Micoud: A Hidden Gem in Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjour
  [bon-zhoor]
• 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 yeh]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byehn. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-kay oo pahl ahn-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwuhn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, si ou plè
  [mwuhn tah ren-mehn way meh-nee ahn, see oo pleh]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje kawòt
  [mwuhn pah mahn-jay kah-woht]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, si ou plè
  [mwuhn tah ren-mehn pay-yeh, see oo pleh]

• Help!Au secours!
  [oh seh-coor]
• Go away!Alé!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele lapòl!
  [reh-lay lah-pohl]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [reh-lay yohn dohk-teh]
• I'm lostMwen pèdi mwen
  [mwuhn peh-dee mwuhn]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwuhn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen ache...
  [mwuhn tah ren-mehn ash]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwuhn zjee gahd]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kohn-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab redwi pri la?
  [oo kah-pah reh-dwee pree lah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yeh]
• It's one o'clockLi senk
  [lee sahnk]
• Half past (10)Demi (disè)
  [deh-mee dee-zeh]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pray-mee-dee]
• EveningAswe
  [ah-sway]
• YesterdayYè
  [yeh]
• TodayJodia
  [joh-dee-ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-mehn]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [deh]
• 3Twaz
  [twahz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sahnk]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Disè
  [dee-zeh]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koht]
• What's the address?Kisa adrès la ye?
  [kee-sah ah-dreh lah yeh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwen (sou kat)?
  [oo kah-pah mohn-treh mwuhn (soo kaht)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen (bato)?
  [kee lay pwosh-ehn bah-toh]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-keh poo]

Long before European colonization, the area now known as Micoud was inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples. These indigenous tribes lived off the land, fishing in the bountiful waters and cultivating crops such as cassava and sweet potatoes.

In the 18th century, the French arrived and established settlements in Saint Lucia, including Micoud. Named after Baron de Micoud, a French governor of Saint Lucia, the village became a center for agriculture, particularly sugar cane and coffee plantations.

Saint Lucia changed hands between the French and British numerous times during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Micoud, like the rest of the island, saw significant influence from British colonial rule, including the establishment of English as a dominant language and the introduction of British legal systems.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 had a profound impact on Micoud. Freed African slaves who had been working on the plantations settled in the area, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the village with their traditions, music, and cuisine.

During World War II, the United States established a military base on Saint Lucia. While the base was not in Micoud, the village experienced economic benefits from the increased trade and improved infrastructure brought by the American presence on the island.

Saint Lucia gained independence from British rule in 1979. Since then, Micoud has seen significant development while retaining its historical charm. Modern infrastructure coexists with historical landmarks, reflecting the village's journey from colonial times to the present day.

Micoud is home to vibrant cultural festivals such as La Rose and La Marguerite, which celebrate the island's African and French heritage. These festivals feature traditional music, dance, and costumes, providing a colorful insight into the village's rich cultural history.

Micoud is located on the eastern coast of Saint Lucia. The nearest international airport is Hewanorra International Airport in Vieux Fort, approximately 30 kilometers south of Micoud. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car. The journey typically takes about 30-40 minutes by road. Alternatively, you can fly into George F. L. Charles Airport in Castries and drive approximately 1.5 hours to Micoud.

Within Micoud, local transportation options include minibuses, taxis, and rental cars. Minibuses are a popular and affordable way to get around and connect Micoud with other parts of the island. Taxis are available but can be more expensive. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency in Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Micoud and nearby towns where you can withdraw local currency.

Micoud is generally safe for tourists, but it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Micoud does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Consult local advice for any recent updates on safety.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance, which connects to police, fire, and medical services. The nearest medical facilities are in Vieux Fort and Castries. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Micoud for minor health issues where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t play loud music or cause disruptions. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Good day.' A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Micoud like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss visiting the nearby La Tille Waterfall and Gardens for a serene natural experience. For a unique culinary adventure, try the local Creole cuisine at small, family-run eateries.