General Information

Nevis, population in 2006 approximately 11,000, is located in the Leeward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean. The Island is small and charming, dominated by a lush peak and with many beaches. Its sister island of St. Kitts is only 2 miles to the North. All beaches are public and have at least one established access.

How to get to Nevis:

St. Kitts, Antigua or St. Martin are convenient entry points, from the USA usually via Puerto Rico. Travelers can now book directly through Puerto Rico with direct flights to Nevis daily as a result of the newly added state of the art Vance Amory International Airport. From Canada, direct flights to these islands both scheduled and charter. From the UK and Germany, also scheduled and charter flights to these islands.

Immigration:
A valid passport is required for all nationals. Most EC countries, as well as the USA do not require visas. A cash departure tax of US $20 or EC $53 (as of 2006) is payable per person upon departure.

Currency and Banking:
East Caribbean Dollar (EC$) with set rate of exchange US $1 = EC $2.7, (GBP = EC $5.0 but fluctuates daily). US $ are readily accepted throughout the island and other major currencies can be exchanged at all local banks. Banks are generally open 8am to 3pm Monday through Thursday with extended hours on Fridays. ATM machines can only be used by local bank cards but cash can be obtained with credit cards upon production of a passport in all major banks.

Credit Card:
All major cards are usually accepted throughout the island.

Dress Code:
Cotton summer clothing is recommended. During winter, a light cardigan is advisable for the cool evenings. Nevisians are, by nature, conservative so ladies should note that not bikinis should be worn when walking in town to respect local custom. Topless bathing is forbidden. If you behave with decorum you won’t have a problem on Nevis.

Electricity:
110 volts, 60 cycles (as in North America). 240 volts comes direct from the Nevis Electricity Company (Nev Lec) in most villas is converted via a step-down transformer allowing 110 volt use.

Transportation:
Jeeps, vans and cars can be rented starting at approximately $55 per day (can be higher depending on choice of vehicle). Local taxis are available as are local mini-buses (inexpensive!) that go around the island.

Shopping:
Nevis has limited shopping but local batik and art are good buys. Essential items can be found in drugstores and supermarkets, but be prepared to pay a little more than at home. A day trip to St. Kitts offers many duty free shops selling quality jewelry, Cuban cigars and other goods. Books and magazines are good things to