle, and the climate is reliably tropical.

But more importantly, the Caribbean exists in a different rhythm.

While the mainland buzzes with crowds and security operations, life in the islands continues at its own pace. Beaches replace stadiums. Ocean breezes replace sirens. Time slows down.

And among all the islands, one stands out as an ideal refuge:

Beautiful Saint Lucia

The Antidote to Chaos

Saint Lucia isn’t just another Caribbean destination—it’s a complete change of mindset.

Known for its dramatic Piton mountains, lush rainforests, and tranquil beaches, the island offers a kind of natural serenity that feels worlds away from the intensity of a global sporting event.

Here’s why it works so well as a World Cup escape:

Five Reasons to spend June/July here

1. Space to Breathe

Unlike crowded cities, Saint Lucia offers open landscapes—whether it’s a quiet beach, a hillside villa, or a rainforest trail. You won’t be fighting for space.

2. Calm, Not Chaos

There are no massive fan zones, no traffic gridlock, no helicopter patrols overhead. Just the sound of waves and the occasional steel drum.

3. Easy Access
Direct flights from many East Coast cities make it surprisingly convenient. You can leave the frenzy behind in the morning and be sipping rum punch by afternoon.

makes sense to me...

4. Safety and Stability
The Caribbean, and Saint Lucia in particular, remains a stable and welcoming destination. It’s far removed from global flashpoints, offering peace of mind as well as physical relaxation.

5. Something for Everyone
Whether you want luxury resorts, boutique hotels, eco-lodges, or private villas, Saint Lucia delivers. Adventure seekers can hike the Pitons or explore volcanic hot springs, while those seeking rest can simply unwind by the sea.

A Different Kind of World Cup Experience

Watch in Paradise

Ironically, escaping the World Cup doesn’t mean you have to miss it entirely.

Many resorts and bars in Saint Lucia will still show matches—just without the madness. Imagine watching a game with your feet in the sand, a cold drink in hand, and a sunset unfolding in the background.

It’s football, but on your terms.

No crowds. No stress. Just enjoyment.

The Psychological Shift

There’s also something deeper at play here.

Mega-events can be exciting, but they’re also overwhelming. Constant noise, movement, and stimulation take a toll. Choosing to step away—to prioritize calm over chaos—isn’t just a travel decision. It’s a lifestyle choice.

Saint Lucia offers that reset.

It’s the kind of place where you remember what it feels like to slow down. To disconnect from the noise—literal and figurative—and reconnect with something simpler.

Timing Is Everything

If you’re considering this kind of escape, timing will be key. As the World Cup approaches, flights to Caribbean destinations may become more popular among those with the same idea.

Booking early ensures better prices, better accommodation choices, and a smoother overall experience.

Final Thought: Choose Your Experience

The World Cup will undoubtedly be a historic event for the United States. For many, being part of that energy will be unforgettable.

But not everyone needs—or wants—to be in the middle of it.

Sometimes the smartest move is to step aside, to observe from a distance, or to opt out entirely in favor of something more restorative.

So while millions head into the storm—into the crowds, the noise, the security lines—you could be doing the opposite.

You could be in Saint Lucia.

Watching the waves instead of the traffic. Listening to the wind instead of the sirens. Experiencing the world not at its loudest, but at its most peaceful.

And when the final whistle blows, you’ll return not exhausted—but refreshed.

British Airways Holidays Recognises Calabash Cove with Award

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:00:02 GMT

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa Celebrates Prestigious British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award

In the world of luxury travel, recognition is not simply earned—it is awarded by the voices that matter most: the guests themselves. That is why the recent achievement by Calabash Cove Resort & Spa in Saint Lucia is particularly meaningful. The boutique, adults-only resort has proudly been named a recipient of the British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award , a distinction reserved for hotels that consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences.

This accolade places Calabash Cove among the very best hospitality providers globally, reinforcing its reputation as one of the Caribbean’s most intimate and service-driven luxury destinations.

A Recognition Built on Real Guest Experiences

What Sets Calabash Cove Apart

The Power of Consistency

One of the most notable aspects of the British Airways Holidays award is its emphasis on consistency . It is not enough for a hotel to deliver a single outstanding stay; it must maintain excellence across hundreds of guest experiences.

The award certificate emphasizes that this achievement reflects “the dedication and care your team puts into every stay and every customer” .

For Calabash Cove , consistency is deeply embedded in its culture. Whether a guest arrives for a weekend escape or a week-long retreat, the level of service, attention, and quality remains unwavering.

This consistency is often what transforms first-time visitors into loyal returning guests—and enthusiastic advocates.

A Milestone Year for British Airways Holidays

Elevating Saint Lucia’s Global Appeal

While this award celebrates Calabash Cove specifically, it also shines a spotlight on Saint Lucia as a destination. Known for its lush landscapes, iconic Piton mountains, and warm Caribbean hospitality, the island continues to attract discerning travelers from around the world.

Calabash Cove plays an important role in this narrative by offering a refined, boutique alternative to larger resorts. Its recognition helps position Saint Lucia as a destination where luxury is not defined by size, but by quality and experience.

What This Means for Future Guests

For those considering a stay at Calabash Cove, this award serves as a powerful endorsement.

Whether it’s a romantic escape, a honeymoon, or simply a desire to unwind in a serene setting, guests can expect:

Warm, attentive hospitality
Impeccable standards of cleanliness and comfort
Stunning natural surroundings
A truly personalized experience

In essence, the award confirms what many past guests already know: Calabash Cove is not just a place to stay—it is a place to feel cared for.

Awards in the hospitality industry come and go, but those rooted in genuine guest feedback carry lasting significance. The British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award is one such recognition, and Calabash Cove has earned it through dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Lots of Caesar Dressings

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 17:19:28 GMT

Calabash Cove Top 5 Dressings

CCR standard Caesar’s salad dressing

Standard ingredients:

3 small garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon capers

2 teaspoon anchovies paste (optional)

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, or app. juice from 1 lemon

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 cups mayonnaise

1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano or good quality other parmesan

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ cup olive oil

Method:

In a food processor on low-speed, spin together the garlic, anchovy paste, capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce. Add the mayonnaise, parmesan, salt and pepper and spin until well combined. Taste and adjust to your liking.

Cove’s Avocado Caesar’s dressing:

In this recipe we are substituting the mayonnaise with fresh avocado pulp and the limes with lemons, processed guacamole can be used however the flavour may require a little more salt to mask the processed flavour. In addition to make this special recipe vegan we can leave out the cheese, anchovies, Worcestershire and Dijon mustard if it isn’t vegan.

Ingredients:

3 small garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon capers

2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, from two average size limes

2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

2 cups crushed avocado

1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method:

Combine all ingredients together in a food processor except avocado

After first spin without avocado ensure all ingredients a blended fine to your liking

Add avocado and blend again, a few lumps of avocado in your dressing makes it fun to eat with your salad but that is to your liking.

Cove’s Dragon Fruit Caesar’s dressing:

Combining a semi sweet fruit to a cheese-based dressing may seem prohibitive.

The chef must first foretaste his own imagination to achieve genuine magic on the plate.

In this recipe this extra ordinary fruit will replace mayonnaise with a rich natural consistency.

Be sure to save a few pieces to garnish for guests who may doubt a chef’s imagination.

Ingredients:

3 small garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon capers

2 teaspoon anchovies paste (optional)

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, from two average size limes

2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

2 cups diced dragon fruit

1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Method:

Combine all ingredients together and blend in food processor until smooth.

Over time dressing may naturally become pink in colour.

Serve with your preferred leaves and enjoy.

Cove’s Vegan Caesar’s dressing:

At the Cove we take joy in remixing traditional recipes to suit our specials guests.

With concern for those who wish to make it vegan we constructed a vegan dressing which substitutes the dairy and animal ingredients with tofu. This dressing imitates a traditional Caesar dressing with its body and consistency.

Ingredients:

3 small garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon capers

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, from one lemon

1 can tofu (firm) (we prefer the Roland brand)

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ cup olive oil

Chef tip: Avocado or non-dairy mayonnaise can be added to give a more consistent body to this dressing.

Cove’s Goat Cheese Caesar’s dressing:

In this recipe we have decided to exclude the anchovies to avoid the conflict of flavour with the goat cheese. Also breaking down the mayonnaise by 1 cup from its original 2 cups, replacing it with 3-ounces of soft goat cheese.

The results will be more consistent and richer, and the goat cheese flavour won’t be overpowering. Hence we serve this caesar’s salad with our famous goat cheese balls.

Ingredients:

3 small garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon capers

2 teaspoon anchovies paste (optional)

3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, from one lemon

2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 cup mayonnaise

3-ounce goat cheese

1 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

¼ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

¼ cup olive oil

Method:

Combine all ingredients together and blend in food processor until smooth.

Chef Burt's summary:

Calabash Caesar dressings and Caesar’s salads are one or our signature dishes served with numerous choices of seafood, fish, meats, and tofu. Some are also infused with island fruits and vegetables.

Various croutons are added to make the salad more interesting, like garlic, sweet potato or roasted breadfruit croutons, parmesan or yam crisp, brioche and anything that can make this classic salad special.

Various leaves are used like romaine, kale, Batavia lettuce, iceberg, radicchio and endives.

“Days of Caesar”

Chef Burt

21 Romantic Dates in Saint Lucia

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 17:22:25 GMT

We Help You Find 21 Romantic Dates

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa is one of the Caribbean’s most intimate adults-only boutique resorts. With just 26 suites, it offers privacy, personalized service, and endless romantic experiences — all wrapped in panoramic ocean beauty.

If you’re looking for the ultimate romantic getaway in St Lucia, Calabash Cove Resort & Spa delivers everything couples dream of — private beaches, infinity pools, oceanfront dining, and lush tropical gardens.

Whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary, or simply love itself, here are 21 romantic date ideas that will turn your stay into a love story written by the sea.

1. Private Candlelit Dinner on the Beach

Enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by your private chef with the sound of gentle waves and flickering lanterns beneath the stars.

2. Couples Massage at Ti Spa

Unwind side by side with tropical oils, followed by a soothing soak in a rose-petal bath — the signature of relaxation and romance.

3. Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Sail along St Lucia’s western coast, champagne in hand, as the sun dips behind the Pitons — one of the Caribbean’s most iconic views.

4. Swim-Up Sunset Cocktails

Sip handcrafted rum punches together at Calabash Cove’s swim-up pool bar with golden-hour views.

5. Stargazing from Your Private Plunge Pool

In your secluded Water’s Edge Cottage, float beneath the stars with the moonlight glimmering off the Caribbean Sea.

6. Champagne Breakfast in Bed

Wake to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a luxury breakfast of tropical fruits, croissants, and mimosas on your private terrace.

7. Kayak Adventure for Two

Paddle side by side across the calm bay, exploring hidden coves and spotting colorful fish near the shoreline.

8. Wine & Rum Tasting Experience

Indulge in local St Lucian rums and international wines at C Bar, guided by Calabash Cove’s expert mixologists.

9. Private Island Picnic

Have the concierge arrange a secluded beach picnic — a blanket, champagne, and paradise for two.

10. Romantic Hike to Pigeon Island

Share a scenic adventure up to Pigeon Island National Park for breathtaking views over Rodney Bay.

11. Sunset Dinner at Windsong Restaurant

Savor freshly caught seafood with panoramic ocean views and a live Caribbean breeze.

12. Floating Pool Breakfast

A luxury experience designed for couples — enjoy breakfast floating in your infinity pool as the sun rises.

13. Hammock for Two

Curl up in a hammock shaded by palms, listening to the rhythm of the ocean.

14. Sunrise Yoga by the Sea

Join a guided yoga or meditation class and greet the morning sun together.

15. Lovers’ Photoshoot at Calabash Cove

Capture memories with a professional photographer against lush gardens, wooden boardwalks, and turquoise waters.

16. Candlelit Bubble Bath with Rose Petals

Have your suite prepared with petals, candles, and champagne — perfect for a romantic night in.

17. Horseback Ride on the Beach

Book a private excursion to ride along St Lucia’s sandy coastlines, a cinematic Caribbean moment.

18. Helicopter Tour Over the Pitons

See the lush rainforest and iconic Pitons from above — an unforgettable aerial adventure.

19. Snorkeling Hand-in-Hand

Explore the island’s reefs and swim among colorful tropical fish.

20. Private Cooking Class for Two

Learn to make classic Caribbean dishes like jerk shrimp and plantain fritters with the resort’s chefs.

21. Champagne Toast at the Infinity Pool

End your stay with a sparkling toast at sunset, overlooking one of St Lucia’s most romantic views.

Why Calabash Cove Is Perfect for Couples

Adventures in Saint Lucia: Best Land and Sea Activities in the Caribbean

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 15:51:16 GMT

Adventures in Saint Lucia: Best Land and Sea Activities in the Caribbean

Tucked away in the eastern Caribbean, Saint Lucia is a jewel of an island where emerald mountains meet turquoise seas. It’s a place that feels almost cinematic—where postcard views are the everyday backdrop and adventure seems stitched into the very fabric of the land. Whether you’re drawn to hiking through rainforest trails, diving into underwater gardens, or simply soaking in natural hot springs, Saint Lucia delivers experiences that span both land and sea.

This blog takes you through some of the island’s most unforgettable adventures—perfect for travelers who crave equal parts exploration and relaxation.

Why Saint Lucia?

Many Caribbean islands boast beaches, but Saint Lucia offers something more: drama. Its volcanic peaks, rainforest heart, and coral-rich seas combine to create an island that feels both raw and refined. It’s a destination where luxury resorts coexist with rugged hiking trails, and where you can choose the pace of your adventure.

Travelers come for the scenery, but they often leave with a deeper connection to the island’s spirit—a sense of having lived a true adventure in harmony with land and sea.

The Flavor of Creole

Food plays into this fusion as well. After a day of exploration, indulging in Creole dishes like grilled fish, green fig and saltfish, or callaloo soup brings the flavors of land and sea straight to your plate.

The Fusion of Land and Sea

One of Saint Lucia’s greatest gifts is the seamless way its land and sea adventures complement each other. You might hike Gros Piton in the morning, reward yourself with a beachside swim in the afternoon, then set sail into the sunset. The island invites you to blend experiences—jungle to reef, summit to shoreline—creating a rhythm of adventure and relaxation that feels perfectly balanced.

Exploring the Rainforest

Saint Lucia’s interior is a lush tapestry of rainforest, waterfalls, and wildlife. Trails like the Edmund Forest Reserve immerse you in towering mahogany trees, bird calls, and vibrant plant life. Birdwatchers will love spotting species such as the Saint Lucia parrot, an endangered bird with radiant green and blue plumage.

If hiking isn’t your speed, you can glide through the canopy on a zipline. The rush of flying over treetops with views of distant peaks adds a thrill to the island’s serene natural beauty.

Hiking the Pitons

No adventure in Saint Lucia is complete without standing in the shadow of the Pitons—two volcanic spires, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, rising dramatically from the sea. Hiking Gros Piton is a bucket-list challenge that rewards adventurers with panoramic views of the Caribbean stretching endlessly beyond.

The climb takes about two hours up and two down, and while it’s steep in sections, local guides help pace the trek with stories about the island’s culture and ecology.

The Volcano & Sulphur Springs

Near Soufrière lies the world’s only “drive-in volcano,” Sulphur Springs. You can literally drive up to the steaming crater and then soak in mineral-rich hot springs nearby. The volcanic mud baths are a playful, rejuvenating experience—smear on the grey mud, let it dry in the sun, then rinse off in warm pools. Locals claim it takes years off your skin, but the real gift is the laughter and camaraderie of the moment.

Botanical Gardens and Diamond Falls

For a gentler adventure, Saint Lucia’s botanical gardens in Soufrière are a feast for the senses.

Meandering paths reveal exotic plants, orchids, and ferns, leading to the spectacular Diamond Waterfall. What makes this waterfall unique is its mineral content, which changes the color of the rock face over time, creating an ever-evolving palette.

It’s a reminder that adventure doesn’t always need to be adrenaline-fueled—sometimes it’s about slowing down and appreciating nature’s artistry.

Sailing Along the Coast

There’s no better way to appreciate Saint Lucia’s dramatic landscape than from the deck of a catamaran. Sailing along the coast, you’ll see fishing villages, secluded coves, and of course, Sunset cruises are especially magical—watching the sky ignite with pinks, oranges, and purples while sipping local rum punch is the stuff of travel dreams.

Some excursions include snorkeling stops or dolphin-watching, adding even more depth to the experience.

Snorkeling & Diving

Saint Lucia’s waters are just as breathtaking as its mountains. The waters at the foot of the Pitons are renowned snorkeling spots where coral reefs brim with tropical fish, sea turtles, and the occasional seahorse. For divers, the Marine Reserve offers shipwrecks, walls, and pinnacles teeming with marine life.

The Caribbean here feels like a living aquarium—colorful, teeming, and endlessly fascinating.

And then there's always Quad Bikes!

Adventures in Saint Lucia are about more than sightseeing—they’re about immersion . The climb up Gros Piton, the thrill of a zipline, the laughter at a mud bath, and the calm of snorkeling over coral are moments that stay with you long after your trip ends.

Saint Lucia invites you to balance thrill and tranquility, land and sea. So pack your sense of wonder, and let this Caribbean paradise lead you on a journey of discovery.

Can the Kings retain their title ?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 16:08:39 GMT

Caribbean Cricket: Saint Lucia Kings Set to Defend CPL Title

The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is more than just a cricket tournament—it's a vibrant spectacle of color, rhythm, and raw athleticism. Each August and September, the West Indies transforms into a festive cricket carnival, where six city-based franchises battle it out under floodlights to claim T20 supremacy. This 13th edition—running 14 August to 21 September 2025—promises even more drama, with the Saint Lucia Kings aiming to defend their maiden title in what promises to be one of the most thrilling Caribbean Premier League Matches yet.

Cricket and Calabash Cove Resort and Spa

The resort is only a short 15/20 minute drive from the Darren Sammy International Stadium, named after Saint Lucia and West Indies Captain Darren Sammy. Darren was the most successful West Indies T20 World Cup captain in the team's history. In 2012 and 2016, he led the team to the two World Cup titles. Sammy also led the West Indies to 47 victories. He now coaches the T20 West Indies squad.

Calabash Cove has been home to many fans from England, India, Pakistan, Australia, South Africa and New Zeland doing many matches featuring those countries. Perfect choice for those seeking some luxury accommodation , along with World Class Cricket.

You can check availability for this years Premier League Matches here

A Rise to Champions: Saint Lucia Kings' Story

Founded in 2013 (initially as the St Lucia Zouks and later the Stars), the franchise rebranded as the Saint Lucia Kings in 2021, inspired by the IPL’s Punjab Kings. After years of near-misses—runners-up in 2020 and 2021—they finally lifted the trophy in 2024, defeating the Guyana Amazon Warriors in a gripping final by six wickets. That epic final showcased the talent and tenacity that defines the Kings: powerful hitting from Johnson Charles, leadership from Faf du Plessis, and incisive bowling from Noor Ahmad and Alzarri Joseph.

Their title defence in 2025 is being bolstered by savvy off-season strategy: familiar faces returning (leg-spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, among others) and new firepower from IPL T20 specialist Tim David. Though du Plessis will be leading Southern Brave in England’s Hundred instead, the team’s depth gives them a potent mix of experience and unpredictability.

CPL 2025: What to Watch

The Tournament at a Glance

- Dates: 14 August–21 September 2025
- Format: 34 matches; each team faces all others twice (round-robin), followed by semifinals and the final
- Venues: Across six countries—Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, Trinidad & Tobago, and home turf, Saint Lucia

The Kings' home matches in Gros Islet will be center-stage: they face Trinbago Knight Riders, Barbados Royals, Guyana Amazon Warriors, and St Kitts & Nevis Patriots across back-to-back slots in late August — especially August 24–27.

What Makes the CPL Special

1. Electrifying Atmosphere
Dubbed "the biggest party in sport," CPL matches are renowned for their lively crowds, upbeat music, and carnival flair that rival international fixtures. Even players rave about the infectious energy.

2. T20 Brilliance
With each team playing 10 group-stage matches, followed by intense knockout games, the tournament offers nonstop action — high scores, big sixes, and bowlers skittling batting lineups. The 2024 season alone featured over 1,350 boundaries (6s + 4s).

3. Star Power
CPL packs in worldwide and regional talent. Expect to see IPL regulars like Tim David and Imran Tahir, alongside local heroes such as Johnson Charles (who amassed over 450 runs last season) and bowlers like Noor Ahmad and Alzarri Joseph with standout performances.

Can the Kings Defend Their Title?

✔ Strengths

- Bolstered Squad: Mix of returning performers like Johnson Charles, Faf du Plessis (for partial season return), and new acquisitions like Tim David and Tabraiz Shamsi.
- Spin Dominance: Tabraiz Shamsi and Noor Ahmad form a fearsome spin duo, well-suited to Caribbean pitches.
- Bowling Depth: Alzarri Joseph and Joseph again bring express pace, while local pace handy Khary Pierre adds valuable options.

⚠ Challenges

- Leadership Gap: With du Plessis absent for parts of the season, the Kings must rely on interim leadership and Xavier/vice-captains to fill the gap.
- Consistency Pressure: They must maintain the high standards from 2024, avoiding complacency in a field where others (Knights, Royals, Amazon Warriors) have strengthened.

Catch Every Key Game: CPL Matches Live

Fans worldwide can watch live CPL matches across broadcasting and streaming platforms. Caribbean territories use cable and digital channels, while international audiences can tune in via online services. In the UK, platforms like Sky Sports have historically provided full coverage.

The Cultural and Economic Impact

CPL bolsters local economies through tourism, media deals, and sponsorships. Republic Bank remains the sponsor, helping fund grassroots development. Matches support regional pride and provide vital visibility to emerging players, as the tournament grows in both cricketing and cultural lens.

Looking Ahead: Storylines to Follow
- Tim David’s Impact: Will the big-hitting Australian affect match momentum?
- Shamsi/Ahmad Showdown: Can they repeat the dominant spin feats of 2024?
- Home Fortress: Will the Kings' home field become their greatest strength or exposure?
- Front-Runners: How will top competitors like Trinbago Knight Riders, Barbados Royals, and Jamaica Tallawahs respond?

In Summary

The 2025 Caribbean Premier League isn’t just another T20 tournament—it’s a celebration of Caribbean cricket, community, and carnival spirit. For the Saint Lucia Kings, it's a moment to build a dynasty. Their skilled roster, vibrant fanbase, and home-turf advantage give them all the makings to triumph again. But true to the CPL’s unpredictable ethos, match outcomes, roaring crowds, and sudden shifts make cricket-watching a must this August and September. If you would like to see what Saint Lucia offers in between matches look here for ideas.

Why Americans head for Calabash Cove

Sat, 10 May 2025 15:34:29 GMT

Mike and Joy from Atlanta, told us their story.

A Secluded Slice of the Caribbean

Let's be honest: life back home feels like chaos on shuffle. That's why we think American travelers are heading to Calabash Cove , a boutique, adults-only, all-inclusive resort tucked into a serene cove on the north coast of Saint Lucia .

At Calabash Cove, every room has a sweeping ocean view , the gardens are fragrant and peaceful, and the loudest sound you'll hear is the waves crashing below your balcony. A box that must be ticked for most US guests.

Unconditional All-Inclusive—Seriously?

"Unconditional" means no fine print. That's their thing. Lobster? Included. Cocktails? Included. Fully stocked wet bar in your room? Also included. You know where you stand from day one, which, frankly, helps you to relax more.

There are no surprise room service charges or confusing exclusions. This isn't your spring break resort; it's adult luxury, done right.

Real Guests: John & Anne from Virginia

We met John and Anne , a couple in their 50s from Virginia, on their third visit to Calabash Cove. "We've done the big resorts," said Anne, "but here, it's like staying at a friend's luxury beach house. Quiet, classy, and if you need it romantic."

John added, "If we ever decide to renew our vows, it'll be here. No question."

This is the kind of place that turns travelers into regulars—and regulars into lifelong fans.

The Suites: Pick Your Paradise

Whether you book a junior suite or splurge on a Water's Edge Cottage , you'll wake up to Caribbean blues, not hotel hallway noise. Here's what you can expect:

Swim-Up Junior Suites – Step directly into the pool from your patio. For real.
Sunset Ocean View Junior Suites – Watch the sun go down from your private balcony.
Water's Edge Cottages – Total seclusion with a plunge pool, hammock, and outdoor rain shower.

Dining at Windsong: Worth Writing Home About

At Windsong Restaurant , you can enjoy dishes like tamarind-glazed snapper or Thai-spiced shrimp, all served with views of the sea.

And because it's part of the Unconditional All-Inclusive , you never have to worry about what's "extra." Order what you love. Pair it with a wine you actually enjoy.

Want a drink while floating in the infinity pool? The Swim-Up Pool Bar has you covered. Want eggs Benedict at 3 p.m. in your robe? Room service. 24/7. No guilt.

Wellness, Your Way

Calabash Cove's Ti Spa offers massages using local island botanicals and healing traditions. You can have your treatment indoors, on the boardwalk, or even in your own suite.

Want to be active? There's paddleboarding, kayaking, nature walks, and a small gym. Want to do nothing? That's encouraged, too.

Getting There Is a Breeze

Direct flights from major U.S. cities (New York, Chicago, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, etc.) make getting to Saint Lucia easy . And the U.S. dollar is pegged to the Eastern Caribbean Dollar—so no annoying exchange rate surprises.

Arrival tip: U.S. citizens just need to complete a quick online immigration card at travelslu.govt.lc .

This is in truth a True Caribbean Reset

You don't go to Calabash Cove for a foam party or casino. You go because you need a reset—a place where the service is personal, the wine is included, and the most pressing decision of your day is which hammock to nap in.

As Anne told us:

"The rest of the world is a mess. But here? It all fades away."

And we couldn't agree more.

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Saint Lucia. Entry Requirements, Flights, and Local Insights

Sat, 10 May 2025 15:08:45 GMT

Saint Lucia, often referred to as the "Helen of the West," after the acclaimed beauty of Helen of Troy, is a Caribbean gem beckons travelers with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Whether you're from the USA, Canada, the UK, France, or Germany, this guide will provide helpful information to kick off your journey to Saint Lucia and into the comfort of Calabash Cove .

Entry Requirements

USA, Canada, and UK Citizens:

Travelers from these countries do not require a visa for stays up to six weeks. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay, and have proof of onward or return travel . GOV.UK+1Barefoot Caribou+1

France and Germany Citizens:

Citizens from most European countries, including France and Germany, can enter Saint Lucia without a visa for stays upto 28 days. As with other travelers, a valid passport and proof of onward travel are necessary. Barefoot Caribou

Immigration Form:

All visitors must complete an electronic immigration form before arrival. Once submitted, you'll receive a QR code via email, which should be presented upon entry. Travel.gov+7TUI+7Barefoot Caribou+ 7

Best Time to Visit

Saint Lucia boasts a tropical climate year-round. However, the months between May and June offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better deals on accommodations.

Getting There

From the USA:

Air service to Saint Lucia is excellent from the United States. Direct flights are available from major cities like New York, Boston, Newark, Chicago, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Miami, and Atlanta. Airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, Northwest, and JetBlue frequently service these routes.

From Canada:

Air Canada and WestJet offer direct flights from Toronto and Montreal, especially during peak travel seasons.

From the UK:

British Airways provides direct flights from London Gatwick to Saint Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport.

From France and Germany:

While there are no direct flights, travelers can connect through hubs like London or Miami. It's advisable to check with airlines for the most convenient routes.

Currency and Payments

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used in hotels, shops, and restaurants, but it is recommended to carry some cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

Language

English is the official language of Saint Lucia, making communication straightforward for travelers from the USA, UK, and Canada. French Creole (Kwéyòl) is also spoken, reflecting the island's rich cultural heritage.

Transportation on the Island

While driving is possible, be aware that vehicles drive on the left side of the road. Road conditions can vary, and some travelers find local driving challenging. Alternatively, taxis and minibuses are available, but always agree on fares beforehand. Barefoot Caribou+4Travel.gc.ca+4Lonely Planet+4

Health and Safety

Saint Lucia is generally safe for tourists. However, sensible precautions apply: avoid isolated areas at night, keep valuables secure, and be cautious when accepting help from strangers. Tripadvisor+8Just St Lucia+8Lonely Planet+8

Health Tips:

Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect against the tropical sun.
Consider vaccinations recommended by health authorities before traveling.
Pack a basic medical kit, including insect repellent and any personal medications.

Cultural Etiquette

Saint Lucians are known for their warmth and hospitality. When interacting with locals: Travel.gov

Greet with a friendly "Good morning" or "Good afternoon." Reddit+5Barefoot Caribou+5Barefoot Caribou+5
Dress modestly when not on the beach.
Tipping is appreciated; 10-15% is customary in restaurants. Reddit

Must-See Attractions

The Pitons: These iconic twin peaks are a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Sulphur Springs: Experience the world's only drive-in volcano and enjoy a therapeutic mud bath.
Pigeon Island National Park: A historic site with ruins, beaches, and panoramic views.
Castries Market: Dive into local culture by exploring this bustling market filled with crafts, spices, and localdelicacies.

Accommodation: Calabash Cove Resort & Spa - of course!!

For travelers seeking tranquility and luxury, Calabash Cove Resort & Spa is an adults-only boutique hotel offering:

Uninterrupted ocean views from every suite.
Private cottages with plunge pools.
An all-inclusive experience with gourmet dining.
A serene spa and infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

This resort embodies the essence of Saint Lucian hospitality and is perfect for honeymooners, couples, or anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Saint Lucia is a delightful experience, offering a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.By understanding the entry requirements, planning your journey, and immersing yourself in the local culture, you're set for an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.

May is Jazz

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 19:04:14 GMT

Jazz 2025 - Saint Lucia

The Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival is set to make a resounding return in May 2025, with the internationally acclaimed artist John Legend headlining the event. This announcement has generated significant excitement, as it not only brings a globally recognized musician to the island but also marks a heartfelt reunion—Legend first graced the festival's stage in 2009, and his return is eagerly anticipated.

A Brief History of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival

Established in 1992, the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival was conceived as a strategic initiative to extend the tourist season beyond the traditional peak months. The festival's inaugural edition featured performances at four locations across the island, aiming to attract visitors during May, a period that had previously been relatively quiet in terms of tourism. Over the years, the festival has experienced remarkable growth, evolving into one of the Caribbean's premier musical events. By 2011, it celebrated its 20th anniversary—a testament to its enduring appeal and success.

In 2013, the festival underwent a significant transformation, rebranding itself as the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival. This evolution expanded its scope beyond music to include a diverse array of artistic expressions such as fashion shows, dance performances, theater productions, and visual arts exhibitions. This holistic approach not only enriched the festival's offerings but also provided a platform for local and international artists to showcase their talents.

A Legacy of Iconic Performances

Throughout its history, the festival has been graced by an impressive roster of musical legends spanning various genres. Artists such as Santana, Sting, UB40, Diana Ross, Air Supply, Kenny G, Amy Winehouse, Smokey Robinson, The O'Jays, and Gloria Gaynor have all delivered memorable performances on Saint Lucian stages. This eclectic mix of talent has solidified the festival's reputation for musical diversity and excellence.

John Legend's Return: A Warm Welcome Back

John Legend's initial appearance at the festival in 2009 left an indelible mark on attendees, with his soulful voice and captivating stage presence resonating deeply with the audience. His return in 2025 is not just a headline event but a homecoming that underscores the festival's commitment to celebrating artists who have contributed to its rich legacy. Legend's evolution as an artist over the years adds a layer of anticipation, promising both nostalgic moments and fresh performances.

Saint Lucia's Cultural Tapestry

Beyond the festival, Saint Lucia boasts a vibrant cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its history and traditions. The island's cultural calendar is adorned with festivals that celebrate its rich Creole heritage, African influences, and colonial past. Two prominent traditional festivals are 'La Rose' and 'La Marguerite,' celebrated annually since 1758. These festivals reflect the island's historical divide among enslaved communities, with each group pledging allegiance to a particular flower—roses or marguerites. Participants dress in colors representing their chosen flower and engage in music, dance, and elaborate displays, preserving the island's cultural memory and heritage.

Another significant cultural event is Jounen Kwéyòl, or Creole Day, celebrated on the closest Sunday to October 28th each year. This festival honors Saint Lucia's African-French heritage through traditional music, dance, cuisine, and the Kwéyòl language. Communities across the island come alive with vibrant displays of Creole culture, offering both locals and visitors an immersive experience into the island's traditions.

The 2025 Festival: A Fusion of Music and Art

The 2025 edition of the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival promises to be a celebration that intertwines the island's rich cultural heritage with world-class musical performances. The festival's lineup includes a variety of events designed to cater to diverse artistic tastes:

Caliente Latin Beat (May 7): An electrifying fusion of Latin and Caribbean rhythms, this event will feature live performances, dance showcases, and interactive workshops, highlighting the seamless connection between Latin and Creole traditions.

Folk Fusion (May 8): This event reimagines Saint Lucia's folk music by blending traditional melodies with modern influences, featuring legendary folk artists alongside new-generation musicians.

Nostalgic Friday (May 9): A journey through the golden age of Saint Lucian music, showcasing iconic songs and artists that have shaped the island's sound over the decades.

These events, among others, aim to provide festival-goers with a holistic experience that celebrates both the island's artistic heritage and its contemporary cultural expressions.

The return of John Legend to the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival in 2025 symbolizes more than just a musical performance; it represents the enduring allure of Saint Lucia as a cultural hub that harmoniously blends its rich traditions with global artistic expressions. As the island prepares to welcome visitors from around the world, the festival stands as a testament to the power of music and art in bridging cultures and creating lasting memories.

Your Caribbean escape awaits - don't let it slip away.

Don't miss out on our exclusive deals and packages , designed to make your dream vacation a reality.

Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Calabash Cove offers something for everyone.

B ook now and seize the opportunity to create unforgettable memories in one of the most idyllic destinations on earth. Your Caribbean escape awaits—don't let it slip away. Start planning your journey to bliss today!

Rasta Pasta

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 15:37:12 GMT

The name Rasta pasta comes from the idea of this pasta dish being vegetarians’ choice and from the mixed colour of the components used in the dish.

Chef’s preferences are short cut pasta like fusilli, penne and rigatoni, long cuts like fettuccine and linguine can also be used depending on your style.

Ingredients

Minced garlic

Olive oil- for sauteing

Al dente pasta

Diced pumpkin - precooked (al dente)

Red, green and yellow bell peppers- diced or julienne cut

Cherry tomatoes – large ones cut in half

Mushrooms- (any kind will do) cut to suit your taste

Parsley - chopped / also for garnish.

Tomato sauce of your choice (optional)

Note: Any vegetables of your choice can be used, tomato sauce is optional and can be substituted with pesto or just good cold pressed virgin olive oil.

Method

In a heated sautéing pan mix all your veggies together, season while moving around for 3 mins add any al dente vegetables at the last minute.

Add your favourite tomato sauce and bring to a simmer.

Add pasta of choice and season for taste. Garnish with parsley or any chopped herbs.

Sprinkle with grated parmesan is so desired. At Calabash Cove we add a little hot pepper

Enjoy

Rasta Pasta

Pan Seared Lion Fish

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:53:27 GMT

Lion Fish

Savor the Solution: Lionfish on Our Menu

At Calabash Cove, we believe that great food can tell a story—and in this blog, our story is about the lionfish. Strikingly beautiful yet unexpectedly destructive, this Indo-Pacific native has found its way into the Atlantic and Caribbean, where it has no natural predators and an insatiable appetite. Without intervention, lionfish threaten the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, preying on essential reef species and outcompeting native fish. But here’s the good news: you can help, one delicious bite at a time.

By serving lionfish, we’re turning an environmental challenge into a culinary opportunity. With its mild, flaky white meat and a subtly sweet flavor, lionfish is a perfect, sustainable choice for seafood lovers. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or featured in a ceviche, this delicacy is as versatile as it is responsible.

Choosing lionfish isn’t just about enjoying a great meal—it’s about making a difference. By dining on this invasive species, we help control their population, support local divers who remove them from the reefs, and protect the future of our oceans. So go ahead, indulge with purpose, and let’s eat our way to healthier seas.

Bon appétit!

Fresh Pan Seared Lion Fish Fillets with green banana gnocchi with saltfish salsa

Green banana gnocchi recipe (gluten free)

4 boiled and peeled green bananas.

¼ cup cassava flour (farine)

1 tablespoon chopped parsley.

1 tablespoon chopped local celery.

Salt and pepper to taste.

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and knead in the style of a dough, pressing and rolling until moulded.

Let sit for 10 minutes. Then divide into four equal pieces, moulding each piece into the size of a regular banana.

Cut into ½ thick pieces and place into seasoned low boiling water for 4 minutes.

Remove from boiling water and sautée in olive oil.

If desired ad additional herbs or seasoning for flavouring.

Salt fish salsa

¼ cup cleaned saltfish with needle bones removed

1 teaspoon chopped onions.

2 teaspoon white vinegar.

4 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 tablespoon chopped parsley.

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1 tablespoon chopped local celery.

1 diced small tomato (optional)

1 teaspoon hot sauce or chili flakes

5 diced local seasoning peppers

Method:

Combine all ingredients in a small mixing bowl, add salt if desired.

Lionfish fillet marinade.

3 stems of local celery

1 small onion chopped.

4 garlic cloves.

4 basil leaves.

4 table spoons of fresh lime juice

1 Teaspoon of minced ginger

3 teaspoons salt

¼ cup vegetable oil

Method:

C ombine all ingredients and blend in a blender

In a shallow container pour marinade mix over fish fillet to marinate for a minimum of 20 minutes in a cool place.

Lionfish fillets

16 ea 4 oz lionfish fillets (or triggerfish or tilapia fillets)

Method On medium high heat with little oil, using a hot nonstick pan or skillet, sear 16 ea app 4 oz lion fish fillets fish on each side for 4 minutes.

Chef’s tip: ensure the fish is cooked it must not appear translucent

Why Couples Love Choosing All Inclusive for a Romantic trip

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:32:10 GMT

Why Couples Choose to Have All-Inclusive Destination Weddings

What makes all-inclusive destination weddings so popular? A survey of 1,460 members of the Knot Wedding Network showed some interesting trends when they provided answers to some key questions about their wedding.

The results from this 2014 survey showed an interesting trend. For example, almost one in four couples (24%) of those surveyed chose to have a destination wedding rather than a traditional ceremony in their home town. Of these, 45% of the weddings were in an international destination and 60% were a significant distance from where the couple lived at the time of their wedding.

Fast forward to 2024/5 and we see that destination weddings have become increasingly popular among U.S. couples in recent years. As of 2024, approximately 25% of all U.S. weddings were destination weddings, with about half of these taking place internationally.

The global destination wedding market has seen significant growth, expanding from $21.31 billion in 2022 to $28.31 billion in 2023, and is projected to reach $78.89 billion by 2027.

Popular international destinations for U.S. couples include Mexico, the Caribbean, and various European countries. Mexico remains a top choice due to its proximity and diverse venue options.

The average cost of a destination wedding in 2023 was $41,000, compared to $35,000 for traditional weddings.

Factors contributing to the higher cost include travel expenses, accommodations, and the tendency to hire wedding planners for remote coordination.

The driving factor for couples being prepared to go the extra mile, is simply the attraction of a memorable experience.

Planning an all-Inclusive Destination Wedding is Easier than You Think

It may sound complicated and risky to get married overseas where you do not know the protocol and have no personal contacts for flowers, ceremony, musicians and so on. However, most couples choose a wedding planner to ensure that all the paperwork is in order and everything they want is provided for them as part of their bespoke wedding.

At boutique resorts such as Calabash Cove Resort and Spa, a wedding planner/team is provided by the resort

pre-travel. All you have to do is tell them what you want your perfect dream wedding to include and they will tailor the wedding to suit your requirements. From the bridal bouquet and chilled champagne to the location, the wedding planner takes care of everything to ensure your wedding goes smoothly.

In fact, 50% of international brides said that planning a destination wedding was less difficult than planning a traditional wedding, and 29% said it was about the same – further proof that planning an all-inclusive destination wedding is easier than you may think.

Recent surveys show that the most popular international destinations for weddings are the Caribbean (41%), Mexico (21%) and Hawaii (16%) with the remaining 22% of weddings taking place in Europe or Central/South America. Reasons for choosing places such as Saint Lucia for your all inclusive destination wedding include the weather – especially if you want a winter wedding. ( Recently it is noteable to see that the Caribbean has overtaken Mexico in popularity and since the Knot survey in 2014.)

Cost is another important factor. Although a vacation in Saint Lucia and a wedding package sound expensive, it works out much cheaper than having a traditional wedding at home and then budgeting for a honeymoon. With a destination wedding in Saint Lucia, you get everything for one all-inclusive price. (You have no doubt heard the phrase "WeddingMoon".)

How so? Destination weddings had on average 58 guests compared to 87 guests for a home-based event. In fact, 65% of international weddings had less than 50 guests, and 13% had less than 10 guests. This also makes a considerable saving for the bride and groom with a smaller reception to pay for and everyone paying for their own flight and accommodation.

The distance makes a good excuse not to have to invite distant relatives and dozens of work colleagues. Instead, your destination wedding in Saint Lucia can include your closest family and friends, making it a very intimate and personal experience.

Once the wedding ceremony is over, many couples organize a planned group activity such as a sightseeing tour together (47%), water activities (41%) or a visit to the spa (36%) according to surveys.

We're sure you'll have many more ideas for your all-inclusive destination wedding in Saint Lucia. You can rest assured that plenty of couples have done it before and they all give it a huge thumbs up!

Road to Sustainable Hospitality

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 13:25:10 GMT

Responsible Travel - How the hospitality, travel and tourism industry is shaping up.

Sustainable Hospitality at Calabash Cove

Our news headlines were dominated for a two years period by the pandemic.

Somewhere amongst the burning issues of the day is Climate change and the countdown to doomsday.

The hospitality, travel, and tourism industry was devastated by the lockdowns and travel bans and, now after a state of recovery, is weighing up the pros and cons of investment in sustainability. It is clear that there are two elements that travelers are taking more seriously than before. Reducing their carbon footprint when traveling and health and well being.

Travelers Speak Out

There are strong indicators that travelers globally are more concerned about the footprint they leave. Surveys by Booking.com, Virtuoso, and the UNWTO all reveal that a high percentage of people who want to travel are seeking more sustainable destinations, accommodation providers investing in sustainability, and methods by which they can offset their travel.

It was noticeable that Conde Nast Traveler, one of the most prestigious travel magazines in Europe and North America, published its first-ever 'Sustainability" issue in October 2020.

Life in Full Color

The most apparent catalyst for the increased awareness of "responsible" travel is that during the pandemic, nobody flew anywhere. The effect on the planet was dramatic and there for all to witness. National Geographic's "before and after" images showed various locations that enjoyed a kind of rebirth. New Delhi was covered in a grey cloud of pollution, then weeks after the traffic stopped and the planes were grounded, there it was in full color.

In 2022, with the headlines shifting attention to the war in Ukraine, the pandemic is fading in our minds, and we worry about food shortages, fuel prices, and a massive surge in the cost of living.

Tourism restarted in 2022 with a veritable 'booking frenzy". People were so keen to get away from where they had been locked away and starved of entertainment, and they wanted and needed warm sun and soft sand. The Caribbean, along with many other destinations, was packed to capacity since before Christmas 2022.

During the pandemic, hotels already committed to sustainable operations have been convening webinars to demonstrate that investing in sustainability is the right thing to do and good for business.

New Delhi Before and After Lockdown

Luxury V Frugality

The big question that hoteliers are facing is this. Will investing in sustainable hospitality reduce both guest satisfaction and profitability? Since occupancy and guest satisfaction are the key drivers for the hotel business, how far will they go, and is it possible to strike a workable balance between the two sides of the coin?

The government and Tourism Authority in Saint Lucia are working to do their part. A hotel cannot reduce its own carbon footprint if it has no choice in where it gets its power. If that source is fossil fuel-based, the hotel cannot change that quickly. But hotel owners can begin to reduce their reliance on the grid and introduce both solar and wind power. The issue here is that it is a massive investment. However, despite that the St Lucia government has already invested in solar farmsin the South of the island that now supply significant power to the grid. It is a work in progress.

Other elements that interest hoteliers are:

Investment in the local community
Encouraging clients to immerse themselves into the local culture and local initiatives.
Using local materials and local craft skills wherever possible. (This need not lower standards, comfort, or guest perception of luxury.)
Working with local farmers and fishermen to design the products that a five-star restaurant needs instead of importing everything.
Elimination ofthe use of plastics. It is now illegal to import plastic containers, cutlery and many other items.
Responsible Waste Management

And as for Calabash Cove-What do we do?

All hot water is generated by solar energy. There are no oil or gas heaters on the property.
Grass cuttings are mulched and composted.
Plastic bottled water has been discontinued.
Sparkling water and drinking water are served in reusable glass bottles.
Kitchen oil is collected and used by the laundry to heat water for washing.
Food waste is separated and given to a farmer.
All disposable containers for lunch boxes etc., are recyclable paper and bamboo products.
All disposable plastic straws, water, and coffee containers have been banned.
All disposable cutlery has been banned.
Only phosphate fee detergents are used in housekeeping and food and beverage departments.
Wastewater is treated on the property and used for irrigation.
All lights are fitted with LEDs.
Much of our food and beverage supplies are sourced locally, focusing on local farmers and fishermen.
We are one of the few places on the Island offering a Vegan menu option. https://irp.cdn-website.com/153b038b/files/uploaded/Calabash%20Cove%20Saint%20Lucia%20Vegetarian%20Menu.pdf

In Conclusion

Sustainability will remain a hot topic in the hospitality and travel industry.

There are two reasons for this. One is that the enormous amount of pent-up demand crashed into a severely compressed amount of supply — which means overtourism is once again on everyone's minds.

As we look forward to continuing recovery, we must be careful not to sink the ship. Hospitality is working to make the post pandemic era, a "conscious comeback," a "responsible recovery".

At the same time, topics of sustainability, overtourism, and global warming are looming large among our customers. Much of the push is generational, but it might also be because the travel product has become so good that expectations are shifting.

As the quality of hospitality improves from the bottom up and becomes less discernible, we think that travelers will make choices based on something beyond what they know they're going to get. So in place of "luxury" and "comfort," they will look out for values, for example, sustainability, how we treat our employees, and more emotional and purpose-driven factors.

We don't imagine that our guests will suddenly quiz us about how sustainable we are. But it is up to us to keep our guests and prospective guests informed about what we are doing and the progress we make. You can be sure of that. If you haven't already, please sign up for our newsletter. One article each month will be devoted to sustainability news both at the resort and on the island of Saint Lucia.

It isn't all plain sailing. We are also living in an age dominated by social media, and the ability of certain factions to use this media to flood society with disinformation. So, on the one hand we see the effects of climate change before our eyes. We see the extreme flooding around the world and the destructive fires in California. How long ago did the United Kingdom start listing named and categorised storms. And yet the people with power and money insist climate change is fake. Sadly, significant numbers of largely uneducated people believe them.

It would be fascinating to know how you feel about this, so we have devised a short quiz about sustainable hospitality and would be very grateful if you would participate.

Calabash Cove Christmas Pudding

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 17:46:08 GMT

OK so you might think we are a bit late with this Pudding Recipe, however, most of you would have had your pudding under wraps when Chef came up with this new recipe. Since the fruit needs to soak in rum for several months, you need to start planning.

New Idea for Christmas Pudding

So making sure the fruits have been soaking for the last few months, it will be time to get them into the kitchen.

Traditionally the rum-soaked fruits are for our famous black cake or Christmas fruit cake.

But at Calabash Cove we like to twist it around just a little. So, we have made a signature

bread pudding with our rum-soaked fruits.

A bread pudding like this is the perfect dish for the Christmas season.

Ingredients

· 6 slices of white bread, torn into small pieces

· 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

· 1 cup rum-soaked fruits

· 2 cups milk

· ¾ cup white sugar

· 4 large beaten eggs

· 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

· 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Mix bread pieces and fruits together.

Reserve the juices from the fruits to pour over the cake after baking.

Place mixture into an 8-inch square baking pan, Drizzle melted butter over bread mix.

Whisk milk, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla together in a medium mixing bowl until well combined.

Pour this mixture over the bread, and lightly push down with a fork until all bread is covered, and soaking up the liquid.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes until golden brown.

The top of the cake will spring back when lightly pressed down.

Pour the remainder of the rum solution over the bread pudding while hot.

Allow to cool off or server warm before cutting into desired portions and serve with your favourite ice cream or desert sauce.

Chef Burt Jules

Calabash cove resorts

Seafood Pot

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:38:31 GMT

Windsong's Seafood Pot

Serving for two (2)

Ingredients.

4 headless, pealed tiger shrimps (size 16/20)

2 squid tubes or cut in rings

8 whole black mussels

6 pieces, medium diced fish fillet

2 tablespoons minced garlic

¼ cup chopped onions

2 stems chopped celery

2 regular seasoning peppers without seeds (chopped)

3 whole bay leaves

2 teaspoons lime or lemon juice

1 teaspoon five spice

½ cup cooking cream

¼ cup fish stock

¼ cup dry white wine

4 tablespoons olive oil

Method:

Clean all seafood and combine in a stainless-steel bowl or preferred container, marinate with half minced garlic and half chopped onions with salt and pepper to taste. Let seat for a minimum of 5 minutes. (TIP: this is to allow seafood to not be bland)

Preheat a shallow pan, add olive oil to pan with seafood mix, add the remaining garlic and onions with celery, peppers and bay leaves.

Chef’s trick:

the shallow sauteing method lets the seafood absorb the flavours of the herbs and other ingredients.

Continue sauteing for another minute, by this time your seafood is semi cooked, then add white wine and simmer for one minute, allowing the wine to reduce by half the amount.

Add cream and fish stock simultaneously, spread your five spices over simmering pot, add salt and pepper to taste again, this will simmer for three minutes to be completed, mix in fresh lime juice. Remove bay leaf when serving (not very edible). Vegetables of your choice can be added to this dish.

Note : During lobster season we often replace some of the shrimps with lobster

Served with garlic bread, root vegetables and even rice.

Poached Lobster with a Spiced Chocolate Sauce

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:50:11 GMT

Poached Lobster Cocktail, with Avocado and a spiced Chocolate sauce

Four (4) servings

Summer brings the lobsters, avocados and many more Island delicacies.

The dried cocoa beans from the previous island hot winter season are completely dried.

At Calabash Cove this is just an amuse-bouche to the numerous fresh dishes that are prepared daily with the endless varieties in summer.

Ingredients

1 regular size spiny lobster tail without shell

½ regular size avocado

1 cup coconut milk

1 cup white wine

2 tablespoons lime juice

6 whole dried cacao beans

2 tablespoons garlic

1 tablespoon white sugar

1/2 teaspoon hot sauce

1/2 teaspoon tabasco sauce

1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Method

In a small pot add ¾ cup of coconut milk, lime juice and white wine. Bring to a boil with salt and pepper to tase. Add lobster tail to the hot coconut broth. Lobster meat may curl so it may need to get turned gradually to get the meat cooked evenly. This only takes 8 minutes.

Set aside and let chill.

( Chef tip; meat should be pearly white and not translucent)

In food processor or with a stick blender use the remainder of your coconut milk, cacao beans, cocoa powder, garlic and sugar. Blend at a medium high speed until cacao beans are broken. By them u should have a dark brown solution. Then add the reminder of the ingredients (hot sauce, tabasco and avocado) and blend again until you get a thick brown chocolate puree.

Add salt and pepper to taste.

Place puree in a strainer or fine Sifter to filter out cacao pieces for smoothness by pressing with a rubber spatula.

Cut lobster pieces in desired cubes or medallions. Serve in a martini glass with a touch of your spicy chocolate cocktail sauce.

Garnish with salad, leaves and lime wedges.

Enjoy!

Chef Burt K Jules

Calabash Cove Resort and Spa

Saint Lucia Webcam at Calabash Cove

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 19:37:48 GMT

UnderWater Weather

The one thing that doesn't really change is under the waves. Saint Lucia guarantees top class scuba anytime of the year.

The Seasonal Factor

Saint Lucia has a warm, tropical climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from December to May, when the weather is at its driest and most pleasant. This period, known as the high season, brings higher rates and more tourists.

For those seeking a more peaceful and budget-friendly experience, the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-November are ideal.

These off-peak times in Saint Lucia offer tranquility and affordability. They allow you to relax and enjoy the island at your own pace, away from the hustle and bustle of the high season.

Festive

And at Christmas, the transition from the wet to dry season is complete.

The Tropical Factor

The Windward Islands experience tropical weather with warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. From January to April, the weather is typically dry and more relaxed, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). This period is often considered the best time to visit, as visitors can enjoy clear skies and pleasant breezes.

Temperatures

As May arrives, temperatures rise, leading into the wet season from June to November. During these months, rain showers become more frequent, often occurring in short bursts, but the overall warmth remains, with temperatures averaging between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). The hurricane season peaks from August to October, bringing more intense weather systems, although it's not every year severe storms are seen. It is this time when our live webcam comes into its own.

Webcam

Always remember we have our webcam on the beach, so at any time you can check on us and the weather.

Here's the link

Trade Winds

The Windward Islands, situated east of the Caribbean Sea, are the first landmass the trade winds encounter. These easterly winds flow consistently from the northeast, significantly influencing the islands' weather patterns. They determine the distribution of rainfall and contribute to the islands' lush vegetation and overall tropical feel.

The reliable nature of these trade winds made the islands strategic locations for maritime navigation, thereby playing a crucial role in their history and development.

The Weather's Bounty

And think of what we can enjoy because these islands are tropical rainforests. Delicious Mangoes, Bananas, Melon, Pineapple, Passion Fruit, Guava, Papaya, & Avocados are as big as footballs.

Caribbean v Maine Lobster

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:14:34 GMT

A Culinary Guide to Maine Lobster vs. Caribbean Spiny Lobster

Are you a foodie looking to understand the differences between Maine Lobster and Caribbean Spiny Lobster? Both types of lobsters offer unique culinary experiences, but they differ significantly in terms of size, amount of meat, and taste. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you make an informed choice for your next seafood feast.

Size

Maine Lobster

Maine Lobsters, also known as American lobsters, are typically larger than their Caribbean counterparts. They have a hard shell and a distinct set of large claws, which contribute significantly to their overall size. An average Maine Lobster can weigh anywhere from 1 to 4 pounds, with some even reaching up to 20 pounds.

Caribbean Spiny Lobster

Caribbean Spiny Lobsters, on the other hand, lack the large claws of Maine Lobsters and have a more streamlined body. They are generally smaller, with an average weight of around 1 to 2 pounds. However, what they lack in size, they make up for in other areas.

Amount of Meat

Maine Lobster

Due to their large claws and substantial body, Maine Lobsters offer a generous amount of meat. The claws alone can yield a significant portion of tender, succulent flesh, which is often considered the most desirable part. In addition, the tail and body provide ample meat, making Maine Lobsters a hearty choice for any seafood lover.

Caribbean Spiny Lobster

While Caribbean Spiny Lobsters may be smaller, they are densely packed with meat, particularly in their tails. Since they do not have large claws, the majority of the meat comes from the tail and legs. The meat is firm and slightly chewy, offering a different texture compared to the tender flesh of Maine Lobsters.

Taste

Maine Lobster

Maine Lobster is renowned for its sweet, delicate flavor. The meat is tender and succulent, with a rich, buttery taste that melts in your mouth. Whether steamed, boiled, or grilled, Maine Lobster retains its delicious flavor, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary preparations.

Caribbean Spiny Lobster

Caribbean Spiny Lobster offers a unique taste experience. The meat is slightly sweeter and firmer than that of Maine Lobsters, with a hint of saltiness that complements its natural flavor. Spiny Lobster is often grilled or broiled to enhance its taste, and it pairs well with tropical ingredients and spices commonly found in Caribbean cuisine.

Conclusion

Both Maine Lobster and Caribbean Spiny Lobster have their own set of merits, making them excellent choices for different culinary applications:

Size: If you prefer larger lobsters with more meat, Maine Lobster is the way to go.
Amount of Meat: Maine Lobster offers more meat overall, particularly from its claws, while Caribbean Spiny Lobster provides firm, flavorful meat primarily from the tail.
Taste: Maine Lobster boasts a tender, buttery flavor, whereas Caribbean Spiny Lobster offers a slightly sweeter and firmer taste.

Ultimately, the choice between Maine Lobster and Caribbean Spiny Lobster comes down to personal preference and the specific dish you plan to prepare. Whichever you choose, you're in for a delightful seafood experience.

Cooking Methods and Recipes

When it comes to preparing both Maine Lobster and Caribbean Spiny Lobster, the cooking methods can greatly enhance their natural flavors.

Cooking Methods for Maine Lobster

Boiling: The most common method for cooking Maine Lobsters. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add the lobsters, and cook for about 8-12 minutes, depending on size. Serve with melted butter.
Steaming: This technique preserves the meat's sweet flavor. Place lobsters in a steaming pot, add about two inches of water, cover, and steam for 10-15 minutes.
Grilling: For a smoky flavour, split the lobster in half, brush with garlic butter, and grill shell-side down for about 5-7 minutes.

Cooking Methods for Caribbean Spiny Lobster

Grilling: A popular method that enhances the natural sweetness. Marinate the lobster tails in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and herbs, then grill for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally.
Broiling: For a quick and delicious option, split the tails and brush with butter and spice blends. Broil for about 10 minutes or until the meat is opaque and cooked through.
Sautéing: Chopping the lobster into chunks and sautéing them with vegetables and spices creates a flavorful dish. Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Recipe Ideas

Maine Lobster Roll: Toss the cooked lobster meat with mayonnaise, celery, and lemon juice. Serve in a toasted roll for a true New England classic.
Spicy Caribbean Lobster Tails: Combine garlic, scotch bonnet peppers, and fresh herbs to create a spicy marinade for grilled Caribbean Spiny Lobster tails.

Both types of lobster offer a diverse range of recipes that allow their unique flavors to shine, whether you prefer the traditional dishes or more adventurous culinary creations. Enjoy the new heights your seafood dishes can reach with these cooking methods!

Noble Beach Prize

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:39:27 GMT

Cheap Caribbean Beach Noble Awards

Cheap Caribbean, a leading tour operator in the USA, awards these Beach awards to the highest ranking boutique beach resorts in the Caribbean, annually.

The Noble Beach Prize is ALG’s Cheap Caribbean way of recognizing resorts across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America for being chic, dreamy and an overall beachy experience.

Internal judges narrow each category down to the top resorts, and then a carefully curated group of external judges choose the final winner.

Thanks to Konrad Wagner (owner) and his remarkable team for getting this recognition.

The accolade also comes with a wedge of free marketing dollars to promote the resort in the USA.

We are delighted.

Every award we receive, we know it is the result of the hard work from the staff at the resort. They are what people vote for and why people return for multiple stays.

New Visa Free Entry

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 16:19:46 GMT

Saint Lucia Is Boosting The Tourism Industry With New Visa Free Entry Policy To 109 Countries Including USA, UK, Japan And Schengen Nations

Great news for the Tourism industry of course.

Saint Lucia now offers visa-free entry to citizens of 109 countries, making it an attractive destination for business travel, luxury travel and leisure travel.

This Eastern Caribbean island nation is located north of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and south of Martinique, positioning it among the Windward Islands. Saint Lucia, a jewel in the Caribbean, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and luxurious experiences.

With its stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant local culture, Saint Lucia is a dream destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Five Reasons NOT to stay at Calabash Cove

Sun, 05 May 2024 15:05:35 GMT

Calabash Cove is NOT for Families

Yes it's true we don't take children at any time of the year, so if you are looking for a family vacation in the Caribbean, cross us off your list.

It's not because we don't like kids, it is because the majority of our guests over the years have said they prefer a kid free zone. It creates an atmosphere of calm and the ability to rest and relax properly. Difficult to achieve with children running and jumping and shrieking by the pool.

We find this policy serves us well and as we are a 26 roomed boutique resort, for us and our guests it's perfect.

If you want endless choices of restaurants don't book us.

By saying already we are a small boutique resort, I guess it's obvious that we don't have those things, however you'd be surprised how many people miss that and then are dissappointed with what we have. Our Windsong Restaurant and our Poolside lunch venue, have extensive menus serving superb food. We are also noted for our varied Vegan menu.

Are you really OK paying all kinds of supplements over and above your All-Inclusive Rate?

If you are then fine but we don't do that. We don't charge extra for room service and there are zero supplements on our menus. If Lobster is in season then it's included.

We give you a full wet bar in your room, not just a few beers, cokes and a bottle of wine. You get a range of Spirits and Mixers, wines, beers and soft drinks.

We call it the " UNCONDITIONAL ALL-INCLUSIVE "

Are you wondering where the disco/nightclub is? Don't waste time looking; we don't have one.

Calabash Cove guests range in age on average from mid thirties to seventies, but they all have one thing in common. They come here to rest because many have stressful jobs and circumstances. They want to catch up on some reading, get a massage or a facial and take dinner looking out over a moonlit seascape.

So when looking for extensive night life, try IBIZA!!

Want a busy beach with Jet Skis for Rent?

Not here I'm afraid. Our beach is a pristine, relatively small beach and never crowded. It goes with the territory by being peaceful and without Jet Skis!

Plant Based Food at Calabash Cove

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 12:22:16 GMT

Dedicate d Vegan Menu

As one of the only properties in Saint Lucia to offer a dedicated vegan menu, Calabash Cove Resort and Spa offers diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes with an international flare. With its ability to accommodate most dietary restrictions, the culinary team is constantly upgrading its vegan and vegetarian offerings with new items based on the seasons. The resort also only serves sparking and drinking water in glass bottles and much of the restaurant’s food and beverage is sourced locally focusing on local farmers and fishermen. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Windsong Restaurant offers an eclectic menu inspired by Asian cuisine using the freshest, local ingredients in every dish. Calabash Cove Resort and Spa now offers an all-vegan dinner for the first time ever. The vegan dinner menu features dishes including Yellow Split Peas Soup with sweet potato, Tempura Cauliflower Bites, Sesame Braised Eggplant, Pan Seared Tofu, Vegetable Stroganoff, Grilled Cinnamon Pineapple and more. The culinary team at Windsong Restaurant can accommodate guests’ special diet needs and personal requests. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Windsong Restaurant offers an eclectic menu inspired by Asian cuisine using the freshest, local ingredients in every dish. Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is a Caribbean gem offering seclusion, beauty and mesmerizing views at every turn. Its 26 villas feature old Caribbean charm coupled with luxurious resort amenities of today.

Along with being completely plastic-free, some other notable green features the intimate resort offers include: all hot water is generated by solar energy and there are no oil or gas heaters on property, energy saving LEDs in all light fixtures, operate own on-site water treatment plant and recycle the water for irrigation, timers for all pool pumps, collect rainwater, no disposable food containers or disposable cups and glasses, lunch boxes made from recycled material, straws made from degradable paper, no disposable plastics like cutlery or plates, all produce sourced from local farmers whenever possible, collect used kitchen oil and send to a commercial laundry and Saint Lucia Distillers on island – it is used as fuel to heat laundry water or fire a distillation still, extremely seldom fog grounds for mosquitos to allow birdlife to flourish, grass cuttings are mulched back into the ground and composted, kitchen waste is collected and given to a pig farmer and more. www.calabashcove.com

The Friendship Bridge

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:56:02 GMT

The Friendship Bridge at Calabash Cove

In the chaos that is today's world, every little moment or gesture that makes one feel good is golden. One of the things that makes running a small resort like Calabash Cove on a small island so rewarding, is that it's easy to make friends with folks from many countries and backgrounds.

The idea of the Friendship bridge came from this relationship between many guests and the staff. In the gardens at Calabash Cove, there is a small ornamental wooden bridge and it's the bridge that our concept was built around. We'd call it our "Friendship Bridge" and when guests are ready to go home, they can, if they wish, write a message on brightly colored ribbons. These ribbons are then tied onto the bridge.

The messages can be addressed to anyone. They can be to the staff or a particular member of staff or they can be to Saint Lucia as a more symbolic gesture. Others choose to address themselves of members of the family who might see the message on a future visit. Best of all, we think is when people leave messages for the friends they have made on vacation.

Another way to use the idea is to take photographs of the ribbons and then use the photos as social media posts.

Did you know that March 20th is the World Day of Happiness?

Happy Islands, Happy Resort

Making friends can have multiple benefits for your well-being.

Emotional support

Friends provide a listening ear, empathy, and encouragement during tough times, which can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

Social connection

Spending time with friends can boost feelings of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness, leading to increased happiness and a sense of community.

Shared experiences

Engaging in activities with friends can create lasting memories and positive experiences, contributing to a sense of fulfillment and joy.

Laughter and fun

Friends often bring humor and lightheartedness into your life, which can elevate your mood and bring about moments of joy and laughter.

Positive influence

Friends can provide motivation, inspiration, and support in achieving your goals and pursuing your passions, leading to a sense of accomplishment and happiness.

In essence, friendship provides a valuable social support system that can enhance your emotional well-being, increase your sense of happiness, and improve your overall quality of life.

Ten Reasons to Stay at Calabash Cove Saint Lucia

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 22:08:45 GMT

If you are planning an adults only vacation in the sunny Caribbean, then look at the many reasons you might choose Calabash Cove.

1. Couples Vacations

Calabash Cove is not specifically for couples only, it's for adults only, and that's the beauty of it for those looking for calm and peace. There are no kids! We're not even sure whether "Couples Only" or "Couples Resorts" still has relevance in 2023, so we decided that an adult retreat resonates with our customers.

2. Unconditional All-Inclusive

There are all-inclusive hotels in the Caribbean, and there are all-inclusive-ish hotels. Calabash Cove is the former. Unlike others, we added an unconditional descriptor since we do not limit menu items. In other words, if lobster is on the menu, there is no surcharge. Your in-room bar is a full bar.

3. Boutique and Intimate

Some people describe resorts with 100 rooms as boutique, but they just aren't, are they? Calabash Cove is just 26 rooms and suites , some on the edge of the Ocean. It can be described as a boutique resort with a secluded beach, a sense of style, and intimate gardens to stroll through.

4. Rooms with a View

How many resorts have you been to where every room has a sea view? Let's be honest if you come to the Caribbean on vacation, a picture of the Caribbean from your bedroom is a must!

The Sunset Ocean View Jnr Suites have an ....Ocean View!

The Swim-up Jnr Suites l ook out over the freeform pool with the Caribbean Sea beyond.

And the Water's Edge Cottages are right on the edge of the lapping waves.

5. Romantic?

We might not talk about "Couples Resorts," but that doesn't mean we are not romantic. This intimate resort provides many opportunities for a romantic sojourn for those who wish it. A popular concept is a moonlight dinner on the beach, although there are many locations for such an event.

Unsurprisingly, Calabash Cove is in demand for destination weddings and honeymoons.

6. Food and Wine

As mentioned earlier, the real value of a Calabash Cove all-inclusive vacation is in the food and beverage. Wines included with lunch and dinner are quality wines and not cheap supermarket fare. We don't litter our menus with supplements for luxury items such as filet mignon and lobster.

The icing on the cake is that, unlike most all-inclusives, we do not add additional charges for room service.

Did we say that our guests tell us the food is terrific?

7. Culture

Saint Lucia has a rich history, with both English and French influences. It's a real must to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. The team at Calabash Cove is knowledgeable, and you can talk to them before you leave home to work out a plan of what you would like to see and do.

There are special events throughout the year, and if any coincides with your trip, take advantage of the timing. In May, the annual Jazz and Arts Festival takes place, this year featuring global icon, "Sting." July is the time for Carnival with its vibrant color, joyous music, and dance.

There are also the " Jump-Ups " famed in the West Indies. Every Friday throughout the year ( except Good Friday ), the weekly menu of loud music, Piton Beer, and BBQ Chicken lining the streets of Gros Islet village can be fun.

Further down the coast going South on the West coast, the fishing village of Anse Le Raye holds a "Fish Friday" , where you can find an array of seafood and fish cooked in the streets on open grills. Music (not as loud as Gros Islet) is a given.

8. Adventure

Saint Lucia stands out alone from the other Windward and Leeward islands. It is known for its outstanding natural beauty and the famed "Piton" mountains, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, if you are adventurous, you can match your sun, sea, and sand vacation with dramatic mountains, dense rainforests, waterfalls, and rivers. Go hiking or climbing; there are plenty of guides to assist.

Equally, under the sea that surrounds us are underwater gardens filled with myriads of colorful fish, rays, and the odd reef or nurse shark. There are wrecks to dive and undersea walls to explore. Your Calabash team can help pre-arrange any of this for you.

9. Sustainable Hospitality.

Here are some other notable green features the 26-room property offers:

Calabash Cove Resort maintains a strict plastic-free policy. It utilizes solar power to heat water, uses energy-saving LEDs in all light fixtures, operates its on-site water treatment plant, and then recycles the water for irrigating the gardens.

Timers are fitted to all pool pumps; rainwater is collected and stored . No disposable food containers or cups and glasses are used, and picnic lunch boxes are made from recycled material. Straws are made from degradable paper and no disposable plastics like cutlery or plates. All produce is sourced from local farmers whenever possible to reduce the carbon footprint of imported goods. The kitchen oil is collected and sent to a commercial laundry and Saint Lucia Distillers. They use it as fuel to heat laundry water or fire the distillation still. Fogging the grounds for mosquitos is kept to a minimum to allow birdlife to flourish, and mulching grass cuttings back into the gardens is beneficial. Kitchen waste is collected and given to a pig farmer.

10. Friendly People

One of the major deciding factors in returning somewhere for a repeat vacation may be how you are treated by the people of the country you visited. The comment we hear from guests over and over, is that Saint Lucia has some of the friendliest people anywhere.

Birds of Prey who live at Calabash Cove

Sun, 18 Feb 2024 16:14:28 GMT

The American Kestrel

In the Cove Gardens

You can be forgiven for mistaking then for hawks but these birds are in fact Kestrels, most likely the "American Kestrel".

You can often hear their plaintiff cry on the wind, then look up to see them sail majestically through the air on a search for prey just like an eagle or any other predatory bird.

They are the largest native bird of prey in Saint Lucia.

They are beautiful to look at and can be very loyal friends. If they remain undisturbed and un-harassed they tend to stay in the same area with the same partner for as long as they live. And they mate for life.

If you watch carefully for a time whilst a pair are circling above, you might notice that they fly in a rough figure-of-eight pattern. The two of them in a slightly different sequence. Working together like this they can be fairly sure to cover all the ground below with their incredibly sharp eyes.

Kestrels, are a beautiful relative of the Falcons we sometimes see in cities where they prefer to hunt and live around old abandoned or remote and quiet buildings. The also like quiet barns in the country side.

The owner at Calabash Cove likes them for their looks, and the entertainment provided for his houseguests, but there is another more practical reason. They make life miserable for the ever annoying blackbirds called Greater Antillean Grackles.

Why Hoteliers love these birds

The Grackles seem to be addicted to sugar, fake or real and they love to eat off your plate once you give them a chance to swoop in and take a piece of your breakfast scrambled egg or a french fried potato.

However the Kestrels like to plunder black bird nests when on the hunt and so keep their numbers at tolerable levels or encourage them to move away altogether. Then there are always the mice, they keep a control on.

Where to find these birds at Calabash Cove

Their favorite perch, from where to take off for long glides through the air above Calabash Cove is the Pimento tree next to the C-Bar. Especially in spring, when the foliage on the tree is not very thick they can easily be observed while you enjoy your sundowner cocktail. If you have the patience you can watch them putting on a hunting show chasing black birds, lizards and sometimes other small critters like mice.

Please don’t trouble them, they are our friends and we hope they stay with us for many months and years to come.

"I got a mouse"

Chicken & Mushroom Vol au Vent

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:49:30 GMT

Calabash Cove Chicken Vol au Vent

Puff pastry Ingredients

Chef used ready-rolled pastry, but you can also use a puff pastry block and roll it yourself,

Egg yolk and milk - to brush the pastry with

Method

In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the milk to get a smooth mixture.

Roll the puff pastry over the work surface.

Using a cookie cutter of 6 cm in diameter, cut out a circle of pastry.

Cut out another circle, then place a cookie cutter of 4 cm in diameter in the middle of the second circle, so that you have a ring cut on the outside of the smaller circle.

Repeat with the rest of the puff pastry.

Place all the larger and small circles onto a baking tray lined with non-stick paper and brush them with the egg mixture.

Place the pastry rings onto the circles. Remember to brush the rings too.

Bake in the preheated oven at 175 Celsius (350 Fahrenheit) for 15 minutes or until golden brown.

As soon as the cases come out of the oven, press down slightly so that the bottom of the cases goes down a bit to make more room for the filling

Ingredients for the filling

1 Chicken breast - I used a medium-sized one

1 cup Mushrooms - white button mushrooms, but other mushrooms would do too

1 Onion – chef uses regular onions with chives.

Garlic minced or chopped – 2 tablespoons.

¼ cup Butter or olive oil

½ litre Milk – full cream or semi-skimmed are ok

All-purpose flour - for thickening the sauce.

Parmesan cheese - or any other hard cheese (helps with thickening too)

Salt and black pepper

Chopped parsley- 2 tablespoon.

1 cup sweet bell peppers- mixed colours to give dish that bright appearance.

¼ cup dry white wine

Method

First, peel and chop the onion and garlic.

Add the butter or oil to a frying pan set over medium heat and allow the butter to melt.

Add the onion and sauté until golden, then add the garlic and chicken cut into pieces, and cook everything until the chicken is tender - it can take up to 5-6 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Add the chopped mushrooms and peppers and continue to cook until they release all their liquid.

Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and mushrooms, pour in the milk, whisking well until the milk thickens into a sauce, and add white wine.

Add the grated parmesan, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley or chopped herbs.

Fill each pastry case with the filling. Place small circles on top or the side of the dish and serve.

Enjoy.

So much to do in Saint Lucia

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:25:20 GMT

Sometimes, just chilling ain't enough!

With the current availability and frequency of air service to the island, a short stay is always doable. Nevertheless, having chosen to reach one of the most beautiful places on earth, why would you not explore St Lucia?

Getting Immersed

Calabash Cove has many features to make you want to stay where you are. Spending your days on the secluded beach, strolling through the lush gardens, lazing by the vast infinity pool, and taking long, leisurely lunches indulging in delicious food and sipping chilled wine.

Cool Huh?

For some, that's just not enough.....

Explore St Lucia with some adventures, perhaps?

Saint Lucia is made for exploring. It's AKA ' Helen of the West ', alludes to the beauty of Helen of Troy. The majestic Pitons and surrounding valleys are designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. A trip to Saint Lucia is not complete without seeing them, climbing them, photographing them, and being inspired by them. If that's not enough for starters, we make incredible chocolate to boot. In fact this blog appears during "Chocolate Month".

Fit & Fearless

Our Rainforest provides a few choices for adventure at different levels. For the fit and fearless, trekking the forest complete with waterfalls, fantastic flora, and fauna, and in the extreme even climbing our highest peak, Mount Gimmie.

Undersea Wonderland

Underwater adventures abound with diving in crystal clear waters bursting with marine life. A multitude of tropical fish, turtles, rays, and corals await you in several locations. We have some old wrecks too!.

Enjoy the undersea world whether you are a beginner or experienced diver. If you are qualified, don't forget to bring your PADI or BSAC card. If you want to learn to dive allow a weeks stay. We will fix it up for you, don't worry.

Explore St Lucia with Softer Adventure-Try Ziplining

A fun way to explore the forest without too much effort is to get to one of the zipline venues. The experience of zipping through the treetops with views you cannot imagine is one for the memory bank.

The team at the zipline venue, fit you up with all the equipment and after a few tips, make your way through the rope bridges and up ladders to your first platform.

The thrill as you leave the platform and "zip" through the tree tops is out of this world. Don't worry, you are quite safe.

Explore St Lucia - All at Sea

For those with the "hunter provider." instinct, deep water fishing is not to be missed. Marlin, Tuna, and Swordfish abound in our waters.

The Ocean surrounding Saint Lucia provides a habitat for Dolphins and Whales , and many sighting trips are available.

When you are keen to explore St Lucia, don't forget the sea.

Friday Fish Fest

Caribbean cooking is colorful and tasty. Creole recipes abound in local restaurants and bars. Or take in the Anse Le Raye "Fish Fest" on a Friday night. It's a weekly ritual of lining the village streets with vendors cooking Lobster, Shrimp, Snapper, Grouper, and Dorado on BBQs stretching along the seafront. The atmosphere has laughter, mouthwatering smells, loud music, friends meeting friends, and families meeting families. Explore St Lucia not only by sampling its food, but many other aspects of its history and culture.

Making it easy to stay longer...

We have you covered

Check out the best offer and frankly temptation to stay at Calabash Cove for a week or more and enjoy all these delights. At this moment in time you may book any room on an all-inclusive rate with a 40% discount.

Plus if you stay for 5 nights, the fifth night is free, on us!

If you stay and pay for 7 nights then we provide a luxury private transfer

from the airport and back.

Let's do the math

So this means if you stayed for 10 nights...

You would have time to do all the above.
You would only pay for 8 nights (because 2 are on us).
Those 8 nights you are paying for are discounted by 40%.
You will have paid for more than 7 nights, so you get your luxury private limo transfer.

When we put it like that, it's an offer you can't refuse!

Come on and explore St Lucia with us.

Why Choose Calabash Cove for your Honeymoon

Sun, 29 Oct 2023 15:21:15 GMT

If you are planning your Honeymoon in the sunny Caribbean, look at the many reasons to choose Calabash Cove.

1. Couples Vacations

2. Unconditional All-Inclusive

3. Boutique and Intimate

4. Rooms with a View

How many resorts have you been to where every room has a sea view? Let's be honest if you come to the Caribbean on vacation, a picture of the Caribbean from your bedroom is a must!

The Sunset Ocean View Jnr Suites have an ....Ocean View!

The Swim-up Jnr Suites l ook out over the freeform pool with the Caribbean Sea beyond.

And the Water's Edge Cottages are right on the edge of the lapping waves.

5. Romantic?

Unsurprisingly, Calabash Cove is in demand for destination weddings and honeymoons.

6. Food and Wine

The icing on the cake is that, unlike most all-inclusives, we do not add additional charges for room service.

Did we say that our guests tell us the food is terrific?

7. Culture

8. Adventure

9. Sustainable Hospitality.

Here are some other notable green features the 26-room property offers:

10. Friendly People

Spiny Lobster Cocktail

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 18:56:29 GMT

Spiny Lobster Cocktail

Ingredients

6 servings:

18 ounces fresh raw lobster meat or whole lobster

- 3 ounces per serving (chef’s recommendation)

1 small cucumber or zucchini

1 lime or lemon all for garnish

2 tablespoons of minced garlic

¼ cup chopped onions

¼ cup lime juice

¼ teaspoon of paprika powder (will be used for garnish)

Ice bath for quick cooling cooked lobster meat

Cocktail sauce ingredients:

1 cup heavy mayonnaise (dairy free mayonnaise is ok)

1 tablespoon (pre)roasted minced garlic

1 tablespoon paprika powder (helps give that radiant color)

1 tablespoon chopped parsley.

2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon of hot sauce or according to preference

½ teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons lime juice

Boiling of lobster method.

In a medium pot add 4 cups water to a boil with salt to taste.

Add minced garlic, chopped onions, and lime juice to water and bring to a boil.

Submerge raw lobster meat to seasoned boiling water.

Let boil at a very low level for approximately 6 minutes depending on the thickness of lobster junks.

Remove lobster from boiling water once it doesn’t look translucent to the middle.

Immediately place in prepared ice bath to avoid over cooking.

Remove from ice water after 3 mins use a small colander

or dry with a paper towel.

Cut meat to desirable portions and refrigerate.

Cocktail sauce method.

In a small mixing bowl add all ingredients together, using a whisk to mix until sauce is light pink and all ingredients are uniformly mixed. Add salt to taste. More spice could be added depending on your ‘spice” preference.

Serve in a martini glass on a nest of tossed salad or shredded salad leaves.

Decorate with lime wheel, cucumber twist or tomato wedges.

Use extra paprika to sprinkle on lobster meat and your Calabash cocktail sauce.

Calabash Cove Chocolate Cake

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 20:12:43 GMT

Calabash Cove Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

Calabash Cove chocolate cake recipe for 8 servings

2 cups sugar

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

3/4 cup cocoa powder

2 eggs

1 cup oil

1 cup buttermilk or yoghurt

1 cup hot water

Method.

In a mixing bowl add all ingredients except flour.

Using a whisk mix together for 3 minutes until the blend is smooth.

Gradually add flour until batter is smooth,

Grease (round) cake baking pan and pour batter mix in pan, using a flat spatula to scrape all batter from bowl.

Bake for 25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius,

Allow cake to cool before cutting.

Serve with your favourite ice cream, whipped cream, liquid heavy cream, or drizzle.

Enjoy

August is Chocolate Month

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 16:05:29 GMT

August is Choccy Month in Saint Lucia!

OK So how many of you know that Saint Lucia is famous for cocoa and hence chocolate? Did you also know that August is dedicated as "Chocolate Month".

During August therefore, hotels, restaurants and resorts all vie with one another, to create the best culinary creations and also spa treatments based on this heavenly substance.

Saint Lucia is a fantasy landscape , a tropical beach with the twin peaks of the volcanic Pitons providing a stunning backdrop. As if a trip to Saint Lucia couldn't get any more surreal, the Caribbean island has become one of the world's hottest destinations for chocolate tourism, and tasting this decadent treat while you're here is definitely worth your while.

A history of Chocolate in Saint Lucia

Chocolate is part of Saint Lucia's legacy : The island has produced cacao for centuries. The island's mountain slopes provide ideal growing conditions, as cacao trees love rich volcanic soil and shade.

In the past, the island's cacao beans were exported to Europe or to Hershey, Pennsylvania to be made into chocolate; today, Saint Lucia keeps some cacao for its own chocolate production. Chocolate-making is very labor-intensive, and the process has hardly changed over the years. However, there has been one modification. The traditional cocoa-rina dance —done barefoot atop cacao beans to polish them—now belongs to the past.

Different types of Chocolate in Saint Lucia.

Saint Lucia chocolate is for discerning purists, as it contains less sugar than Belgian, Dutch, French, American, and other chocolates. This results in a more intense cocoa flavor, one that can be enjoyed in a variety of concoctions and recipes.

Single-estate Saint Lucia chocolate —made entirely on one plantation—is high status and has its own flavor, much like wine from different vineyards. The flavor of this is best enjoyed in moderation.

Saint Lucia makes both milk and dark chocolate. The milk chocolate is smooth and airy; the dark chocolate is full of deep flavor, barely sweetened, but not bitter. In Saint Lucia, chocolate is considered as much a savory mealtime experience as a sweet experience. If you're craving dessert, we recommend tasting a Saint Lucia banana split or Saint Lucian Chocolate Cake.

Cocoa Tea

Cocoa tea is a Saint Lucia tradition that captivates visitors. It was originated by newly freed slaves as a cheap, locally produced alternative to expensively imported coffee beans or tea leaves. Nowadays, cocoa tea is served all over Saint Lucia, from roadside carts to the finest restaurants. Cocoa sticks, used to make cocoa tea, are easy to find in Saint Lucia and make for a great souvenir.

Plastic Free July

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 15:07:46 GMT

A look back at Plastic Free July

Living on an island

When you live on a small island, it is far easier to see the impact of plastic waste on the environment, especially in the Ocean.

Saint Lucia's Calabash Cove Resort and Spa embraces being plastic free.

This 26-room Saint Lucia boutique gem Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is completely plastic-free, along with providing solar power to heat water, energy saving LEDs in all light fixtures, and its own on-site water treatment plant. All produce is sourced from local farms when possible.

This quaint island getaway is the perfect eco-friendly vacation spot and so it pays dividends to work to save the natural habitats and the eco systems.

The Good the bad and the Ugly - Cut down on Plastics

Plastic pollution has been a major topic over the past few years, and for good reason. Plastic is extremely slow to degrade and has created huge problems for our oceans, lakes, rivers and beaches. It's up to every business and especially the hospitality industry, to eliminate plastic from every step of the guest experience.

Beach Cleaning

Obviously Calabash Cove keeps Calabash Cove clean always, however there are many out of the way beaches that may need attention because of what the tide has brought in. Beach cleaning expeditions can be fun and as a visitor, if you want to join in, you will be more than welcome. It is kind of in keeping with the changing attitudes to travel. You don't just take, you give back. It's up there with immersive experiences designed to expose visitors to the island culture and economy.

What did Calabash Cove do with its plastics use?

No disposable food containers or disposable cups and glasses, are permitted. Lunch boxes made from recycled material, are used for guest picnics. Straws used on property are made from degradable paper. Naturally there's no disposable plastics like cutlery or plates either.

Six Cities connected with Saint Lucia

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 17:35:06 GMT

New Title

Six Cities to Saint Lucia

The easiest and most obvious way to reach Saint Lucia is by air. Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is the main airport in Vieux Fort, located in the southern part of the island.

Multiple airlines offer direct flights to Saint Lucia from major cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Caribbean. You can check for available flights and book your tickets accordingly.

We have picked six example cities to travel from all year round, noting that other cities, Montreal, Chicago, Dallas (Fort Worth), Boston, and Philadelphia, all have connections in the winter season.

New York

You can book a flight from one of the airports in New York, such as John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Saint Lucia. Multiple airlines offer direct flights, including JetBlue daily from JFK and United weekly from Newark. The flight duration is approximately 4-5 hours nonstop.

Miami

American Airlines have direct nonstop service from Miami International to Saint Lucia. During the high-season winter months, the service is twice daily. The flight duration is typically three and a half hours.

Atlanta

Delta Airlines runs a daily service from Atlanta to Saint Lucia, except between August and November when there are six flights weekly.

Charlotte NC

Charlotte, North Carolina, maintains a year-round daily service nonstop to Saint Lucia.

London, England

From London's Gatwick Airport, British Airways have a daily service, year-round. Virgin Atlantic now only flies during the winter months. The service is on Mondays and Fridays, from London's Heathrow Airport.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto's Pearson Airport has provided air service to Saint Lucia for several decades. Air Canada flies three times a week between June and October and five times a week afterward.

West Jet has one flight per week up to November 15th, when two flights are offered.

Tips when traveling to Saint Lucia

Entry requirements:

Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. U.S. citizens do not require a visa to enter Saint Lucia for tourism. However, check for additional entry requirements or travel restrictions related to COVID-19, such as providing a negative PCR test result or quarantine protocols.

Transportation:

Arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation. Many resorts offer airport transfers, so check if your accommodation provides this service. Taxi services are also available at the airport, and there are car rental options if you prefer to have your vehicle during your stay.

Adventure

Saint Lucia is known for its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes. Plan your activities based on your interests, such as visiting the iconic Pitons, exploring the Sulphur Springs, snorkeling or diving in the clear waters, or enjoying a hike in the rainforest. Saint Lucia offers a range of outdoor adventures and water activities.

Currency:

The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. It is advisable to carry some local money for smaller purchases and to check the exchange rates before your trip.

Safety:

As with any travel, remember your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Ensure your travel insurance covers your trip to Saint Lucia and follow any safety guidelines local authorities provide.

White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 22:26:25 GMT

White Chocolate & Macadamia Nut Cookies

Here's an old but simply delicious favorite to add to the recipe book

Ingredients

yields 48 cookies

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup white sugar

2 eggs

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon almond extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup coarsely chopped macadamia nuts

1 cup coarsely chopped white chocolate

Method

Prep 15 minutes | Bake 10 minutes | Cool 45 minutes

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually stir into the creamed mixture. mix in the macadamia nuts and white chocolate.

3. Drop dough by teaspoonful onto ungreased cookie sheets.

4. Bake for 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden brown

Sustainable Travel

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 22:10:45 GMT

Sustainable Hotels in the Caribbean

Sustainable tourism comes in all shapes and sizes, and although it's tough to make it carbon neutral at present, we can still do as much as is in our power to help move towards that goal.

What is Sustainable Travel?

Sustainable tourism comes in all shapes and sizes, and although it's tough to make it carbon neutral at present, we can still do as much as is in our power to help move towards that goal.

This year, for example, in readiness for the turtle nesting season, Calabash Cove and the Fisheries Department used the opportunity to conduct turtle awareness training for its team members and help them understand the island's biodiversity.

Saint Lucia's Biodiversity.

The interactive educational afternoon with Fisheries Officer Yvonne Edwin included discussions on the varieties of turtles found in our coastal waters, the time of the year they frequent our waters, their sizes, life expectancies, survival rates from the day they hatch, nesting and breeding habits as well as the challenges faced by turtles and other marine life culturally as well as economically and environmentally.

In a follow up training session team members will learn how to relocate and rescue turtle eggs in case the nest is too close to the water line. They will also receive training in tagging previously untagged turtles when they come ashore at Calabash Cove for nesting. Tagging allows monitoring travel habits of these ancient sea creatures said to be the closest surviving relative of animals from the Dinosaur's age.

Plastic Free

Each year at the end of April, 193 countries celebrate Earth Day. It is an opportunity to appreciate the Earth and reflect on ways to contribute to sustainability. One of the best ways to enjoy the Earth is to see it in all its facets through travel. Unfortunately, unsustainable travel can harshly affect local ecosystems and the world. To celebrate Earth Day, Calabash Cove reviewed everything that minimized its footprint by reducing plastic use, restoring coral reefs, combating deforestation, and promoting vegan and vegetarian options.

Plastic pollution has been an important topic over the past few years and for a good reason. Plastic is extremely slow to degrade and has created enormous problems for our oceans, lakes, rivers, and beaches.

Calabash Cove Resort maintains a strict plastic-free policy.

Sustainable Hospitality in Action

A popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotel in Saint Lucia, Calabash Cove is always looking to improve. Here are some other notable green features the 26-room property offers: solar power to heat water, energy-saving LEDs in all light fixtures, operating own on-site water treatment plant and recycling the water for irrigation, timers for all pool pumps, collects rainwater, no disposable food containers or disposable cups and glasses , lunch boxes made from recycled material, straws made from degradable paper, no disposable plastics like cutlery or plates , all produce sourced from local farmers whenever possible, collect used kitchen oil and send to a commercial laundry and Saint Lucia Distillers on the island - it is used as fuel to heat laundry water or fire a distillation still, extremely seldom fog grounds for mosquitos to allow birdlife to flourish, mulching back grass cuttings back into the gardens, and kitchen waste is collected and given to a pig farmer and more.

Easter Lamb Recipe

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 15:56:35 GMT

Easter Lamb Recipe

CCR Easter lamb recipe with breadfruit

Ingredients

Six (6) servings.

3 lb boneless lamb leg

1 cup chopped onions.

½ cup chopped chives

½ cup chopped celery (herb)

6 table spoon minced garlic.

6 tablespoons thyme

6 tablespoon local seasoning pepper

6 tablespoons fresh rosemary

6 tablespoons chopped parsley.

4 tablespoon coriander

5 whole bay leaves

6 tablespoon molasses

1 local bread fruit

Method

Prepare by breadfruit removing skin and core. Dice and soak in cold salt water to avoid oxidation.

Cut lamb meat in uniform app. 1-inch cubes, combine all ingredients except chives, bay leaf and breadfruit, creating a paste like rub for meat. Place in a desirable container with lid, add meat and paste marinade and massage into meat with added salt and pepper. Keep marinated meat in fridge overnight or at least for 6 hours.

Pre heat stew pot with vegetable oil on a high heat for sauteing meat, sauté meat in pot for 5 mins unlit glossy brown. Add 4 cups of vegetable stock or water. Bring to boil then cover pot with lid on a a low heat for 90 minutes, stir and scrap pot occasionally with wooden spoon to avoid meat from sticking to pot.

Chef tip: Using a pressure cooker pot may reduce cooking time to 50minutes, desired vegetables can be added in final 10 minutes.

Add breadfruit, bay leaves in the final 10 minutes of cooking add salt and pepper if need.

Served in a deep dish to keep gravy, spread the remainder of chives for garnish in each serving.

When is the best time to stay in Saint Lucia

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 20:26:49 GMT

A six minute fun fact read

The Best Time to come to Saint Lucia?

Many people ask the question; when is the best time to go to Saint Lucia? The fact is there is no simple answer. It depends on what interests you and how you spend your vacation time. For instance, are you an adventurer, a beach baby, or is culture your passion?

Since the critical component of any holiday is the weather, which is also a determining factor, I decided to write this article based on the four seasons.

Is the best time to go to Saint Lucia in the Winter?

The winter months have always been the traditional time for Europeans to visit the Caribbean. And since there was a time when travel was out of reach for the average budget, the wealthy used to be the prominent visitors. The reason they chose the Winter was apparent. The objective was to escape the cold winters and to enjoy the best weather the Caribbean could offer.

Typically the Caribbean Winter was hot, dry and outside the Hurricane season. Two things have changed Caribbean travel. Firstly, most islands have invested in all levels of Tourism, from five-star luxury to backpacking. That, combined with more affordable airfares over time, has broadened the appeal to create a year-round industry.

Winter prices still tend to be the highest and incorporate holidays such as Christmas and New Year, Thanksgiving, and Valentine's Day . Christmas is celebrated as it would be in the UK or North America, but many hotels try to include some traditional Saint Lucian moments in their programmes.

In Saint Lucia, Winter festivities include The Festival of Lights (National Day) in December and Independence Day in February . The Annual Atlantic Rally for Cruisers occurs in late November and early December. During the latter, there is a lot of entertainment and festivities, especially in the vicinity of Rodney Bay Marina.

If you are a fan of sundowners, then it is more likely that you will witness a "Green Flash" in the Winter. This phenomenon occurs at sunset and sunrise when conditions are favourable and results when two optical phenomena combine: a mirage and the dispersion of sunlight. As the sun dips below the horizon, the light disperses through the earth's atmosphere like a prism.

The second change, although less definable, is that the weather patterns used to be more apparent. The Dry Season is from December to May, and the Rainy Season is from June to November . That no longer seems to be the case. Blame it on climate change or not; the fact remains that the dry season is a little less dry and the rainy season a little less wet. You can get weeks of sunshine and little rainfall at any time of the year.

It's true Hurricanes are still possible in June thru November, but these days cyclonic activity seems confined to August, September and October. It's also worth noting that Saint Lucia is geographically in the lowest risk zone with, as we see on record, most activity in the Northern Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico and the SE United States.

Either way, you are sure to get a tan whenever you come.

Is the best time to go to Saint Lucia in the Spring?

There is usually a lot going on in March, April and May . Easter, of course, is strictly observed, as most Saint Lucians are Catholic. Good Friday is the most sacred of days , and only hotels will serve alcohol. On the other hand, remember Saint Lucia is the birthplace of Cocoa, and thus, chocolate abounds . There are many working Cocoa plantations on the island. Try to see one during your trip.

May is always the time for the Jazz and Arts Festival . This event has for many years been a part of the Saint Lucian calendar. 2023 is the first event since 2019 and before the pandemic.

Performers have included George Benson, Mary J. Blige, Boyz II Men, Ciara, En Vogue, Herbie Hancock, and Lauryn Hill, India. Arie, The Isley Brothers, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, John Legend, Mario, Branford Marsalis, Ne-Yo, Ocacia, Courtney Pine, Rihanna, Smokey Robinson, Santana, Trey Songz, Angie Stone, UB40, Luther Vandross, Amy Winehouse, American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino, and Malcolm-Jamal Warner. The event is ranked second in the Caribbean after the Trinidad Carnival.

For 2023, the lineup will be headed by global star "Sting," performing with Jamaican reggae and rap sensation Shaggy.

Is the best time to go to Saint Lucia in the summer?

The rain might fall a little more often, but as always interspersed with hot sunshine. Hotel and other accommodation prices will usually be lower, and you might find good flight deals. Expect deals from hotels or airlines to be earlier in the year. It is always best to be on their mailing lists, and when the best deals come out in the Spring for dates in the summer, that's when to book.

In Spring and Summer, or more specifically from April to September, large Leatherback, Green, Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles swim ashore to lay their eggs. It is always possible to go "Turtle-Watching" on supervised excursions.

When is Carnival in Saint Lucia?

Hotter than July is the Carnival. Saint Lucia's Carnival is unusually held in July. (Most islands traditionally tie in the Carnival with lent.) If you ask the hotel or accommodation provider to assist, you can buy a costume and join in on the day. Now that's what I'd call a "Bucket List Item"!

La Rose Flower Festival. This cultural event is one of the two Flower Festivals – "La Rose" and "La Marguerite" held annually in observance of Saint Lucia's rich cultural memory, history and heritage. These two Flower festivals depict a historical rivalry among communities whose members sing the virtues of their flowers. "La Rose" members pledge their allegiance to the rose by dressing in red and creating flamboyant displays made of roses. August 30 2023, is the next date, so if you are here, you will not want to miss this.

Best time, all of the time to come to Saint Lucia

Of course, there are things to see and do all year round. They do not change with the seasons.

Adventure is on tap in Saint Lucia, 365 days a year . On land, scaling our Piton Mountains or Mount Gimmie, hiking through the rainforest and exploring hidden waterfalls and pools are possible all year.

As, too, are underwater adventures, with some of the best scuba sites in the Caribbean to choose from and many experienced dive clubs and schools to help. Even if you are a beginner, there is no need to worry—a few days in Saint Lucia can be just enough for a diving certification.

Two traditional cultural experiences happen every Friday night in Saint Lucia, except for Good Friday. In Gros Islet Village (Rodney Bay), you can enjoy the "Jump Up" street party. TIP: Make sure you prepare yourself for loud music.

To describe "Jump Up" is simple. Loud music powered by massive speaker stacks, freshly cooked fried chicken everywhere, the ability to buy a cold Piton beer every five yards and dancing in the street.

The second of these traditional events happens down the coast in Anse La Raye, a fishing village with a big heart. Their street party is known as the "Fish Fest". It's more of a refined experience with BBQs fired up cooking fresh, locally caught snapper, grouper, giant shrimp and lobster. There is still music and dancing, but less loud and frantic than in Gros Islet.

Is the best time to go to Saint Lucia in the fall?

And so, finally, the fall arrives and with all the year-round events and experiences as all year round. Unique to this time of the year is the "Dive Fest", and if you dive, come then. Saint Lucia is one of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean, with world-class dive sites and snorkelling just offshore. There is endless beauty beneath the surface, with rainbow colour reefs and abundant marine life. Between 16th -23rd September 2023, Saint Lucia will host the annual Dive Fest highlighting the Saint Lucian Dive experience.

When is Creole Heritage Month?

In October, we celebrate Creole Heritage. I n 1981, Saint Lucia celebrated Creole Day for the first time. Since then, this celebration of French Creole Heritage has extended into a month of music, dance, cuisine, art and other cultural expression. The event celebrates the richness and diversity of Saint Lucia's cultural, ethnic and artistic heritage. With musical, theatrical and other performances, seminars and lectures, a variety of culinary experiences, street parties, and art exhibitions, the Festival culminates on the weekend of October 25 with the celebration of Creole Day (Jounen Kweyol) in various communities throughout the island.

On October 17, it's the turn of the second rival flower festival," Marguerite".

La Marguerite members dress in purple, create displays of the Marguerite flower, and sing their traditional songs.

Since October is usually the best month for Game Fishing in this part of the world, the annual Bill Fishing Tournament takes place.

So, I hope you enjoyed this little round-up, and we hope to see you soon.

Come anytime; you will always find a warm welcome.

WE Magazine for Women-Calabash Cove Chocolate Scrub

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 20:51:07 GMT

One Minute Read

The following article was recently published highlighting Calabash Cove's

most unusual Spa Packages

Spa Indulgence for Valentine's Day

One of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotels in Saint Lucia, Calabash Cove Resort and Spa offers seclusion, beauty, and mesmerizing views. With old Caribbean charm, 26 villas are accompanied by the Windsong restaurant, lively C-Bar, and the peaceful Ti Spa. Ti Spa offers special Valentine’s spa packages – with treatments including the

Chocolate Decadence Body Polish ($100USD per person),

W ith a chocolate full body scrub .

Couples Moonlight Escape ($300USD per couple)

C ombining a hot stone and Swedish Massage, a chocolate peppermint foot scrub and champagne and chocolates under the moonlight .

Couples Massage Lessons ($100USD per couple)

W here lovebirds learn how to pamper each other with techniques to help reduce tension and stress. The all-inclusive concept includes a Valentine’s Day dinner, with highlights including a grilled half spiny lobster, five-spiced foie gras with papaya chutney, and escovitched shark with sweet potato chips and edible moringa flowers.

Sting to Headline 2023 Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 19:49:15 GMT

Two Minute Read

Saint Lucia - Back in Business

Saint Lucians are rightly excited by the return after three years of its annual Jazz and Arts Festival . In previous years many global music icons have graced the Pigeon Island stage.

For 2023, the lineup will be headed by global star "Sting," performing with Jamaican reggae and rap sensation Shaggy.

Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2023

Renowned as the biggest and best music event in the Caribbean for three decades, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival returns from May 5-14, 2023, after a three-year hiatus. The 2023 Festival will include headline performances from Sting featuring Shaggy and many globally-recognized performers.

Tickets go on sale February 15, 2023, at www.stlucia.org/jazz.

Spanning classic jazz to world beats, the 2023 Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival will again attract visitors worldwide as the lineup includes international, local, and Caribbean music. Genres include Afro beats, jazz, Gospel, Soca, reggae, Zouk, pop, and an array of cultural beats and exciting rhythms. The iconic and historic Pigeon Island National Park is the waterside backdrop for open-air performances.

St Lucia Jazz - The Line Up

As of January 25, 2023, the musical lineup is as follows,

with more details to come:

● Friday, May 5 - Kick-Off: Caribbean genres with some of the biggest names from the region headlined by reggae superstar Shenseea and Kes the Band.

● May 6-9 - Entertainment & Community Jazz: Explore authentic Saint Lucian culture and people through an eclectic mix of local events.

● Wednesday, May 10 - Kingdom Gospel Night: A riveting, inspiring showcase of praise and worship with some of the best names in Gospel Music, to be announced later.

● Thursday, May 11 - Pure Jazz: Grammy winner, pianist, and composer Gustavo Casenave and a special tribute to Saint Lucia's Luther François, the godfather of Saint Lucia jazz.

● Friday, May 12 - Caribbean Fusion: Featuring Buju Banton, Bunji Garlin, and Fay Ann Lyons.

● Saturday, May 13 - World Beats: Journey the globe with the best Afro beats with Rema, Ayra Starr, CKay, and Kizz Daniel.

● Sunday, May 14 - The Ultimate Celebration and Culmination on Mother's Day: The most distinctive and influential musician of the century, 17-time Grammy Award winner Sting, will headline the evening with Shaggy.

Sting & Shaggy-A collaboration

Some may think the musical collaboration between Sting and Shaggy is a bit random, but the way the musicians came to work with one another is straight-up bonkers.

Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon asked the artists how they met. Shaggy began to tell Fallon that, a few years ago, they performed live onstage together, but Sting cut him off to relay the real truth — Shaggy apparently crashed one of his performances.

“He just walked onstage,” Sting told Fallon. “During ‘Roxanne.’”

“What?!” Fallon screamed.

“I thought it was Sean Paul,” Sting joked.

Shaggy went on to explain that despite the abrupt way the two met, they ended up having a good rapport with one another. Shaggy eventually asked Sting to offer his vocals to a track he was working on. In the studio, the duo realized that their voices blended really well together and the rest was history.

Although the two seem like a strange pairing, they actually share a lot in common musically. Sting has stated in the past that the Police were inspired by reggae music, which derives from Jamaica, where the “It Wasn’t Me” and “Boombastic” musician is from.

Sting says that thanks to their similar tastes in music, he and Shaggy had great artistic chemistry.

“People are surprised but when they hear the record, they’ll be even more surprised because it actually works,” he said.

Check out their album "44/876"

Above content from "Huff Post"

Sting

Gordon Matthew Thomas Sumner CBE (born October 2, 1951), known as Sting, is an English musician and actor. He was the frontman, songwriter, and bassist for the new wave rock band "The Police" from 1977 until their breakup in 1986. He launched a solo career in 1985 and has included elements of rock, jazz, reggae, classical, new-age, and worldbeat in his music.

As a solo musician and a member of The Police, Sting has received 17 Grammy Awards: he won Song of the Year for "Every Breath You Take," three Brit Awards , including Best British Male Artist in 1994 and Outstanding Contribution in 2002 , a Golden Globe, an Emmy, and four nominations for the Academy Award for Best Original Song . In 2019, he received a BMI Award for "Every Breath You Take," becoming the most-played song in radio history.

In 2002, Sting received the Ivor Novello Award for Lifetime Achievement from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors and was also inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Police in 2003. In 2000, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for recording.

In 2003, Sting received a CBE from Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace for services to music.

He was made a Kennedy Center Honoree at the White House in 2014 and was awarded the Polar Music Prize in 2017.

With The Police, Sting became one of the world's best-selling music artists. Solo and with the Police combined, he has sold over 100 million records.

He introduced the North African music genre raï to Western audiences through the hit song "Desert Rose" with Cheb Mami. In 2018, he released the album 44/876, a collaboration with Jamaican musician Shaggy , which won the Grammy Award for Best Reggae Album in 2019.

Saint Lucia Art

Saint Lucia celebrates its arts scene at the Festival. Beginning May 5, community-based events will be across the island, emphasizing the jazz and arts scenes throughout key communities.

The Arts component of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival will be held under the theme "Art and the City" from May 7-11. The Arts will include visual art, literary art, theatre, fashion, an Icon Series, craft and souvenir markets, and various events at Derek Walcott Square, William Peter Boulevard, Constitution Park, Pointe Seraphine, and Serenity Park.

From music and the visual arts to the theater,

the creativity and vibrancy of Saint Lucia will delight visitors.

The English Speaking Caribbean

Sun, 29 Jan 2023 16:28:33 GMT

Two Minute Read

About the Caribbean

The West Indies or the Caribbean, whichever name you know it by, is a necklace of beautiful islands stretching from the Southern tip of Florida to the coast of South America.

This string of 'Pearls' divides into two parts, called the Greater and the Lesser Antilles. One can describe the Greater Antilles as the 'Big Islands.' Cuba, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Hispaniola; (The Dominican Republic and Haiti). Nearby, you will also find some smaller islands, such as Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas.

Lesser Antilles

The Lesser Antilles are the smaller islands. These stretch south from Puerto Rico down to Trinidad & Tobago. They, too, are subdivided into the Leeward and the Windward islands. The Windward Islands include Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada. In contrast, the Leeward Islands include the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, St. Martin/Maarten, St. Barts, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, and Dominica, and the Leeward Antilles—also known as the "ABC Islands"—off the coast of South America are Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao.

Where is English spoken in the Caribbean?

English is the primary language in Saint Lucia, Grenada, St Vincent, the British Virgin Islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands, St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Anguilla.

These smaller islands are generally safer for travelers than their larger counterparts. But what sets them apart, other than soft sandy beaches, warm sunshine, and clear, azure seas?

These islands came to be known as the Antilles because medieval maps often depicted a large continent far across the western sea, a semi-mythical land called Antilia.

This fact also conveyed an understanding that more land existed long before Columbus "discovered" what he thought was India. As a result, scholars today still refer to the Caribbean Sea as the Sea of Antilia, and the islands which make up the lower (or outer) part of this region became known as the Lesser Antilles.

"Helen of the West"

Many of the islands that make up the Lesser Antilles are small and isolated from one another, resulting in individualized cultures developed on each island. European (and later North American) nations competing for ownership or sovereignty over these islands started around the time Columbus sailed west from Spain and continues through today, greatly influencing the shape these cultures took.

People argue about which island is the safest, and the truth is that wherever you travel, as long as you take sensible precautions, you can enjoy a trouble-free vacation almost anywhere.

Arguments also abound about which is the most beautiful. This question is, of course, subjective, but for now, we vote for Saint Lucia. Saint Lucia's other name is "Helen of the West." This name refers to Helen of Troy, whose legendary beauty inspired the saying, "The face that launched a thousand ships." Saint Lucia's beauty is for all to see in the "Piton Mountains," two rocky peaks that stand like sentinels guarding the island.

Smaller Islands - Bigger Adventures!

Smaller Islands-Bigger adventures. While this statement is true for many of the English-speaking islands of the Lesser Antilles, Saint Lucia's opportunities for soft adventure are boundless. Climbing the Pitons, hiking the trails, wading through mountain pools and rivers, and jumping through waterfalls are just some options. Undersea, the beauty continues with pristine coral reefs, staggering marine life, wall dives, and wrecks.

A few islands can match Saint Lucia for adventure; however, as one of the larger Lesser Antillean islands, she is also blessed with other ingredients. Travel surveys regularly cite Saint Lucia as being very friendly to visitors. Surveys also regularly recognize Saint Lucia's standing as the World's Best Honeymoon destination.

Where to Stay?

Some English-speaking islands are costly, with accommodation primarily in the five-star bracket. On the other hand, Saint Lucia has something for varied budgets and different concepts and themes. Calabash Cove Resort and Spa is an adults-only luxury boutique resort. This descriptor means there are no children on the property. That, coupled with only 26 rooms, makes Calabash Cove a perfect fit for those looking for ideal rest far from the madding crowd!

We hope you found our little geography lesson interesting, but come and experience the beauty, friendly welcome, and adventure and see what we are talking about for yourself.

Chocolate Crepes with Chocolate Ice cream

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:53:31 GMT

Recipes from the Calabash Cove Kitchen Archive

Chocolate crepes

Serves 8

Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cup water
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz. strawberry sauce (garnish)
- 1 cup sweetened whipped cream (garnish as desired)

Method:
1. Add all ingredients except for toppings to a mixer in the order listed.

Mix until completely smooth but not thick.
2. Heat a crepe pan or large round pan over medium high heat.

Grease lightly, and add roughly -1/2 cup o f the batter.

Tilt it quickly but carefully, evenly distributing the batter over the pan.
3. Cook for about 1 minute until the bottom is dry and cooked, then flip and cook another 30-60 seconds until the second side is cooked. (Exact cook time will depend on the temperature of your pan)
4. Repeat until all the batter has been used and serve with strawberry sauce and whipped cream as desired.
5. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheat perfectly!

Chocolate ice cream

Serves 8

Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp. salt
- 2 tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 egg yolk, lightly beaten
- 2 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 8 oz. blueberries
- 4 oz. chocolate sauce (garnish)
- 1/2 cup mint leaves (garnish)
- 1 cup whipped (cream garnish if needed)

Method:
1. Combine sugar, milk, salt, and cocoa powder in a saucepan over medium heat .while stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer. Place the egg yolks into a small bowl, gradually stir in about 1/2 cup of the hot liquid and return to the saucepan.
2. Heat until thickened, but do not boil. Remove from the heat, and stir in the chopped chocolate until chocolate is melted. Pour into a chilled bowl, and refrigerate for about two hours until cold, stirring occasionally.
3. When chocolate mixture has completely cooled, stir in the cream, and vanilla then pour into an ice cream maker, and freeze .

Chocolate Garnish (Optional)

Ingredients:
-2 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped

Method:
1. Melt the chocolate in a metal bowl placed over a pot of barely simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove this from the heat and pour the chocolate into a parchment pastry cone.

2. Line a tray with parchment paper and pipe patterns and designs with the chocolate, making them 1 to 2 inches in size. Repetition is the best practice to improve and create consistent designs. Chill the chocolate garnishes for 10 minutes to set, then peel them off the paper and use them to decorate your desserts .

Caribbean Spiny Lobster with Beetroot Gnocchi

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:49:03 GMT

Calabash Cove Recipe Archive

Local spiny lobster and prawns, with beetroot gnocchi in a pesto sauce.

For the Red Beetroot Gnocchi
Ingredients:
Makes 4 Servings
• 1 cup boiled red beets 230 gr.
• 1 cup boiled potatoes 230 gr.
• 1 egg 
• 2 cups flour 300gr. + one handful for dusting
•  pinch of salt (to taste)
• 4 tbsp. olive oil
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, (for serving if needed )
Method:
• Boil the potatoes (20min from boiling) and the beets (60min from boiling).
Drain and remove the beets' skin under running water.

• In a big bowl add the flour and mash the beets with a potato masher. Mash and add the potatoes and add the egg and a pinch of salt.

• Mix together with a fork first and with your hands later to create an airy and light dough. On a flat surface dusted with flour, roll a long cylinder of dough and cut it in 1 inch long pieces. Place the gnocchi on some parchment paper, one next to the other. 

• Fill a large pot with water and bring it to boil. Add salt and one tablespoon of oil in order not to let the gnocchi stick together and drop 10/12 gnocchi into the water. Don't overcrowd (I did 10 at the time).After 3/4 minutes the gnocchi, once cooked, will come to the surface.

• Remove them from the pot and place them in a bowl.

• In hot pan, add olive oil and lightly sauté gnocchi for 2-3 minutes, then add to the lobster pesto cream direction listed below.

For the Basil Pesto
Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano cheese
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
pepper, to taste and set aside.

Method:
Combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts in a food processor or blender and pulse until coarsely chopped, with the machine running, slowly add the olive oil and process until smooth, add the cheese and pulse until combined. Season with salt and pepper.

For the spiny lobster and prawns

Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients:
• 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) butter
• 11/2 or 8 ounce fresh lobster tails,
• 12 ounce 16/ 20 prawns (peeled and deveined)
• ½ cup (packed) thinly sliced fresh basil
• 6 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 cup cooking cream
• 1 lbs. red beet gnocchi (prep made)
• basil pesto (prep made)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:
• Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add lobster tails and sauté until shells are bright red in spots, about 5 minutes. Cover skillet; reduce heat to low and cook until lobster is cooked through, about 5 minutes.

• Remove from heat. Using slotted spoon, transfer lobster to work surface. Using heavy large knife, cut each tail lengthwise in half. Remove meat from shell. Cut meat crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces.

• Return same skillet to medium-high heat (do not clean). Add prawns, half of basil, green onions, and garlic; sauté until prawns bright red, about 3 minutes. Add cream, pesto, boil until sauce is slightly thickened, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Add lobster, beetroot gnocchi and simmer 1 minute.

Stir in remaining basil.

Season sauce to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve warm and garnish with fresh basil and parmesan cheese, if desired.

Please note: You might have leftover pesto. refrigerate and save. Great with pasta.

Staying Longer to Explore St Lucia

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:11:56 GMT

Three Minute Read

The Quick Chill or...

Why not Stay Longer?

No doubt, spending three or four days on our beautiful island can really lift your spirits. With the current availability and frequency of air service to the island, a short stay is always doable. Nevertheless, having chosen to reach one of the most beautiful places on earth, why would you not stay longer and explore St Lucia?

Getting Immersed

Cool Huh?

For some, that's just not enough.....

Explore St Lucia with some adventures, perhaps?

Fit & Fearless

Undersea Wonderland

Explore St Lucia with Softer Adventure-Try Ziplining

The team at the zipline venue, fit you up with all the equipment and after a few tips, make your way through the rope bridges and up ladders to your first platform.

The thrill as you leave the platform and "zip" through the tree tops is out of this world. Don't worry, you are quite safe.

Explore St Lucia - All at Sea

For those with the "hunter provider." instinct, deep water fishing is not to be missed. Marlin, Tuna, and Swordfish abound in our waters.

The Ocean surrounding Saint Lucia provides a habitat for Dolphins and Whales , and many sighting trips are available.

When you are keen to explore St Lucia, don't forget the sea.

Friday Fish Fest

Making it easy to stay longer...

We have you covered

Plus if you stay for 5 nights, the fifth night is free, on us!

If you stay and pay for 7 nights then we provide a luxury private transfer

from the airport and back.

Let's do the math

So this means if you stayed for 10 nights...

You would have time to do all the above.
You would only pay for 8 nights (because 2 are on us).
Those 8 nights you are paying for are discounted by 40%.
You will have paid for more than 7 nights, so you get your luxury private limo transfer.

When we put it like that, it's an offer you can't refuse!

Come on and explore St Lucia with us.

Feel the Love

Mon, 02 May 2022 22:43:17 GMT

Published Article in "My Van City" Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Feel the Love: New Romantic Escapes in 2022

January 19, 2022 by MyVanCity

While traveling during a pandemic remains challenging and ever-changing as we closely monitor protocols and regulations daily, we can still put together a wish list for future travel and plan trips while carefully watching Covid parameters and restrictions. Just because you may not be able to take one of these trips on Valentine’s Day, these are all new, romance-inspired experiences that are doable throughout the year.

Love All Things – Going Vegan in the Caribbean

Whether you’re opting for a plant-based diet for health, environmental, animal-rights or other reasons, travel options for vegans are more accessible and easier to find. If you or your partner are vegan, planning a getaway with vegan-friendly offerings is less cumbersome than it used to be. One of the most popular all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotels in Saint Lucia, Calabash Cove Resort and Spa now offers an all-vegan dinner for the first time ever. The vegan dinner menu features dishes including Yellow Split Peas Soup with sweet potato, Tempura Cauliflower Bites, Sesame Braised Eggplant, Pan Seared Tofu, Vegetable Stroganoff, Grilled Cinnamon Pineapple and more. The cost is $195USD per couple inclusive of taxes and includes a bottle of Prosecco. The culinary team at Windsong Restaurant can accommodate guests’ special diet needs and personal requests. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Windsong Restaurant offers an eclectic menu inspired by Asian cuisine using the freshest, local ingredients in every dish. The restaurant offers diverse vegetarian and vegan dishes with an international flare. For more information, visit www.calabashcove.com .

The above is the snippet from the article about the new Vegan menu at Calabash Cove. That's why we love it as we are pretty darn proud of that menu. To read the entire article....

Travel Updates April 2022

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Mon, 02 May 2022 20:29:41 GMT

Our Bi-Monthly Newsletter features a travel and COVID up date.

Overview

So far, in 2022, visitor numbers and hotel occupancy has made the year-to-date numbers for Saint Lucia the best in many years.

Demand for accommodation has exceeded expectations and, on some dates, exceeded supply. We don't know how long this will continue, but the lesson learned is to book early.

A return to pre-COVID levels of business travel has yet to follow the recovery of the leisure market. The plus for vacation destinations is more planes available, but there is a possible downside. Business travel makes up about 20% of the airline business, but it is more profitable than leisure. Leaving booking your flights until the last minute might be a costly strategy since the airlines will attempt to yield the best seat revenue from every flight. Book flights early when you know your dates.

Happenings

On Saint Lucia, everything is back open. Shopping, restaurants, bars, and excursions are all available. Even the famous Friday Night "Jump-Up" in the village of Gros Islet has started again. For the first time since 2019, we are looking forward to Carnival in July and major league Cricket in September at the Darren Sammy Stadium.

New Protocols from April 2nd 2022

Vaccinated Travelers

There is no requirement for a pre-travel test or quarantine for fully vaccinated travelers. Fully vaccinated travelers must provide a valid vaccination record as requested on check-in, boarding, and entry to Saint Lucia.

*Fully vaccinated means two weeks have passed since the second dose of a two-dose vaccine or since a single-dose vaccine. You will need to have your Vaccine proof with you on entry to Saint Lucia.

Unvaccinated Travellers

Unvaccinated travelers aged 5 years and older must have a valid negative Standard COVID-19 PCR test done within five days before arrival.

Required for travel:

Vaccinated Travellers – Your vaccination proof
Unvaccinated Travellers – Your test results
All Travellers – Health Screening Form

The Health Screening Form should be downloaded and printed and must be completed before disembarkation in Saint Lucia for ease of processing on arrival.

Saint Lucia Health Screening form HERE

Updated Flight News for Summer 2022

From our Vegan Kitchen

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 22:43:53 GMT

Calabash Cove Jerked tofu, vegetable Nicoise, mustard olive oil dressing.

Vegan Menu at Calabash Cove

Ingredients for Calabash Cove Jerked tofu, vegetable Nicoise, mustard olive oil dressing.

Yield 2 servings

- 4 oz. Green Beans

- 3 Radishes

- 2 oz. Arugula

- 2 Summer Sweet Peppers

- 1 Tomato

- 1 Romaine Heart

- ? lbs. Red Potatoes

- 1 bunch Tarragon

- 2 oz. red Olives

- 2 Tbsps. Red Wine Vinegar

- 1? Tbsps. Whole Grain Dijon Mustard

- 1 Shallot

Method for Vegetable Nicoise

1. Blanching is an essential cooking technique for any chef. Boiling ingredients for a short amount of time, then stopping the cooking process by placing the cooked vegetables in cold water will preserve their delicate crunch and bright color.

2. Wash and dry the fresh produce. Heat 1 medium pot and 1 small pot of salted water to boiling on high. Peel the shallot and mince to get 2 tablespoons (you may have extra); place in a bowl with the vinegar.Snap off and discard the stem ends of the greens beans. Quarter the potatoes. Cut off and discard the root end of the romaine; roughly chop the leaves. Cut out and discard the stems, ribs and seeds of the peppers; cut into ?-inch-thick rings. Core the tomato: cut into 8 wedges. Cut off and discard the ends of the radishes; thinly slice into rounds. Pick the tarragon leaves off the stems; discard the stems.

3. Fill a medium bowl with ice water and set aside. Add the green beansto the medium pot of boiling water and cook 4 to 6 minutes, or until bright green and slightly softened.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked green beans to the bowl of ice water, leaving the pot of water boiling. Let stand until the green beans are completely cool. Drain thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Transfer to a large bowl.

4. While the green beans cook , add the mustard to the shallot-vinegar mixture. Slowly whisk in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until well combined; season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Add the potatoes to the pot of boiling water used to cook the green beans. Cook 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain thoroughly and return to the pot. Off the heat, add half the vinaigrette and gently toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. To the bowl of blanched green beans, add the romaine,olives, peppers,tomato, radishes, dressed potatoes, arugulaand tarragon;season with salt and pepper. Add enough of the vinaigretteto coat the salad (you may have extra vinaigrette).Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with jerk tofu.

Method for Tofu and jerk sauce

Ingredients

Jerk Mix

- 2 to 3 habanero peppers, seeded and ribs removed

- 4 stalks of green onions, roughly chopped

- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)

- 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced

- 3 cloves garlic

- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

- 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 to 2 limes)

- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

- 1 1/2 tablespoons dark brown?sugar

- 1/2 to 1 tablespoon tomato paste, depending on your taste

- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground allspice

- 1 teaspoon kosher salt

- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Tofu

- 1 12-ounce package of extra-firm tofu

- 4 to 5 tablespoons cornstarch

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Method

1 . Drain tofu and wrap it around paper towels. Press it down with something heavy. Set aside.

2. Blend jerk sauce ingredients in a blender. Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and pour in jerk sauce. When the sauce starts boiling, turn off the heat and set aside.

3. Chop tofu into 1/2-inch cubes. Pour tofu into a gallon-sized freezer bag, and add about 4 tablespoons of cornstarch. Give everything a shake. If all tofu pieces are not coated with cornstarch, add another tablespoon and shake.

4. Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat with 1 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil. When the pan is hot, add half of the tofu cubes. The tofu should sizzle upon contact with the pan. Lightly brown each side of the cube (about 2 minute?s total cooking time). This should take about 2 minutes.

5 . Dish up tofu , add remaining sesame oil to the pan, and brown remaining tofu.

ENJOY

Free show on Turtle Beach

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 22:03:07 GMT

A free show down on Turtle Beach

Nature’s Free Show on Turtle Beach

One of the joys of staying at Calabash Cove is the chance to observe turtles that are frequently found on the resort’s beach between April and September. It is said that turtles return to the same beach where they were hatched every year. These sightings can occur anywhere on the island, especially on the East (Atlantic) coast.

So many hatchings have occurred at Calabash in recent years,

our team members have begun to refer to the beach as “Turtle Beach.”

Which Turtles Land on Turtle Beach?

After hatching on beaches around the world, these huge marine reptiles undertake multiyear, epic migrations at sea. Then, the turtles return to the exact spot where they were born to mate and lay their own eggs.

On our very own turtle beach here in Saint Lucia, you will likely see Loggerheads, Leatherbacks, Hawkspills and Green Turtles.

How on earth do these giant creatures know

the beach on which they were born?

Scientists have long known that the turtles, like many animals, navigate at sea by sensing the invisible lines of the magnetic field, like how sailors use latitude and longitude. But they didn't know how the turtles were able to return to the very spot where they were born, until a new study published in 2015 provided the answer:

The turtles also rely on Earth's magnetic field to find their way home. That's because each part of the coastline has its own magnetic signature, which the animals remember and later use as an internal compass.

It's not an easy commute, though—the magnetic field actually changes slowly, and loggerheads have to shift their nesting sites in response, according to the study, published January 15 in Current Biology .

What are the dangers for our visitors to Turtle Beach?

Sadly, turtles are an endangered species. To begin with the survival rate from a hatching is not a great start. The number making adulthood is about 1 in 1000. Once the baby turtle is hatched they are on their own.

Their first mission is to get to the water. If they take too long they will die from dehydration.

They will rush in numbers to the waters edge and the sheer volume of hatchlings usually allows for a reasonable number to make it to the sea.

Eagle eyed birds and crabs and other creatures lurk ready for when the turtles make their break and run the gauntlet to the ocean.

Once they have made it to the sea and dived beneath the waves, the baby turtle seems to enter a period of “lost years”

Our Turtle Beach babies - are they “Lost at Sea” or “Clever Sailors”

Until biologists devised ways to tag these baby turtles, it was hard to locate any “teenagers” and we were left with sightings of Turtle Moms nesting on our beaches, or hatchlings scrambling for the sea. It was only when the turtles reached young adulthood did we start to spot and track them. So where did they go in-between times.

By tagging the baby turtles, scientists began to track some of the activity post hatching. Baby turtles from the Caribbean and Florida coast would gradually drift Northeast and along the mainland coast of the United States as far as North Carolina when the Gulf Stream began to take them away from the predator rich coastal waters. Rather then being passive drifters simply going with the flow, the Turtles are active navigators using regional magnetic fields as open ocean markers.

Scientists were fascinated by some of the young turtles navigating away from the mainstream and finding the Sargasso Sea, rich in nutritious red seaweed.

Sargassum is a good habitat for a baby turtle. Its brown fronds, branches and floats provide shelter from predators. They also absorb a lot of sunlight, warming the local water by six degrees over the surrounding ocean. Turtles are cold-blooded and could grow faster in warmer waters, reaching sexual maturity at an earlier age and outgrowing potential predators.

Clear and Present Danger – Humans

It is true that young and infant turtles are extremely vulnerable to many predators on the beach and in the sea. However once the turtles make it to young adulthood, they have developed a rock hard shell to protect their soft body. A suit of armour to ward off any predator.

It will come as no surprise to learn that we, humans, present the biggest problem to the survival of this majestic species. Here is a list of how we can put things right.

1. Say NO to plastics!

Sea turtles and other marine animals often mistake plastic as food. It is estimated that more than 100 million marine animals die each year from ingesting or getting entangled in plastic. Invest in reusable bags, bottles, and straws to help eliminate waste. And do not throw waste materials into the Ocean.

2. Reduce your carbon footprint.

Climate change impacts coral reefs, nesting beaches, affects male-to-female sex ratios of hatchlings, and more. Learn 5 ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

3. Choose responsibly caught seafood.

Sea turtles often become entangled in commercial fishing methods like trawling, longlines, and gillnets. Check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch (also available as an app) to find turtle-friendly seafood options!

4. Leave only footprints.

When you visit the beach, don’t forget to look around and pick up everything before you leave. Things like beach furniture, sandcastles, and holes can create difficult obstacles for a nesting sea turtle and could even cause death. Leave the beach clean and clear for all wildlife.

5. Volunteer!

There are countless ways that you can volunteer your time to make a difference for sea turtles. Organize or attend a clean-up day - even if you don’t live near a beach, parks are important too! If in your area, join a sea turtle nesting patrol to help researchers determine nesting data. Most importantly, talk to anyone and everyone about ways they can help save sea turtles every day.

6. Minimize beach lighting.

The moon guides nesting sea turtles and hatchlings, so flashlights or bright lights at beach houses can disorient turtles. Turn off exterior lighting or switch to sea turtle friendly fixtures . When walking on the beach, place a red filter over your flashlight or invest in a red-light flashlight.

7. Don’t disturb nesting females, nests, or hatchlings.

We totally get it, seeing a sea turtle can be an exciting experience. Turtles can get easily spooked when starting to nest and may return back to sea without nesting, also known as a “false crawl”. Keep your distance from sea turtles and nests to ensure a safe and stress-free experience for everyone.

8. Be careful when boating

Sea turtles are air breathing reptiles, so they need to come up to the surface fairly often. Boat and propeller strikes can seriously injure or kill turtles. Stay alert, stay in channels, avoid running over their habitat like seagrass beds, and slow down if you see a sea turtle nearby.

9. Hold the balloons!

Celebrations can be just as much fun without balloons, and they aren’t much fun when they come back down. Helium balloons can travel long distances and can entangle land and marine animals. Skip the balloons and check out some eco-friendly alternatives from Balloons Blow .

10. Be the voice for the voiceless.

We must take a stand for those who can’t do so for themselves by spreading awareness and fighting for change. Do your research online to find petitions to sign and to understand as much as you can about how humans are threatening the existence of so many species.

Lockdown An Island Story

alteredimageplus@gmail.com (Michael Bryant) — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 19:02:56 GMT

Saint Lucia - A safe vacation destination

Caribbean Lockdown Stories

In 2020, life changed. A little over two years on, here we are, and getting a sense of normality still eludes us. Nonetheless, I think we are getting there and on the right track. Our goal to ensure we can offer a safe vacation destination.

Looking back over the past months, what have we learned? What can we say about Saint Lucia and those we rely on for our livelihood; North America and Europe.

From lockdown to Business as Usual?

In common with our neighbors, St Vincent, Grenada, Barbados, Martinique, and Antigua, we rely on tourism for the more significant part of our income. Our target markets' COVID protocols prevented travel, and in any case, there were no air services for some time. There was simply no work, and unemployment rose to unprecedented levels.

In Saint Lucia, the government of the day was swift to act even before lockdowns overseas. Closing our borders and introducing strict internal protocols was a wise yet brave decision. Other than supermarkets and other essentials, every business closed down. All hotels, restaurants, bars, entertainment places, and tours ceased to function in the tourism sector, resulting in thousands of staff sent home.

Not only a safe vacation destination, but full of empathy.

But we learned that even big business can have an empathetic face. The utility companies responded to the crisis by not pushing for disconnections. The banks gave moratoriums on mortgages and essential loans. They behaved as bankers, not money-lenders. I would draw the attention of our visitors to this as a characteristic of Saint Lucia. We are lovely people, and when you come, we'll care for you.

We lived with the stress of 7-day, 24-hour curfews, along with a temporary ban on alcohol, but hey, this is the Caribbean, and so somehow, rum was obtainable if you knew where!

St Lucia is blessed

We learned that living on this beautiful island is a blessing. We probably cannot understand what it was like to endure lockdown in tower block apartments in the cold Northern winters, whereas we could look from our terraces and decks at blue skies and sunshine most of the time.

Although the government managed to finance a furlough scheme, we also learned which hotels and resorts were ready to stand by their employees and provide support, some even launching guest appeals to raise money.

Most impressive was the overall response of Saint Lucians to the crisis and to appeals made by the government. Everywhere you looked, masks were being worn willingly, social distancing observed, and frankly, a determination to cooperate and get through the ordeal the best way possible.

Crime has been at an all-time low, and in general, a bonhomie existed along with a spirit of caring for one's neighbor. At that point, we knew we'd probably come through this reasonably unscathed.

Escape from Stress, taking on Sustainable Hospitality

We've been spared the embarrassment of selfish people arguing about wearing masks in stores as in first-world countries. We've learned to be patient in our inimitable Caribbean way. ("Don't worry 'bout a ting. Cos everyting gonna be irie").

Unlike war or a natural catastrophe, a virus doesn't destroy the landscape and architecture. Saint Lucia is as beautiful as ever. Is it possible that the beauty we wake up to every day, coupled with a global realization of how quickly the planet can recover with such a dramatic drop in carbon emissions, has focused the hospitality industry on sustainability?

It would be fantastic if that were so, but we've also learned to be cynical about those possibilities.

Having said that, it is noticeable that some hotels in Saint Lucia are looking to sustainability as the next big thing. We'll see growing evidence of this as travelers are statistically more interested than ever before in the sustainability rating of where they will stay.

The Great Comeback

We began welcoming visitors back to the island in 2021. Americans came first, hungry for soft sand and sunshine. Then the Brits, slowly at first, then building momentum as restrictions were lifted. Despite those restrictions eased by the USA and the UK, Saint Lucia wisely held on to its own rules for pre-testing up until April 2nd, 2022. Now visitors that have been vaccinated can arrive here with no PCR test required for entry.

My story is just a taster of what life can be in Saint Lucia. I believe the hiatus in tourism caused by the pandemic has made us all open to new travel concepts.

Not only that, but in tandem with the idea of how the rest of the world sees us, we learned some valuable lessons that will serve the tourism industry well. The Caribbean island nations are always proud, but we learned not just to be proud Saint Lucians but also to be proud of what we have achieved and how we handled ourselves in the crisis. I believe we are more empathetic to our fellow man, and I genuinely hope that the bonhomie that characterized the pandemic remains intact.

To future visitors, I say: Don't just come for the beauty, the soft sand, and the suntan. Come and get happy. Meet the people. You can take away so much more than a tan no matter where you stay. Ask your resort about joining in some local events. I believe it is called "immersive tourism."

St. Lucia Travel Blog

Experience the Magic of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival 2026

A Festival That Celebrates More Than Music

Visitors can expect:

World-Class Performances St Lucia

Art and the City: Creativity Takes Over Castries

Origins and evolution

Purpose

Music and performers

Venues

Cultural and economic impact

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Plan Your Festival Getaway

Discover Saint Lucia at Its Most Vibrant

Live Music needs a Vibrant Venue

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Stay in Style at Calabash Cove Resort and Spa.

﻿ What makes Calabash Cove the perfect festival base

A World in Flux: Rethinking Travel Choices

A Safe Harbour in Changing Times: Why Saint Lucia Offers Reassurance for Travellers.

What's on your Checklist?

Safety, Tranquility, Karma, Wellness and Sustainability are starting to take over.

What does Safe mean?

What defines a safe destination?

We weather our Storms

From a Spectacle. to the Spectacular

Beauty Over Brilliance: A Different Kind of Luxury

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A Warm Welcome:

Safety Through Community.

Naturally Reassuring

Health and Environment.

Easy to Reach

Hard to Leave

A Thoughtful Perspective: Respecting the Moment

The True Luxury: Peace of Mind

Instead, it offers an alternative grounded in positivity: a place defined not by what it avoids, but by what it provides—beauty, tranquillity, and a sense of safety that feels both natural and genuine.

In the end, the most valuable aspect of any holiday is how it makes you feel.

And perhaps that is the true message: while some destinations impress, Saint Lucia reassures.

What does the FIFA World Cup mean to you?

Escape the World Cup Frenzy

Why Saint Lucia Might Be Your Perfect Getaway.

The Reality of a Mega-Event

Think about what that means in practice:

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Business as usual? Don't imagine so!

So, what's the alternative?

Get outta Dodge for the duration

Why the Caribbean Makes Perfect Sense

Beautiful Saint Lucia

The Antidote to Chaos

Five Reasons to spend June/July here

makes sense to me...

A Different Kind of World Cup Experience

Watch in Paradise

It’s football, but on your terms.

No crowds. No stress. Just enjoyment.

The Psychological Shift

Saint Lucia offers that reset.

Timing Is Everything

Final Thought: Choose Your Experience

You could be in Saint Lucia.

And when the final whistle blows, you’ll return not exhausted—but refreshed.

British Airways Holidays Recognises Calabash Cove with Award

Calabash Cove Resort & Spa Celebrates Prestigious British Airways Holidays Customer Excellence Award

A Recognition Built on Real Guest Experiences

What Sets Calabash Cove Apart

The Power of Consistency

A Milestone Year for British Airways Holidays

Elevating Saint Lucia’s Global Appeal

What This Means for Future Guests

Lots of Caesar Dressings

Calabash Cove Top 5 Dressings

CCR standard Caesar’s salad dressing

Cove’s Avocado Caesar’s dressing:

Cove’s Dragon Fruit Caesar’s dressing:

Cove’s Vegan Caesar’s dressing:

Cove’s Goat Cheese Caesar’s dressing:

Chef Burt's summary:

Chef Burt

What makes Calabash Cove the perfect festival base

7. Kayak Adventure for Two

Why Saint Lucia?

The Fusion of Land and Sea