St. Kitts

 A delightful island experience to end our tour - we rode a train along the coast of St. Kitts.

I had shared with the tour group an experience we had during our mission when we took a flight home from Barbados and the plane could not land in Trinidad due to a goat on the runway.  It circled for an hour, flew to Tobago to refuel and then returned to Trinidad.  Not one person grumbled.  They just laughed and cheered.  Such is the Caribbean culture.  And here is a picture of a goat that was on the train track before we passed by.

Martinique

 Martinique is a French island with a population of over 300,000.  What is sobering is that in 1908 there were 28,000 people destroyed in 7 seconds from the eruption of Mt. Pele, a volcano, that spewed out lava as rain rather than rolling down the hillside.

We took a tour through lucious rainforests and Diane and I met up with the Occoliers, and drove around the city looking at the Church buildings where we met during our mission.  Lionel is now the district president.

St Lucia

Oprah once said that of the top places to see before you die, the Pitons of St. Lucia should be at the top of the list.  So we introduced our group to the Pitons.

We took a catamaran to Sugar Beach in near the Pitons and did a mud back, a water fall, and had a wonderful time.

Barbados

 A perfect day!  We went to the best beach on the island (Carlisle) and swam with the turtles and snorkeled around a shipwreck.

The water is warm and is my favorite spot for swimming in the West Indies.

Antigua

After a long, winding tour of the island up to its highest peak, Shirley Heights, we had a good view of the shoreline. 

The highlight of the day was the Jolly Beach, one of the most popular of the island's 365 beaches.

You can see that the sargasm (seaweed that plagues the Caribbean, has hit this beach, but they keep it under control.

How does tipping work on Cruises & Excursions?

 

Should you tip on shore excursions?

October 4, 2023 | Travel Pedia

On shore excursions, it's expected that passengers tip tour guides and bus drivers. How much you tip on cruise excursions is entirely up to you, but a suggested starting price is $3 per person for a half-day tour and $6 per person for a full-day tour for the guide and $1 to $2 for the bus driver.

On the Celebrity Cruise we are taking to Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique and St. Kitts, we recommended $5 per half day and $2.50 for the driver.  This is what is built into the the trips we contracted for Antigua and Barbados.  For St. Lucia, Martinique and St. Kitts, our guests need to carry small bills on the excursion in US dollars so they can tip the guide and the driver.  It is not necessary to exchange money into local currency.

Is it better to prepay gratuities on Celebrity?

All guests on the Celebrity Equinox are required to pay the gratuities upfront in their booking fee for cruise.  Guests who have pre-paid their gratuity will not see a daily charge during their cruise. The automatic daily gratuity is based on customary industry standards. Applying this charge automatically helps streamline the recognition process for the crew members that work to enhance your cruise.

Do cruise workers get their tips?

Normally there is a standard rate of about $15–20 per day, which is added to your bill at the end of the cruise, this is divided up to each of the service staff, so cooks, laundry workers etc get a share, and of course, for excellent service you can tip people directly, cabin stewards for example.

Do housekeepers on cruise ships get tips?

Generally speaking, mainstream, U.S.-based cruise lines automatically add gratuities of about $14 to $15 per person, per day, to your onboard bill. These tips are divided among the dining staff (waiters, assistant waiters and head waiters) and housekeeping staff (such as cabin attendants).

Can cruise staff accept cash tip?

Some cruisers believe offering a tip at the start of the cruise helps ensure excellent service, and another tip at the end if they've done an extraordinary job. If you want to tip your attendant, a cash tip at the end of the cruise is appreciated. A tip of $10-20 per guest is appropriate.

What is Celebrity's automatic gratuity program?

(most in our group paid $18/person per day or $180.

A service gratuity will be automatically applied to each guest’s SeaPass® account on a daily basis for sailings*, excluding guests in Excluding Bookings.** Current amounts*** for the daily gratuity are listed below.  The gratuities described above are distributed to the crew, such as dining, bar and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other hotel services teams, and others who work to enhance the overall cruise experience. 

 

• Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms:      US$18.00 per guest, per day
• Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms:       US$18.50 per Guest, per day
• An 18% gratuity will be automatically added to spa and salon purchases and a 20% gratuity will also be automatically added to specialty dining, beverage, beverage package, room service and mini bar purchases.
• Gratuities may be adjusted at the guest’s discretion onboard at Guest Relations up until the morning of their departure.

https://lovethemaldives.com/faq/should-you-tip-on-shore-excursions

Avignon Excursion - May 6, 2024

River cruise excursions in Avignon typically cover a range of key attractions and experiences in and around the city. Here are some common places and activities that the Riveria River Cruise excursion will likely include in Avignon:

1. **Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes):** Guided tours of the massive Gothic palace offer insights into the history of the Papal residence during the 14th century.

2. **Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon):** Excursions might include a visit to this famous medieval bridge with a few remaining arches that once spanned the Rhône River.

3. **Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière:** Many tours include a visit to this stunning basilica on Fourvière Hill, offering panoramic views of the city.

4. **Place des Terreaux:** Excursions often start at this central square, known for the Bartholdi Fountain and Lyon City Hall.

5. **Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse:** Culinary enthusiasts might have the chance to explore this indoor market to sample local cheeses, meats, and more.

6. **Guided Culinary Tours:** Many cruise lines offer culinary-focused tours, including visits to traditional restaurants and food markets to experience local flavors.

7. **Avignon Festival Palace:** Depending on the time of year, some tours may include a visit to the venue of the famous Avignon Festival (Festival d'Avignon).

8. **Avignon Cathedral:** Guided tours might include a visit to this cathedral with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

9. **River Cruises:** The excursions themselves often provide unique river perspectives of the city, allowing you to see Avignon's landmarks from the water.

10. **Optional Excursions:** Depending on the cruise line's offerings, you might have the chance to explore further afield, such as visiting the nearby wine regions (Châteauneuf-du-Pape), taking a guided tour of the Provence countryside, or visiting nearby towns like Arles or Pont du Gard.

11. **Wine Tasting:** Excursions to nearby wine regions are common, where you can sample renowned local wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Avignon's rich history and cultural heritage make it a captivating destination with a lot to offer. Whether you're interested in art, history, or simply wandering its charming streets, Avignon is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Arles & Pont du Gard Excursion - May 5, 2024

River cruise excursions in Arles and Pont du Gard include a mix of historical, cultural, and scenic attractions. Here's what you can expect to see on our excursion in these locations:

**Arles:**
1. **Amphitheatre:** Tours often include a visit to the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, where gladiatorial contests once took place.

2. **Roman Theatre:** Guided tours may take you to the ancient Roman theater, known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.

3. **St. Trophime Church:** Excursions might include a visit to this Romanesque church with its stunning architecture and intricate sculptures.

4. **Van Gogh Sites:** Some tours highlight places associated with Vincent van Gogh's time in Arles, including the sites that inspired his famous paintings.

5. **Alyscamps:** Tours could take you to this Roman necropolis with rows of ancient sarcophagi, reflecting Arles' historical heritage.

6. **Place de la République:** Explore the city's main square, known for its vibrant atmosphere, shops, and cafes.

**Pont du Gard:**
1. **Pont du Gard:** Guided excursions often include a visit to the impressive Pont du Gard, a UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct and bridge.

2. **Visitors Center:** Tours may start at the on-site visitors center, providing historical and technical insights into the Pont du Gard.

3. **Hiking and Picnicking:** Some excursions allow time for walks along the river and picnics with views of the aqueduct.

4. **River Views:** Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Gardon River and the surrounding landscape from different viewpoints.

5. **Optional Canoeing:** Depending on the cruise line, you might have the opportunity to canoe under the Pont du Gard for a unique perspective.

6. **Museum:** Learn more about the history of the aqueduct at the museum on the site.

Please consult your cruise itinerary and offerings to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on guided excursions in Arles and Pont du Gard.

Ardeche Gorges Excursion - May 4, 2024

 

River cruises that explore the Ardèche Gorges often offer a unique perspective of this stunning natural area. While river cruises may not navigate directly within the narrow and winding gorges themselves, they do provide picturesque views and stops at nearby points of interest. Here's what you can typically expect on river cruises that tour the Ardèche Gorges:

1. **Pont d'Arc:** Cruises often pass by or stop near the iconic Pont d'Arc, a natural limestone bridge that spans the Ardèche River. This is a great vantage point to take in the beauty of the gorges.

2. **Scenic Views:** River cruises offer breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, rock formations, and lush landscapes that characterize the Ardèche Gorges.

3. **Landing Points:** Depending on the cruise route and cruise line, the ship may dock or anchor at specific points along the river where you can disembark and explore nearby attractions.

4. **Cruise Narration:** Most river cruises provide narration or commentary by knowledgeable guides, enhancing your understanding of the geological features and history of the Ardèche Gorges.

5. **Photo Opportunities:** The slow pace of the cruise allows for ample photo opportunities, capturing the beauty of the gorges and the unique rock formations.

6. **Guided Shore Excursions:** Some river cruises offer optional shore excursions that might take you to viewpoints or nearby attractions within the Ardèche Gorges region.

7. **Activities:** Depending on the cruise line, you might have opportunities for kayaking or canoeing on the Ardèche River, which can provide an up-close experience of the gorges' beauty.

8. **Cruise Amenities:** Enjoy onboard amenities, such as open decks or lounges, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery as you glide along the river.

Please note that the extent of the tour within the Ardèche Gorges can vary based on the specific itinerary, and water levels. Please refer to the details provided by our cruise line for accurate information on the Ardèche Gorges tour.

Vienne & Tournon Excursion - May 3, 2024

River cruises that visit Vienne and Tournon, located along the Rhône River in France,  offer passengers a chance to explore the historical, cultural, and scenic highlights of these charming towns. Here is what we will see and do in Vienne and Tournon:

**Vienne:**
1. **Temple of Augustus and Livia:** Guided tours may include a visit to this well-preserved Roman temple that 

dates back to the 1st century AD.

2. **Saint-Maurice Cathedral:** Cruises might offer visits to this Romanesque cathedral known for its architectural 

beauty and historical significance.

3. **Roman Theater:** Depending on the cruise line's itinerary, you might have the opportunity to explore the 

impressive Roman theater of Vienne.

4. **Gallo-Roman Museum of Saint-Romain-en-Gal:** Some cruises include visits to this museum across the river 

from Vienne, showcasing artifacts from the Roman era.

5. **Exploring the Town:** River cruises often provide time for passengers to explore the charming streets, squares, 

and cafes of Vienne.

**Tournon:**
1. **Tournon Castle (Château de Tournon):** Guided tours frequently include a visit to this medieval castle 

overlooking the town and the Rhône River.

2. **Marc Séguin Steam Train:** Depending on the cruise line, passengers may enjoy a scenic ride 

on this historic steam train along the Doux River.

3. **Passerelle Marc Seguin:** Some cruises include a visit to this suspension bridge 

connecting Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage, offering lovely river views.

4. **Chapelle de l'Hermitage:** Passengers might explore this charming chapel perched on the Hermitage hill, 

offering peaceful surroundings.

5. **Guided Shore Excursions:** There will likely optional guided shore excursions to nearby vineyards,

 wine cellars, or other attractions.

6. **Cycling:** Some cruises offer optional biking excursions.

Chalon & Beaune Excursion - May 2, 2024

 

River cruises that visit Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune in the Burgundy region of France often offer passengers a chance to explore historical landmarks, indulge in the local wine culture, and appreciate the scenic beauty of the area. Here's what you can expect to see and do during  our river cruises in Chalon and Beaune:

**Chalon-sur-Saône:**
1. **Chalon Cathedral (Saint Vincent's Cathedral):** Guided tours may include visits to this impressive Gothic cathedral, admired for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

2. **Photography Museum (Musée Nicéphore Niépce):** Depending on the cruise line, passengers might have the opportunity to explore this museum dedicated to the history of photography.

3. **Museum of Fine Arts (Musée Denon):** Some cruises include visits to this museum with its diverse collection of art spanning various periods.

4. **Quai des Messageries:** Passengers often have leisure time to stroll along this charming riverside promenade, lined with historic buildings and cafes.

5. **Exploring the Town:** Cruises often allow passengers to explore the town independently, discovering local shops, markets, and attractions.

**Beaune:**
1. **Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu):** Guided tours may encompass a visit to this iconic medieval hospital, known for its intricate architecture and colorful roof tiles.

2. **Burgundy Wine Museum (Musée du Vin de Bourgogne):** Passengers might explore this museum to learn about the rich history of Burgundy's wines and winemaking traditions.

3. **Wine Tasting and Wineries:** Beaune is at the heart of Burgundy's wine country. River cruises often offer wine tastings and opportunities to visit local wineries.

4. **Basilique Notre-Dame:** Depending on the cruise line, visits to this 12th-century basilica might be part of the itinerary, showcasing its architectural grandeur.

5. **Cycling Excursions:** Depending on the cruise line, optional biking tours might take you through the picturesque vineyards and countryside surrounding Beaune.

6. **Guided Shore Excursions:** River cruises often offer optional guided excursions to nearby villages, wineries, and historic sites.

Remember that the specific activities and sights offered during river cruises can vary based on the cruise line's itinerary, the duration of the stop, and the season. Always consultour cruise line's provided information for accurate details about guided excursions in Chalon and Beaune.

Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune are both beautiful towns in the Burgundy region of France, each with its own unique attractions. Here are some of the best things to see and do in each town:

**Chalon-sur-Saône:**
1. **Chalon Cathedral (Saint Vincent's Cathedral):** A stunning example of French Gothic architecture, the cathedral is a must-visit for its impressive façade and intricate details.

2. **Nicéphore Niépce Museum:** This museum is dedicated to the history of photography and is named after Nicéphore Niépce, one of the inventors of photography. It houses a collection of early photographic equipment and images.

3. **Chalon Museum of Fine Arts:** Explore a diverse collection of art spanning from the Renaissance to contemporary pieces in this museum.

4. **Quai des Messageries:** Stroll along the picturesque riverside promenade, lined with charming buildings and cafes.

5. **Chalon dans la Rue Festival:** If visiting in July, don't miss this renowned street theater and performing arts festival that takes over the town.

**Beaune:**
1. **Hospices de Beaune (Hôtel-Dieu):** A medieval hospital known for its distinctive multi-colored tiled roof, it now serves as a museum with fascinating historical exhibits.

2. **Burgundy Wine Museum (Musée du Vin de Bourgogne):** Learn about the region's famous wines, the winemaking process, and the history of Burgundy's vineyards.

3. **Wine Tasting:** Beaune is surrounded by renowned wine-producing vineyards. Consider taking a wine tour to taste some of the finest Burgundy wines.

4. **Basilique Notre-Dame:** This 12th-century basilica showcases intricate Romanesque and Gothic architecture, including a famous altarpiece.

5. **Marché aux Vins:** Explore the cellars of the Marché aux Vins for a tasting experience that provides insight into the wines of the region.

6. **Cycling the Vineyards:** Rent a bike and cycle through the beautiful vineyards and picturesque countryside surrounding Beaune.

Both Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune offer historical charm, cultural attractions, and culinary delights that make them worthwhile destinations in Burgundy.

Lyon Excursion - May 1, 2024

 

River cruise lines offer a variety of guided tours when visiting Lyon. The exact itinerary can vary based on the cruise line and the duration of the stay. However, here are some common places and attractions that our guides will often take people to when visiting Lyon:

1. **Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon):** Guided walking tours through this historic district often include visits to 

Renaissance buildings, traboules (hidden passageways), and Saint-Jean Cathedral.

2. **Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière:** Many tours include a visit to this stunning basilica on Fourvière Hill,

 offering panoramic views of the city.

3. **Presqu'île:** Tours often explore the peninsula between the Rhône and Saône Rivers, visiting squares like 

Place Bellecour, shopping streets, and the Opera House.

4. **Lyon Cathedral:** Guides often take visitors to Lyon Cathedral to admire its Gothic architecture and the 

astronomical clock.

5. **Traboules:** Exploring the city's hidden passageways is a common feature of guided tours, 

allowing visitors to discover this unique architectural aspect.

6. **Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse:** Food enthusiasts will appreciate tours that take them to this indoor market 

to sample local cheeses, meats, and more.

7. **Croix-Rousse:** Tours might include a visit to this district with its history of silk weaving 

and its bohemian atmosphere.

8. **Guided Culinary Tours:** Many cruise lines offer culinary-focused tours, i

ncluding visits to traditional bouchons (restaurants), food markets, and tastings of local specialties.

9. **Museum Visits:** Depending on the interests of the travelers, guided tours might include visits to museums 

such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Institut Lumière, or the Museum of Contemporary Art (MAC Lyon).

10. **River Cruises:** Of course, the cruises themselves offer a unique perspective of the city as 

you navigate the Rhône and Saône Rivers.


Keep in mind that the exact itinerary can vary based on the cruise line's offerings, the length of time docked in Lyon,

and any optional excursions you may choose to participate in

Learn More About St. Kitts

1. St. Kitts and Nevis is teeny-tiny St. Kitts and Nevis is the smallest country in the Americas, both in area and population. The entire federation amounts to little more than 104 sq . miles (269 sq. km). It’s home to around 45,000 people. St. Kitts is the larger island of the two. The two islands are separated by a two-mile stretch of sea known as ‘the narrows’. To get between the two islands, you can hop on a five-minute water taxi. Every year, thousands flock here for the Chanel Swim, joined by kayaks and fishing boats to keep a lookout for sharks. 

2. St. Kitts and Nevis is home to green vervet monkeys St. Kitts green vervet monkeys are some of the most photographed faces on the islands. Estimates suggest there are thousands of charismatic creatures living there today and they’ve had a huge impact on the island. From hikes up Monkey Hill to rum punch cocktails at The Monkey Bar, you’ll find them everywhere. They’re not actually native to the islands either. French settlers brought them to the islands in the 17th century and kept them as exotic pets. 

3. Nevis was the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton Founding father Alexander Hamilton and protagonist of Lin Manuel-Miranda’s hit Broadway show grew up in Nevis. Long before he authored the Federalist Papers, served as the country’s first Treasury secretary and achieved Revolutionary War glory, he was on the idyllic island of Nevis. As a teenager, his wealthy adoptive parents sent him to New York to pursue his education. Here, he met and married Frances ‘Fanny’ Nisbet. 

 4. St. Kitts was once one of the richest islands in the West Indies Of all the Caribbean Islands, St. Kitts was once the wealthiest. Thanks to its rich volcanic soil and ideal climate, the lucrative sugar trade thrived here. Wealthy absentee landholders ran the plantations and by around 1775 there were 68 sugar plantations per square mile. When slavery was abolished in all British colonies, the sugar industry declined in St. Kitts. This, combined with the growth of Europe’s beet sugar, depressed market prices and plantations closed down rapidly. In 2005, the Government closed the last remaining cane fields and sugar factories on the island. If you’re visiting the island, you can get a flavour of the once-sizeable industry aboard the newly-launched St. Kitts Scenic Railway, previously the sugar train railway. 

5. They’re mad about mangoes The sugar industry might be long gone, but St. Kitts produces something far sweeter today – some of the world’s best mangoes. There are thousands of mango trees dotted across the island. There’s such a surplus that locals don’t even have to buy them. Officially, there are 44 different types of mangoes grown on the island, though local experts will confirm that it’s probably closer to 200 varieties. 

 6. St. Kitts and Nevis hasn’t always been one country In fact, the countries didn’t unite until 1882. The federal act brought together three nations — Saint Kitts, Nevis and Anguilla — as an independent state in association with the United Kingdom. The English were here long before that though; they began to settle in 1623. In fact, St. Kitts was the first British colony in the Caribbean. It remained a British colony until 1967. Anguilla seceded in 1980 and a few years later the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis gained independence on September 19, 1983. 

7. You can see three different types of turtles in St. Kitts and Nevis From June to October, thousands of sea turtles come to the shores of St. Kitts and Nevis to nest. These include several of some of the world’s most endangered species, including hawksbill, leatherback and green turtles. They travel hundreds of miles to return to the same place where they themselves hatched to lay the next generation of sea turtles. Groups like the St. Kitts Sea Turtle Monitoring Network (SKSTMN) are dedicated to ensuring the preservation of these majestic animals, advocating for the strengthening of sea turtle protection laws and monitoring populations.

Source:  https://www.enjoytravel.com/en/travel-news/interesting-facts/interesting-facts-st-kitts-nevis

St. Kitts Brief

The islands of Saint Kitts, Nevis, and Anguilla were united by federal act in 1882 and became an independent state in association with the United Kingdom on February 27, 1967. They joined the West Indies Federation in 1958 and remained in that association until its dissolution in 1962. St. Kitts–Nevis-Anguilla became an associated state of the United Kingdom in 1967, after which Anguilla seceded in 1980. 

A few years later, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis gained its own independence on September 19, 1983. Small But Mighty: Saint Kitts and Nevis is a two-island country in the Caribbean and is the smallest country in the Americas, both in area and population. The Federation covers just 104 square miles (269 square kilometres) and is home to around 45,000 people. 

What’s In A Name: St. Kitts is the nickname for the saint that it was named after, Saint Christopher, while Nevis was named after Christopher Columbus first sighted it in 1493 and named it Nuestra Señora de las Nieves meaning "Our Lady of the Snows" due to the island’s cloud-clapped Nevis Peak resembling the snow-capped mountains from Europe. Land of Many Firsts: St. Kitts was the first English colony in the Caribbean, earning it the title “The Mother Colony of the West Indies,” and Nevis is the home to the region’s first hotel, The Bath Hotel built in 1778, as well as the Caribbean’s first integrated church, the Cottle Church established in 1824. 

Let Your Flag Fly: The flag of Saint Kitts and Nevis consists of a yellow-edged black band containing two white stars that divides diagonally from the lower hoist-side corner, with a green upper triangle and red lower triangle. Adopted in 1983 to replace the flag of Saint Christopher-Nevis-Anguilla, it has been the flag of the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis since the country gained independence that year. Although the flag utilises the colours of the Pan-Africanist movement, the symbolism behind them is interpreted differently: the green triangle represents the fertility of the islands and the red triangle represents the years of struggle against slavery and colonialism; the black stripe reflects the African heritage of the people; the narrow yellow borders flanking the stripe refer to the brilliant sunshine of the islands and, finally, the two white stars represent each of the two islands, as well as symbols of hope and liberty. 

Native Son: Nevis was the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America. Alexander Hamilton grew up in Nevis and in his teens was sent to New York by his wealthy adoptive parents to pursue an education. Guests of the island can tour the historic Hamilton House, neighbouring Museum of Nevis History or bike through the Hamilton Estate plantation. 

The Narrows: St Kitts and Nevis are separated by a stretch of sea called the "Narrows," which is 2 miles (3.2 kilometres) long. Each year there is a Channel Swim event held where people come from around the world to partake in swimming the Narrows from Nevis to St Kitts. Going Green: It’s said that St. Kitts and Nevis are so fertile that even the monkeys are green, and you’ll see colonies of them scampering freely beside the roads and beaches. Their ancestors were the pets of 17th-century French settlers, brought over from West Africa. Records suggest they soon escaped to establish a native population, and they’ve been thriving ever since. It is even said that there are more monkeys than people on the islands. 

Sweet as Sugar: St. Kitts and Nevis were once two of the richest islands in the West Indies, having produced more than 20 percent of the British Empire's entire sugar yield. Ruins of sugar mills still dot the landscape, paying homage to the once-booming trade. 

Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot: Nevis is blessed with an abundance of geothermal energy and for centuries visitors to the island have enjoyed the healing powers of the 107 F (41 C) hot springs at Bath Village. 

Nevis Nice: With just 12,000 residents, Nevis is a tranquil and untouched Caribbean destination, with no large cruise ship ports, no traffic lights, no fast food restaurants and no building taller than a coconut tree or built above 1000 feet (300 metres) elevation. Mango Mania: St. Kitts and Nevis are home to some of the world’s best tasting mangoes. Thanks to its uniquely balmy climate, its soil supports thousands of trees bearing the sweet fruit. Officially, the islands boast 44 different kinds of mango, but ask any local and they will tell you there are probably closer to 200 different varieties. Some of the more popular are amory polly, julie, and graham. 

For the Culture: Culturama is a public holiday in Saint Kitts and Nevis, observed on the Tuesday after the first Monday in August. It extends the Emancipation Day holidays by one day and is a festival that showcases the cultural heritage of the islands. Ready to Rum: The first distillation of rum in the Caribbean took place on the sugarcane plantations there in the 17th century. Molasses, a by-product of the sugar refining process, was fermented into alcohol and then distilled to remove impurities, which produced the first modern rums. Tradition suggests this type of rum first originated on the island of Nevis. It is currently illegal to distil rum on Nevis, but it can be aged and blended locally. 

Benefits of the Bush: When most people think of coming to St. Kitts and Nevis, their first thoughts are the sunshine, palm trees and a good rum cocktail, but they might not realise that many natural herbs and plants grow there that help cure and prevent many physical ailments. On both islands, you'll find an abundance of native plants, fruit trees and herbs - locally referred to as “bush” - that provide many natural health benefits. Whether you want to fight cancer, regulate your sugar or help your heart, you are sure to find a plant on St. Kitts and Nevis that will do the trick. 

Turtle Time: From June to October, the beaches of St. Kitts and Nevis come alive as sea turtles come ashore to nest. Three species of sea turtles nest on the shores of the islands: the hawksbill, the leatherback, and the green turtle. These majestic creatures journey hundreds of miles each nesting season to return to the same place where they were hatched and, under the glow of the moonlight, lay the next generation of sea turtles that will one day make the same journey. 

Kittian and Nevisian culture is a modern embodiment of the spirit and soul of the Caribbean. The jubilant nature and vibrant personality of the people is felt all over the islands as both a reflection of their storied past and an eager look towards a brighter future. With a lively spirit that is celebrated equal parts pride, passion and empowerment, St. Kitts and Nevis is a place where smiles greet you at every turn, a rum punch is always in hand and a Calypso beat beckons you to the dance floor.

Source - https://press.fourseasons.com/nevis/trending-now/fun-facts/

Fifth West Indies Excursion - St. Kitts (November 18, 2023)

St. Kitts Caribbean Scenic Railway Tour - November 18, 2023 Semi-private excursion through Celebrity for our group. 

$90.99 per person The tour lasts about 3 hours. We are holding group space on the Celebrity Caribbean Scenic Railway Tour of St. Kitts. It is the same tour offered by the cruise line, but you’ll pay the discounted rate and be able to travel with our group. You may also book directly with the cruise line at a higher price, but you will not be traveling with our group. 

Take a ride aboard the St. Kitts Scenic Railway, built nearly a century ago to transport sugar cane from the fields to the sugar mill in Basseterre. These days, with air-conditioned cars, the railway provides the most panoramic journey on St. Kitts – one that circles the entire island. Sip a virgin fruit punch and marvel at views of forested volcanic peaks rising 4,000 feet above sea level. Rumble through rustic villages and island farms on a ride that takes you across deep “ghuts” (canyons) by way of steel bridges. 

Along the way, your local guide will point out landmarks, including long-abandoned sugar cane plantations where nature has taken over, climbing the old chimneys and windmills. After the train ride, relax on a sightseeing drive along the southwest coast that provides views of Brimstone Hill Fortress and neighboring Nevis, birthplace of American statesman, Alexander Hamilton.

This must be booked through our Travel Agent:  Marcie Ewing 

Phone +1.772.519.7800 Email marcie@newsightstravel.com An Independent Affiliate of Travel Experts