From: Julichael
Date: 5/18/03 8:15:21 AM
Remote Name: 67.83.109.73
Hello-
Just returned from a wonderful, much anticipated trip to St. Kitts and we were not disappointed! This newsgroup was invaluable for the planning but I must say, take the negative criticism with a grain of salt - this is not the kind of island you go to expecting to be swept away on an experience without putting the energy out there.
Stayed at TBR - the room was great (oceanview , 2nd floor), the staff helpful and accomodating, the waitstaff and food at Sunset was wonderful. Yes, the beach is not one you would sun on for long periods of time (though is great for a early AM - mid afternoon snorkel - just go around the jetty) but jump in your rental car (a must) and explore the peninsula for your ideal beach!
Food - my favorite meal was right at Katy's Beach Grill - next to the Monkey Bar. If you are eating out around the island and want the local fare - be prepared for picnic tables, cold salads, barbque meats and the most wonderful snapper! We had tasty Roti in town at a place called Cisco's (we were researcheing the origin of the delicious local hot sauce)and the Roti (lunch) at the Sunset Cafe was great. We went to Marshall's, PJ's, Dolce Gabbana, Ballyhoo, Spratnet (a must on a weekend!), and have to say while I enjoyed the fancier places - the beachside places were the best. When in Rome, I guess.
Activities: Snorkeling was great for me as it was my first time. Whitehouse Bay - right over the hill on the peninsula was great as it had some ships and cannons. I would suggest a sturdy rental car if you are going to hit some of these spots though.
Exporing the island in the car. It is basically one big road around and is really interesting to see the landscape change and the towns along the way.
Coffee in the morning at the Marriot (we almost stayed there at first - glad we didn't as we didn't want to get sucked into the resort environment) - it really is beautiful and fun to hang out in. The Buffet breakfast is great!
Caribelle Batik - most beautiful landscaping - don't forget to try one of the mangoes popping off the trees.
Grocery Store - if you're into that like we are - there is a great Ram's across from the airport. Pick up your local rums here - don't wait for the airport or you'll just end up with Bacardi!
Rainforest Hike - we went up with a local named Roland who you can find around TBR up the beach. He was a great resource for our entire trip and offered to take us up and it was great. If you're going to the top - it is a workout but well worth it! The views are amazing.
Catamaran trip (Eagle?) - don't miss this. This was a real treat for us and while we didn't go to Nevis on a day trip - the boat stops at Pinney's Beach in Nevis which was beautiful. A must. This locked us in to a visit to Nevis in the future! The crew on the boat were a blast as well!
The people of St Kitts are the kindest I have met on vacation, the landscape is varied and beautiful. It doesn't take more than a few minutes to sink into the vacation mode and has been a hell of weekend here at home trying to shake it for Monday! Hope this helps some of you that are planning a trip.
Explore, explore, explore!!! Don't get caught up in all inclusive resort experience if you have the slightest doubt that it isn't your style. You won't regret roughing it a bit and you'll save $ too!
Thank you ST Kitts!