Vieux Fort: Jewel of Southern Saint Lucia

• HelloBonjou
  [bon-jou]
• GoodbyeOrevwa
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeTanpri
  [tan-pree]
• Thank youMèsi
  [meh-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwen
  [es-keez may-wen]
• How are you?Kouman ou ye?
  [koo-man oo yay]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Eske ou pale angle?
  [es-kay oo pah-lay an-glay]
• I don't understandMwen pa konprann
  [may-wen pa kon-pran]

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

• Help!Ed! (èd)
  [ed]
• Go away!Alé!
  [ah-lay]
• Call the Police!Rele Polis!
  [re-lay po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Rele yon doktè!
  [re-lay yon dok-tay]
• I'm lostMwen pedi
  [may-wen peh-dee]
• I'm illMwen malad
  [may-wen ma-lad]

• I'd like to buy...Mwen ta renmen achte...
  [may-wen ta ren-men ashtay]
• I'm just lookingMwen jis ap gade
  [may-wen zhee ah gahd]
• How much is it?Konbyen sa koute?
  [kon-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveSa twò chè
  [sah twa sheh]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab redwi pri la?
  [oo ka-pab red-wee pree lah]

• What time is it?Kisa lè li ye?
  [kee-sa lay lee yay]
• It's one o'clockLi senkè
  [lee san-kay]
• Half past (10)Demi bonè (10)
  [deh-mee bo-nay]
• MorningMaten
  [ma-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ap-reh-mee-dee]
• EveningSwalè
  [swa-lay]
• YesterdayYè
  [yay]
• TodayJodi a
  [jo-dee ah]
• TomorrowDemen
  [deh-men]
• 11
  [1]
• 22
  [2]
• 33
  [3]
• 44
  [4]
• 55
  [5]
• 66
  [6]
• 77
  [7]
• 88
  [8]
• 99
  [9]
• 1010
  [10]

• Where's a/the...?Ki koté...?
  [key ko-tay]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [key ah-dres lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwen (sou kat lan)?
  [oo ka-pab mon-tray may-wen (soo ka lah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lè pwochen (bis la)?
  [key lay pwosh-en (bees lah)]
• A ticket (to ....)Yon tikè (pou ....)
  [yon tee-kay (poo)]

Before European colonization, the area known today as Vieux Fort was inhabited by the Arawak and later the Carib peoples. These indigenous communities thrived on the island, utilizing its rich natural resources for fishing, agriculture, and trade. Artifacts and archaeological sites around Vieux Fort provide a glimpse into their sophisticated culture and way of life.

The first European settlers to arrive in Vieux Fort were the French in the 18th century. They established sugar plantations, taking advantage of the fertile land and strategic location. The town was named 'Vieux Fort' (Old Fort) due to an old fortification that was constructed to defend the settlement. This period marked the beginning of significant changes in the region's demographic and social structure.

Vieux Fort's strategic location made it a focal point during the colonial wars between the French and the British. The control of Saint Lucia oscillated between these two powers, with Vieux Fort often experiencing the brunt of conflicts. The remnants of military fortifications and cannons scattered around the area are testimonies to this turbulent period.

Following the abolition of slavery in 1834, Vieux Fort, like much of Saint Lucia, underwent significant societal changes. Freed slaves established communities, and the economy gradually shifted from plantation-based to more diversified modes of labor. This era laid the foundation for the modern culture and demographics of Vieux Fort.

During World War II, Vieux Fort played a crucial role as a strategic military base for the Allies. The United States established an airbase in Vieux Fort, which is now known as the Hewanorra International Airport. This period brought infrastructural development and an influx of foreign military personnel that influenced local culture and economy.

In recent decades, Vieux Fort has transformed into a bustling town with significant economic activity. The development of the Hewanorra International Airport has turned Vieux Fort into a gateway for tourists, fostering growth in the hospitality and service sectors. Additionally, investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure have contributed to the town’s modern identity.

Vieux Fort is rich in cultural heritage, celebrating its diverse history through various festivals and events. The annual La Rose and La Marguerite festivals highlight the town's unique blend of African, French, and British influences. These vibrant celebrations feature traditional music, dance, and costumes, preserving and promoting the cultural legacy of Vieux Fort.

Vieux Fort is located in the southern part of Saint Lucia and is accessible via Hewanorra International Airport, which is just a few kilometers from the town center. Direct flights to Hewanorra are available from major cities in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Alternatively, you can arrive at George F. L. Charles Airport in Castries, the capital, and take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Vieux Fort. Ferry services from neighboring Caribbean islands also dock at the Castries Port, from where you can arrange ground transportation to Vieux Fort.

Within Vieux Fort, local transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and minibuses known as 'route taxis'. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Route taxis are a more economical option and follow fixed routes around the town and to nearby areas. For greater flexibility, renting a car is advisable, and several car rental agencies operate near the airport and in town. Driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency in Saint Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US Dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but small businesses and local markets may require cash. ATMs are available in Vieux Fort for withdrawing local currency, and it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.

Vieux Fort is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions are recommended. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. While Vieux Fort is not known for high crime rates targeting tourists, it is wise to stay vigilant in neighborhoods like Bruceville and La Resource. Always use registered taxis and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Vieux Fort police station and medical facilities, including St. Jude Hospital, are available to handle emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are also available in town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly. Beachwear is acceptable at the beach but not in town. Avoid wearing camouflage clothing, as it is illegal for civilians. Religion: Do respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and greet the driver when boarding a route taxi. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like green fig and saltfish. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Vieux Fort like a local, visit the Saturday morning market where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share their culture. Explore the Maria Islands Nature Reserve for a unique ecological experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local street food, such as rotis and bakes. For a vibrant local atmosphere, visit the annual Vieux Fort Carnival, a celebration of music, dance, and cultural heritage.