Car rentals in St. Lucia offer visitors the chance to take the driver’s seat

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With a variety of rental companies and vehicle models to choose from, St. Lucia gives travelers the keys to paradise. Visitors can find rental companies at the Hewanorra International Airport at Vieux Fort and at the Vigie Airport near Castries, as well as other locations on Gros Islet and Soufrière. Travelers have a choice of several reputable companies including some smaller island-based providers.

Due to an undertaking by the St. Lucian government, the island is no longer hampered by difficult road conditions that were once a mainstay of local travel. St. Lucia made improving island roadways a priority in 2001, carrying out key renovations on 16 major roads, 49 miles of farm access roads, and 200 primary and tertiary roads. There have been significant improvements to drainage conditions throughout the island, and several new bridges have been constructed. These improvements mean that touring this mountainous island paradise by car is easier than ever.

Visitors must obtain a temporary permit in order to drive in St. Lucia. The cost is EC$54, or $20(USD), and the permit is good for three months. A temporary permit can be obtained through car rental companies, the local police, or the immigration desks at either of St. Lucia’s airports. Visitors who have an international driving permit do not need to purchase the temporary permit, but the international permit must be stamped at immigration.

Rentals from most of the major providers range from $50(USD) to $60(USD) per day. Cars or sport-utility vehicles with four wheel drive are available at several of the local rental companies where rates start at $45(USD) to $50(USD) per day, depending on the size of the vehicle. Few providers offer unlimited mileage.

Renting a vehicle by the week can help travelers save money. Most rental companies give discounts for reservations of three days or more. Weekly rental rates range from $295(USD) to $390(USD) depending on the type of vehicle and the company. Visitors who choose to purchase insurance will pay an additional $15(USD) to $20(USD) per day.

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