The Majestic Pitons of Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-jou]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [o-rev-wa]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwen]
• How are you?Kijan ou ye?
  [kee-jan oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou menm?
  [byen. ay oo menm]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-ke oo pal an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwen pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni a, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men weh meh-nee ah, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyann
  [mwen pa manj vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwen ta ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Asistans!
  [ah-sis-tans]
• Go away!Alé!
  [ah-leh]
• Call the Police!Rele Lapolis!
  [re-leh la-po-leece]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-leh yohn dok-teh]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwen peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwen ma-lad]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwen ta ren-men ach-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwen zhee gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kon-byen sah koo-teh]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twah sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab diminye pri a?
  [oo ka-pab dee-min-yeh pree ah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee leh lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi san yon
  [lee sahn yohn]
• Half past (10)Douzan
  [doo-zahn]
• MorningMaten
  [ma-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pre-mee-dee]
• EveningSwè
  [sweh]
• YesterdayYe
  [yeh]
• TodayJodi a
  [jo-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-men]
• 1Yon
  [yohn]
• 2De
  [deh]
• 3Twaz
  [twaz]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Senk
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [deece]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-teh]
• What's the address?Kisa adrès la ye?
  [kee-sah ad-res la yay]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [oo ka-pab mon-tray mwen (soo kaht la)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen (bis) a ye?
  [kee leh pwosh-en beess ah yay]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yohn tee-keh (poo)]

The Pitons, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, are two volcanic spires located on the southwestern coast of Saint Lucia. These iconic twin peaks were formed millions of years ago during intense volcanic activity. Rising sharply from the Caribbean Sea, Gros Piton stands at 786 meters, while Petit Piton reaches 739 meters. This dramatic landscape is a result of volcanic lava solidifying and creating these steep mountains, offering a stunning natural spectacle that has enchanted visitors for centuries.

Before the arrival of Europeans, the area surrounding the Pitons was inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib peoples. These indigenous groups lived off the land, fishing in the abundant coastal waters and farming the fertile volcanic soil. The Pitons held spiritual significance for these early inhabitants, featuring prominently in their myths and rituals.

The arrival of European explorers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point in the history of the Pitons. The French and British both vied for control over Saint Lucia, recognizing its strategic location and fertile lands. The Pitons served as natural landmarks for navigation and were often referenced in early colonial maps. During this period, the local Carib population faced displacement and decline due to disease and conflict.

Saint Lucia, including the Pitons area, was heavily influenced by French culture and governance during the 17th and 18th centuries. The French established sugar plantations, utilizing the fertile volcanic soil around the Pitons. The labor-intensive plantation economy relied on enslaved Africans, whose descendants form a significant part of Saint Lucia's population today. The French legacy is still evident in the island's language, cuisine, and place names.

After a series of conflicts between the French and British, Saint Lucia became a British colony in 1814 under the Treaty of Paris. The Pitons continued to serve as a prominent natural feature throughout this period. The British introduced new agricultural practices and infrastructure, reshaping the economic landscape of the island. However, the cultural impact of French colonization remained strong, creating a unique blend of influences.

In 2004, the Pitons Management Area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition was due to the area's outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance. The site encompasses the Pitons, the surrounding coral reefs, and a unique tropical forest ecosystem. This designation has helped to preserve the natural environment and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that the Pitons remain a cherished landmark for future generations.

The Pitons hold a special place in the hearts of Saint Lucians. They are featured on the national flag and are a source of pride and identity for the island's inhabitants. The surrounding communities have maintained traditional practices, including fishing, farming, and craftsmanship, which contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Festivals and celebrations often highlight the Pitons as a symbol of natural beauty and resilience.

Saint Lucia is accessible via the Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Vieux Fort and the George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Castries. Hewanorra International Airport is the main gateway for international flights, including those from North America and Europe. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the Pitons, which are approximately an hour and a half drive away. There are also shuttle services available that can be pre-booked.

Getting around in the Pitons area can be done using taxis, rental cars, or local buses. Taxis are a convenient option and are readily available, but it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. Renting a car provides flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the island extensively. Local buses are the most economical option but can be crowded and less frequent. Guided tours are another popular choice for visiting specific sites in and around the Pitons.

The official currency in Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US dollars are widely accepted, and major credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller vendors and in rural areas. ATMs are available in Soufrière and other major towns, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

Saint Lucia is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. While the Pitons area itself is relatively safe, some neighborhoods in Castries and other urban areas have higher crime rates, particularly petty theft and scams targeting tourists. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital to the Pitons is the St. Jude Hospital in Vieux Fort, which is about an hour's drive away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Soufrière where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep emergency contact numbers handy and inform your accommodation of your plans.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress modestly and cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm 'hello' or 'good day.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience the Pitons like a local, visit the Soufrière market where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike Gros Piton or Petit Piton for breathtaking views. Also, try the local cuisine, including dishes like green figs and saltfish. Visiting the Sulphur Springs, the world's only drive-in volcano, offers a unique experience.