Basseterre is the charming capital city of St. Kitts and Nevis, a Caribbean island nation that perfectly combines a rich history with white and black sand beaches, lush mountains, warm waters and a pure vacation vibe. The very walkable capital is filled with interesting shops, beautifully maintained colonial homes, eclectic art galleries and palm-tree lined courtyards, making it a lovely stop on the islands.
The heart of the city is Independence Square, constructed in 1790. Originally used for council meetings and slave auctions, the square is now a symbol of the islands' independence from Britain and is a lively gathering place for local families. Many parades and parties are held there under the shade of the palm trees, and the surrounding 18th-century Georgian buildings are a stunning example of local architecture.
Basseterre has a fascinating history, and the story of the capital comes alive at the National Museum. Housed in the late 19th-century Old Treasury Building, the museum opened its doors in 2002 and has been expanding ever since. The diverse exhibits focus on the heritage and history of St. Kitts and Nevis, walking visitors through the eras of slavery, sugar production, rebellion and finally, independence.
The nearby St. George's Anglican Church is the city's largest religious institution. Originally built by French Jesuits in honor of the Virgin Mary in 1670, the church was destroyed by English soldiers in 1706. Four years later, it was rebuilt as St. George's Church and taken over by the Anglicans in the 1720s. A hurricane and earthquake later took their toll on the building, leading to more reconstructions. The church that stands today was built in 1844, then largely ruined in the Great Fire that ravaged the city in 1867. It was restored twenty years later, only to be damaged again by yet another hurricane in 1989. The resilient and handsome building survives today, and although it is still under renovation, visitors are welcome.
Other signs of the islands' colonial past are present throughout the city, but the most obvious symbol of British influence is the Circus, a roundabout modeled after London's own Piccadilly Circus. Restaurants and luxury shops surround the circle, which winds around an ostentatious green bronze clock tower.
The more modern side of the country can be explored at Port Zante, a growing pier and marina that welcomes visitors with impressive stone arches and columns that give way to walkways, gardens, fountains, shops, galleries, casinos and restaurants. The selection is fabulous, and the port is one of the best places to enjoy a traditional Caribbean feast.
Basseterre is surrounded by tropical paradise, and many snorkeling and diving tours leave from the city's port daily. The clear turquoise waters just off the shore are home to a stunning array of marine life, including vibrant coral colonies, snapper, angelfish, octopi, lobsters, sea turtles and other amazing creatures. Other thrilling water adventures are easy to seek out in the capital, including yachting, catamaran cruises, fishing, windsurfing, kayaking and kiteboarding.
When the stars come out over the Caribbean, head to the Frigate Bay area where the nightlife is vibrant, the rum cocktails are cheap and the pulsating beats of calypso music don't stop until the sun comes up. Bonfire barbecues are common on the beaches, serving up lobster, curried conch and other local treats, but the city also has a wide range of excellent international restaurants.
Southern view of St. Kitts