Telephones in St. Kitts and Nevis

Phone cards, which you can buy in denominations of EC$5, $10, and $20, are handy for making local phone calls, calling other islands, and accessing U.S. direct lines. Many private lines and hotels charge access rates if you use your AT&T, Sprint, or MCI calling card; there's no regularity, so phoning can be frustrating. Pay phones, usually found in major town squares, take EC coins or phone cards. Port Zante has banks of "international" phones that accept credit and, erratically, calling cards. Tri-band GSM phones rentals are available via LIME (the former Cable & Wireless) in both St. Kitts and Nevis. Check with the respective tourism offices for alternative providers. Costs are high but not prohibitive, especially if you are going to be on the islands for a week or more.

To make a local call, dial the seven-digit number. To call St. Kitts and Nevis from the United States, dial area code 869, then access code 465, 466, 468, or 469 and the local four-digit number.

Information

LIME (Cayon St., Basseterre, St. Kitts. 869/465-1000. www.time4lime.com.)