With 69 square miles of diverse ecosystems, colonial history and inviting culture, St, Kitts is the Southern Caribbean’s best kept secret. Boasting an average year-round temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit and the vibrant, inviting atmosphere for which the Caribbean is known, St. Kitts will certainly win the heart of any traveler lucky enough to discover it. Most importantly, the island nation’s commitment to sustainable development has succeeded in offering first-class accommodations, shopping and cuisine, while continually engaging in unparalleled ecological preservation.

Perhaps unlike anywhere else in the world, St. Kitts is steadfastly dedicated to the preservation of its unique ecosystems. From undeveloped stretches of sugary, white sand beaches to lush rainforests that conjure images of the South Pacific, the island remains unspoiled in every sense of the word. At the center of the island rises Mt. Liamuiga, a dormant volcano with a mile-wide caldera, surrounded by exotic flora and fauna. Amongst the vine-enveloped trees and tropical wildflowers of these misty rainforests, hikers can’t miss the vast array of colorful birds, butterflies and elusive green vervet monkeys. For ecotourists, or simply anyone who appreciates dramatic natural beauty, St. Kitts will certainly surpass all expectations.

However, St. Kitts’ pristine ecosystems represent only a fraction of the allure surrounding the island. Historically, St. Kitts and its sister island, Nevis, were the pearls of the British Caribbean, rich and tremendously strategic islands celebrated throughout Europe. The impenetrable fortress of Brimstone Hill stood as the “Gibraltar of the West Indies” for centuries. Constructed of black volcanic rock and held at times by both the English and French, the fort is today a national park and the island’s historical centerpiece, offering some of the most pristine views in the Southern Caribbean. Furthermore, the remains of a vibrant sugar cane industry offer unique opportunities to explore colonial harbor estates and a glimpse into the vivacious Caribbean social life of forgotten eras.

Today, the vibrant, multiethnic culture of St. Kitts is centered in the island’s charming capital, Basseterre. At the heart of Basseterre is the Circus, a Victorian roundabout modeled on London’s Piccadilly Circus, complete with an ornate four-sided clock dating to the 1860s. Equally impressive is St. George’s Anglican Church, a beautiful example of Georgian architecture. Despite the numerous markers of a colonial past, indigenous art and culture are regularly on display in Basseterre. Each year, during the Christmas season, the small nation holds a week-long Carnival featuring dazzling performances and distinctive customs. It all takes place in the city’s streets, which are lined with one of a kind shops and exquisite Caribbean and seafood restaurants. When it comes to recreation on St. Kitts, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Relax on calm, undeveloped beaches like Turtle Beach, Sand Bank Bay or Friar’s Bay South on the island’s Caribbean side, or brave the waves of the Atlantic Ocean on the rocky, windswept eastern shores. Try your luck on one of island’s internationally ranked golf courses, or at a craps table in a luxuriant casino. Go boating or fishing in the crystal clear Caribbean, or dive beneath the waters surrounding the island and discover vast coral reefs and over 400 ship wrecks.
Still largely undiscovered, despite its otherworldly beauty, astonishing history and unmatched charm, St. Kitts is truly the hidden jewel of the Caribbean.

This article was written by Jon Wuebben. Jon writes select pieces about travel in St. Kitts for the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort

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Posted on May 29th, 2008 by faison
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With its emphasis on responsible travel, ecotourism benefits the environment, local economies, and visitors alike. From ecologically sensitive resorts to stand-alone activities, many worldwide destinations offer ways to reduce negative effects on the environment while at the same time enjoying unique travel experiences.

Eco-Resorts

The design, construction, and maintenance of eco-resorts utilizes environmentally friendly principles and technologies suited to the particular area. For instance, in the Caribbean, elevating buildings and walkways leaves ground vegetation mostly undisturbed. This prevents soil erosion and runoff, which would damage beaches and coral reefs. Building around trees as often as possible instead of cutting them down also helps, as well as keeping buildings cool by providing shade. Collected rainwater supplies water for restrooms, showers, and laundry. Solar energy heats the water and creates electricity.

Lodgings run the gamut, from structures originally built for other uses to new construction. The most basic accommodations may be as simple as a wood frame covered with light fabric. More traditional buildings may incorporate recycled or sustainable building materials, such as plastic lumber or bamboo.

Because they’re often located in more remote areas, eco-resorts face additional challenges, particularly with waste disposal. Buying goods in bulk reduces packaging. Creative recycling and reuse of items also limits the amount of trash sent to landfills. Using office paper on both sides, then shredding it for use as packing material, extends its life. Composting toilets and other water treatments provide resorts with water and compost for gardens and surrounding habitats.

Maho Bay Camps in the U.S. Virgin Islands even gets guests involved in their efforts. Their Trash to Treasure Art Center offers arts and crafts workshops in glass, clay, and textiles using recycled materials. Some of the high-quality pieces made in the workshops go to the gift shop for sale. At the “help yourself” center, guests can leave items they don’t want (like books, sunscreen, and dry goods) or take items they need.

Eco-resorts allow wild places to stay wild. In addition to conserving nature, they employ local workers and often encourage visitors to patronize local attractions and businesses. While these things may ease guests’ consciences, the biggest payoff for travelers is the opportunity to experience an area’s authentic character.

Eco-Tours

For those who prefer an active vacation over staying in one spot, eco-tours provide a hassle-free alternative. As with eco-resorts, however, the extent of eco-friendliness varies considerably. Some tours thoroughly immerse travelers in their destination. Transportation may include city buses, canoes, or hiking. Similarly, tourists may stay in tents, a villager’s home, or small, locally-owned hotels. Although well-known attractions may be on the list of activities, places off the beaten path are frequently emphasized. On the other end of the spectrum, some tours arrange stays in first-class hotels, dining at the finest restaurants, and private transportation.

In spite of their differences, eco-tours share similar outlooks. Keeping group sizes small (usually no more than sixteen people) ensures a more intimate experience, as well as lessening the impact of travel. Even larger tours, such as cruises, try to arrange a variety of outings limited to a small number of people. Common goals include preserving the indigenous nature, culture, and traditions of travel destinations. Many tour companies also support conservation or community organizations. Some tours directly involve travelers in philanthropic work by scheduling activities such as a day helping to build a house.

Eco-Adventures

Eco-adventures center on nature pursuits, such as bird watching, kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling. They strive not just to entertain participants but to educate them. Teaching people about the associated nature, wildlife, and history promotes respect for the environment.

With all the advantages ecotourism offers, helping to maintain the environment makes sense for businesses, communities, and travelers. For more information, visit The International Ecotourism Society at www.ecotourism.org .

Karen Joslin writes for Caribbean-Guide.info, VirginIslands-Guide.info, and other Segisys travel Web sites.

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Posted on April 3rd, 2008 by faison
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