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Sunshine in Saint Lucia

It's easy to see why Amy Winehouse fell in love with Saint Lucia. There's a friendly vibe about the place that makes it easy to relax and forget your troubles. And while the easy-going locals may have poked fun at her drunken antics, they were mainly tolerant of the hapless singer

Other celebrities have also fallen for Saint Lucia's charms. Denise Van Outen was on the island when she announced her engagement to Lee Mead and even Star Trek's Patrick Stewart took time out from his inter-galactic travels to visit. Cricket's Freddie Flintoff also enjoyed a close encounter with a pedalo on Saint Lucia's beaches in 2007, an episode he'd probably prefer to forget as it cost him the England captaincy.

Small, but perfectly formed, Saint Lucia is a volcanic island. Just 27 miles long and 14 miles wide, it boasts secluded bays and top-notch resorts. To the south, on Caribbean coast, you can snorkel and dive in the calm, clear waters at the bottom of the Pitons, the island's highest peaks. Up north, enjoy the wilder Atlantic coast, or ride horses along deserted beaches. If you fancy more of a jungle experience, head to the middle for the full rainforest extravaganza.

When to visit

Head to Saint Lucia in July and take part in Carnival. This colourful street party attracts hundreds of revellers, who 'jump-up' and dance through the streets of the capital, Castries. Saint Lucians love a party, and make the most of it with elaborate costumes, and loud soco music. Hardcore revellers can kick off early on Carnival day. J'ouvert, which starts about 4am, sees bands and dancers smearing each other with paint and parading through the streets.

The internationally acclaimed Jazz Festival takes place on the island in May each year. Visit then to catch the likes of Angélique Kidjo, and Chaka Khan among others.

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