The islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis form an independent state within the Commonwealth of Nations. They belong to the Lesser Antilles in the Eastern Caribbean. As a “Windward Island” they mark the Northern part of the Antilles group. There are around 46,700 people living in Saint Kitts and Nevis. The islands are close to each other and separated only by a 3 km wide strait. They islands are of a volcanic origin and covered with mountains to a large extent. There are many sugar cane plantations and tropical rain forests there, too. In Europe St Kitts and Nevis are still relatively unknown as a tourist destination so they have been away from mass tourism.
The capital of the small state is Basseterre. It is located on the south coast of a large island of Saint Kitts. There are nearly 20,000 residents on this island and it is considered to be the largest and most important port city. Basseterre shows a gentle mixture of French and English colonial style that has a lightness of the Caribbean. The main square is “The Circus” that is similar to London’s Piccadilly Circus. It belongs to the most important monuments of Saint Kitts along with the church of St.George and the Treasure Building at the harbor. On a small island you can also make a tour to the sugar factory, the fort in Brimston Hill and the local art center in Romney Manor. The striking point on the island is the volcano Liamuiga that it is always clouded. It is situated in the very center of the island and it has always been the target for climbers, hikers and backpaking holiday. The lagoon “Nelsons Spring” and the miles of “Pinney Beach” on Nevis are among the most beautiful beaches in the eastern Caribbean. For holiday makers luxury accommodation in cottages and apartments is also offered.
Photo: Angelika + Peter Baczkowski
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