Vieux Fort Quarter

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For the town in Guadeloupe, see Vieux-Fort, Guadeloupe.

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Vieux Fort is located in the southern part of St. Lucia. It is the second-largest town on the island and is the home of St Lucia's international airport, Hewanorra International Airport. (Hewanorra is the island's old Amerindian name.) Vieux Fort is also the name of the Quarter that encompasses the city.

It has several small communities which include Pierrot, Grace, Belle Vue, Zaboo, La Resource, Augier, St.Urban and Black Bay.

In the second half of the 18th century, Vieux Fort was the center of St Lucia's sugar industry; today it is more industrial.

In recent years a new modern part of Vieux Fort has been erected to reflect the modern world,yet if you walk along Clark Street and its surrounding roads, you will still see what is known as The Old Town. Here you will see Historic colonial houses that give Vieux Fort a touch of Old England and France (albeit they do need a bit of renovation now).

Every Friday is market day where you can buy local goods such as spices,ground provisions and fruits. It also houses St.Lucia's biggest Fish Market where you can buy some of the best and tastiest fish in the world, from Tuna to Coral fish.

History

During the Second World War,Vieux Fort became a base for American troops.Some of the evidence can still be seen around town such as the underground tunnel that runs from Clark Street all the way to St. Judes Hospital Near Augier. This tunnel was used for Storage of supplies and also a quick route to the hospital. The combination of soldiers and severe local poverty created a market for prostitution, which was used to try to siphon some foreign cash to the poor villagers.

There is a part of Vieux Fort that is called Black Bay. It got its name because legend has it that the infamous pirate Black Beard used this part of the country to stash his ill-gotten gains. So, if you're in that part town don't forget to pack your metal detector. In recent times Black Bay has become a haven for Ex-Pats.

Tourism

If you are looking for great beaches then try Sandy Beach. It has bars and restaurants that sell great food and drink that caters for all. Laze on its glourious white beaches while you gaze to look over at the beautiful Marie Islands surrounded by Heavenly Blue and Green coloured waters. These islands are protected as a National Trust because giant leather back turtles come to shore to lay their eggs and also hosts home to an iguana that is indeginous to St.Lucia. A guided tour is recommended for all you eco buffs and you can book this with the National Trust which is situated on the beach. For those of you who want a more adventurous time they also cater for you water sport manics or alternativly just order a drink from one of the bars and chat with the sexy female (and male) officers who patrol the beaches for your safety and for an unforgetable time.