Rodney Bay: The Jewel of Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-jou]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [o-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-kee-zay mwenn]
• 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-kay oo pah-lay an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [mwenn pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ta renmen wè meni an, tanpri
  [mwenn ta ren-men way meh-nee an, tan-pree]
• I don't eat meatMwen pa manje vyan
  [mwenn pa man-jay vyan]
• Cheers!Santé!
  [san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ta renmen peye, tanpri
  [mwenn ta ren-men pay-yay, tan-pree]

• Help!Ed!
  [ed]
• Go away!Alé!
  [al-ay]
• Call the Police!Rele Polis la!
  [re-lay poh-lees la]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-lay yon dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [mwenn peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [mwenn ma-lad]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [mwenn ta ren-men ashtay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis gade
  [mwenn jees gah-day]
• How much is it?Konbyen li ye?
  [kon-byen lee yay]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sa twah chay]
• Can you lower the price?Eske ou kapab redwi pri a?
  [es-kay oo ka-pab red-wee pree ah]

• What time is it?Ki lè li ye?
  [kee lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senk
  [lee sank]
• Half past (10)Demi (disè)
  [deh-mee dee-zay]
• MorningMaten
  [ma-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ap-ray-mee-dee]
• EveningSwadizan
  [swa-dee-zan]
• YesterdayYè
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [jo-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [de-men]
• 1Yon
  [yon]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Twaz
  [twa]
• 4Kat
  [ka]
• 5Sank
  [sank]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Sèt
  [set]
• 8Uit
  [weet]
• 9Nèf
  [nef]
• 10Disè
  [dee-zay]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote yon/la...?
  [kee koh-tay yon/la]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [kee ad-res la]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Eske ou kapab montre mwen (sou kat la)?
  [es-kay oo ka-pab mon-tray mwenn (soo kat la)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè otobis la ap pase?
  [kee lay o-to-bees la ap pah-say]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yon tee-kay (poo)]

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Rodney Bay was inhabited by the Arawak and Carib peoples. These indigenous groups thrived in the lush landscapes, utilizing the rich marine resources and fertile land for their sustenance.

In the 17th century, European powers began to take interest in the Caribbean. Saint Lucia changed hands multiple times between the French and British. Rodney Bay, with its strategic location and natural harbor, was a focal point during these colonial power struggles.

On December 15, 1778, the Battle of Saint Lucia took place near Rodney Bay. The British and French naval forces clashed fiercely. The British emerged victorious, establishing a stronghold over the island and fortifying Rodney Bay as a critical naval base.

In the 18th century, Pigeon Island, now connected to Rodney Bay by a causeway, served as a military base. Fort Rodney, built by the British, stands as a testament to this period. Today, the island is a national landmark, preserving the historical remnants and offering panoramic views of the bay.

In the late 20th century, Rodney Bay underwent significant development, transforming from a quiet fishing village into a bustling marina. The construction of the Rodney Bay Marina in the 1980s spurred economic growth, attracting yachters and tourists from around the globe.

Rodney Bay is a vibrant amalgamation of cultures. Its history of colonial occupation and indigenous heritage is reflected in the diverse cultural practices, culinary traditions, and festivals that are celebrated in the area today. This blend of influences makes Rodney Bay a unique cultural destination.

Rodney Bay is located in the northern part of Saint Lucia, in the district of Gros Islet. The nearest international airport is Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in Vieux Fort, approximately 65 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle service, or rent a car to reach Rodney Bay. The journey typically takes around 1.5 hours by road. Alternatively, George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in Castries is closer, about 10 kilometers south of Rodney Bay, mainly serving regional flights.

Getting around Rodney Bay is straightforward. Taxis are readily available and can be booked through your hotel or hailed on the street. Minibuses (known locally as 'bus') are a popular and budget-friendly option for traveling between towns, including Castries and Gros Islet. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Bicycle rentals and walking are convenient for shorter distances within the bay area.

The official currency of Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are widely accepted, and major credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available in Rodney Bay, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets.

Rodney Bay is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is essential to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas in Castries and the outskirts have higher crime rates, so it is best to stay vigilant and stick to well-populated and well-lit areas.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Gros Islet Police Station and medical facilities are available in the area. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Rodney Bay where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually but respectably. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach and pool areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your hat and cover your shoulders when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and greet the driver when boarding minibuses. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good day'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rodney Bay like a local, visit the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party, where you can enjoy local food, music, and dance. Engage with locals at the Rodney Bay Marina, a popular spot for both visitors and residents. Don't miss the chance to explore Pigeon Island National Park, which offers historical sites, hiking trails, and stunning views of the bay.