Date of independence, or formation date: 1979
Date when current borders were established: 1979
National day: Feb 22
Vehicle country identifying code: WL
Time zone (hours plus or minus from GMT): -4
International telephone dialling code: +1758
Internet country identifying code: .lc

St. Lucia is one of the most beautiful islands of the Windward group of the Antilles. The twin Pitons, south of Soufrière, are among the most striking natural features in the Caribbean. Ruled by the French and the British at different times in its past, St. Lucia retains the character of both. A multiparty democracy, it has an economy based on bananas and tourism, with enticing beaches and a rich variety of wildlife in the rainforest.

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004