The Carefree Traveller

The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis (also known as the Federation of Saint Christopher and
Nevis ), located in the Leeward Islands, is a federal two-island nation in the West Indies It is the
smallest nation in the Americas in both area and population.
St Kitts island is a Caribbean paradise. Virtually untouched by tourism until recently, St. Kitts has
beautiful white sand beaches that are lined with palm trees and open onto clear, blue-green water.
Scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities among visitors, although many choose to simply lie
in the sun and let the day drift by. Basseterre, the capital city for the federated state is on the
larger island of St Kitts.
The smaller state of Nevis,lies about 2 miles (3 km) southeast of Saint Kitts, across a shallow channel
called "The Narrows". This island jewel is approximately 7 miles long and 5 miles wide, with natural
vegetation that is unparalleled. Green and serene, Nevis is truly one of the remaining unspoilt places
and proudly carries the name, "Queen of the Caribees."
The current name "Nevis" is derived from a Spanish name Nuestra Señora de las Nieves, by a process
of abbreviation and anglicization. This Spanish name means Our Lady of the Snows. It is not known
who chose this name for the island, but it is a reference to the story of a 4th century Catholic miracle:
a snowfall on a mountain near Rome. Presumably the white clouds which usually wreathe the top of
Nevis Peak reminded someone of the story of a miraculous snowfall in a hot climate. The island of
Nevis, upon first British settlement was referred to as "Dulcina", a name meaning "sweet one". Its
original Spanish name, "Nuestra Señora de las Nieves", was eventually kept however, though it was
soon shortened to "Nevis".
Basseterre and Charlestown, the islands' capitals, are among the most captivating and picturesque
of the Caribbean's colonial harbour towns. No building here may be taller than the surrounding palm
trees, and on both St. Kitts and Nevis natural preservation is a major value
Climate:
Yearly average temperature is 79 degrees; annual
rainfall averages 55 inches; humidity is low, and
constant northeast trade winds keep the islands cool.
Time:
Atlantic Standard Time throughout the year. 4 hours
behind Greenwich Mean Time (-4 GMT). Daylight Saving
Time is not observed.
Currency:
Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD$). U.S. bills are
accepted by most stores and businesses and change
is given in E.C. currency. U.S. coins are not accepted.
Exchange Rate: $1.00 USD = $2.70 XCD
Banks:
Banks are open Monday-Thursday 8am-2pm;
Friday 8am-4pm Saturday 8:30am -11am.
Each bank provides 24 hour ATM services
Credit Cards
Most hotels, restaurants, and businesses accept credit
cards, but it's best to check ahead before relying on
just credit cards. Bank ATM machines will give EC funds
through some credit cards.
Visa & Immigration Requirements
U.S. and Canadian citizens are required to present a
passport with a photo ID. Visitors must enter with a
return ticket.
Citizens of some countries are required to have visas
in order to enter St. Kitts-Nevis.
Additionally, proof of sufficient funds and a return or
onward passage might be required
Departure tax
$60 XCD (about $22 USD) which includes an
environmental levy and airport security tax
Payable in cash, or by credit card (Visa or MasterCard)
at the airport.
Internet Service:
Internet services are available at all of the hotels, as
well as from an Internet Cafe in the city. Broadband
connections (DSL & Cable) are also available
Travelling with Pets
St. Kitts - Nevis iare pet-friendly islands. and
have put in place a set of protocols to facilitate
those who would like to travel with their pets,
specifically cats and dogs. . Please click here to
download the form that must be completed in
compliance with the necessary protocols.

Attire:
Light summer clothing may be worn all year. Dress is
informal, even at elegant hotels and plantation inns.
Dress for dinner is generally “casually elegant.” Jackets
and ties are not required for men at any of the
restaurants. Dress tastefully when out in public
Swim wear or scant clothing should never be worn in
towns or villages. Leave bikinis, bare chests, and bare
feet for the beach only. Nudity is not permitted at any
beach.
Local Etiquette
Before taking photographs of residents, it’s respectful
to ask their permission. Do this when photographing
people, their children, and their personal property,
including their homes.
Join in with the local ritual of saying “good morning”
and “good afternoon” even to total strangers.
Tipping:
A 10% service charge is normally included in hotel bills.
In restaurants, leave 10%-15%. Tipping taxi drivers is
not customary.