We believe that one of the most important things of any holiday is the food, but you'll be pleased to know that St Lucia certainly doesn't disappoint. On the menu, you'll find zingy rum cocktails and sumptuous curries, all enjoyed under the heat of the Caribbean sun. If you're a meat eater, you'll want to try the curried lamb and mouthwatering fish rotis! For vegetarians, try callaloo soup: it's made with callaloo (a green leafy vegetable grown on the island), okra, potatoes and garlic. Just be sure to choose one that's made without added seafood or meat.

The national dish of the island is green figs and salt cod - salted cod and green bananas cooked to perfection with plenty of vegetables and spices. It's best enjoyed washed down with a chilled Piton beer - a combination you won't want to miss!

If lounging on the beach all day isn't for you, don't fret! From water-sports and hiking to plantation tours and helicopter trips, there's plenty to tickle your fancy in St Lucia.

Take the lush green jungle for example: it may look good in your photo backdrops, but it's also waiting to be explored. Thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline pumping by booking a zip-lining experience through the jungle. If you'd prefer a calmer option, explore the canopy walks and gawk at the indigenous flora and fauna.

Chocolate addict? You've come to the right place. Hotel Chocolat sources its chocolate from St Lucia so it's no surprise that it's got a good rep in the cocoa trade. Visit the Rabot Estate and book a Tree-to-Bar tour to see how the plantation creates the treats we know and love.

If you want to live life like a local, take yourself over to Castries (the capital of St Lucia) and wander around the local markets. You'll see a vibrant array of fresh produce, including plantain and coconuts, but you can also browse the craft market to pick up some charming souvenirs.

Want to learn more about what this glorious island has to offer? Read our Top 10 things to do in St Lucia.

Welcome to beach heaven. If you're hoping for days spent lounging on paper-white sands, gentle waves lapping at your feet while you sit back with a good book, St Lucia is the place to be. Tranquil bays take you away from the crowds, while any adventurers in the group can indulge in water-sports on the busier stretches.

Want more beach inspo? Read our blog on the Best beaches in St Lucia or browse our collection of St Lucia villas by the beach.

Flights

The key airlines that fly direct from the UK to Hewanorra International Airport are British Airways, TUI and Virgin Atlantic. The flight time is around 8.5 hours.

By taxi and water taxi

Taxis are widely available but it's best to check the price before you travel. The roads are notoriously hairy on the island so you may want to consider a water taxi for a smoother ride!

By car

Rental cars can be booked at the airport and can make your holiday a bit easier to navigate. Good news - they drive on the left!

By bus

If you don't fancy driving on the rocky roads, a minibus is a great alternative. They come regularly and are the locals' main means of transport.