ABOUT NEVIS
About
NEVIS
Nevis is one of the most unspoilt and relaxing islands in the Caribbean. Vividly green with blue skies, clean air and long empty beaches, Nevis has a pace of life that encourages you to stop and appreciate all the natural beauty around you. It’s a very special place famed for its charm and the easy-going genuineness of its people. Come and discover this remarkable jewel for yourself.
History & Culture
The written history of Nevis begins with the account recorded by Columbus when he sailed by Nevis in 1493. The name Nevis is derived from “Nuestra Senora de Las Nieves” which means “Our Lady of the Snows,” because of the cloud capped mountain.
Prior to the Columbus saga, Nevis was named Dulcina “Sweet Island” by the Arawaks and later Oualie “land of beautiful waters” by the Caribs. Later in the 18th century Nevis became known as “Queen of the Caribees.”
Over the years Nevis has made a number of significant contributions to the Caribbean and the World. Two men who played part in international history were Alexander Hamilton and Lord Horatio Nelson. Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of America and its first Secretary of the Treasury was born on Nevis on January 11, 1757. Nelson, Britains most famous admiral, used Nevis as a base of operations in the mid 1780’s and married a Nevisian, Frances Nisbet in 1787.
Nevis continued to be part of the British colonial holdings until 1967 when it achieved Associated Statehood with St. Kitts. On September 19, 1983, Nevis became part of an independent nation and form part of the sovereign democratic state of St. Christopher and Nevis. It has the unique constitutional arrangement of being part of the Federal Parliament while having a separate parliament and its own Nevis Island Administration headed by a Premier.
Eco-Tourism
There are many different coloured sands and rocks of all sizes along the island’s coastline. It’s an excellent playground for beachcombers and lovers of beach walks.
Culinary Experience
Nevisians pride themselves on their culinary expertise, with local recipes that date back through generations, made from produce such as fresh fruits including mangos, papayas and bananas, as well as fresh fish and locally-grown vegetables. Nevisians have also mastered the art of catering to international tastes, with cuisine ranging from Chinese to European to Indian.
A wide range of imported and local drinks are also available, from fresh juices to something a little stronger for those who want a bit of a kick in their juice! Nevis is known for it’s delicious local rum cocktails, including the delicious (and deadly) Killer Bee!
Embrace the variety on offer and try an array of dining and drinking experiences, from casual beach bars to formal restaurants.