I arrived in Saint Lucia exactly two weeks ago on 30th December. My journey started with a late morning flight from London Gatwick, landing mid-afternoon. While I was hoping to celebrate the new year with my son Luc, he was recovering from the flu and managing a busy workload – hopefully, he’ll join me later in the year.

After picking up my car at the airport, I headed straight to a friend’s house for a small gathering. The next day, I set about unpacking, tidying my home, and collecting food for my New Year’s Eve party. That evening, I joined my dear friends Matt and Brian at the marina to enjoy jazz by Rob Zii and Phyness. We visited friends on their boat and returned home just in time to host guests for a relaxed evening of fireworks and celebrations. From my hilltop home the panoramic view of the fireworks was truly magical and the best way to bring in the new year: friends, music and fireworks.

The Power of Community

While I’m passionate about healthy food and staying active, one of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of connection. Studies of Blue Zones – regions where people live to 100+ years—show that community and connection are vital to longevity. Saint Lucia offers an abundance of both, and it’s a major reason I return year after year.

Top Tip: Stay connected. Speak to family, friends, and even strangers. Make the first move and start conversations – it’s a simple habit that can improve your health and happiness. I heard on the radio the other day someone saying ‘people often stay lonely because everyone is frightened to make the first move’.

Life on the Island

Since my arrival, I’ve made the most of what Saint Lucia has to offer:

  • Sailing Adventures: Taking the Hobie Cat out on the bay.
  • Beach Fitness: Joining Sunday morning fitness sessions run by Dani Devaux, followed by long beach walks and soaking in the seascape.
  • Creative Pursuits: A painting day in Laborie organized by Jonathan Gladding.
  • Full Moon Rave: Partying on Cas en Bas beach until early hours, great music, stage set, and ambiance.
  • Building Community: Meeting friends and enjoying an afternoon of music at The Naked Fisherman, Cap Maison, where Rob Zii and Phyness’s lovely jazz sax set had us all dancing.

Loving my house: the views, birds – doves, hummingbirds, blackbird, lizards, geckos, and the odd dog wandering up the hill.