Up and Coming in Saint Lucia

March 10, 2010 By: Meagan Drillinger

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Saint Lucia has been in the prime-time spotlight lately, as it was the featured location of this season's "The Bachelor: On The Wings of Love," which has exposed millions of viewers to this Caribbean gem. Now the Saint Lucia Tourist Board has a few tricks up its sleeve in order to WOW the rising number of travelers.

Getting there: Airline partners are scheduling more flights. Last October, JetBlue Airways launched three-time weekly nonstop service from New York, and will be announcing additional flights shortly. Delta Airlines added additional seat to the island from Atlanta, and American Airlines will increase service from New York and Miami starting in July. U.S. Airways is also getting in on the action and introducing a second non-stop flight from Charlotte beginning May 9, which will continue until August 15.

Where to stay: Many of the island's hotels are in the process of renovating, to impress new guests and give returning ones a few surprises. Here are just a few to mention:

The Coco Palm is introducing the Little Chef Restaurant and Bar this month, adding a second dining option for guests.

Cap Maison, which is celebrating its first anniversary, can book a "New Year Special" package to enjoy a fifth night free.

In the Bachelor's spirit of finding true love, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa has built a new mountaintop lighthouse-wedding gazebo for guests looking to tie the knot.

Jade Mountain will be hosting several food festivals in 2010 including Cooking in Paradise, Mango Madness, Spices of the Caribbean and Discover Chocolate Festival.

Get centered at East Winds Inn with their new open-air 3,000 square-foot Yoga and Fitness Pavilion.

What to do: Visit the Baywalk Mall, located next to Coco Palm, which officially opens in April. The new 60-store complex includes boutique, restaurants, a beauty salon, jewelry and souvenir stores. The Mall will also feature the island's first casino.