A little piece of paradise

Bill Ooten / Culpeper Star Exponent
Published: May 23, 2007

If a quiet vacation in a luxurious and alluring corner of paradise is what you've been looking for, you'll certainly want to consider a friendly little island about 1,300 miles southwest of Miami. Warm waters, sunny skies, white sandy beaches and intoxicating natural beauty combine to make the island of St. Kitts one of the most luxurious and seductive spots in the Caribbean. The island has a land area of about 65 square miles and a population of around 35,000, the majority of whom are of African descent. The main language is English, and the residents call themselves Kittitians (or Kittians).

Christopher Columbus first spotted this island in 1493, when only native tribes populated it, but the Europeans did not colonize until the British arrived in 1623. Because of its strategic location the island became a hot spot for the valuable sugar trade, which in turn led to an advanced and luxurious development that was easily among the best in the Colonial Caribbean. While development since then has still been of the highest quality, it has fortunately remained in low quantity. The island still remains uncrowded and unspoiled, famous worldwide for its excellent preservation of the ecosystem.

St. Kitts owes its lush tropical vegetation and its dramatic central mountains to the fact that it is a volcanic island. Pre-Columbian Carib inhabitants knew the island as Liamuiga, or "fertile land" an obvious reference to the islands rich and productive volcanic soil. Today her central peak, a 3,792-foot extinct volcano still bears the name. Nature lovers will especially enjoy the various tours through tropical forests, lava formations, and the many beautiful seaside lagoons.

Despite the fact that the island has managed to resist over development, there is still a wide range of accommodation choices for visitors. There are a number of first class and even five-star luxury resorts to choose from, some of which even offer all-inclusive packages. Many of the plantation homes have been transformed into grand, intimate inns, for those that prefer the more laid back bed and breakfast kind of experience. The beautiful colonial architecture of these refurbished homes alone is a sight to behold.

St. Kitts is like no other island in the Caribbean, as it seems to embody the kind of lush tropical environment more commonly associated with the South Pacific. Tiny towns and quaint shopping areas paint the landscape, and if you've planned your stay just right, you might even experience some of the many vibrant celebrations held annually by the islanders. This hospitable little island has much to offer, and is sure to satisfy those that want to experience a piece of paradise. 
 
Bill Ooten is a travel consultant for Battlefield Travel in downtown Culpeper. He can be reached at 825-1393 or .