Posts Tagged ‘St. Kitts’

CLIA Highlights Cruise Destinations in Americas, Caribbean: ‘Cruise Ports in the Caribbean are Welcoming Travelers’

October 21, 2017
St Kitts

St. Kitts is receiving many of the cruise ships which had their Caribbean itineraries impacted by recent hurricanes. Explore 17th and 18th century military architecture and hike into lush rainforests. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

October is Plan a Cruise Month and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is highlighting cruise destinations in the Americas and the Caribbean. While areas in the Caribbean were recently impacted by hurricanes, the industry is reporting that close to 50 destinations are still welcoming cruise travelers. Additionally, there are several other cruise embarkation ports and destinations throughout the Americas.

“First and foremost, our hearts go out to those impacted by the hurricanes; they have been a cherished part of our cruise family for over 40 years,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, CLIA.  “Fortunately, the vast majority of ports in the Caribbean are welcoming guests, having sustained minimal or no direct damage from the storms. The Caribbean islands and destinations throughout the Americas rely on tourism and the cruise industry is dedicated to continuing to bring vacationers to these beautiful areas. I’m proud to see how many CLIA Cruise Line Members joined in the relief efforts, providing more than $30 million in financial resources, transporting families and pets as well as a variety of supplies to people in need.”

Highlights of Cruising through the Americas and the Caribbean

Diverse Destinations: From treks down the Mississippi to paddling the Panama Canal, there’s something for every type of traveler in the Americas and Caribbean.

  • Sitka, Alaska: Alaska’s “most exotic” cruise port is full of storied history that includes being home to Tlingit Native Americans and formerly acting as a major pulp mill town. Travelers can visit the totem pole park or walk along Katlian Street on the Sitka Channel waterfront, full of sights of colorful fishing boats and harbor town houses.
  • Montevideo, Uruguay: This South American port city is a hidden gem full of old and new sights to see and architecture to take in, and offers a great spot to relax during a full itinerary with monuments, restaurants, and beaches. Travelers can walk the ultra-modern Plaza Independencia main square or take in afternoon tea in historical Ciudad Vieja.
  • Quebec City, Quebec: This mostly French-speaking Canadian province offers travelers an unexpected taste of Europe with bistro and boutique-lined cobblestone streets. Adventure seekers and nature lovers can indulge in biking tours along famous waterfalls like the Montmorecny Falls, while history lovers can enjoy famed sites like the Basilique Cathedrale.
  • Bonaire, Caribbean: The B in ABC islands, Bonaire is the original leader in ecology and eco-tourism, with bustling sanctuary colonies of flamingos, wild donkeys, and sea horses. Travelers to this island off the coast of Venezuela can participate in windsurfing, kayaking, bird watching, kite boarding, fishing, mountain biking, horseback riding or “diver’s paradise” activities like diving and snorkeling.
  • St. Kitts, Caribbean: This West Indies isle, originally discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, offers travelers a peek into preserved history with its 17th and 18th century military architecture. The island also offers lush rainforests, with more than a quarter of its land protected as a National Park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Travelers looking to kayak through glacier water or snorkel along exotic reefs can find a variety of special activities and excursions on a cruise through the Americas or Caribbean.

  • Ride the River: Vacationers yearning to experience U.S. history have a chance of following in the footsteps of Lewis & Clark while viewing classic Americana with a trip down the Columbia/Snake River, complete with trips through Hells Canyon and views of Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood.
  • Photos in Peggy’s Cove: Peggy’s Cove in Halifax is home to smooth boulders that have buoyed waves for 450 million years, in addition to perhaps the most photographed lighthouse in the world—a must-see and must-photograph spot for photo enthusiasts.
  • Roatan Rum: Rum and sweets-loving cruise travelers can take part in authentic culture with Mayan chocolate and rum cake tastings in Roatan.
  • High on the Haleakala: Nature lovers and photo buffs alike should experience the Haleakala Volcano in Maui, which rises 10,023 feet above sea level and offers some of the most beautiful volcanic sights in the world. Thrill seekers can even bike down the sides. To make the trip a once-in-a-lifetime event, travelers can also see the ahinahina plant, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Any vacation takes planning, and cruising is no different. CLIA has outlined tips for how to take the stress out of cruising in any waters, including the Americas or the Caribbean.

CLIA Travel Tips when Cruising the Americas or the Caribbean

  • Strike a Balance: Cruisers can benefit from striking a fine balance between scheduled excursions or entertainment and leaving time to relax. Travelers should be careful not to overbook their schedules on the ship or in port in order to leave room to enjoy the ship’s many amenities or sight see. Whether it b whale watching or a helicopter ride over active volcanoes, book two to three activities or excursions at most per day, with some downtime in between, when possible, to avoid travel fatigue.
  • Ask the Question: Travelers should never hesitate to stop and ask questions when in doubt. Whether questions are directed at a cruise-certified travel agent while booking a cruise, or to the ship’s staff while aboard – there are knowledgeable resources to help provide answers to any question that arises.
  • Rest Assured while Aboard: Travelers that take advantage of booking with cruise-certified travel agents can rest assured while resting up on any cruise, as a professional travel agent can help if things go wrong while cruising.

October is Plan a Cruise Month – a worldwide campaign, created by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) to learn more about cruising and how to plan and take a cruise vacation. CLIA offers insight on the best cruise destinations, special cruise line deals and promotions as well as experts to help navigate the many cruise vacation options available for every travel style and budget. Travelers can find a CLIA-certified cruise specialist at https://www.cruising.org/cruise-vacationer/cruise-travel-guide/clia-agent-finder.

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Oceania Cruises’ Newest Ship MS Sirena Makes Inaugural Call to St. Kitts

October 18, 2017
Oceania Sirena

Oceania Cruises’ MS Sirena alongside the Caribbean Princess on Tuesday at Port Zante, St. Kitts

Basseterre, St. Kitts (October 13, 2017) – Oceania Cruises’ newest cruise ship, the MS Sirena, made its inaugural visit to St. Kitts on Wednesday, October 11, bringing more than 600 visitors to the island, who enjoyed the island’s beaches, tours and many attractions.

Launched in 1999, the Sirena is one of Oceania Cruises R-class ships, together with Regatta, Insignia, and Nautica. Until 2016, the vessel was part of Princess Cruises’ fleet sailing under the name “MS Ocean Princess.”

Oceania Cruises is a Miami-based company operating a fleet of premium cruise ships world-wide. The cruise line bills itself as upper-premium line, positioned squarely between the luxury and the premium segment.

Also in port the same day was the Caribbean Princess with a maximum capacity of 3,140 passengers. Last Sunday, October 8, the Adventure of the Seas visited St. Kitts with a maximum capacity of 3,840 passengers.

An estimated 120 vessels are scheduled to visit St. Kitts from October 7 to December 31, 2017.

Several cruise lines, including Regent Seven Seas, which had itineraries that would have visited some of the more impacted Caribbean islands have modified their itineraries to call at St. Kitts.

Intoxicating natural beauty, sunny skies, warm waters, and sandy beaches combine to make St. Kitts one of the most seductive spots in the Caribbean. Located in the northern Leeward Islands, it offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history.  The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking or ziplining through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, and touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, which is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the more traditional vacation pastimes available are water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on the beach.

For more information about St. Kitts, visit www.stkittstourism.kn.

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St. Kitts Welcomes Tourists as Airport, Cruise Port and Tourism Providers Resume Operations Unscathed by Hurricane Irma

September 16, 2017
St Kitts Marriott Resort

The beachfront at the Marriott on St. Kitts. The island was relatively unscathed by Hurricane Irma and is back welcoming tourists to its airports, cruise ports and hotels. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Basseterre, St. Kitts (September 15, 2017) – St. Kitts’ tourism authority reports that the island’s airport, cruise port and all tourism providers are open and resuming normal operations, as it was fortunate to be virtually unscathed by Hurricane Irma.

American Airlines’ daily non-stop flights to St. Kitts’ Robert L, Bradshaw International Airport from Miami have resumed today with the Saturday JFK non-stop scheduled to resume on tomorrow. Seaborne Airlines’ daily non-stop flights to St. Kitts from San Juan have also resumed tomorrow. All hotels and resorts are fully operational and the Park Hyatt St. Kitts remains on schedule to debut November 1.

“We are thrilled to get back to business as usual and ready to welcome visitors,” said Lindsay F.P. Grant, Minister of Tourism, International Trade, Industry and Commerce. “For those who planning to travel to island, we look forward to providing a world-class experience and all the warm Kittitian hospitality for which we have become known.”

Cruise lines have resumed scheduled port calls to St. Kitts, with passengers from The Carnival Fascination enjoying the island’s various attractions and activities last Friday. Over the course of the next week, a total of four vessels are scheduled to dock at Port Zante, including Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas on September 21. With the arrival of the Carnival Magic on September 20, St. Kitts expects to welcome its one millionth passenger this year. A historic first for the island, the occasion also raises St. Kitts to marquee port status.

“At this time, we continue to send our thoughts and prayers to everyone who has been affected by the storm, particularly to those in need of emergency relief.” For anyone wishing to donate to the recovery efforts of those islands most severely impacted by the hurricane, two official Caribbean Relief Funds are:

The Caribbean Tourism Recovery Fund at www.tourismcares.org/caribbean

The Caribbean Tourism Association Hurricane Relief Fund at www.gofundme.com/hurricane-relief-fund-cto

For more information about St. Kitts, visit www.stkittstourism.kn.

 

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‘St. Kitts is Open for Business,’ Tourism Authority Says After Hurricane Irma

September 13, 2017
St Kitts

From a promontory on St. Kitts, you can see the rolling waters of the Atlantic Ocean on the left and the calm Caribbean Sea on the right. St. Kitts was relatively unscathed by Hurricane Irma’s wrath and is welcoming tourists © Karen Rubin/ goingplacesfarandnear.com

Basseterre, St. Kitts  – St. Kitts Tourism authorities are reporting that the Federation is virtually unscathed following the passage of Hurricane Irma. “Considering the minimal damage that was sustained, the islands’ tourism providers are in the process of reopening. Hotels are returning to business as usual and guests are continuing to enjoy their stays.  Our restaurants, attractions and shops including the many popular retail outlets at Port Zante are now open, with The Carnival Fascination confirmed to visit St. Kitts as planned,” the tourism authority stated.

“Our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has kept St. Kitts & Nevis in thoughts and prayers while we awaited the passage of the storm,” said Minister of Tourism, International Trade, Industry and Commerce the Hon. Mr. Lindsay F.P. Grant.  While we are beginning to resume normal operations, please join me in continuing to send thoughts and prayers to those who have been more seriously impacted.”

St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) is open and accepting flights.  However, due to the impact of Hurricane Jose, many airlines may have canceled flights. It is highly recommended to check with your airline for schedule and service changes.

St. Kitts is open for business. For more information about the island, visit www.stkittstourism.kn

 

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St. Kitts is Named a ‘Travel Hotspot’ for 2015 and Ranked Among Best Caribbean Islands

January 3, 2015
Brimstone Hill Fortress is one of the breathtaking attractions that can be explored on St. Kitts © 2015 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Brimstone Hill Fortress is one of the breathtaking attractions that can be explored on St. Kitts © 2015 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

St. Kitts has just received two more honors to add to its growing list of awards and recognitions for tourism excellence.  The Huffington Post has named St. Kitts & Nevis as one of the Top 15 Emerging Travel Hotspots for 2015 and Business Insider has ranked the twin-island destination at #8 on a list of the 25 Best Caribbean Islands.

St Kitts is the only Caribbean destination on The Huffington Post list (ranked at #12) and it stands among such exotic locales as Taiwan, Madagascar and Bhutan, to name a few.  The article states that emerging destinations have richness of history, culture and beauty and reward those who visit with once-in-a-lifetime experiences that consistently top travel wish lists.  Called “both the original and the newcomer in the Caribbean,” St. Kitts is noted for its new marina, YU Lounge private airport terminal and new properties “whisking the islands into a luxury category to rival the best.”  The Huffington Post is part of the prestigious AOL Network of properties with a total digital population of 79 million unique monthly visitors.

Considering its small size as compared to other islands among the top ten, St. Kitts’ ranking by Business Insider is impressive. To determine the ranking, the publication factored in each island’s average hotel room cost according to Hotels.com; the distance from New York City; the number of attractions listed on TripAdvisor; and the amount of coastline per square kilometer, which it called the beach density score.  Of note, the publication calls the twin-island destination “a hidden gem of the Caribbean” and notes that Brimstone Hill Fortress and Clay Villa Planation are breathtaking historic attractions.  Also this month, St. Kitts received the “Innovative Destination of the Year” Award in Caribbean Journal’s Caribbean Travel Awards for 2014, which honor the best in travel and tourism across the region.

Further, St. Kitts is currently ranked, with sister island Nevis, at #3 on a list of the Best Islands in the World, #3 on a list of the Best Caribbean Vacations, and #7 on a list of the Best Beach Honeymoon Destinations in the World, #8 on a list of Best Caribbean Honeymoons, and #8 on a list of the Best Affordable Caribbean Destinations by US News & World Report.  It is also currently ranked at #7 among the Hottest Places to Travel this Winter by CNN Money based on bookings received by Virtuoso, #8 on a list of the Top 10 Best Islands for a Holiday by Places To See In Your Lifetime, #14 on a list of the 50 Travel Destinations That Will Be Huge In The Next 10 Years by Business Insider and one of the Top 12 Best Caribbean Vacations on FlipKey.com, the vacation rental company of leading travel website, TripAdvisor®.  In 2012, St. Kitts was named one of “5 Caribbean Islands to Discover Now” by MSNBC.  The island was also named one of the “Top 12 Spots that should be on your list for 2012” by Caribbean Travel + Life magazine and a Top Destination for 2011 by both AOL Travel and British Airways.

Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history.  The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, and touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean. Among the more traditional vacation pastimes available are watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on a sandy beach.  Accommodations range from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels and resorts.

For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn, visit www.stkittstourism.kn, or connect on Facebook, Twitter and/or YouTube.

 

See also:

Exploring St Kitts, Caribbean island rich in heritage, natural attractions and photos

St Kitts Marriott, with top golf, spa, casino, beach, Kids Club is ideal getaway and photos

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Lionel Richie to Headline 2013 St. Kitts Music Festival, June 27-29

May 11, 2013

Multiple award winning singer/songwriter and popular American musician Lionel Richie will headline the upcoming 17th Annual St. Kitts Music Festival, which takes place from Thursday, June 27 to Saturday, June 29, 2013, rounding out an impressive lineup of artists for this year’s event.

“We feel privileged to have such a global musical icon as Lionel Richie visit St. Kitts to add his remarkable talent and numerous award-winning songs to this year’s Music Festival,” said Senator Ricky Skerritt, Minister of Tourism & International Transport, Trade, Industry, Commerce & Consumer Affairs. “Blending renowned international acts such as Mr. Richie with rising local stars and top Caribbean artists in a festive, block-party type of atmosphere is what keeps patrons coming back to our Festival year after year. This year, I expect the festivities to continue ‘all night long’.”

In addition to Lionel Richie, Shaggy, Beres Hammond, Konshens, Tessanne Chin, the Cayon Pantastics, Andy Narell featuring Relator with special guest Etienne Charles, Superblue (Austin Lyons), Fay-Ann Lyons and Bunji Garlin were also announced as performers for the 2013 event

Shaggy, whose hits include “Boombastic,” “Luv Me, Luv Me,” “It Wasn’t Me,” and “Angel,” returns to the St. Kitts Music Festival for the third time in 2013.

In 2006, Shaggy said, “Being from Jamaica, the people of the smaller islands have a flavor of my extended family, everyone knowing each other. The energy, the love and the level of friendliness is absolutely magical. St. Kitts, here I come!” Best known internationally for his dancehall hit “Tempted to Touch” and the critically-acclaimed “Fire,” Beres Hammond also returns to the event, having last performed at the 2009 St. Kitts Music Festival to an enthusiastic crowd.

These artists complete a well-rounded musical roster, which also includes previously announced top local acts including Small Axe Band, Nu Vybes International, Grand Masters, Dejour, The Kore Band, Dagah and Charles Emanuel. The nightly line-up of performers is as follows-

Thursday June 27, 2013 Friday June 28, 2013 Saturday June 29, 2013

Small Axe Band Dejour The Cayon Pantastics

The Kore Band Dagah Andy Narell featuring Relator

Nu Vybes International Charles Emanuel with special guest Etienne Charles

Bunji Garlin Tessanne Chin Lionel Richie

Fay-Ann Lyons Konshens

Superblue (Austin Lyons) Shaggy

The Grand Masters Band Beres Hammond

Now in its 17th year, the St. Kitts Music Festival attracts both locals and visitors alike. It features a wide range of musical styles on the popular market, including R&B, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Reggae, Soca, Calypso, Gospel and Contemporary music. Past artists have included such prominent acts as John Legend, T-Pain, Michael Bolton, K.C. and the Sunshine Band, UB40’s Ali Campbell, Wyclef Jean, Ne-Yo, Air Supply, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Toni Braxton, The Commodores, Dionne Warwick, Billy Ocean, Sean Paul, Boyz II Men, King Konris, Stephen Marley, Regina Belle, Maxi Priest, Roberta Flack, Biggie Irie, Bunny Wailer and Lord Nelson.

The Festival begins at 8:00pm nightly and tickets are US $40 per night. For more information, including places to stay in St. Kitts, visit www.stkittsmusicfestival.com or “like” the St. Kitts Music Festival’s Facebook page.

St. Kitts is currently ranked at #2 in a list of the 16 Best Caribbean Vacations and #4 in a list of the 12 Best Islands in the World by US News & World Report. Last year, St. Kitts was named one of “5 Caribbean Islands to Discover Now” by MSNBC. It was also named one of the “Top 12 Spots that should be on your list for 2012” by Caribbean Travel + Life magazine and the island’s Brimstone Hill Fortress was named one of “10 Great Places To Explore The World’s Best-Kept Secrets” by USA Today. St. Kitts was also named a top destination for 2011 by both AOL Travel and British Airways.

Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, it offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the region’s only scenic railway which connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, ziplining, and more traditional vacation pastimes such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Accommodations range from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels and resorts.

For more information about St. Kitts, please contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn, visit www.stkittstourism.kn, or connect on Facebook, Twitter and/or YouTube.

See also:

Exploring St Kitts, Caribbean island rich in heritage, natural attractions (Photos)

St Kitts Marriott, with top golf, spa, casino, beach, Kids Club is ideal getaway (Photos)

For more travel features, visit:

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

http://www.examiner.com/international-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

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St. Kitts Offers Fall & Winter Hotel Deals Plus Island-Wide Savings Program

October 10, 2011

Several of St. Kitts’ properties are currently offering fall and winter deals, plus the island has a value-added program designed to help visitors save on their stay.

Offers from individual hotels on St. Kitts include:

  • Bird Rock Beach Hotel – Low season rates begin at just $90 per room, per night based on double occupancy from now through December 19, 2011. Plus, on stays of at least 4 consecutive nights, the 5th night is free.
  • Ocean Terrace Inn – From now through November 30, 2011, the property’s “August Specials” provide three low-cost options for accommodations: Room only rate of $89 based on single occupancy; Room only rate of $100 based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free; or a Bed & Breakfast rate of $118 for a standard room based on double occupancy with up to 2 kids 12 and under able to stay free. There is a maximum 2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults permitted per room and the third person rate is an additional $30 per night. All rates are per room, per night and inclusive of taxes.
  • Ottley’s Plantation Inn – From now through the end of the year, Ottley’s has rolled back its rates to pricing unseen since pre-1999. New rates reflect unprecedented reductions $194 from November 1 through December 22, 2011. Rates are per room per night based on single or double occupancy.
  • Rock Haven Bed & Breakfast – Stays from now to December 15, 2011 at this intimate property start at just $149 per room per night. Plus, get an additional 15% discount for booking a stay of at least 3 nights. Rates include breakfast daily, complimentary round trip airport transfers, no charge for internet access, free international calls to the US, Canada and UK, laundry service, booking of all excursions and the property’s renowned personal service.
  • The St. Kitts Marriott Resort – Valid on stays from now through December 18, 2011, the Marriott’s Super Escape! Inclusive Package includes: accommodations; room tax and service charge; daily breakfast, lunch and a 3-course dinner at select restaurants; kids under 12 eat free from the kids menu or buffet; room service; unlimited gold standard beverages, local beers and house wines by the glass; choice of two of either a round of golf, spa treatment or casino value package; room service; kids club for children ages 5-12; use of tennis courts and non-motorized water sports; 20% discount on golf retail merchandise; and a 20% discount on treatments at the Emerald Mist Spa. Rates start at just $329 per room, per night based on double occupancy. A 3-night minimum stay is required and guests must refer to code P50 at the time of booking.
  • The Sugar Bay Club – Between now and December 20, 2011, save on stays at this popular property with low season rates starting at just $90 for room only or $110 for “bed & breakfast.” Rates are per room, per night based on single or double occupancy. Breakfast is served at Rituals Coffee shop located at the property.
  • Timothy Beach Resort – With the “Greatest Sale of the Year,” the resort is offering 35-40% savings with low season room rates starting as low as just $66 per room, per night. Book from now through November 12 to save 40% off room rates for stays through November 15, 2011. Or, book now through December 17 to save 35% off room rates between November 16 and December 20, 2011. A 3-night minimum stay is required.

Visit the accommodations page of the St. Kitts Tourism website for additional information and contact details for each property listed above as well as for other lodging options on St. Kitts.

In addition to individual hotel offers, St. Kitts offers another way to save with the “Fall in Love with St. Kitts & Nevis” destination-wide value added program. – The program includes free nights – either 7 nights for the price of 4 or 5 nights (30% to more than 40% savings); or 4 nights for the price of 3 (a 25% savings) – at participating hotels. Plus, guests receive complimentary Continental breakfast daily or a Food & Beverage credit along with a special discount card that provides savings at various island shops, restaurants, tours and more. Special children’s discounts may also apply, making the offer even more valuable for family vacations. Travelers can book their stay directly with the hotel and purchase air separately, or get reduced airfare on flights booked in conjunction with a stay at a participating hotel via American Airlines’ AA Vacations, US Airways Vacations or Delta Vacations. The “Fall in Love with St. Kitts & Nevis” offer is valid on new bookings made now through December 12, 2011 for travel between now and December 18, 2011.

Over the past months, St. Kitts was named a top destination for 2011 by both AOL Travel and British Airways. Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, it offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s former sugar plantations, visiting the Caribelle Batik factory, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and more traditional vacation pastimes such as watersports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Accommodations range from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels and resorts.

For more information about St. Kitts, contact the St. Kitts Tourism Authority toll free from the US at 1-800-582-6208 or from Canada 1-888-395-4887, e-mail info@stkittstourism.kn, visit www.stkittstourism.kn, or connect on Facebook, Twitter and/or YouTube.

For more travel features, visit:

www.travelwritersmagazine.com/TravelFeaturesSyndicate

www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin