Tobias

I'm moving to St. Kitts on July 25th, 1998 for a 6 month internship. <BR> <BR>If anybody could give me some feedback on costs of living, recreation (beaches, snorkeling, island tours, etc) and locals. I'd appreciate it. <BR>Also is it a relatively safe island? I wasn't to take stuff like a video camera, but heard stories about crime and feel it may not be worth the risk of being asaulted or robbed. And feedback?

Fran

Tobias: My family and I visited St. Kitts in November for some diving. We found the island to be one of the most beautiful, geographically, that we have ever seen. We stayed at a hotel so we can not comment on the cost of living but the food was pretty resonable considering we were in the caribbean (I;m talking about the supermarkets) The natives were friendly at the resorts but we found them a little stand-offish, very laid back and especially the women, they kind of take offense to serving the guests even though it is their job. Unfortunately, there aren't too many beaches there, in fact there is only one that I remember and that was down by the Jack Tar Village resort in the bay there, (I dont remember the name of the bay) They spear fish right off the water there so alot of the large fish are gone so the diving was pretty predictable. You don't hear too much about the snorkling. I would highly recommend taking a tour into the rainforest with Greg who owns Greg's Safaris. He is of Kittinian decent and he is one of the most friendliest and knowledgeable people we met. He took us into the rainforest and we had an excellent time. While you are there I am sure you will have time to take the ferry into Nevis. I heard that it is an interesting island to explore. We had no problem with crime although they say drugs are a problem with the locals. (where is it not?) It is not an intimidating island as there are not any bad areas that you should stay away from just don't leave valuables on the beach unattended when you are in the water or leave your car unlocked. Normal stuff. Have a good time. I am sure that this will be a positive experience for you. Fran

Jean E. Bowers

How lucky you are. What type of internship? Islanders are perhaps a little difficult to know at first because they are shy especially the woman but at heart kind and generous. It is a common sight to see someone with a towel over their shoulder on there way to a bath house, because their own house did not have running water. I lived in the Virgin Islands and enjoyed my time there. Some things you are used to at home you may not be able to find on the island. I would not take anything of great value with you to be on the safe side. You will be able to pick up fresh fish from local fishermen and also locally grown fruits and vegetables for a reasonable sum. Anything imported will be at least twice as much there. Take all your personal grooming items with you, tooth paste, deoderant, soap, bug spray etc. It is very warm and humid so take plenty of cotton clothes, tee shirts, pants. They are cool and are easy to wash out. You are however very close to several other islands worth a look. I enjoyed the day I spent touring Brimstone Hill a restored fortress and also a Batik factory. I was off the Windjammer Polynesia and picked up a driver at the port. He was elderly but quite charming and knowledgeable.

Paula

I've been to the island five times and am going back <BR>in Oct.The people are very friendly and helpful once <BR>you get to know them. Friars Bay is a beautiful beach and quite secluded. Frigate Bay is more active, more people but very nice. The Monkey Bar is a must for happy hour and dancing Friday and Sunday night. Sprat Net is a great local restaurant out on old road. Tell Marcus I said hello. Rams is the local grocery store and not overly pricy. Mango's is another great restaurant run by Neal and Ian. Wonderful people. Ballahoo and Bayambi's are two places to go in town. Get to meet the locals and you will have a fantastic town. Not alot of crime that I've ever seen. But don't leave things laying around. Be street smart as you would anywhere. Feel free to e-mail me with any questions. I'm planning on moving there in about five years if I can pull it together. What kind of internship? I also have a local phone book if that would be of any help to you. I know alot of people that also would be willing to help. Have a great time.