Cayon: The Hidden Gem of Saint Kitts and Nevis

• HelloWah gwaan
  [wa gwaan]
• GoodbyeLata
  [lay-ta]
• YesYeah man
  [yeah man]
• NoNo sah
  [no sah]
• Please/You're welcomePreez
  [prees]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sah-ree]
• How are you?How yuh dey?
  [how yuh dey]
• Fine. And you?Irie. An yuh?
  [eye-ree. an yuh]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak English]
• I don't understandMi nah undastan
  [mee nah un-dah-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi would like fi see di menu, plz
  [mee wood like fee see dee menu, plz]
• I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [mee nah eet meet]
• Cheers!Chuurs!
  [choors]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi would like fi pay, plz
  [mee wood like fee pay, plz]

• Help!Eeeelp!
  [eeelp]
• Go away!Gweh!
  [gweh]
• Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [call dee Police]
• Call a doctor!Call a docta!
  [call a dok-ta]
• I'm lostMi loss
  [mee loss]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mee sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi would like fi buy...
  [mee wood like fee buy]
• I'm just lookingMi jus lookin
  [mee jus look-in]
• How much is it?How much dat dey?
  [how much dat dey]
• That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [dat too deer]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud drop di price?
  [yuh kud drop dee price]

• What time is it?Wah time it be?
  [wah time it bee]
• It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [it one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Haaf pass ten
  [haff pass ten]
• MorningMawnin
  [mawn-in]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [aft-ah-noon]
• EveningEevinin
  [ee-vin-in]
• YesterdayYestadeh
  [yes-ta-deh]
• TodayTiday
  [ti-day]
• TomorrowTomara
  [to-mar-a]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Tree
  [tree]
• 4Fo'
  [fo]
• 5Fi'
  [fie]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh di...
  [weh dee]
• What's the address?Wah di address?
  [wah dee address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show mi (pan di map)?
  [yuh kud show mee (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen di next (bus)?
  [wen dee next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A tiket (to ....)
  [a tik-et (to)]

Before European colonization, the area now known as Cayon was inhabited by the Kalinago people. These indigenous people lived off the land, practicing agriculture, fishing, and hunting. They left behind intricate petroglyphs and archaeological evidence that provide insight into their way of life.

In the early 17th century, European explorers, primarily the French and the British, arrived in Saint Kitts. Cayon, like many other parts of the island, saw the establishment of sugarcane plantations. This period marked significant changes in the landscape and the beginning of a colonial economy driven by sugar production.

During the plantation era, Cayon became a hub for sugar production. Large estates were established, and enslaved Africans were brought to the area to work on the plantations. The remnants of these plantations, including old sugar mills and great houses, can still be seen today, serving as a poignant reminder of this chapter in Cayon's history.

One of the most significant historical events in Cayon was the riot of 1896. Driven by discontent over labor conditions and economic hardship, the local population protested against the colonial authorities. This event is a crucial part of Cayon's history, highlighting the struggles of the working class and their fight for better living conditions.

The 20th century saw shifts in Cayon's agricultural landscape. While sugarcane remained important, there was a diversification into other crops such as cotton and vegetables. This period also saw improvements in labor conditions and the gradual decline of the plantation economy.

Today, Cayon is a vibrant community that blends its rich history with modern developments. The town has grown, with new residential areas, schools, and businesses. However, the historical landmarks and cultural heritage are carefully preserved, making Cayon a unique destination that offers a glimpse into Saint Kitts and Nevis's past while embracing its future.

Cayon is located on the island of Saint Kitts in the federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The nearest airport is Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) in Basseterre, which is approximately 10 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Cayon. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can use local minibuses that connect Cayon with other parts of the island.

Transportation options in Cayon include taxis, minibuses, and car rentals. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked through your accommodation. Minibuses operate on set routes and are an affordable way to travel around the island, but they can be crowded during peak times. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring at your own pace, but be aware that driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), although US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Basseterre and other larger towns, but they may be limited in Cayon, so plan accordingly.

Cayon is generally a safe destination, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Cayon does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There is a local police station in Cayon, and medical facilities are available in nearby Basseterre. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Cayon where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress appropriately when attending church services. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Cayon like a local, visit the weekly market where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about their community. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby rainforest and hike to the summit of Mount Liamuiga for breathtaking views. Also, consider attending local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Cayon.