TIME: 8:00AM
I like to rise early and take in the stillness of the day when I’m on vacation. Here at Montpelier Plantation and Beach, you’ll catch a splendid view of the lush island greenery from your private front porch (how many hotels can you say have a front porch?). Montpelier is made up of quaint little villas that pepper this hillside property. After a restful sleep (my intermittent fasting is on pause for this entire trip!), it is time to grab a tasty breakfast at the Indigo Restaurant, my favorite little spot by the pool. Feel free to meet me there at 9:00 am (we’ll be heading to the Mango Tasting at 10:00).
TIME: 10:30AM
The Mango Tasting is well under way! Ronald King, known as “Bankie”, from the Nevis Agricultural Department will be taking us along on this fabulous mango tasting journey at New River Estate with one of the island’s very own farmers (I can just smell the sticky sweetness in the humid, still heat of the Caribbean air). Did you know Nevis grows over 44 types of mangoes on the island? Bankie tells us about some of his favorite Nevisian mangoes while describing their flavor, texture and uses. Watch the video to find out how to eat them, which ones are best for slicing, pulping, cooking or eating straight off the tree.
TIME: 12:03PM
I’ll be kicking back here at the Drift Restaurant where you can sample some amazing dishes made with - you guessed it - mangoes! You may want to try the Lobster Mango Salad or the Mango Cheesecake (I know I’ll be getting a slice or two of the cheesecake with a nice chilled glass of white wine). Oh, and did I mention that the Drift is a cute little beach house? Excuse me while I go play “red light, green light” with the little waves crashing along the shore! Pull up a chair and relax, we’ll be hanging out here for a while!
*Something I always cherish on my group trips are the conversations I have with ladies whom I’ve either just met or haven’t seen in some time. These conversations are always so dope, empowering and motivating. Uplifting.
TIME: 4:30PM
After freshening up a bit and relaxing in my cute little villa back at Montpelier, I realize I can still eat a little something. Heading to Indigo (by the pool) to dine on a lunchtime special of curry chicken with mango chutney (Remember, I told you to bring your belly - or two). You are more than welcome to join me!
TIME: 8:00PM
You guessed it, time to eat again! We’ll be having dinner and drinks at Sunshine’s Beach Bar and Grill. I love this local chill spot; there’s a bonfire on the beach and the ribs are REALLY good here. If you’re a fan of rum punch, you’ll definitely want to try the island favorite Killer Bee (from what I’ve heard, one drink will have you done for the night! Side note - I had one and was fine but try it at your own risk sis!). Good food, good music and good company - the perfect way to end our first full day in Nevis.
TIME: 11:00PM
Be ready at 10:00 tomorrow morning, we’ll be attending the Festival Cook-Off!