windward islands

[Pipsqueak11]

my DD is doing an elective in St Lucia next summer and will be based in Castries . we are thinking of going out for a few weeks before she starts so probably first 3 weeks in July and will want to end up in St lucia to drop her off but would like to explore a bit before then. i have never been to this part of the world and wonder which island to visit and what we might be able to do apart from beach things. we would like to avoid resorts / all inclusive type places. i wonder if any MNetters may have any thoughts on how easy it is to self cater and where it might be good to be based?

Done Barbados and St Maarten - self catering dead easy cracking local produce and plenty of choice. Not loads to do other than beaches but some exploring.

We booked our recent trip through Airbnb and flights with Thomas cook.

Have you considered chartering a boat with a skipper and cook? We have done this in the BVIs and I think there are companies in St Lucia. None of the islands have masses of sightseeing but St Lucia is attractive. Antigua has English Harbour and Barbados is attractive in parts too. They are mostly geared up to beach holidays however but you can get away from resorts in the BVIs and on islands like Bequia and St Vincent. You can easily find rental property and look at island hopping flights or ferries for a local experience.

The best plan is to go to several islands because many are small - but perfectly formed. If you go to the BVI, you normally finds the yachts in Tortola and sail around various islands from there such as Jost van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Peter Island and even Dead Man’s Chest (as in the song). All islands are in view of each other. There is history of pirates in the area and great snorkling. I recommend it highly but it will be slightly humid in July. Tortola is well connected but I am not sure how well it is coping after the hurricane last year.

Thanks so much somewhere and bubbles . i have booked flight now to st lucia and then to grenada so will look at options from there. i hadnt thought of chartering a boat - sounds fantastic . will have a look at that as an option . thanks again.