WEDDING PACKAGES IN ST LUCIA
What to expect: a Caribbean island of dramatic natural beauty, lush landscape and luxurious resorts. Features include towering volcanic mountains, tropical rainforest and picture-postcard beaches. Consistently featured as one of the top-five wedding and honeymoon destinations for most operators to the region.
Best time to go: in winter, temperatures range between 19C-30C; summer 24C -35C.
Legal requirements: a minimum residency of two days on the island is necessary before making an application, which must be received at least four working days before the wedding. Valid passport, plus original birth certificates compulsory. If applicable, divorce decree absolute, death certificates and, in the case of a name change a deed poll required.
Romantic options: all-inclusives such as Odyssey St Lucia to exclusive resorts like the recently opened Jalousie Hilton and all-in Sandals St Lucia offer wedding packages. The island also boasts more unusual wedding and honeymoon settings, such as Anse Chastanet, an historic former sugar plantation located on a steep hillside with steps that lead down to the beach and stunning views over the twin peaks of the volcanic Pitons.
UK operators: a range including British Airways Holidays, Caribbean Connection, Airwaves, Elegant Resorts, Kuoni, Thomson, Tradewinds.
Sample price: a seven-night honeymoon, room only, with Tradewinds costs from £649 per person including flights, with a wedding package costing from £269 per couple.
Getting there: scheduled flights with British Airways, BWIA and Virgin Atlantic. Charters on Leisure International, Caledonian Airways and Britannia. Journey time is around 8hrs.
Further information: contact St. Lucia Tourist Board, 421a FinchleyRoad, London, NW3 6HJ. Tel: 0171-431 4045; fax: 0171-431 7920.