St. Kitts and Nevis, a dual-island nation in the Caribbean, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. St. Kitts, the larger of the two islands, is known for its lush landscapes, historical sites like Brimstone Hill Fortress, and bustling areas such as Port Zante in the capital, Basseterre. Nevis, with its tranquil beaches and charming small-town feel, offers a more serene escape. The islands together provide a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, making them a premier destination for travelers seeking a tropical paradise with a rich heritage.
The Same
Basseterre, the capital city of St. Kitts and Nevis, is a charming Caribbean destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Nestled on the southwestern coast of St. Kitts, Basseterre offers visitors a mix of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and idyllic beaches.
Basseterre is also known for its vibrant markets, where visitors can shop for local crafts, spices, and souvenirs. One of the main attractions in Basseterre is Independence Square, a historic plaza surrounded by colonial-era buildings, including the Georgian-style Berkeley Memorial Clock Tower. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the square, admire the architecture, and soak up the local atmosphere. It’s right where the cruise ports so it makes it easy to get off and enjoy the town.
Local Cuisine
St. Kitts and Nevis boast a rich culinary tradition that reflects their Caribbean heritage, with a variety of local dishes and flavors to savor. As always, we both try to enjoy local cuisine.
- Saltfish and Johnny Cakes: A staple breakfast dish featuring salted codfish cooked with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, served alongside fried or baked dough cakes known as Johnny Cakes.
- Goat Water: A hearty stew made from goat meat, seasoned with local spices and served with bread or rice. It’s a favorite comfort food on the islands.
- Conch: A seafood delicacy prepared in various ways, including conch fritters (deep-fried batter with chopped conch meat), conch salad (raw conch marinated in citrus juices with onions, tomatoes, and peppers), and curried conch.
- Callaloo: A traditional Caribbean dish made from leafy greens (often dasheen or taro leaves), cooked down with okra, coconut milk, onions, and spices. It’s served as a side dish or soup.
- Green Fig and Saltfish: Another popular dish featuring green bananas (often referred to as “green fig” locally) boiled and served with sautéed salted codfish and vegetables.
- Rum Cocktails: Sample local rum, which plays a significant role in Caribbean culture. Try rum punch, made with fruit juices and rum, or the famous “killer bee” cocktail, a potent mix of rum, honey, and citrus flavors.
- Desserts: Indulge in sweet treats like coconut sugar cakes, tamarind balls, and sweet potato pudding, showcasing the islands’ creativity with local ingredients.
The DINKs
Unfortunately for us, it happen to rained on and off the day we visited so we missed out on the beach. Instead we hung around town where we could hop into shops or restaurants when the rain did come. While it was different than planned it was still neat to spend more time in the town.
Port Zante and Cheers Bar
Port Zante, located in the capital city of Basseterre, is a popular docking point for cruise ships and a vibrant hub for tourists. This modern port area is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a warm welcome to visitors. One standout spot at Port Zante is Cheers Bar. Known for its friendly atmosphere and great service, Cheers Bar is an excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing drink. Whether you’re looking to try local Caribbean cocktails or just relax with a cold beer, the bar’s lively ambiance and scenic views of the port make it a perfect stop. It’s an ideal place to meet fellow travelers, share stories, and soak in the vibrant energy of St. Kitts.
Basseterre Public Market
A visit to the Basseterre Public Market offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life and culture of St. Kitts. Located near the heart of the city, this bustling market is a sensory delight. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. The colorful stalls are brimming with tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and guavas, as well as vegetables and herbs unique to the Caribbean. Vendors also sell handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional goods, making it a great place to pick up a memento of your trip. The market is not just about shopping; it’s a cultural experience. Engaging with local vendors and tasting regional specialties provides insight into the island’s culinary traditions and community life. The market’s vibrant atmosphere, filled with the sounds of bargaining and the scents of fresh produce, makes it a must-visit.
The Berkeley Memorial
The Berkeley Memorial, situated in the heart of Basseterre at the Circus, is a significant historical landmark. This striking cast-iron structure was erected in 1883 in honor of Thomas Berkeley, a former president of the General Legislative Council of St. Kitts. The memorial features a clock tower and drinking fountain, standing as a testament to Victorian-era architecture. Each face of the clock tower points to one of the four main streets radiating from the Circus, making it a central and easily recognizable feature of the city. Visiting the Berkeley Memorial offers a moment to reflect on the island’s history and its colonial past. The memorial is also a great spot for photos, with the bustling Circus providing a lively backdrop of local activity and historical buildings.
The Family
During our visit to St. Kitts before having kids, we lucked out with perfect weather, making it an unforgettable experience. We spent our days relaxing on the pristine beaches, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. The clear blue waters and soft sand were simply idyllic. It was a wonderfully relaxing getaway that allowed us to fully appreciate the natural beauty of St. Kitts.
Summary
Both the Family and the DINKs had unique and memorable experiences during their visits to St. Kitts, each enjoying the island in their own way. They both savored the local cuisine, a highlight of their trips. The DINKs faced bad weather but made the most of it by exploring the town, visiting Port Zante, Cheers Bar, Basseterre Public Market, and The Berkeley Memorial. On the other hand, the Family enjoyed perfect weather, allowing them to relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of St. Kitts.
So, who did it better? It’s hard to say, as each experience offered its own special moments and insights into the charm of St. Kitts.
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