Nadia “Twinkle” Henry
In August, Nevis Tourism hosted an event to showcase and promote its beautiful island to an exclusive audience representing boutique luxury travellers. I was introduced to VIP and MICE Services Director Shelisia Glasford.
Our conversation turned to Nevis and I was convinced I needed to visit. I had already planned a family trip to St. Maarten, so I decided to add three nights in Nevis to my itinerary; it's only a 30-minute Winair flight away.
Upon arrival in St. Kitts, I was greeted directly on the runway by Kayan Jet, a VIP service that enhances the arrival experience with perks such as immigration escorts and private lounge dining. After immigration formalities were completed, a black SUV took me to Reggae Beach and boarded the eight-minute water taxi to Nevis, where I was warmly welcomed by Shelisia and our driver Eazi, who serenaded me – instantly cementing a very memorable arrival in Nevis.
My first night in Nevis was at montpelliera boutique resort with only 18 rooms, hidden among the island’s lush mountains. There, I enjoyed a sumptuous dinner and was escorted to my cabin-style room, which had been recently renovated.
The next morning I met with Kakia, Director of Marketing and Public Relations, who personally guided me through a site visit to the property. I discovered that this resort was once a plantation, like several other historic properties on the island.
My stay was short but sweet and I really appreciate the warmth and hospitality I was given while in Montpellier.
I checked out and took the Alexander Hamilton Tour led by Greg Phillip, a walking history book who is Nevis Sun Tour.
Philip said his company is the only one on the island to delve into Hamilton's life from childhood to adulthood. His company curates all-inclusive experiences and his tours are highly recommended.
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For the next two nights, I checked in Four Seasons Resort Nevisthe largest resort on the island. The hotel has 189 guest rooms and suites and more than 50 villas and estate homes, some privately owned and others managed by the resort.
One of the highlights of my stay was walking along the beach to Pinney Beach, which has several lively bars and restaurants. The most famous of which is the must-visit Sunshine's Beach Bar & Grill, owned by the legendary “Mr. Sunshine” himself. The restaurant had humble beginnings, serving food and beer to Four Seasons construction workers in the 1990s. No trip would be complete without tasting the iconic Killer Bee Rum Punch. It's delicious, but not for the faint of heart (two sips were enough for me!).
Another must-do experience is the Nevis Hot Springs near Charlestown. These natural hot springs attract tourists from all over the world to take a short bath, usually no more than 10 to 15 minutes. Warm mineral water is said to be very good for the skin and helps relieve pain. Once inside I immediately felt my nerves disappear.
Before leaving Nevis, be sure to dine at Bananas Restaurant, an upscale family-run wooden restaurant located high in the forest, perfect for watching the sunset. The menu offers authentic Nevisian dishes and sometimes live entertainment adds to the fun atmosphere.
My three nights in Nevis were brief but memorable, leaving me eager to return to the Nevis Mango Festival in July, where local chefs and bartenders showcase creative dishes and drinks made with the island’s various mangoes.
Nevis is a truly special island with rich history and culture, beautiful beaches, lush mountains and some of the most welcoming people I have ever met. I highly recommend this gem to luxury travelers.
