Gros Islet, Saint Lucia 🇱🇨
#1164
14.080133, -60.952498
Nomad Score:
59%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Gros Islet is a town in the northern part of Saint Lucia, known for its beautiful beaches and close-knit community. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 15,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 25-30 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 2.70 XCD. Local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). ATMs are widely available. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally considered safe to drink. |
| 🔌 Power | 120V, 60Hz. Sockets are Type A/B. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Digicel and Flow provide local SIM cards with good coverage. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Popular options include First Citizens Bank and CIBC FirstCaribbean. Online banking is common. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Variety of options including Airbnb, hotels, and guesthouses. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted in most places, but cash is still king in some local shops. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Available through Airbnb and local real estate agencies. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Options like The Green Fig Resort offer budget rates. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Cozy Coworking Space uniquely designed for remote workers. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Naked Fisherman offers a relaxed atmosphere and Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Various local meetups, and events can be found via local Facebook groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Gros Islet has a friendly expat community, often organizing events at local bars. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxi services are available; also consider using Uber, which operates in some areas. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at local shops and resorts. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Reduit Beach is the closest and a popular spot. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | LIAT is the primary regional airline serving Saint Lucia. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and JetBlue operate direct flights to Hewanorra International Airport. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | There’s good access via the Castries to Gros Islet Highway. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Public transport is limited; best to use local taxis. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal pass system; pay per ride on local buses. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses and taxis connect Gros Islet with central Castries and other areas. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The Gros Islet PolyClinic provides basic health services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga on the Beach offers classes for all levels. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness clubs like BodyZone Gym are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | A local laundromat offers wash-and-fold services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Use local services like Foodie or PickMe to order food. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the local Creole Fish and Green Fig. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Places like The Vitalitea Cafe cater to vegan diets. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | The Cocoa Pod Chocolate Shop offers delicious treats. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit the Gros Islet market for fresh produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon delivers but check for local retailers for faster options. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limegrove and other local stores offer delivery services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The Strip at Rodney Bay features vibrant nightlife. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Piton Beer is the local favorite, with tasting tours available. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | The Wine Bar at Baywalk Mall offers numerous options. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Plenty of options near the Gros Islet street parties on Friday nights. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and burgers are popular at several local eateries. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit Pigeon Island National Park for history and scenic views. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The St. Lucia Folk Research Centre is a great cultural stop. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Fort Rodney is a historical site with ocean views. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Church of the Assumption is notable in the area. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Gros Islet Seafood Festival celebrates local cuisine every November. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Rodney Bay has a mix of local culture and tourist amenities. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | The National Cultural Centre hosts various performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Gros Islet Marketplace is vibrant, offering local crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local bars host live music, especially reggae and soca. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Murals along the strip highlight local artists. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are offered at local culinary schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local art can be found in small galleries around Gros Islet. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Colonial architecture can be seen throughout the town. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The traditional craftsmanship of the island is showcased in local markets. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Anse Chastanet and other nearby beaches are great for scenery. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Sulphur Springs Park offers unique geothermal features. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal walk from Gros Islet to Rodney Bay is popular. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Lookout points at Pigeon Island provide stunning views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The area is home to various bird species, especially around Pigeon Island. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Public beaches allow bonfires, particularly at night. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and FedEx services are available for shipping. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer phone and computer repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers may have table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Various English and Creole language classes are available. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Gros Islet Library provides quiet study areas. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Several centers offer community events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gaming options are limited; check local cafes. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are limited gaming options, primarily in nearby Rodney Bay. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 2,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = XCD 100,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = XCD 80,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 2,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XCD 168,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,300 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XCD 138,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 3,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XCD 240,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,400 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XCD 192,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Territorial taxation system for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30% |
| 🧾 VAT | 15% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, applied only to specific situations. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Yes, based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 5% standard rate. |