10 best places in Castries

The dry season runs roughly from December to April: less rain, lower humidity and the highest hotel prices. June to November is hurricane season, with sudden downpours but much cheaper rooms. Temperatures stay hot and humid all year.

The city itself is small: the cathedral, Derek Walcott Square, the market and Fort Charlotte fit into one relaxed day. Saint Lucia is really about the island, so add three or four days for the Pitons, Soufriere and the beaches. Cruise passengers often see only the port area.

The centre and the usual tourist routes are generally fine in daylight, with pickpocketing as the main risk. After dark, take a taxi instead of walking empty streets or outlying districts. Standard Caribbean habits apply: leave valuables at the hotel and keep expensive gear out of sight.

Saint Lucia runs a citizenship by investment programme, one of the Caribbean passports processed remotely in a few months. There are also ordinary routes through work, business or property ownership. Investment amounts and processing rules change often, so check the current terms before committing.