Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia π±π¨
#1162
13.727713, -60.95275
Nomad Score:
58%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Vieux Fort is a vibrant town known for its beautiful beaches and strong cultural heritage. It serves as the gateway to the south of Saint Lucia. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 12,000 people. |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of 20-30 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 2.70 XCD; major banks include First Citizens and Republic Bank. |
π° Tap Water | Generally drinkable, but bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | 230V, 50Hz, uses Type G electrical sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Available providers include Digicel and Flow. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Most major international and local cards accepted; online banking available. |
π Accommodation | Options vary from hotels to guesthouses, including Airbnb rentals. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, many places accept cards, but cash is still widely used. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for short-term stays. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Check out La Plywood Guesthouse for affordable lodging. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Vieux Fort does not have dedicated coworking spaces, but consider local cafes for work. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Doolittles offers a relaxed atmosphere with Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local expat community groups on Facebook often share meetups. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Join Vieux Fort Expat Network on social media for updates on local events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no major ride-sharing services like Uber. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available from local shops, with average costs around $15 per day. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Sandy Beach is just a 5-minute drive away. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | LIAT operates regional flights within the Caribbean. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | American Airlines and JetBlue have flights to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF). |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Access to the A1 highway connects you to Castries and other major areas. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Vieux Fort primarily relies on bus services for intercity travel. |
π Public Transport Passes | Public transportation is generally pay-as-you-go with local buses. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Bus services to Castries and SoufriΓ¨re are frequent and cost-effective. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | St. Jude's Hospital provides emergency and routine care. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Find yoga sessions at the Mornese Centre. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local options include Bodyline Fitness at Vieux Fort Square. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Self-service laundromats are limited; consider using local laundry services. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No dedicated food delivery apps; consider calling local restaurants for delivery. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the Lionfish ceviche at a local seafood restaurant. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Ezi Moris offers great vegetarian Caribbean dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Check out Boulangerie for local pastries. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Visit Vieux Fort Market for fresh produce and local snacks. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Local options include Bouyon Market for groceries and goods. |
π Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery options are limited; shops like Massy Stores offer some delivery. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Casual bars along the waterfront offer laid-back nightlife. |
π» Local Brewery | Pitons Beer is a local favorite; tours are available. |
π· Wine Bars | No dedicated wine bars; most restaurants have a selection of wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Look for local vendors selling fish and chips near the beach. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Coco's Restaurant offers a range of international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The historic Fort Vieux Fort provides panoramic views. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | No major museums; local art shows occur periodically. |
π° Historical Sites | Visit the remains of the old Vieux Fort fortifications. |
π Religious Sites | The St. Patrick's Catholic Church showcases beautiful architecture. |
π Annual Events | The Vieux Fort Seafood Festival takes place every November. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Explore the local market area for crafts and local culture. |
π Theater Venues | Limited local theater; check community centers for performances. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The weekly Vieux Fort Market is a vibrant local attraction. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local bars host live music events regularly. |
π¨ Street Art | A few murals can be seen in downtown Vieux Fort. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Look for local chefs offering classes on Caribbean cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Limited galleries; local art can be found at markets. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | The Vieux Fort police station is a notable historical building. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Experience Creole culture through food, language, and craft. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Visit Maria Islands to experience rich wildlife. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The nearby Moule-a-Chique Nature Reserve is excellent for hiking. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Coastal paths are great for cycling and walking. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The view from the lighthouse at Cap Moule-a-Chique is breathtaking. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Moule-a-Chique is home to various bird species, ideal for birdwatchers. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas on Sandy Beach. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services are available. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer basic tech repair services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have table tennis facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Limited formal language classes; community groups offer informal learning. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Local libraries provide quiet study areas but limited resources. |
ποΈ Community Centers | The Vieux Fort Community Centre hosts various activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Few gaming lounges; most entertainment is home-based. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos in Vieux Fort; the nearest is in Castries. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000) |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $40,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $90,000) |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $72,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $144,000) |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $120,000) |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15%. |
π¦ Tax System | Resides based on worldwide income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 40%. |
π§Ύ VAT | 15%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict rules apply. |
π Property Tax | Yes, assessed based on property value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | 5% standard rate. |