What is the minimum age restriction?
You need to be 18 or over at the time you arrive in St Lucia. Those on an internship are usually 20 or older since needing some relevant experience to participant in the programme.
Are meals included in this trip?
Breakfast is included in your project price. This typically consists of cereal, toast, eggs and local fruits. There is sufficient storage in the kitchen to store your own food. Some people like to cook independently, others in a group and this is usually worked out once you are in-country and have settled with the group.
What accommodation is provided?
All accommodation is based in a shared house with dorm-style rooms with air conditioning. The accommodation is a large open plan guest house, only a few minutes walk from the beach, making it the perfect base for a Caribbean adventure!
The house has all the required facilities including a fully equipped kitchen, large balcony for dining and socialising and living room with TV and WiFi. There are shower and toilet facilities per every two bedrooms and an additional toilet in the communal area.
Are there laundry facilities available at the accommodation?
Yes, there is a washing machine and ironing board in the house and a weekly laundry service is included.
Can I book a private room?
This is completely dependent on availability at the time as there are only 7 rooms in the house. There is usually an additional charge of GBP £135 per week for this. Contact us to check availability for when you would like to come.
Where can I store valuables at the accommodation?
There is no safe in the house but each bedroom can be locked from the outside. We advise you lock any valuables in your suitcase. Coordinators live on the property which means that any problems that arise can be dealt with immediately. Staff are on site throughout the day and security is on the gate during the night so chances of theft is limited.
What amenities are nearby?
The accommodation is located on one of the main roads in Castries so there will always be buses to take you to the main city, local attractions or bars and clubs at the Rodney Bay strip. There are two of the island’s best beaches just a few minutes walk from the house, as well as a supermarket for all guest needs.
How many hours a day will I be on the project?
Weekdays - sessions will normally take place after school between 14:00 - 19:00 (subject to the school and programme).
Saturdays - sessions will take place in the morning from 10:00 - 12:00. You are welcome to travel and explore the island during the days, or just spend it on one of the great golden sandy beaches.
Excursions usually take place on Friday and Sunday; there is also a street party in Gros Islet every Friday.
Will I run the class or assist in the teaching/coaching activities?
This depends on your confidence, experience and the availability of local support. The in-country team will work around your comfort and ability and provide training where required.
What experience do I need?
We do not require you to have any particular coaching/teaching badges or qualifications, just an understanding of the game and a passion to help out on the project! You will receive a coaching manual on arriving in St Lucia and will be working alongside experienced coaches who will always be on hand to advise you and support your sessions. Those on internships with us will usually come with a bit more experience and focus on what it is they are wanting to achieve whilst away.
What support will I receive in country?
You will receive a wide range of support whilst in country, including a full time in country project coordinator, and local coaches at the project site.
What can I do in my free time?
There’s loads to keep you busy in your free time in St Lucia and our in-country coordinators will be on hand to point you in the right direction and book extra excursions for you. These activities include a Rain Forest Adventures Aerial Tram, botanical gardens, sulphur springs, paint-balling and zip lining. (please note these are an additional cost and not included in your trip price).
When can I arrive?
You need to arrive at Hewanorra airport on an allotted project start date where you will be met by one of our friendly in country team and taken to the accommodation to settle in. This is always on a Friday. If you arrive after the start date you can either make your own way to the accommodation or arrange collection with us but there will be an additional charge for this.
When should I book my departure?
Your return flight should be booked on the project end date, a Friday. Transport back to the airport is included in the project price.
Is transport included?
Transport to and from the project is included in the project price. Transport for extra excursions can also be arranged with the in country team for an additional cost.
Will I need a visa?
Citizens for a large list of countries, including the UK do not require a visa for a stay of up to 90 days. Please get in contact if you are unsure whether you require a visa or not. You will also be given contact details and address of where you will be staying when you book as you may need these for your immigration card on arrival.
Will I need vaccinations?
There are no specific vaccinations required to enter St Lucia. However, we strongly recommend you visit a travel nurse before a trip in case boosters are required.
What is the climate like in St Lucia?
Being a Caribbean Island you can expect a lot of hot and humid weather throughout the year. As a tropical island, weather can be unpredictable and brief showers are fairly common. Due to its situation on the equator, St Lucia does not have well defined seasons. There is, however a rainy season which generally falls between June and November but these don't tend to effect our work too much.
Can I bring donations to my project?
Yes, all donations are greatly appreciated. However, we will not assist in the transport of donations to St. Lucia so you will have to make sure to check luggage allowance before travelling. Some airlines will offer an extra bag for this but contact must be made with the airline against the booking prior to your flight to avoid problems when checking in bags at the airport.
Can I play sport whilst in St Lucia?
We have great contacts with a number of local clubs and teams, so you will have opportunities to play and train if you want.
What access to gyms are there?
There's a wide variety of gyms available on the island and close to our accommodation, all with short term memberships available.
We tend to use Vel's Fitness Centre which is the closest and one of the most affordable. It's basic but has everything including cardio machines, weight machines and free weights.
There are lots of alternative options available, and local to us such as:
1) BFiT758 – CrossFit & Functional Training gym with a wide range of group sessions, personal training, and open gym times.
2) Harbor Club St. Lucia, Curio Collection by Hilton is a high end modern gym, with all the latest equipment.
There's plenty others too so it shouldn't be difficult to find somewhere to fit your goals and budget.