Ride the island

Taking the bus

In Saint Lucia we get around by minibus. They are usually 12 to 14 seaters, our drivers are experienced and know the roads well, and many Saint Lucians ride them every day. It works, and it is the most affordable way to see the island.

• Buses leave when reasonably full rather than on a fixed schedule.
• Tell the driver or conductor where you want to get off, then say "stopping" as you near it.
• Routes are numbered by zone (1 north, 2 east and south, 3 west coast, 4 the south, 5 around Castries).
• For the long west-coast run to Soufrière, allow plenty of time and expect a winding ride.

Transfer points

The main transfer point is Castries. The whole city is effectively one big bus terminal, with different stands for different parts of the island. The smaller southern transfer point is Vieux Fort, where you change for the deep south and Soufrière. That is the blue Route 4.

Getting on the bus

• Greet everyone with a friendly "good morning" or "good afternoon".
• Going a short way? Sit near the front. Travelling a long distance? Head to the back.
• Not every bus has seat belts, but the drivers are careful. If you feel uneasy, there is usually a small hand-hold behind the seat.
• Many buses are air conditioned. If yours is not and you are warm, politely ask someone to open a window. Saint Lucians are friendly and happy to help.

Stopping the bus

• The bus is moving, so give the driver time to pull over. Call out a little before your stop, not at the last second.
• Stop at one of the many bus stops, or a clear, soft spot at the side of the road. If you are not sure where to get off, ask the driver and they will know.
• People call out "stopping", "stopping driver", "stopping at the gap" or "at the gap driver". A "gap" is a junction, and a great place to switch from one route to another.
• To flag a bus down, stand somewhere safe, like a bus stop, a gap, or a clear stretch of roadside. If a bus stop is close, walk to it. It is easier for the driver and keeps everything moving.

If something goes wrong

Whatever happens, the simplest answer is usually to talk to the driver. They are local, helpful, and have seen it all.

• Took the wrong route? Get off at the next gap and ask which bus gets you back on track.
• Not sure you are heading the right way? Ask the driver or a fellow passenger; people are happy to point you right.
• Need to go back the other way? Hop off at a gap and catch a bus going the opposite direction from the other side of the road.
• Need a bathroom? Stop in the nearest town; ask the driver where the nearest facilities are.
• Forgot your money? Let the driver know early and calmly; they will usually work something out.