Saint Kitts and Nevis
News, entertainment, anthem and a short visitor guide.
Anthem
Recording: United States Navy Band · Public domain (U.S. government work) · Source: Wikimedia Commons
Visitor guide
History
St Kitts was the first English colony in the Caribbean, founded in 1623, and the French also settled part of it. The federation became independent in 1983; Nevis is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton.
Culture
Sugar Mas, the Christmas-season carnival, and the St Kitts Music Festival are the big events. Masquerade troupes keep old folk traditions alive.
Languages & Creoles
English is the official language. Saint Kitts Creole is spoken widely.
Currency
The Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), fixed at about 2.70 to the US dollar.
Popular Attractions
Brimstone Hill Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with sweeping views. The St Kitts Scenic Railway, Mount Liamuiga and the quiet beaches of Nevis are highlights.
Food
The national dish is stewed saltfish with spicy plantains, coconut dumplings and breadfruit. Goat water and fresh lobster are also popular.
Places to Visit
Basseterre, Brimstone Hill, Frigate Bay, South Friars Bay, Charlestown and Pinney's Beach on Nevis.
More of the Caribbean
English-speaking Caribbean
Spanish-speaking Caribbean
French-speaking Caribbean
Dutch-speaking Caribbean
Additional Caribbean Coastal Areas
Colombia—Caribbean coast; San Andrés and Providencia
Venezuela—Caribbean coast and islands
Panama—Caribbean coast; Bocas del Toro
Costa Rica—Caribbean coast; Limón
Nicaragua—Caribbean coast; Corn Islands
Honduras—Caribbean coast; Bay Islands
Guatemala—Caribbean coast; Livingston
Mexico—Caribbean coast; Cozumel and Isla Mujeres