Photo Credit: James Wu

Language

English is the official language and is spoken on both islands of St Kitts and Nevis. You will hear it being spoken with a strong West Indian accent. The patois dialect is also spoken, but you will always be able to communicate with people in English.

Currency

The local currency in St Kitts and Nevis is the Eastern Caribbean dollar. Sometimes hotels will quote their prices in US dollars, and will often accept this currency for payment. However, to avoid confusion between the two currencies, always confirm which currency vendors are asking for. There are a few ATMs on the islands, and numbers are increasing. At the moment, you will mainly find them in the capital, Basseterre. ATMs can dispense both Eastern Caribbean and US dollars.

Time

The time zone in St Kitts and Nevis is GMT -4.

Electricity

Electricity in St Kitts and Nevis runs at 220-240V/60Hz. You may need a transformer if your electrical appliance differs from this standard (most North American appliances run at 110-120 volts). They use a British style, flat three pin socket; also sometimes a rounded three point socket. You will need an adaptor if your plug does not meet these standards.

Communications

The international calling code for St Kitts and Nevis is +869. Cell phone communication is good in St Kitts, although the smaller island of Nevis has less coverage. In particular, don’t expect much coverage in remote areas. There are 17,000 main lines in St Kitts and Nevis, with many public payphones, or you can call from your hotel. St Kitts also has an excellent internet network, available in the majority of hotels and tourist spots.

Duty-free

Duty free goods can be purchased at Robert L Bradshaw and Vance W Amory International Airports. If you are travelling to the US you are allowed to import one liter of alcohol and 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 4lbs of tobacco.

Tourist Office

St Kitts and Nevis Tourism Authority: www.stkittstourism.kn

Consulates in St Kitts and Nevis

There is no diplomatic representation of USA in St Kitts and Nevis. The closest consular section is in the nearby country of Barbados. The same applies for Canada, although UK has an honorary consul in St Kitts:

American Embassy, Barbados: +11-246-431-0225 Canadian High Commission, Barbados: +11-869-466-8888 British Honorary Consul, St Kitts: +11-599-9747-3322

Emergency

Police and Medical: 911 Fire: 333

Click here for Visas and Vaccinations in St. Kits and Nevis