Malgretoute: A Hidden Gem in Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-zho]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tahn-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwuhn]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-jahn oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou menm?
  [byen. ay oo mehn]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-keh oo pahl ahng-leh]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwuhn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen we meni a, tanpri
  [mwuhn tah rehn-mehn weh meh-nee ah tahn-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwuhn pah mahn-jeh vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwuhn tah rehn-mehn peh-yeh tahn-pree]

• Help!Ed!
  [ehd]
• Go away!Ale!
  [ah-leh]
• Call the Police!Rele lapolis!
  [reh-leh lah-po-leece]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [reh-leh yohn dohk-teh]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwuhn peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwuhn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwuhn tah rehn-mehn ah-sh-teh]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis ap gade
  [mwuhn zjees ahp gahd]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kohn-byen sah koo-teh]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Eske ou ka ba pri a?
  [es-keh oo kah bah pree ah]

• What time is it?Kilè li ye?
  [kee-leh lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senk
  [lee sehnk]
• Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [deh-mee (deh-seh)]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-tehn]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
• EveningSwa
  [swah]
• YesterdayYè
  [yeh]
• TodayJodi a
  [zho-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-mehn]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [deh]
• 3Twaz
  [twahz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sehnk]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Uit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-teh]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [kee ah-drehs lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou ka montre mwen (sou kat)?
  [es-keh oo kah mohn-tray mwuhn (soo kaht)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kilè prochen (bis)?
  [kee-leh proh-shen (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-keh (poo)]

Malgretoute, meaning 'in spite of everything' in French, was first settled by the indigenous Arawak and Carib peoples. They established small communities and thrived on the island's abundant natural resources, such as fertile soil and rich fishing waters. Evidence of their presence can still be found in the form of petroglyphs and ancient artifacts scattered around the area.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Malgretoute, like much of Saint Lucia, became a battleground for European powers, particularly the French and British. The French established large sugar plantations in the area, which became a crucial part of the island's colonial economy. Enslaved Africans were brought to work on these plantations, and their descendants continue to influence the cultural fabric of Malgretoute today.

One of the significant historical events in the region was the Battle of Rabot in 1795. This battle was part of the larger conflict between French Republican forces and British troops. The French, aided by local revolutionaries, successfully repelled the British, securing control over the island. This victory is commemorated in local folklore and adds to the rich historical tapestry of Malgretoute.

With the abolition of slavery in 1834, many freed African slaves established their own communities in Malgretoute. They cultivated small plots of land and practiced subsistence farming. The post-colonial era brought significant changes, including the diversification of agriculture and the gradual development of tourism as a vital industry.

Malgretoute is a vibrant cultural hub, reflecting the diverse influences of its history. Traditional music, dance, and festivals celebrate the area’s African, French, and Carib heritage. The annual La Rose and La Marguerite flower festivals are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the community's deep-rooted traditions and communal spirit.

Today, Malgretoute is a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Visitors can explore the remnants of colonial plantations, hike through lush rainforests, and relax in natural hot springs. The local community remains deeply connected to its past, preserving its historical sites and cultural practices for future generations while welcoming travelers from around the world.

Malgretoute in Saint Lucia is easily accessible by air. The nearest international airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Vieux Fort, located approximately 45 kilometers south of Malgretoute. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Malgretoute, which takes around 1 hour by road. Alternatively, you can fly into George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Castries if you're coming from a neighboring Caribbean island. From Castries, Malgretoute is about a 1.5-hour drive.

In Malgretoute, transportation options include taxis, car rentals, and local minibuses known as 'tap-taps'. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive, so it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Car rentals offer the most convenience and flexibility for exploring the area at your own pace. Tap-taps are the most economical way to travel but can be crowded and less comfortable. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the immediate vicinity.

The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and major shops, but it is wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in nearby Soufrière and other major towns, so withdrawing cash is relatively easy.

Malgretoute is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel location, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include certain parts of Castries and Rodney Bay. It's best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital to Malgretoute is St. Jude Hospital in Vieux Fort, about an hour's drive away. Soufrière Hospital is closer, but it offers limited services. Pharmacies are available in Soufrière for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress respectfully when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and greet the driver when boarding tap-taps. Don’t expect strict schedules, as they operate on a more flexible timetable. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Malgretoute like a local, visit the local markets in Soufrière for fresh produce and traditional Saint Lucian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Sulphur Springs and the Pitons, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the coastline for stunning views and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters.