Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is a small two-island country in the West Indies’ Leeward Islands. You can easily ferry between the two islands. The official language is English, but a local creole of English is also commonly spoken. The terrain is pretty rocky, and includes rainforests and a lake. Overall the climate can be described as tropical marine. Native animal species include hawks and bananaquit birds, the American manatee, and the greater bulldog bat. Mainstays of the economy include tourism, agriculture, and light manufacturing.

Nisbet Beach in Nevis is world-class, and the horsey set will love riding through the island’s forests and beaches. Check out the UNESCO World Heritage site Brimstone Hill Fortress in Saint Kitts, a shining example of 17th- and 18th-century military architecture. This large garrison sits in a volcanic cone, and offers excellent panoramic views.

Rice, cassava, and sweet potatoes are popular starchy staples. Typical vegetables include greens, peppers, tomatoes, and avocados. Chicken, goat, beef, and even duck are commonly eaten. Fish is very popular. Goat water stew contains goat meat, breadfruit, green papaya, and dumplings called droppers in a tomato base. Try conkies, made of cornmeal mixed with grated sweet potato, pumpkin, and coconut, and boiled in banana leaves. There is a bit of organic and vegan cuisine available in Basseterre, with offerings like banana pancakes or fresh superfruit juices to get your day started right. Later on, if you get into the spirit, try some local rum like Brinley Gold or Belmont Estate, or another sugarcane distilled alcoholic beverage called Cane Spirits Rothschild that more islanders drink.