Need advice on where to go to escape the cruise ship crowd from which I shall emerge on my one day in St Lucia. Recommendations on how to spend eight hours on the island would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

There is a land and sea tour which is great - goes off to the Pitons, Rodney and/or Marigot Bay. Can be pricey but well worth it - we enjoyed it!<BR><BR>You can also, if you want to veg, spend the day at a SAndals or the Hyatt, which alot of people on our ship did.

Pigeon Island - about a 5 minute walk from the Hyatt on the north part of the island was a lot of fun, especially if you have an interest in the history of St. Lucia and in viewing ruins.<BR><BR>We also enjoyed taking a catamaran trip (we went from the Sandals down to the Pitons) but there are other sailings.<BR><BR>Also...a rainforest tour/hike can be very challenging - but very memorable. The interior of the island has a complete different climate and often is only accessible using 4WD vehicle.

pigeon island....<BR><BR>although they did not bother us, there were local men there smoking pot<BR><BR>

&lt;&lt;there were local men there smoking pot&gt;&gt;<BR><BR>Kind of reminds you of home?<BR><BR>I would second the choice of Pigeon Point as a great place to head for a morning or afternoon. Swimming and snorkeling right there along with the historical sites and lats of places to walk, plus a little restaurant is available also.

Pigeon Island is nice but you can do that in two / three hours tops, and that's taking your time. You may want to check into a day sail to the pitons which usually includes snorkeling, food, and drink. Either the Brig Unicorn or a catamaran.