Seven sensational reasons to visit St. Kitts
For many years St. Kitts was rolling along fine on an economy fueled by sugar. Roughly a decade ago the island transitioned to a tourism-based economy and hasn’t looked back since, with each season bringing new resorts and enhancement to its harbors. The laidback St. Kittian way of life could be claimed the island’s main attraction, although there are a handful of sights and experiences that can add spice to an island stay. St. Kitts is easy to navigate, being only 18 miles long and an average of five miles wide. An added bonus testifying to the ease of travel: there are no traffic lights on the island.
Touring Basseterre
An island tour can begin with a morning exploring St. Kitts capital, the harbor city of Basseterre. Georgian buildings abound, and there are ample opportunities to soak up local color in the town’s main square, which is known as The Circus (after Picadilly Circus). The town’s Old Treasury Building is also the site of the National Museum, which provides a comprehensive introduction to St. Kitts’ history and culture. Other sights include Fort Thomas, St. George’s Anglican Church, and the Basseterre co-Cathedral of Immaculate Conception. Sightseeing can easily be combined with shopping at the craft market in the cruise ship dock.
St. Kitts Scenic Railway
Once used to transport loads of cut sugar cane, the St. Kitts Scenic Railway now rolls down the tracks with a full load of tourists. It’s a two-hour, narrow gauge ride offering a unique vantage point to viewing the island. Sun-lovers can ride in the open air, while others can opt for seats shaded by a canopy. The double-decker train chugs past mountains, farmland and the shoreline, with plenty of opportunities to return a wave to friendly kids along the track. The schedule isn’t set, and instead is pegged to those times when a cruise ship has dropped anchor. Read More>>