What a Ride! 


We rented a car the other day and drove down the West Coast of the Island to Soufriere (means “puffer” in French). The town is near volcanic vents that “puff” occasional bursts of hydrogen sulfide. On our way to Soufrière, we drove through some of the most spectacular mountains and jungles we have ever seen.



She said: Boy, what a ride! I almost went into cardiac arrest at least several dozen times! The road was so narrow, mountainous, filled with hairpin turns, very steep drop-offs. Oh, did I mention that the steering wheel was on the right? And we were driving on the “wrong” side of the road? But it was so beautiful--breath-taking! (No pun intended J) Peter did a great job.

Our first stop was Marigot Bay, described by James Michener as “the most beautiful bay in all the Caribbean.”

His description must have been written years ago. Today, the bay has been developed as a tourist site. There are expensive shops and restaurants, a posh hotel and a small marina that is home to a fleet of “Moorings” charter boats. The bay is packed with cruising boats and more charter boats on mooring balls. The pretty little beach is cluttered with rental dinghies and hobies. The charm of a lovely, secluded bay is gone.
From Marigot Bay, our route took us over tortuous mountain roads with terrific views of coastal towns and culminated with an unbelievable view of St Lucia’s trademark twin Pitons


as we approached Soufrière. Before leaving Soufrière, we visited the Botanical gardens and Diamond waterfall. If one could see only one thing on St Lucia, or indeed the entire Caribbean, this would be it! A jungle of tropical plants punctuated by a riot of colorful flowers and climaxed by a stunning waterfall.