Overview

St. Kitts and Nevis Islands are part of the island chain known as the Leeward Islands. The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis, also known as Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis, is a federal two-island nation in the West Indies. The capital city is Basseterre and it is located on the larger island of St. Kitts. The smaller island of Nevis lies about two miles southeast of St. Kitts, across a shallow channel that is called the "Narrows." The two islands became independent in 1983, but remained a British Commonwealth associated nation by choice. The highest point on the two islands is Mount Liamuiga, at a height of 1,156 meters. The islands are volcanic in origin and they are covered with lush tropical rain forest.

St. Kitts is 23 miles in length and about five miles wide at its broadest point. It covers an area of about 68 square miles. The other island, Nevis, is about seven miles in diameter. Its temperature is usually in the range of 70 and 80 degree Fahrenheit throughout the year. The temperate tropical climate makes it is an excellent vacation spot.

Activities & Attractions

Hiking and climbing tours are available that take the visitors into the lush canopy of the tropical rain forests. These guided tours leave daily from different spots on the islands. If you are interested in fishing, you can take one of the several boats that depart each day from the harbor for fishing. Equipments and guides are available on rent for snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiasts. Avid golfers can check out the golf courses that are available on the island. You can enjoy swimming and relax on the wide, white beaches. Visit the harbor colonial towns of Basseterre and Charlestown for a taste of the local flavor. A very interesting fact in this island is a law that says that the height of the buildings cannot be taller than their lovely palm trees. So most buildings are short and spread out.

Other attractions in St. Kitts and Nevis include Brimstone Hill Fortress, Banana Bay, Prodiver Snorkeling, Wreck of the River Taw, and St. George's Anglican Church.

Lodging

There are plenty of options for lodging on the islands. Nisbet Plantation Beach Club, Mount Nevis Hotel and Beach Club, Montpelier Plantation Inn, and Royal St. Kitts Hotel & Casino are some of the popular hotels on the islands.

Transportation

There are several passenger ferries that provide service between Basseterre and Charlestown. Busses ply on the islands that resemble minivan taxis. Check out the front plate of a minivan before you board it. An "H" means private bus and a "T" refers to taxi. You can also rent cars and motorcycles to travel to the various places of interest. Island tours are available that take you around the island.