Month: January 2024

I hope you had a fun weekend. It’s quite cold here in North Carolina but by the end of the week it should be much warmer! This is great news for this warm weather girl.

Believe it or not, spring break is right around the corner. And based on early bookings, it’s going to be another big year for travelers to head south for some fun in the sun! I have the perfect destination for those looking for just that…St. Lucia!

Nestled in the southeastern part of the Caribbean Sea, St. Lucia represents a unique blend of friendly people, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. The island boasts one of the world’s only drive-in volcanic craters, splendid verdant mountains, pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush rainforests, captivating waterfalls and a vibrant culture that will excite your senses. Get ready to escape to a world where beauty knows no bounds, and adventure awaits at every turn!

With so much to see and do on this beautiful island, it’s no wonder why people from all corners of the world flock here every year. Last May, Allan and I spent a week exploring the island, and I can personally attest to the magic that St. Lucia exudes in every aspect of island life.

Let me be your personal guide as I take you on a tour below through the wonders of this Caribbean Island paradise.

Unforgettable Accommodations

From premium all-inclusive resorts to private villas, St. Lucia has a variety of lodging options to fit any budget and preference. The island provides endless opportunities for relaxation and excitement, including many wonderful accommodations that are ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends.

At the five-star Sandals Grande St. Lucian, you can indulge in the exquisite luxury and enjoy all the comforts of the resort while surrounded by the breath-taking beauty of this tropical paradise.

Other options like Ladera Resort and Anse Chastanet are both award-winning accommodations that offer seamless service and irresistible Caribbean charm.

I stayed at two different five-star resorts – Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort and Zoetry Marigot Bay and both were fabulous in their own way!

Sugar Beach Resort: Where Dreams Become Reality

Prepare to be enchanted as you are whisked away to the luxurious Sugar Beach Resort, a slice of heaven nestled between the majestic Pitons.

Sugar Beach Resort is located in the southern town of Soufrière, nestled between the green peaks of Petit Piton and Gros Piton. The resort has 96 beautifully appointed guest rooms, cottages, villas, and beachfront bungalows. Every accommodation type features a private plunge pool or private pool along with modern amenities like air-conditioning, satellite TV, and Wi-Fi.

The Rainforest Spa

Don’t miss the chance to rejuvenate your body and soul at the resort’s world-class Rainforest Spa, where relaxation and serenity await. They offer a variety of tantalizing treatments and I had the chance to experience their Healing Coconut Milk massage. It was so relaxing and a perfect way to end our day!

Delectable Dining

Sugar Beach Resort boasts a unique dining experience at the restaurant overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Every Wednesday they have a Latin Fiesta night where both authentic Mexican and Latin food is served. The menu highlights include classic dishes from Quesadillas to Fajitas as well as cooking on their open fire grill with wood and charcoal as the Argentinians do. The food is locally sourced and quite delicious.

Zoetry Marigot Bay: Your Sanctuary of Serenity

Prepare to be enchanted by the Zoetry Marigot Bay Resort, where tranquility and luxury intertwine in perfect harmony. The resort is located on the beautiful harbor of Marigot Bay and offers elegant suite-style rooms. This luxury boutique resort features elegant colonial Caribbean style decor, air conditioning, ceiling fans, full kitchens, flat-screen TVs, and surround systems making it a dream location for a romantic honeymoon or a relaxing vacation. It’s a quiet oasis where every detail has been meticulously curated for your ultimate comfort.

The Zoetry Experience

The resort offers many unforgettable experiences. There’s nothing better than a sunset cruise along the shimmering waters of Marigot Bay, sipping on delectable cocktails as the golden sun bids the day farewell.

There are so many hiking trails around the area that we picked one and headed to the top so we could have a better view of Marigot Bay. It was a fun morning workout.

Or if you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, head to the vibrant Castries Market, where you’ll be tantalized by the sights, sounds, and flavors of Saint Lucia.

Unlock the Natural Wonders of Saint Lucia

Beyond the mesmerizing resorts, Saint Lucia holds a treasure trove of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. St. Lucia’s rich natural environment is what makes it unique. It’s the perfect gateway to encounter natural biodiversity and habitats.

There are so many activities on and around the island that you will leave breathless and craving more! Embark on a hike through the lush rainforests to witness the breathtaking beauty of the majestic Pitons up close. Or head out on one of the trails until you end up at Superman Falls. No visit to Saint Lucia is complete without a dip in the world-famous Diamond Falls. All three of these were fun adventures!

If you love snorkeling or scuba diving, then suit up and jump in the water to see the kaleidoscopic world beneath the waves. It’s truly magical!

And for those that want to soar high above the treetops, head to the rainforest for an exhilarating thrill across the zip lines.

One of our favorites was Sulphur Springs Park, home to the dormant Soufriere volcano as well as black-water pool baths whose volcano-heated, mineral-rich water is said to help reduce stress as well as heal skin ailments. Be prepared to get dirty but after rinsing off your skin will feel very soft!

Culinary Delights

St. Lucia is home to some of the world’s most delectable and flavorful dishes. The island features a vast array of restaurants, bistros, and cafes, each offering its unique style of Caribbean cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a romantic candlelit dinner overlooking the sea, a casual meal with friends or family, or a locally inspired dish from a street vendor, St. Lucia has it all.

Nightlife

The sunset in St. Lucia’s Rodney Bay is the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening filled with refreshments, great music, and unforgettable ambience. Whether you’re in the mood for live music, a beachfront party, or a quiet night out on the town, this Caribbean Island has everything to fulfill your nighttime desires.

Plan Your St. Lucia Vacation Today

St. Lucia is a magical island retreat that offers unmatched beauty, unparalleled relaxation, and a host of activities to suit every taste. From sandy beaches to natural ecosystems, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Exploring St. Lucia is easy with direct flights from many East coast airports. You can fly to Hewanorra International Airport or George FL Charles airport from the United States. JetBlue, American, Delta, and United Airlines offer direct flights from the United States to St. Lucia.

Whether you’re looking for an adventurous holiday, a romantic getaway, or a family vacation, St. Lucia offers something for everyone. Let’s plan your unforgettable getaway to Saint Lucia today so you can experience the magic for yourself.

As we embark on a new year, filled with fresh opportunities and exciting adventures, I want to take a moment to wish you a Happy New Year! May 2024 bring you joy, health, and countless opportunities to explore the beauty of our incredible world.

Throughout 2023, many of us had the privilege of journeying to more than 100 destinations all over the globe, creating unforgettable memories, and capturing the magic of it all through the lens of our cameras.

Our travels were not just about visiting new places but about broadening our horizons, immersing ourselves in diverse cultures, savoring mouthwatering cuisine, and forging connections with people from all walks of life.

Pictures truly have a remarkable way of bringing our travel experiences to life.

And yes…a picture is worth a thousand words!

My grandfather and I shared a love for National Geographic magazine. Every month when he was done reading his copy, he’d wrap it up and send it to me. Once in my hands, I’d pour over the fantastic images of faraway places—places I could hardly believe existed! The photos were intriguing, brought about curiosity and created a desire to actually put my eyes on the places or people that were featured! I loved exploring the world by turning the pages of this magazine.

This not only inspired my love of travel, but a passion for photography. I received my first camera in the 4th grade and began filtering my world through my camera lens.

Since then, I’ve made filling up my passport pages a top priority—letting my photographer’s eye lead the way!

Photography allows us to capture memories, stories, and different perspectives. It’s a way of communicating and documenting moments in time. Every image adds up to create a story, which is the story of your life. It captures your experiences, passions, joys, and sadness. Taking photographs is one of the most effective ways to capture these emotions.

The pictures you’ve taken of your travels this year, have been inspiring, exciting, reflected a sense of discovery, been heartwarming and a true pleasure to see!

Pictures help us appreciate the little things in life that could otherwise be taken for granted.

I, too, have enjoyed taking pictures of our group tours and sharing them to inspire you to travel. If you haven’t already, I invite you to explore the thousands of captivating photos grouped by destination on our social media accounts. You can find us on Facebook/XOOMTOURS and Instagram/XOOMTOURS, where each picture tells a unique story, evoking the spirit of adventure and igniting the wanderlust within.

Additionally, I encourage you to peruse the heartwarming client reviews on our website, which are not only filled with inspiring travel stories but also feature beautiful photos from our clients’ journeys. Visit our XOOM Tours Website to be inspired by the experiences of fellow travelers. Or check out my XOOM Tours Virtuoso Website highlighting close-to-home escapes or those far-flung trips of a lifetime.

Let the Pictures Inspire You

Whether it’s the serene beauty of Santorini, the vibrant streets of Tokyo, the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, the ancient history of Rome, or riding camels next to one of the seven original wonders of the world, these images serve as a testament to the incredible journeys we embarked on together. Let them transport you to these enchanting destinations and inspire your own travel dreams for 2024.

Book Early and Secure Your Adventure

As we turn the calendar to a new year, it’s essential to plan ahead. Bookings for 2024 are already underway, and some of the most sought-after destinations are filling up quickly. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience your dream vacation.

Booking early not only ensures you secure your spot but also helps you lock in favorable prices before they rise due to high demand.

If there’s a particular destination that has caught your eye, now is the time to start thinking about making it a reality. Our team is here to assist you in crafting the perfect itinerary and ensuring that every detail of your journey is tailored to your preferences.

Passport Check Reminder

Before you embark on your next adventure, remember to check the validity of your passport. Many countries require that your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Ensuring your passport is up to date will save you from any last-minute travel hassles.

If you discover that your passport is about to expire or requires renewal, we recommend taking care of this important task sooner than later. Our team can provide guidance on the renewal process to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.

Let’s Plan Your 2024 Adventure Together!

In the spirit of new beginnings, I invite you to dream big and plan your 2024 adventure with us. Whether you’re longing for a relaxing beach escape, an epic trek through the mountains, a cultural immersion in a bustling city, or any other travel aspiration, we’re here to make it a reality.

Thank you for being a part of our travel family, and here’s to a year filled with incredible experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and cherished memories. Let’s make 2024 a year of wanderlust, discovery, and adventure!

Wishing you a Happy New Year once again, and I look forward to helping you plan your next unforgettable journey.