Both St Lucia and Tulum are highly desirable places for persons seeking a wonderful vacation experience in the Caribbean.
In this article, we compare and contrast both spots in areas such as nightlife, activities and beaches to help you make an informed decision for your upcoming vacation.
As a general rule, St Lucia is the perfect for visitors seeking to unwind on stunning black sand beaches as well as bathing in the sulphur springs. Alternatively, Tulum is the ideal destination for persons seeking to relax on white sand beaches with blue waters and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Read on for further details and explanations on how these two beautiful Caribbean Islands compare. This article was written by a Caribbean National.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- Which Destination Is Bigger
Tulum covers the larger landmass of the two destinations. It is 790 square miles and is a town located along the Caribbean coastline in Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Contrastingly, St Lucia is an island in Caribbean that is only 238 square miles. The highest point is Mount Gimie which stands at 3,120 feet.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- What Are The Official Currencies
The official currency of both countries differs. For the island of St Lucia, the official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD).
This currency is also shared by seven other Caribbean Islands with the central bank located on the island of St Kitts.
On the other hand, the best currency to use in Tulum is the Mexican Pesos (MXN). Bank notes are available fin 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 denominations.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- What Are The Official Languages
The official languages of both destinations differ. English is the formal language of St Lucia.
Nevertheless, patois is spoken among the natives for day to day interactions.
This is a broken form of French still used day to day by St Lucians due to the French heritage of the island.
The French occupied St Lucia from 1651, when the island was purchased from the Caribs. In 1814, St Lucia was transferred to the English.
Alternatively, Spanish is the principal language spoken in Tulum and the whole of Mexico.
Due to the importance of tourism to Tulum, many bartenders, waiters and hotels workers are also fluent in English.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- Which Destination Has Better Beaches
If white sand beaches are your preference, then Tulum is the ideal destination.
Tulum is truly a paradise for persons who want to spend loads of time at the beach.
Playa Paraiso is one of the best spots that you should check out. This beach is long with powdery white sands and blue waters.
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent for those who want to spend the day.
One downside to visiting Playa Paraiso is the huge crowds especially during the peak tourist season.
Playa Ruinas and Tulum Beach are also other beaches to explore in Tulum.
Peradventure, black sand beaches are ideal for your dream vacation then St Lucia is the destinations to visit due to the volcanic nature of the island.
Cas en Bas Beach and Anse Chastanet Beach are two of the black sand beaches to consider visiting if St Lucia is your vacation choice.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- Which Destination Has Better Nightlife
St Lucia does not have the scale of entertainment when compared to Tulum.
Tulum has a number of nightlife entertainment options when it comes to bars, restaurants and live music.
Tulum Pueblo and Calle Centauro are the two main regions for a vibrant nightlife atmosphere in Tulum.
Some of the best spots to explore include Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar, Nana Rooftop Bar and Santino Bar.
Contrastingly, the Rodney Bay area in St Lucia is the main spot for the concentration of entertainment on the island.
It is also the location where many expats in St Lucia lives. There are restaurants, hotels, bars, supermarkets and marinas in this location.
If you are visiting St Lucia, try to stay on a Friday as there is a street food festival which is hosted every Friday in Gros Islet called Fish Friday.
At this festival, there are vendors selling a variety of food with fish being the main ingredient as well as live bands and individuals selling local crafts and souvenir items.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- Is It Easy To Hop To Other Destinations
The island of St Lucia offers more opportunities to visit other destinations via ferry services.
L’Express Des IIes provides effective transportation to the French Caribbean islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe.
Furthermore, transfers are also available to the nature island of Dominica which is a phenomenal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Alternatively, visitors to Tulum can also explore the many other regions in Mexico such as Playa Del Carmen, Cancun, Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox.
It is possible for US citizens to drive to the United States from Mexico. Also, Mexico is shares its border with Guatemala and Belize.
Therefore, adventure seekers may love the opportunity to cross overland to these other countries.
St Lucia Vs Tulum- Unique Things To Do In Both Destinations
Sapphire Waterfall & Jungle Spa, St Lucia- this stunning fall is located in Soufriere which offers an experience of a lifetime. To access the fall one has to hike for about thirty to forty minutes.
The trail is not extremely challenging and can be completed by both seniors and children.
A guide is usually provided who will share more about flora, fauna, wildlife and medicinal uses of the plants.
The national bird of the island the Saint Lucia Parrot or the Amazona Versicolor can also be seen in this reserve.
Visit The Archaeological Zone, Tulum– there are a number of ancient ruins as El Castillo, Temple of the Frescoes, House of Columns and House of the Halach Uinic.
These ruins are well preserved. The El Castillo was used as a lighthouse and is the main ancient pyramid.
Final Thoughts
On a whole, St Lucia is perfect for individuals looking for a quieter nightlife environment, beautiful waterfalls and stunning black sand beaches. On the other hand, Tulum is a suitable destination for persons who want to see archaeological ruins and a bustling nightlife environment.
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