I've been to both Tortola and St John but really love St John the best. How does St Kitts compare to St John? I love snorkeling the fact that the island isn't built up and "touristy". I usually rent a villa and don't mind driving to the beaches. Not a party person-go for rest, beach and relaxation. Thanks!

I've been to St. Kitts several times, but I haven't been to St. Johns yet, although I've heard it's beautiful.<BR><BR>But the vacation you've described is my ideal vacation too... and St. Kitts would be perfect. First, it's an incredibly lush and picturesque island... with an old fortress (Brimstone Hill) and a volcano and rainforests and monkeys -- just spectacular views. It's a great island to drive around. <BR><BR>Also, I typically stay at Horizons Villas in the Frigate Bay area in a 2-bedroom villa and I love staying there. The villas are spacious, with kitchens, washer/dryers and A/C. Some nice views too as it is on a hill overlooling both the Frigate Bay area and the Caribbean Sea. <BR><BR>St. Kitts is uncrowded although that may change slightly in December with the new 900-room Marriot opening -- right now they have barely over 1000 rental rooms on the island. And this goes for the beaches too. There are so many beaches within a 10-15 minute drive from the Frigate Bay area, and it is typical to be on a long beach with only 10 or so other people. Traffic on the island is also very light.<BR><BR>Best yet, the snorkeling is outstanding and you don't need to get on a boat to do it. You can just go to South Friars Bay or White House Bay and snorkel right off of the beach (although White House Bay is not much of a beach). The water is very clear, smooth and warm at both spots and there are many fish, including large parrot fish, turtles, squid, etc... There are a couple of other spots for good snorkeling (Turtle Beach and Frigate Bay Beach) but the first 2 are far superior.<BR><BR>Good luck and let me know if you have other questions.<BR><BR>