Author name: shanniev

By Jack Hudson, 22 April, 2024 Well, we can heave a sigh of relief and say that the Nevis To St Kitts Cross Channel Swim was a big success! Happy swimmers shared the tropical Caribbean waters with turtles and rays as they raced over 4.1 km across the Narrows. Way out in the Caribbean Sea, the island of Nevis sits as the smaller cousin of St Kitts – one of the most unspoilt and relaxing islands in this famously laidback part of the world. Vividly green with blue skies, clean air and long empty beaches, Nevis has a gentle pace of life that encourages you to stop and appreciate the natural beauty around you. It is a perfect setting for a challenge to swim from one island to another! We caught up with one of our swimmers, Teri, who attended the +POOL Gala and was one of the lucky raffle winners who won a space on this iconic swim with us in 2024! We want to say a big thank you to our partners who helped make this possible: JetBlue and +POOL, who are driving free and safe access to New York waters for swimming. Let’s find out how Teri enjoyed her experience in the rocking arms of the Caribbean Sea: Teri’s Swim SWIMTREK: What was your most memorable moment from the swim this past weekend? TERI: The people were amazing! Locals, other swimmers, and SwimTrek were fantastic too – friendly, encouraging and supportive, and all-around fun. The views were spectacular, and it was fun to send photos back to friends in the rainy, cold northern environs. The conditions were challenging and fun as well. This is not a beginner swim. Kudos to all the first timers – it was one of the more difficult swims you will do. A bad swim helps you appreciate good swims. Letting people cross over the finish line after they moved at the end was a classy finish. Anyone who swims over 3 hours in choppy conditions deserves a walk over the finish. SWIMTREK: Did you have any nerves going into the swim? TERI: Yes – oh yes! Shoulder, heat and sun! My last big open water channel swim event went terribly. I barely finished after almost 4 hours with shoulder issues, as well as no water or food on a hot sunny summer day. This channel swim gave me the chance to try and learn from my (many) previous mistakes. Right after I registered in January, I searched for a swim coach. My weekly master’s swimming is 10K and I swim in open water once a week in all kinds of conditions. One day we swam the water temperature was 45F/7C. Also, my shoulder regularly gets cranky. After even 1 or 2 coaching sessions, my shoulder and technique improved, especially over longer distances/times and it did not bother me a little during the swim. The other two concerns were heat and sun. I have seen people attach water bottles to their swim buoy at the beach, along with food, and I did that. It made a difference since I knew I had something during the swim. With open water, conditions change during the swim, and while it started in fairly calm water, the seas picked up with waves in the middle of the channel. It was nice to have water and food. Usually, the boats are hard to find (or in the wrong direction) and it’s better to bring what you need with you. SWIMTREK: How did the Nevis To St Kitts Race compare to other swim events you’ve been a part of? TERI: It was so great to have the other SwimTrek swimmers around. It created a big team, so even if you come by yourself, and don’t know anyone, you will by the end of the trip. The other swimmers were great, we cheered each other on, and were so happy for each other. It’s like you brought your extended friends and family to a race. The views are fantastic, and it was a fun distance – not too long, and not too short. Nevis and St Kitts are a wonderful destination with warm friendly people and a relaxed island vibe! ‘It was so great to have the other SwimTrek swimmers around. It created a big team, so even if you come by yourself, and don’t know anyone, you will by the end of the trip…’ What’s included? Here’s what you can expect in your package when you sign up to the annual Nevis To St Kitts Cross Channel Swim: Entry into the annual Nevis to St Kitts Cross Channel Swim Race Group transfer from the St Kitts Airport to accommodation on 4th April, either at 2pm or 5pm Three nights’ accommodation Two breakfasts – day 2 and 4 at the hotel. Race day breakfast limited One group lunch Event merchandise package (including event tow float) The Nevis to St Kitts crossing is a significant open water challenge of 4.1 km/2.5mile across the Narrows. Conditions during the event can be challenging. Swimmers should have a good understanding of open water swimming and be capable of swimming 4 km in open water. It is also important to gain comfort swimming in choppy waters and currents prior to the start of the trip. Please note, there is a cut off time of 3 hours for the swim. If you liked what you saw here, why not sign up for our next adventure to swim among the swaying palms and coral waters of the Caribbean? Pre-register for next year’s Nevis To Kitts Cross Channel Swim: REGISTER FOR 2025 Want to know how you did? EXPLORE THE EVENT RESULTS Source link

Summertime and the livin’ is easy Travellers searching for a Caribbean stopover at Montpelier Plantation & Beach might want to consider booking for the summer period. It’s the ideal time to escape the busier winter season and savour the genuine charm and culture of Nevis. Tucked away among lush tropical gardens and with stunning views of azure seas, Montpelier provides a good base for explorers. When guests fancy venturing out from this tranquil spot, they will experience the island’s rich history, breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant culture. A bit of peace and quiet Many people associate the Caribbean with winter when they want to escape from arctic temperatures in their home countries. But journeying to the West Indies out of season in the warmer months makes a good deal of sense. There’s less hustle and bustle for those preferring a serene ambiance at this quieter time of the year. Visitors can enjoy the island’s relaxed vibe. Under the mango tree There’s nothing better than biting into a ripe and fleshy mango just picked from the tree. Known as the King of Fruits, the mango is harvested mainly in the summer when the island hosts its annual Nevis Mango Festival. Now in its 10th year, this much-loved event running from July 4 to 7, invites mango aficionados to taste a diverse variety of the island’s favourite, juicy fruit. Festivities include mango tasting sessions, cooking demonstrations, culinary competitions, and mixologist showdowns. Montpelier’s executive chef Halva Browne, past winner of Nevis Mango Festival competitions, will craft mango-inspired, savoury and sweet dishes. Guests can taste his creations at Restaurant 750 and Mill Privée, a 300-year-old sugar mill converted into the only restaurant of its kind in the world. Culturama – “the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Lime” This summer marks the 50th anniversary of Culturama, Nevis’s annual carnival, taking place from July 25th to August 6th. The line-up includes junior and senior king and queen pageants, Kaiso (Calypso) contests. Summer guests can also take part in vibrant street parties and fairs, as well as contemporary shows curated to honour the festival’s ethos. Over the years, Culturama has evolved, introducing new events such as fetes, Soca contests, and lively street parties. This is an excellent way to experience the true essence of Nevis, as citizens, returning locals and visitors unite to celebrate five decades of culture, community, and camaraderie. Getting to Know You There’s plenty to do on Nevis, ensuring a splendid time for all comers. History enthusiasts can discover remnants of old sugar plantations, the Bath House Hotel, colourful Colonial-style houses in Charlestown and museums dedicated to Horatio Nelson and Alexander Hamilton. Athletic types can snorkel, dive, hike in the rainforest, hoist the sails on boat trips and climb Mount Nevis. And for those less inclined to dash about, they can simply lounge by the pool with the latest bestseller, or on Montpelier’s secluded beach (only 20 minutes away by hotel shuttle) where you’ll be served al fresco lunch and drinks. Live Like a Local – we’re all going on a summer holidayDiscover the allure of Nevis this summer with a special, limited offer. Indulge in the luxury of a Premier Room for just US $199, available exclusively for stays between May 1 and August 11, coinciding with the hotel’s seasonal closure. The enticing package includes daily breakfast and complete access to all hotel amenities. For reservations and more information, visit www.montpeliernevis.com For further information about Nevis Island, visit www.nevisisland.com, and for details onthe Nevis Mango Festival, visit www.nevismangofest.com. About Montpelier Plantation & BeachMontpelier Plantation & Beach is a boutique hideaway on Nevis, an island steeped in history and renowned for its vibrant natural beauty. Nestled among 60 acres of lush tropical hills and built around one of the island’s original 18th-century sugar plantations, the hotel features 18 contemporary rooms—each with stunning ocean views— a 60-foot mosaic pool, tennis court and three restaurants. Situated only six miles from its private beach, Montpelier exudes laid-back chic, making it the ideal place to unwind and disconnect from everyday life. It beckons discerning travellers in search of an authentic Caribbean escape. For further information, please contact Kakia Michou at K Agency, 07780 807228, [email protected] Source link

From June to September, guests are invited to indulge in a captivating array of programming, activities and celebrations designed to enchant every age and interest With the sun-drenched days of summer on the horizon, Four Seasons Resort Nevis is enticing travellers to immerse themselves in a world of cultural celebrations, conservation programs, culinary delights and endless fun against the backdrop of the stunning coastline of the Caribbean Sea. This summer, guests are not only invited to experience the unparalleled luxury of Four Seasons Resort Nevis but also to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Caribbean culture and heritage. With a plethora of festivals and cultural events celebrating the soulful rhythms and vibrant traditions of St. Kitts and Nevis, there has never been a better time to embrace the spirit of adventure and embark on a journey of discovery in paradise. “At Four Seasons Resort Nevis, summer is not just a season – it’s a state of mind,” says Billy Cueto, General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Nevis. “Join us as we celebrate the essence of Caribbean hospitality and embrace the spirit of fancy-free fun in our island paradise as we create cherished memories that will last a lifetime and discover the unique charm of Caribbean hospitality.” Camp Nevis Guests of all ages can fuel their sense of adventure with the eagerly anticipated Camp Nevis, a summer camp-style activity schedule offered weekly. Available from June 1 through August 31, 2024, this vibrant program promises boundless excitement for both adults and children alike. Adults have the option to select two activities daily – ranging from energizing tennis or pickleball clinics to luxurious local rum tastings – in addition to the choice of three additional non-scheduled adventures per week, such as a round of golf on the Robert Trent Jones II championship golf course or a Signature Nevisian Massage. Meanwhile, children can enjoy three Kids For All Seasons activities daily – ranging from educational scavenger hunts to creative arts and crafts projects and rejuvenating kids yoga sessions – ensuring each day is filled with laughter and exploration. Prices start at USD 500++ per stay for adults and USD 100++ per stay for children. A Celebration of Conservation: Four Seasons Resort Nevis Sea Turtle Week At the heart of the summer festivities lies a profound commitment to conservation and stewardship of the natural world. In partnership with experts at the Sea Turtle Conservancy and Nevis Turtle Group, Four Seasons Resort Nevis hosts its annual Sea Turtle Week, inviting guests to connect with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. From July 19-23, 2024, visiting environmentalists can gain complimentary insightful educational sessions to captivating nightly turtle walks along the pristine beaches of Nevis and witness the magic of sea turtle nesting and release, fostering a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of marine life in the Caribbean. Summer of Culture and Cuisine In celebration of the Nevis Carnival season, which takes place every summer from July to August. Attracting people from around the world, the island comes alive with an array of shows and festivities. Among these, the pulsating rhythms of the St. Kitts Music Festival (June 22-30, 2024), the succulent sweetness of the Nevis Mango Festival (July 5-7, 2024) and the tantalising delights of St. Kitts Nevis Restaurant Week (July 11-21, 2024) stand out as noteworthy highlights. Each event promises to ignite the senses and leave an indelible mark on the soul, further enhancing the vibrant tapestry of the carnival celebrations, which grow more elaborate with each passing year. Seasonal Savings To further enhance the summer experience, Four Seasons Resort Nevis presents an array of enticing offers designed to elevate every moment of the journey. Guests can extend their stay and make the most of their time on the island with the Stay Longer – 4th Night Free offer, allowing them to immerse themselves in the very best of Nevis with a complimentary fourth night with every three consecutive paid nights in any room category. For those looking to plan ahead and celebrate the Resort’s 33rd Anniversary, the Advanced Purchase offer, allows guests to enjoy up to 33 percent off room, suite and villa rates when booking at least seven days in advance. Guests looking for a bit more space can indulge in the ultimate privacy and space with the Private Retreats – 25% Off offer for reservations made in any of the Resort’s more than 40 rental homes in the Private Retreats collection, perfect for quality time together with loved ones. This summer, that offer is also enhanced by the inclusion of complimentary round-trip airport transportation, unlimited golf tee times, including clubs and cart rentals, and unlimited racquet sports court times, including racquet rentals. Finally, Caribbean residents can also take advantage of special rates and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the neighbouring St. Kitts and Nevis with the special Caribbean Residents Rate, which provides a special rate on Nevis Peak View Rooms in addition to spa, beach and pool cabana rental, retail and food and beverage savings, all curated to create unforgettable memories amid the unparalleled beauty of Nevis. For more information about the current offers at Four Seasons Resort Nevis or to make a reservation, email [email protected] or call 869 469 6238.   Source link

From curries to cocktails, July 4 – 7 event celebrates the island’s sweetest signature crop The Nevis Tourism Authority is delighted to announce that renowned celebrity Chef Shorne Benjamin, founder of the popular Caribbean restaurant, Fat Fowl, in the heart of downtown Brooklyn New York, will headline the 10th Annual Nevis Mango Festival, scheduled July 4 – 7, 2024. Known for bringing a “new age” twist to traditional Caribbean cuisine, Chef Shorne will lend his expertise to a trio of events, teaching a Master Class in the Botanical Gardens on opening day; serving as head chef for the Saturday evening Supper Club at Four Seasons Resort’s Mango restaurant; and joining a panel of judges for the festival’s culminating event, the Regional Chef Competition at Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park on Sunday. An engaging chef who is as comfortable in the kitchen as he is on screen – he discovered his love for cooking in his grandmother’s kitchen growing up in St. Lucia. His grandmother also owned a popular eatery on the island. Recently featured in national media outlets such as the Today Show, the Tamron Hall Show, Ebony Magazine and NBC New York, his cuisine signifies traditional Caribbean food with the use of accustomed spices with a “new age” twist. One of his signature creations, the Oxtail Grilled Cheese sandwich, has gone viral on social media, attracting many from across the globe to his downtown Brooklyn establishment. His other credits include competing against Bobby Flay on the Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” and being named a finalist on “Chopped”. Deciding to transition from working on Wall Street to pursue his dream of becoming a chef when the 2008 financial crisis hit the U.S., he decided to shape his culinary skills by studying at the French Culinary Institute in New Y and later earned his title as chef training in fine dining establishments in the city. Festival-goers can look forward to sampling and celebrating dozens of varieties of island-grown mangoes at multiple events throughout the weekend, including garden tours, mango tastings, culinary and mixologist competitions, and a mango-eating contest. For more information about the Nevis Mango Festival, visit www.nevismangofest.com. Source link

The Nevis Tourism Authority is delighted to announce the launch of Cape Air’s new flight service connecting Nevis and St. Croix. Commencing on July 12, 2024, this route will offer convenient twice-weekly flights, operating on Fridays and Sundays, significantly enhancing travel options for both residents and visitors. “This new service by Cape Air is a testament to the growing demand for seamless travel from St. Croix to Nevis,” stated Premier Hon. Mark Brantley. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Cape Air to introduce this route, which will undoubtedly boost tourism, enhance business connections, and foster stronger ties between our islands.” Cape Air’s new service promises passengers comfortable seating, a friendly crew, and a strong commitment to punctuality. This addition to Nevis’ flight options opens up exciting opportunities for tourists to explore the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities of both Nevis and St. Croix. The inaugural flight will depart from St. Croix’s Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX), to Nevis’ Vance W. Amory International Airport (NEV), marking a significant milestone in regional air travel starting July 12, 2024. Experience the ease and comfort of Cape Air’s twice-weekly flights from St. Croix to Nevis. Book your tickets today and be among the first to enjoy this enhanced travel connection. Special Introductory rate starting at $328 USD from STX to NEV and $349 from NEV to STX, including tax. Flight schedule is as follows: Cape Air will depart St Croix at 11:40 and arrive in Nevis at 12:45 and depart Nevis at 13:50 and arrive in at St Croix 14:55. For more information and reservations, please visit www.capeair.com. Source link

The Nevis Tourism Authority is thrilled to announce the appointment of Candi Carter as its Nevis Diversity Ambassador. With an illustrious career spanning over 25 years in television production, Carter brings a wealth of experience, creativity, and passion to her new role. Candi Carter is an Emmy Award-winning Executive Producer and Content Creator who has produced acclaimed broadcast television for over 30 years. Carter’s leadership incorporates building successful teams and businesses, working with high-profile personalities and A-List celebrities, creating strategic content and partnerships, and focusing on diversity at every level. From 2022 to 2024, Carter served as Chief Content Officer at Knocking.com, an e-commerce production company. Before this role, she was an executive producer/showrunner for ABC and held a first-look development deal with ABC Entertainment. In March 2020, she joined The Tamron Hall Show as Executive Producer and Showrunner, navigating the show through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under her leadership, the show received three nominations for the 2021 Daytime Emmys, including “Best Informative Talk Show” and “Best Informative Talk Show Host,” as well as NAACP Image Award nominations. Prior to her work on The Tamron Hall Show, Carter served as Executive Producer of the iconic daytime TV show, The View, for five seasons. During her tenure, The View was inducted into the Broadcasting Hall of Fame and won an Emmy Award in 2020 for “Best Informative Talk Show.” Carter’s career began at CNN in Atlanta and quickly progressed to producing programming specials for WISN-TV, the ABC affiliate in Milwaukee, where she won her first Emmy Award. Carter spent 15 years at The Oprah Winfrey Show in Chicago, producing some of the most memorable episodes in daytime television history. In the show’s 25th and final season, she produced the highest-rated Oprah show in over six years, the critically acclaimed Emmy Award-winning “An Oprah Show Two-Day Event: 200 Molested Men Come Forward.” Her work was also showcased on Season 25: Oprah Behind the Scenes airing on OWN. Following The Oprah Winfrey Show’s historic run, Carter co-founded New Chapter Entertainment, developing and producing unscripted TV shows for major networks including HGTV, Lifetime, Cooking Channel, and PBS. Notably, she launched two talk shows for Telepictures TV – Just Keke on BET and Ice & Coco on FOX. In addition to her professional achievements, Carter is deeply committed to advocating for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, inspired by her 21-year-old son Emerson. She founded “We’ve Got Friends,” a non-profit organization dedicated to creating inclusive social spaces for teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to build meaningful connections with their peers. The organization hosts hangouts and special events where teens can make friends, showcase their unique talents and abilities, enhance their sense of belonging, and boost their self-confidence. Carter’s work has been featured in prominent publications such as Ebony, The New York Times, Essence, Business Wire, The Hollywood Reporter, and Black Enterprise. She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including The Producers Guild, Jack and Jill of America, Inc, NY Women in Film and Television, The National Association of Black Journalists, The Links Incorporated, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. She resides in New Jersey with her husband and two children. As the new Nevis Diversity Ambassador for the Nevis Tourism Authority, Candi Carter will leverage her extensive experience and passion for storytelling to promote the serene beauty and rich culture of Nevis, raising brand awareness among diverse audiences “I couldn’t be more thrilled to share the beauty of this island and the warmth of its people with the world,” said Carter. “I am excited to work with Premier Mark Brantley and his team to expose more diverse people to one of the most stunning islands in the Caribbean.” The Nevis Tourism Authority looks forward to working with Carter to enhance the island’s visibility and attract visitors from around the world. Premier Mark Brantley expressed his excitement about Carter’s appointment, stating, “We are honored to have Candi Carter join us as the Nevis Diversity Ambassador. Her remarkable career and dedication to diversity and inclusion align perfectly with our vision for promoting Nevis as a welcoming and inclusive destination. We look forward to working with her to share the unique beauty and culture of our island with the world.”  Source link

By Lisa Hanley   |   August 10, 2024 If you like the sound of pristine beaches and lush green botanical landscapes, then Nevis is the perfect setting for your next summer escape. For a peaceful island paradise with over 36 square miles of unspoiled land and an intimate population of just 12,000 people, this island has a lot to give. If you drive around the island, which you can do in less than one hour, you will see that the island has a soul that runs deeper than the ocean it lies on. From the many historical monuments and old sugar mill plantation ruins to the tropical rainforests and volcanic peaks, Nevis is full of folklore, history and hidden gems to discover throughout your stay. A relatively remote island devoid of traffic lights, fast-food restaurants, and large cruise ship ports makes for a haven of peace and slow living. Here, there’s no rush, just a leisurely pace of life. The roads, often used as pavements by the abundant population of goats and donkeys, are a testament to this unhurried lifestyle. The agricultural harvests are bountiful, the locals are charming, and every luxury hotel has a unique story. Where to stay You will truly be spoiled for choice when choosing a place to stay here. I enjoyed slow mornings and solo breakfasts on the luxurious grounds of the Montpelier Plantation and Beach, the hotel once graced by Princess Diana. The boutique hotel was built on an 18th-century sugar plantation and converted into a luxury hotel in the 1960s. Montpelier is the perfect stay for newcomers, equipped with private rooms with patios overlooking lavish gardens, access to private beaches, and an outdoor spa area with tennis courts. During my mornings, I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on fellow guests as they chatted casually about holiday homes, private islands, and the latest politics over eggs and espressos. But such is life in Nevis – a magnet for high-net-worth entrepreneurs, retirees, and celebrities. This idyllic island has charmed the likes of Oprah, John Travolta, Kelly Ripa, and even Beyoncé, so you never know who you may spot on your travels. I would also recommend the lavish Four Seasons Resort, Nevis. This powerhouse of a property sitting on Pinney’s beach is great for families, and offers activities for kids, including camping, cooking classes, and child minding services, so parents can enjoy a child-free evening. For those on a more romantic holiday, the private villa resort of Paradise Beach may suit your needs. This opulent five-star hotel gives you access to your own private villas, which come equipped with a pool and kitchen. Summer festivities and nightlife Visiting Nevis in July means you can enjoy their annual Mango Festival, a week-long fun-filled celebration full of activities to enjoy with your friends and family. From a small mango tree in a local garden to vast hectares of wild mango harvests, this fruit can be found here in abundance. This year marked the 10th anniversary and festivities were bigger and better than in previous years. Visitors from neighbouring Caribbean islands, the US and the UK came together for one week of music concerts, chef competitions, food tasting tours and private dining experiences with celebrity chefs. One of the week’s highlights for me was the Passport Food tour, which consisted of a restaurant hop across ten different locations around the island. I got to try a new mango-based dish at every stop whilst exploring a different part of the island each time. The concept was fun, unique, and a great way to explore Nevis. By night, you can join the locals for a beach bar crawl, gather on the roadside for impromptu music, sip the island’s famous Killer Bee cocktail, and try authentic Nevisian barbeque. Where to eat In Nevis, exceptional cuisine is a certainty. Visiting in July will allow you to indulge in an enticing array of culinary experiences. The island is abundant with fresh harvest, which means dishes are made with local ingredients and fresh produce. I tried the best seafood at the Four Seasons On the Dune restaurant. With views facing the beachfront, I could see the island of St. Kitts from a distance which turned into sparkling lights by the evening. Here, I ate the best scallops I ever had alongside a tuna carpaccio and octopus salad. They offer fresh fish on the grill, signature cocktails, and an impressive wine list. During the Mango festival, I had the opportunity to attend a private dining experience at the Four Seasons beachside restaurant, Mango, headed by celebrity chef Shorn Benjamin. The experience included a live band and rock star pianist playing classical renditions of Mozart over a reggae bassline. Guests dressed in stylish resort wear mingled over bespoke mango cocktails as the sun went down. With the sweet sounds of the live music serenading me through the night, it was hard to believe this was only a glimpse of what summer in Nevis has to offer. Excursions and sightseeing The range of activities and excursions here will surely cater to your inner adventurer. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, and sailing across the Caribbean Sea. Explorers can go on a three-hour buggy ride across the island, hike in the rainforest, or climb Nevis Peak. I opted for horseback riding along the beach in the evening. The ride was relaxing and peaceful as we rode along a nearly empty beach and watched the sun go down. In a nutshell Nevis has quickly become a haven for high net worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and retirees, thanks to its enticing citizenship incentives. So, if you’re considering your next summer destination or looking for a new island to call home, I highly recommend looking no further than Nevis. Factbox Getting there – A flight from Gatwick Airport with a short stop to Antigua will have you in St. Kitts in less than ten hours. From the airport in St. Kitts, a short ride to a boat taxi at the port will take you to Nevis. I