A Sweet Start to Our St. Lucia Adventure

As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for unique experiences that can be enjoyed by both adults and kids. When I heard about the Hot Chocolate Tour in St. Lucia, I knew it was something I had to try. The name alone was enough to intrigue me, and the promise of an educated guide, fun attractions, and lunch included sealed the deal.

Our adventure began at the Water Sports desk at the Sandals Saint Lucia (La Toc) resort, where we met our guide, Kimberly, affectionately known as “Sweet Chocolate.” Her enthusiasm for her island was infectious, and she immediately made us feel welcome. We were joined by just one other couple, which made the tour feel intimate and personalized.

As we set off through the lush rainforest, Kimberly shared fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna. My kids were particularly thrilled to learn about the different types of bananas grown on the island, and the chance to taste banana ketchup and banana BBQ sauce was a hit with everyone. The drive through charming fishing villages and past black sand beaches offered plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, especially when we stopped to capture the majestic Pitons.

Mud Baths and Waterfalls: A Family Bonding Experience

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the visit to the volcanic mud baths and Toraille Waterfall. Kimberly expertly guided us to the front of the line, where we had the chance to “paint” each other with the therapeutic mud. It was a hilarious and bonding experience for our family, and Kimberly was on hand to capture the fun with our camera.

After a relaxing soak in the hot mud bath, we rinsed off under the refreshing waterfall. The combination of the warm mud and cool water left our skin feeling rejuvenated, and the kids couldn’t stop talking about how much fun they had. It was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, and a memory we’ll cherish forever.

A Taste of St. Lucia: Lunch and Local Delights

By the time we reached Mama’s, a quaint hillside restaurant, we were ready for a hearty meal. The buffet offered a delicious array of local dishes, and the views from the restaurant were simply breathtaking. It was a wonderful opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of St. Lucia.

The tour continued with a visit to a chocolate shop, where we indulged in some sweet treats and had the chance to purchase souvenirs. The final stop was a self-guided rum tasting at a local distillery. While the kids enjoyed some non-alcoholic options, my husband and I sampled the various rum offerings. Although one of the flavors I wanted was out of stock, our guide Mitch, also known as “Hot Chocolate,” went above and beyond by offering to get it for me the next day.

Overall, the Hot Chocolate Tour was a fantastic way to explore St. Lucia. It was educational, entertaining, and offered something for everyone in the family. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful island, I highly recommend adding this tour to your itinerary. Just remember to bring some cash for local vendors, water shoes for the mud baths, and a couple of towels for the ride. Happy travels!