Many people speak St Lucian Creole, but English is the official language.
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St Lucia’s official currency is the East Caribbean dollar. Many places accept the US dollar, which also gets the best exchange rate. Larger hotels, restaurants and shops accept major credit cards. You can find ATMs in Rodney Bay, Castries, Vieux Fort and Soufriere. Many hotels will change money for you, but there are also exchange bureaus in Castries.
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St Lucia’s international country code is 1758. You don’t need an outgoing code for calls to the US and Canada. The cheapest way to make an international call is by using an AT&T calling card. You can access the web at Internet cafes throughout the island.
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It’s customary to tip 10 percent. Porters, hotel maids and taxi drivers also expect tips.
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Most travelers don’t have any problems, but you should always use common sense to prevent theft. Avoid isolated areas and beaches after dark. The hurricane season lasts from June to November, so keep informed about the most recent weather reports.
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If you’re coming from a country infected with yellow fever, you’ll need a yellow fever vaccination certificate. St Lucia has few health risks, but you should protect yourself against mosquitoes, which can carry dengue fever. HIV/AIDS is also common. Make sure you have health insurance; medical costs can be very high.
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St Lucia’s electrical current is 220 volts, 50 cycles AC and uses UK-style, square, three-pinned plugs.
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A New England native but explorer at heart, Melisse has lived in four U.S. cities, spent a summer in Hawaii, made her way through wine-producing regions in Australia and New Zealand, and traveled around Europe while studying abroad in London. She is the Content Manager for the U.S. and Canada at Cheapflights.