When looking for a vacation spot to celebrate one of our wedding anniversaries, we received a lot of suggestions, including:
- Go back to where you honeymooned, Italy – We would’ve loved to but it was too far away now from home now that we had a little baby!
- Go to New York – although we love New York and there is so much to do and see, we’ve been there so many times (we both grew up there) that it wouldn’t really be a vacation
We wanted to go somewhere that we would be forced to relax. We’d be kidless for the first time since N was born (Grandma and Grandpa would watch the little guy) and were so looking forward to some well-needed R&R. We’d been to a few of the Caribbean islands and enjoyed them, so when someone mentioned St. Lucia as an option it peeked my interest.
An island with mountains, an unspoiled rainforest, and beaches – all not too far from home but just far enough that it would truly feel like we were getting away. After a bit of research, we created an itinerary, packed our bags and were off! Below are some of the fun excursions we did!
HORSEBACK RIDING IN ST. LUCIA
I used to love to horseback ride. I even had a pony brought to my house (in the back of a gutted out Chevy Nova) for my 3rd birthday – that’s how much I loved horses. We opted for a small group tour through the countryside, which brought us to one of the many beautiful beaches.
The stable asked us a few questions about our experiences horseback riding if any and then paired us with our horse for the few hour tour. Mine was named Sport and Rich’s was named Big Bubba!
I couldn’t believe that we were able to go swimming with the horses – well, we were still on their backs, but they went into the ocean. It was such an amazing experience!
SHOPPING
If you know me, you know I wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to go shopping in a neighboring village! One of the days was a bit cloudy so it was perfect!
We loved seeing these dogs just hanging around and napping by the shops.
BEACHES, BEACHES, AND MORE BEACHES
Rich and I took every other day to lay on the beach or poolside, taking in the amazing scenery. Florida doesn’t offer mountains as a backdrop, so they were a big treat for us.
INTERESTED IN ST. LUCIA?
We would definitely go back to St. Lucia, this time with the boys. They would love the hiking, snorkeling and other water sports, as well as the horseback riding and beach time! I was excited to find out that Norwegian Cruise Lines offers St. Lucia as one of their many Caribbean cruise destinations. Cruises are the way to go – you pack, arrive at the port, put your bags down in your stateroom and then are immediately on vacation!
Have you ever been to St. Lucia or cruised on Norwegian? If so, comment below!
corinne & kirsty says
St Lucia is defo somewhere I would want to go! I have never been to the caribbeans. Everything is beautiful there so i really want to visit!
Dana says
I think you need to take a trip in 2018 😉
Jenn JG says
I have never been to St lucia! Looks like a beautiful place with lots to do! The mountains look so pretty!
Dana says
Jenn, the mountains were my favorite! I live in Florida and it’s so flat here so it’s nice to see some topography!
Shannon says
I’ve never heard of St. Lucia, but it looks like a wonderful place for some R&R! The beaches look amazing and super relaxing.
Dana says
Shannon, it’s one of the British Virgin Islands and until I started my research it was new to me too!!
Ruth Bloch says
Yes! Its a GORGEOUS place! I went there actually with Royal Caribbean, which we LOVE – would you recommend Norwegian?
Dana says
I would recommend Norweigan for your next cruise as the ships are top notch, as is the service and all the things you can do onboard!
Amber says
What a gorgeous place! I would love to be by this water, riding on those horses. One day, I hope!
Dana says
Amber, I hope you go!
Rachel says
St Lucia looks beautiful! It’s on my list of places to visit. I would love to horseback riding by the ocean!
Dana says
Rachel, it was such a cool experience!
Sarah Bailey says
St Luca sounds like somewhere I would love to visit. There is so much to do there by the sound of it and how beautiful does it look as well.
Dana says
Sarah, it is definitely a bucket list item!
Denise Krupa says
Beautiful place. Returning in January.
Dana says
Lucky! Where are you staying when you go in January?
Joanna @ Everyday Made Fresh says
What an amazing vacation! I’ve always wanted to visit St Luca, and hopefully one day I’ll get the chance.
Dana says
I hope you get the chance too, Joanna!
Claudia Krusch says
St. Lucia would be an amazing place to get away. It is perfect for a honey moon. I am hoping to get back there in the new year.
Dana says
Claudia you would love it!
Emman Damian says
I want to try horse back riding! Sta. Lucia looks like a good place to visit!
Dana says
It was a lot of fun – a bit nerve-wracking at first, but once I got the hang of being in the ocean on a horse it was awesome!
Kiwi says
St.Lucia is amazing. I actually love all parts of the Carribean something about a beautiful beach and being around some of the amazing locals always make me feel good traveling to an island.
Dana says
I couldn’t agree with you more! It’s so relaxing and beautiful!
Nadine Cathleen says
What an amazing place! I have only been to Nevis but St. Lucia is on my bucket list!
Dana says
Where’s Nevis? (A new place for me to explore!)
Jessica Taylor says
Wow! It looks like you had an amazing time! St Lucia looks so relaxing!
Dana says
It was an amazing time! St. Lucia was relaxing and exciting at the same time 🙂
Ana De- Jesus says
Wow it seems like ST Lucia is the place to be and it is incredible that you managed to go swimming with horses! What an experience that must have been for you x
Ana De- Jesus says
Wow it seems like ST Lucia is the place to be and it is incredible that you managed to go swimming with horses! What an experience that must have been for you! x
Ophelia T says
I love St. Lucia. I visited the island before and it is beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Dana says
My pleasure Ophelia!
Blair villanueva says
Indeed this beach is a nice place to enjoy horse back riding. I always wanted to learn that, however I always fail. I think i need to established trust and bonding first to horses 🙂
Dana says
It takes some time to get used to riding horses, but when you get the hang of it it’s quite beautiful!
Angela Milnes says
I could use a trip there. I love riding horses.
Dana says
You’d love it then, Angela!
Hey Sharonoox says
Beautiful place! I’m adding this to my bucket list. I love the beach and shopping so this are right up my alley. I wish to visit this place someday.
Dana says
LOL two of my favorite things too Sharon 😉
G&D Blog says
Yes! I would love to visit there with my husband. David and I are such a couple of droolers for vitamin Sea. This is going to be on our bucket list, for sure. 😀
-Gerome of G&D Blog
http://www.gdblog.net
Dana says
I love the “vitamin Sea” comment! You and your husband should check out St. Lucia then for sure!
Victoria Moore says
Awww that looks like so much fun! 🙂 I’ve never been horseback riding, but I’ve always wanted to.