New and old ways to see the island

By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor

Wanna know what to do in St. Kitts? Who better to ask than the CEO of the island’s tourism authority, Racquel Brown? Brown, a Jamaican, has lived in the twin-island nation for the past two years, so she has a unique perspective as both an expat and a tourism insider. We caught up with her recently at Serendipity restaurant in Basseterre (one of her favorite lunchtime spots), where she shared her top St. Kittitian must-dos.

SHOP ISLAND-STYLE I remember we used to do fabulous batik fabric in Jamaica – as in many other Caribbean islands. But Caribelle Batik is the only place I know of where you can still buy the colorful handcrafted cotton fabrics. I like to pick up souvenirs at their outlet at Romney Manor, where you can find home accessories; men’s, women’s and kids’ clothing; or just buy the fabric and make something for yourself.

TASTE LOCAL FLAVOR I have a soft spot for Marshall’s Caribbean restaurant on Frigate Bay, which is owned by a fellow Jamaican. It’s my go-to for oxtail, but from lobster to Coquille St. Kitts, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

CLIMB A MOUNTAIN At 3,792 feet-tall, the dormant volcano Mount Liamuiga is our highest point, and a guided hike to the crater at its peak is hard work but worth it! You’ll discover the ecosystems of the tropical rainforest and cloud forest as you ascend, and the view from the crater, which is about a mile wide and 1,000 feet deep, is unforgettable. Local outfitter Greg’s Safaris offers an excellent day tour.

HITCH A RIDE The Scenic Railway takes visitors on a 30-mile journey around the island along the tracks that were once used to transport sugar cane from the fields to the factory. When you ride the train you get a fascinating intimate and revealing look at the country beyond its beaches – as well as rum punch and a concert by the on-board choir! And since St. Kitts is the only Caribbean island to have such an attraction, you can’t leave without trying it!