CBS News reporter Wendy Gillette enjoys chocolate making tour in Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia: Wendy Gillette, the renowned TV news reporter for American Broadcasting Company CBS, recently explored Saint Lucia. She indulged in an exclusive journey and experienced the rich history of chocolate making at Fond Doux Eco Resort and Hotel Chocolat. Gillette was thrilled to immerse herself in the world of cocoa following which she enjoyed the culinary delights of the Artisan Restaurant. The restaurant offered a scenic view of the Hewanorra International Airport runway which made her experience much more delightful.

The TV Anchor stayed at Jade Mountain, Saint Lucia, and in an Instagram post, called it the 'Best Hotel View'.

During a live telecast at Atlanta News First, the CBS News Correspondent said that cocoa trees have been part of the Saint Lucian landscape since the 1700s.

She said that although everyone loves chocolate, no one thinks about how it's made, but she got a crash course in Saint Lucia.

While describing the experience, Wendy Gillette said that this is part of the long process of turning cocoa beans into chocolate on the island.

[caption id="attachment_67897" align="aligncenter" width="400"] Cocoa beans at Fond Doux Eco Resort and Hotel Chocolat[/caption] "At the locally owned Fondu Eco Resort, the Chocolate Heritage Tour walks visitors through all the stages of traditional chocolate creation on a 19th century working cocoa estate," she added.

Gillette also said that Cocoa beans, also known as Jungle M&Ms, are harvested, fermented and then dried. The cauldron is also part of the chocolate-making process in which the cocoa dance helps polish the beans, she added.

The News Correspondent was impressed to see the nearby Rabat Hotel from Hotel Chocolat featuring open air showers and rooms overlooking the famous pitons of the island.

While explaining the reason behind it being fascinating, Wendy Gillette said that because there are only three ingredients: cocoa and dots, the restaurant's menu from cacao beer battered fish and chips to cacao infused liquors, cocktails and multiple chocolate desserts.

She also highlighted that at a special rate, the hotel also offers chocolate-themed spa treatments.

While asking the chocolate enthusiasts to make Saint Lucia the first on their bucket list, she added that people can also stop by French Creole restaurant Artisan right next to the airport for its chocolate inspired dishes.