Castries: The Heartbeat of Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjou
  [Bon-jou]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [O-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [Wee]
• NoNon
  [Non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [Tahn-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [Meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [Ess-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [Kee-jan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [Byen. Ay oo?]
• Do you speak English?Ou pale angle?
  [Oo pah-lay ahn-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [Mwen pah kohn-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen we meni an, tanpri
  [Mwen tah ren-men way meh-nee ahn, tahn-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [Mwen pah manj vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [San-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [Mwen tah ren-men pay-yay, tahn-pree]

• Help!Sevè!
  [Seh-veh]
• Go away!Alé!
  [Ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele polis!
  [Reh-lay poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [Reh-lay yohn dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [Mwen peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [Mwen mal-ahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [Mwen tah ren-men asht]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis wè
  [Mwen zje vay]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [Kohn-byen sah koo-tay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [Sah twah shay]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab redwi pri sa a?
  [Oo kah-pah reh-dwee pree sah ah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [Kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLè a senk
  [Lay ah sank]
• Half past (10)Demi disè
  [Deh-mee dee-say]
• MorningMaten
  [Mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [Ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningSwa
  [Swah]
• YesterdayYè
  [Yeah]
• TodayJodi a
  [Joh-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [Day-men]
• 1Yon
  [Yohn]
• 2De
  [Day]
• 3Twaz
  [Twayz]
• 4Kat
  [Kaht]
• 5Senk
  [Sank]
• 6Sis
  [Sees]
• 7Sèt
  [Set]
• 8Uit
  [Weet]
• 9Nèf
  [Nef]
• 10Disè
  [Dee-say]

• Where's a/the...?Ki koté...?
  [Kee koh-tay]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [Kee ah-dres lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [Oo kah-pah mohn-tray mwen (soo kaht lah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kilè pròchenn (bis-la)?
  [Kee-lay proh-shen (bees-lah)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [Yohn tee-kay (poo)]

Castries was established by the French in 1650 as 'Carenage' due to its deep natural harbor. Named after Charles Eugène Gabriel de La Croix, Marquis de Castries, it later became a significant port and economic hub.

Castries was repeatedly contested between the French and the British from the 17th to the 19th centuries. It changed hands 14 times before the British finally gained control in 1814, shaping much of the city's colonial architecture and cultural influences.

On June 19, 1948, a devastating fire swept through Castries, destroying three-quarters of the city. This catastrophic event led to significant rebuilding efforts and modern urban planning, transforming Castries into a more resilient and structured city.

Saint Lucia gained independence from British rule on February 22, 1979. Castries, as the capital city, became the political and administrative heart of the newly independent nation, hosting national celebrations and government offices.

Nobel laureate Sir Arthur Lewis, born in Castries, has had a lasting impact on the city's cultural and intellectual landscape. His contributions to economics and development theory are celebrated, and his legacy continues to inspire educational and cultural institutions in the city.

Completed in 1897, this cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in Castries. It reflects the city's rich religious history and is known for its impressive architecture and vibrant murals that depict both Christian themes and local culture.

Established in 1894, the Castries Market is a bustling hub of local trade and culture. It offers a vibrant array of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts, and serves as a testament to the city's economic and social life.

Named after the Nobel Prize-winning poet Derek Walcott, this central square in Castries is a cultural focal point. It features a statue of Walcott, a bandstand, and the historic Castries Public Library, reflecting the city's literary and artistic heritage.

Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, is accessible primarily through Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), located about 40 miles south of Castries. Regular shuttle services, taxis, and rental cars are available to transport you to the city. Alternatively, George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) is closer, mainly serving regional flights. Cruise ships also frequently dock at the Castries Harbour, providing another route for visitors.

Once in Castries, getting around is straightforward. Taxis are easily accessible and can be hired for short trips or full-day excursions. Minibuses are the primary form of public transportation, offering an affordable way to travel within the city and to nearby areas. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Walking is also a viable option for navigating the city center.

The official currency in Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller establishments. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Castries. ATMs are available throughout the city, providing convenient access to cash.

Castries is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas like Marchand and the Wilton's Yard neighborhood, which are known for higher crime rates. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded areas, such as markets and bus stations. Always use reputable transportation services.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Castries has several medical facilities, including Victoria Hospital, which provides emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress casually but neatly. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove hats and sunglasses when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't expect strict adherence to schedules. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Good evening.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and be gracious when offered food. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered rude.

To experience Castries like a local, visit the Castries Market to buy fresh produce and local crafts. Take a walk around Derek Walcott Square and explore the nearby Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. For an authentic culinary experience, try the street food at Jeremie Street. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and history.