Traditions and culture in St Kitts and Nevis

St Kitts and Nevis are two of the oldest colonised territories in the Caribbean, while also being inhabited by Indian people several thousand years ago.

They were sighted by Christopher Columbus in 1498 and have since been colonised by Britain and France, before becoming completely autonomous in 1967.

However, relations between the two islands - which are only separated by two miles of water - are still strained today, based on Nevis' perception that it has been neglected by its larger neighbour.

Its core industries were traditionally agriculture and light manufacturing, with the export of sugar, in particular, playing a major role in its development.

While plantations remain, many are now being destroyed as the country aims to build more property to accommodate the rising numbers of tourists.

Things to do in St Kitts and Nevis

Anyone deciding to take a holiday to St Kitts and Nevis will find that both islands possess telling similarities but also their own distinctive charms.

As a whole, the country offers stunning beaches against a backdrop of mountains, while some of the plantation estates have been made into impressive spots for a quiet bite to eat.

Naturally, the locals are used to receiving travellers who book flights to the Caribbean and are warm, friendly and approachable.

St Kitts certainly offers a more bustling atmosphere - not least through the resort enclave of Frigate Bay - with plenty of bars and activities punctuating its numerous beaches.

Nevis' appeal rests in its impressive nature walks and the fact that you can travel around it in under two hours, while it also gives a nod to its history in the shape of Horatio Nelson and Alexander Hamilton.

Weather in St Kitts and Nevis

As you would expect any holiday guide for a Caribbean island to reveal, the climate in St Kitts and Nevis is tropical and influenced by north-easterly trade winds.

Humidity also tends to be low (71 per cent on average), which makes the average temperatures of between 24C and 27C even more enjoyable.

People intending to secure last-minute holidays to the country will also be pleased to know that the rainy season has just finished as it runs from May to October.

Destination checklist for St Kitts and Nevis

St Kitts and Nevis has a population of 42,696.

The islands are four hours behind UTC time.

The currency in St Kitts and Nevis is the east Caribbean dollar.

The official language spoken is English.

The islands' international dialling code is +1869.