St Kitts and Nevis – Undiscovered Caribbean

Visiting the twin-island nation of St Kitts and Nevis is like sampling how most of the Caribbean was 30 years ago….there’s a very quiet, low-key atmosphere around the whole place, with just a few rum and beer shacks for entertainment, with the exception of a couple of international-brand hotels that have established themselves there.  The geography is impressive – you really do wonder how such small islands can own such impressive peaks; the summits of which should only be attempted with the company of an expert local guide, as many tourists have managed to get themselves lost on the myriad of wispy tracks that lead around the hillsides.

So what are the must-sees?  There’s a mini tourist train which carves its’ way around the east coast of St Kitts, plus the stunning Brimstone Hill Fortress, which helps you understand the complex history of the island, and the battles between the competing colonial powers.  Cockleshell Bay is probably the most popular beach on St Kitts, whilst Pinney’s Beach is probably the best on Nevis.  Given the fact that you’ll probably be tendering from the ship to land, you’ll easily fill-up a day’s worth of exploring, in fact 1 day on each island would be best advised, if possible…..if your cruise doesn’t allow for that, what better excuse could you have for returning again on another cruise sometime?!

If you want to spend more time than this on the islands, you can always fly with BA (a direct flight with a touchdown in Antigua runs twice a week).  This is far and away the easiest way to get there, and the only way to do it without having to change aircraft en-route.  Hotels on the island include the international brands such as Marriott and Hyatt, but why not try one of the smaller, family-run hotels, such as the Ocean Terrace Inn, for a more charming stay…that’s my personal favourite, and a good tip to leave you with….