Christopher Columbus first spotted St. Kitts in 1493, when it was populated with native tribes, but the Europeans didn't colonize until the British arrived in 1623. Its strategic location and valuable sugar trade led to an advanced and luxurious development that was among the best in the Colonial Caribbean.

While development has been of the highest quality, it has fortunately remained in low quantity, so St. Kitts remains un-crowded and unspoiled, famous around the world for excellent preservation of the ecosystems. Nature lovers will want to take advantage of the various tours through lava formations, tropical forest areas, and seaside lagoons.

Boating tours and scuba diving expeditions are also favorites activities. Plantation homes have been transformed into grand, intimate inns. Quaint shopping areas and beautiful Colonial architecture draw visitors to the tiny towns. If a quiet vacation in a luxurious and alluring corner of paradise is what you seek, you'll find it on St. Kitts.

Spectacular Mount Liamuiga, a dormant volcano located at the island's center, dominates the landscape. While you hike through the dense tropical forest of the central slopes and tramp across the lava formations, the natural wonders on St Kitts will astound you. Black, white and golden sand beaches invite countless hours of lounging and sipping frozen drinks.

Home to the Federation's capital city, Basseterre, St Kitts is known for its well-preserved, picturesque colonial structures. In fact, Basseterre is one of the most picturesque colonial settlements in the entire Caribbean.

Due to the number of sunken vessels, virgin reefs and other submerged natural wonders, dive enthusiasts are now discovering that, in St. Kitts, beauty runs deep. However, although there is also a wealth of fishing, snorkeling, sailing and other water sports to enjoy, St. Kitts is best known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

GETTING TO ST. KITTS

From the U.S., Canada and Europe, there are three primary gateways to Nevis. The most common route from the U.S. and Canada is through San Juan, Puerto Rico. It's now possible to fly non-stop from San Juan to Nevis on several direct flights provided by Nevis Express. Other connection points include Antigua and St. Maarten. Once you reach any of those gateways, the rest of the trip is simple.  EUROPE CARRIERS TO London British Airways Virgin Atlantic Antigua to Nevis - LIAT, Caribbean Star, Carib Aviation   British Airways Virgin Atlantic Barbados / St. Lucia to Nevis - LIAT, Carib Aviation   BWIA Antigua to Nevis - LIAT, Caribbean Star, Carib Aviation Holland KLM St. Maarten to Nevis - LIAT, Winair, Nevis Express France Air France St. Maarten to Nevis - LIAT, Winair, Nevis Express

CANADA CARRIERS TO   Air Canada Antigua to Nevis - LIAT, Caribbean Star, Carib Aviation   Air Transat - charter (restrictions apply) St. Kitts to Nevis (5 min flight) - LIAT, Nevis Express, Carib Aviation, 3 local ferries service Nevis (times may vary per day of the week)

USA CARRIERS TO   American AirlinesContinental, Delta,United Airlines, USAir San Juan to St. Kitts -5 min flight to Nevis - LIAT, Nevis Express, Carib Aviation, 3 local ferries services to Nevis (times may vary per day of the week) San Juan to Nevis - LIAT St. Maarten to Nevis - Nevis Express, LIAT, Winair

Airline Contacts:  American Eagle Phone: 869-465-2273 Fax: 869-466-5247  Website: www.aa.com  Carib Aviation Phone: 869-469-9295 or 268-462-3147 (Antigua) E-mail: caribav@candw.ag  Liat Phone: 869-469-5238 or 268-480-5625 (Antigua) Website: www.liatairline.com  E-mail: reservations@liatairline.com  Nevis Express Phone: 869-469-9755/56 Fax: 869-469-9751 Website: www.nevisexpress.com  or www.travelocity.com  E-mail: reservations@nevisexpress.com  Winair  Phone: 869-469-9583 CHARTER COMPANIES Charter flights and day trips from Nevis to neighboring islands can be arranged. You can contact one of these airlines:  Air St. Kitts-Nevis 869-469-9241/9064 Carib Aviation 869-469-9295 Nevis Express 869-469-9755