A view of Nevis Peak from the grounds of The Four Seasons Resort
TIME: 4:10AM
It’s a sticky and balmy warm July morning here in New York City. Already, you can tell the day is going to be a scorcher but we’re on our way to more authentic tropical weather. Our flight towards Nevis departs from John F. Kennedy airport this morning at six. We have a brief layover in Miami for about two hours. Getting to Nevis is pretty easy; flights to St. Kitts depart daily out of the Miami International Airport. From St. Kitts’ Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport we’ll hop a water taxi across the water to Nevis.
The time is now 6:45 am, the flight has departed on time and we are on our way to Miami! Pilot says we should be arriving to clear blue skies there in about three hours and twenty seven minutes. He ensures a smooth flight. I’ve closed my window and turned the music in my AirPods up. Time to get some sleep (until that snack cart comes around of course!).
TIME: 10:10AM
Upon landing in Miami, I make a quick run to the bathroom and head to the cute little Cuban restaurant named La Carreta near our gate for St. Kitts. This eatery has some really good empanadas, homemade plaintain chips and tropical fruit juices (I always get the mango!) just to name a few things worth grabbing on a short layover. Now that I have everything I need, I head back to the gate to wait for group members arriving from other connecting flights. Now, if you’re new to traveling with Coconut + Concrete and are traveling alone, I’ve got you covered. A few weeks before our departure you received a welcome packet with a necklace that will make you recognizable to others in the group (in the past I’ve sent necklaces with flip flops or pineapples as the charm piece). Wear your necklace so that we notice you!
All of the ladies I was expecting have arrived and we are now boarding our flight to St. Kitts. The women are chattering with excitement and are anxious to arrive on the sunny island of St. Kitts. I take my seat and buckle up. It will be about another three hours and change before we arrive so get comfy! I’ve downloaded a few Netflix series to my phone to keep me entertained.
TIME: 3:00PM
Welcome to St. Kitts & Nevis! After clearing customs we board a comfy air-conditioned shuttle van towards the beach where our water taxi will be waiting. I think this is truly the best part about getting to Nevis - the experience in getting there is a treat in itself. Your vacation starts the moment you step out of the airport. Keep your eyes wide open as we drive towards the dock. The views of St. Kitts are breathtaking! Have your camera ready to snap some shots of the stunning Timothy Hill.
In St. Kitts, a view of Timothy Hill from the shuttle van
Upon boarding the water taxi you’re offered a Ting or a Carib beer. I prefer a Ting, the sweet tangy twist of the popular island grapefruit soda is refreshing as we bounce over the waves, Nevis Peak welcoming us in the distance growing nearer and nearer as we approach the small island. The ride is only about seven minutes and I’ve decided to sit out front in the sun, where you can enjoy the occasional spritz from the salty azul waters below.
As we disembark from the water taxi, a shuttle van is waiting to take us to our lovely hotel, Montpelier Plantation and Beach. If you pay close attention, you’ll see that Nevis Peak is just about visible from every turn and corner on this island. I love that, it’s like a close friend that’s always by your side.
TIME: 5:46PM
We pull up to Montpelier and Cosmo, the resident pooch (and welcome committee!), welcomes us warmly. Cosmo may be large but not to worry - he is the friendliest dog you will ever meet. We are greeted warmly by the staff who already knows your name and where your room will be. Immediately, you know you’ve found your home.
After getting settled in, feel free to explore the resort grounds. Montpelier is peaceful with stunning views of luscious hills and valleys in the distance. Though not situated directly on a beach, a complimentary shuttle can whisk you away the hotel’s secluded beach.
Meet me at the bar at the Indigo Restaurant (by the pool) for a refreshing drink after a long day of travel. See you in a bit!
TIME: 8:00PM
I’m in the for the night. Tomorrow kick’s off day 1 of the Food and Mango Festival - Get your belly ready!