What to do in Castries?

[zebra]

I have a couple of questions about the town of Castries. Is it walkable from the pier? (We will be on the Jewel of the Seas). Also, what do you suggest we see and do in town? We are not interested in the jewelry stores - but prefer local wares and island style shopping. Also are there good restaurants and bars in town? Sorry for so many questions .....

[SeaBands]

at the piers and you can book a tour when you arrive.

[debshomespun]

In Castries, not far from the port, there is a local crafters market. Lots of great crafts done by the locals. We have bought several pieces when we have been there, along with some t-shirts.

[gold1959]

From waht I've read, the Castries Spice/Food/Crafts market is supposed to be Number 3 in the WORLD according to Nat Geo! Hubs is a chef, and we are Definitely planning on spending time there- and eating/tasting/buying lots of foodie stuff!- when we go in the spring! :D Have fun!

[zebra]

Does anyone know exactly how to get to the market and approx how far it is from the ship?

[reedprincess]

Does anyone know exactly how to get to the market and approx how far it is from the ship?

The Castreis Craft and Spice Market is very easy to get to from the ship - it is right on the waterfront, just about eqidistant from both docks.

It is large and has an orange roof. From La PLace Caranage, exit the shopping complex, turn left and follow the road around - once you pass the streetlight - the craft market is across the street. 5-10 minutes walk.

From Pointe Seraphine, leave the shopping complex and head out to the main road. Once on the main road,turn right and follow the road till you pass the traffic circle - it will be across the street - orange roof. Same, about a 5-10 minute walk.

There is the craft market with both locally made crafts and the usual tourist stuff, the spice market, produce market in the back area and the food market with local meats, etc. You can get local meals there also.

It was recently rated the #3 food market in the world by NatGeo for it's variety of produce and meats, etc. Defintely worth a visit.

Otherwise, Castries proper does not have a whole lot in walking distance - Derek Walcott Square and the Castries Cathedral is about it in the town proper. It is very much a working city and not the most attractive of port areas. You can easily hire a taxi to take you to other points of interest around the area - Morne Fortune for the views and drive past Gov't House, Vigie Lighthouse, etc. These are most definitley not walking distances.

Or you could hire a cab to take you up to Pigeon Island which is a nationalpark with a small museum, several restaurants, old fort ruins to wander through, some hiking and a lovely small beach with nice reef. Good way to spend the day. About 30 minutes from the port and about $35US one way for a cab.

Enjoy your visits!

[zebra]

Thanks Reedprincess that's great information - we will definitely visit the market.