The volcanic island of Saint Lucia is even more mountainous than many other Caribbean islands, with the highest point being Mount Gimie, at 950 meters (3,120 ft) above sea level.

Our first sight of St. Lucia was the twin peaks with comprise the two other mountains, the Pitons.  These twin peaks form the island's most famous landmark. They are located between Soufrière and Choiseul on the western side of the island. Saint Lucia is also one of the few islands in the world that boasts a drive-in volcano. 

To get to the volcano, you have to see St. Lucia's Botanical Garden also known as the "Diamond Botanical Gardens."   It's another of the many tourist sites on the island of St. Lucia. The botanical garden is located in the town of Soufrière, in the South-Western region of the island St. Lucia. This garden is not like any other, it has a wide variety of tropical plant species and features the stunning Diamond waterfall.

The garden is also known for its natural hot springs and mineral waters. The water is said to have medicinal qualities and was used by King Louis XVI's troops for its healing properties. Restored private baths are available for visitor's use. Local fruits and vegetables are on display throughout the gardens. There is a gift shop and small restaurant/break area.

The botanical garden is located very near the world's first drive-in volcano, Sulfur Springs.   We visited  the Soufrière volcano and walked all around and through it.  It is an interesting sight to be sure.

After seeing the sights, smelling the smells (sulfur) We drove, by car, to the capital city of Saint Lucia, Castries, where about one third of the population lives. Major towns include Gros Islet, Soufrière and Vieux Fort.

The local climate is tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds, with a dry season from December 1st to may 31st and wet season from June 1st to November 30th.

For my money, St. Lucia is one of the top scenic island's in the Caribbean chain due to it's high peaks, lush gardens, rugged topography and cultural festivals which include La Rose and La Marguerite, the first's representing the Rosicrucian order, and the second's representing Freemasonry. This can be seen on a mural painted by Dunstan St. Omer, depicting the holy trinity of Osiris, Horus and Isis.

Traditionally in common with other Caribbean countries, Saint Lucia held a carnival before Lent in association with Mardi Gras.  A popular folk dance is the Quadrille. Together with Caribbean music genres such as Soca or soul calypso  , Zouk a rhythmic music, kompas which is a Haitian musical genre and, of course, Reggae a Jamaican genre, Saint Lucia has a strong indigenous folk music tradition. Otherwise it's PARTY HARDY TIME!!!