Charlestown: A Caribbean Jewel in Saint Kitts and Nevis

• HelloWah gwaan
  [wah gwaan]
• GoodbyeLekka
  [lek-ka]
• YesYes
  [yes]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePreez/No problem
  [preez/no prob-lem]
• Thank youTank yuh
  [tank yuh]
• Excuse me/SorrySarry
  [sarry]
• How are you?Wah goin on?
  [wah go-in on]
• Fine. And you?Fine. An yuh?
  [fine. an yuh]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [yuh speak English]
• I don't understandMi nah undastan
  [mi nah un-da-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wah see di menu, please
  [mi wah see dee menu, please]
• I don't eat meatMi nuh eat meat
  [mi noo-eet meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wah pay, please
  [mi wah pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Guh way!
  [guh way]
• Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [call dee police]
• Call a doctor!Call a docta!
  [call a doc-ta]
• I'm lostMi lost
  [mi lost]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mi sick]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wah buy...
  [mi wah buy]
• I'm just lookingMi jus lookin
  [mi jus look-in]
• How much is it?How much it dey?
  [how much it dey]
• That's too expensiveDat too much money
  [dat too much money]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh cud drop di price?
  [yuh cud drop dee price]

• What time is it?Wah time it be?
  [wah time it be]
• It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [it one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half pass ten
  [half pass ten]
• MorningMawnin
  [mawnin]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [afta-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [even-in]
• YesterdayYestadeh
  [yes-ta-deh]
• TodayToday
  [today]
• TomorrowTamara
  [ta-ma-ra]
• 1One
  [one]
• 2Two
  [two]
• 3Tree
  [tree]
• 4Fo'
  [fo]
• 5Fahv
  [fahv]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Sev'n
  [sev-n]
• 8Eyt
  [eyt]
• 9Nahn
  [nahn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Whey di...deh?
  [whey dee...deh]
• What's the address?Wah di address?
  [wah dee address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh cud show me (pan di map)?
  [yuh cud show me (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen di nex' (bus)?
  [wen dee nex' (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A tikkit (to ....)
  [a tik-kit (to)]

Charlestown, the capital of Nevis, was founded in the early 18th century. It quickly became an important administrative and trading center due to its advantageous location on the island's western coast. The town's layout reflects its colonial heritage, with its grid of narrow streets and Georgian-style architecture.

One of Charlestown's most notable historical figures is Alexander Hamilton, the Founding Father of the United States, who was born here in 1755 or 1757. The Hamilton House, now a museum, stands as a testament to his early life on the island and offers visitors a glimpse into the colonial era.

Charlestown was once a key player in the transatlantic slave trade. The Slave Market, now a historical site, was where enslaved Africans were bought and sold. This dark chapter in the town's history is remembered through exhibits and plaques that educate visitors about the atrocities of slavery.

In 1867, a devastating fire swept through Charlestown, destroying much of its infrastructure and historic buildings. The fire significantly altered the town's landscape, but it also led to a period of rebuilding and modernization, which shaped the Charlestown we see today.

Opened in 1778, the Bath Hotel in Charlestown was the first hotel in the Caribbean. It attracted wealthy Europeans and Americans seeking the therapeutic benefits of the nearby hot springs. The hotel played a crucial role in establishing Nevis as a tourist destination.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Charlestown was integral to Nevis's booming sugar industry. The town served as a hub for the processing and export of sugar cane, which was the island's primary economic activity. Remnants of sugar mills and plantations can still be explored today.

On September 19, 1983, Saint Kitts and Nevis gained independence from British colonial rule. Charlestown, as the capital of Nevis, played a significant role in the celebrations and the establishment of a new national identity. Independence Day is now a major annual event in the town.

The Nevis Island Assembly, located in Charlestown, is the legislative body responsible for the governance of Nevis. Established post-independence, it plays a crucial role in the political and administrative affairs of the island. The Assembly building is an important landmark in the town.

Charlestown is the heart of Nevisian culture, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. The Nevis Culturama, held annually, is a celebration of the island's heritage, featuring parades, music, dance, and traditional crafts. It is one of the most vibrant times to visit the town.

Charlestown is located on the island of Nevis, part of the twin-island nation of Saint Kitts and Nevis. The nearest international airport is Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport (SKB) on Saint Kitts. From there, you can take a ferry from Basseterre, the capital of Saint Kitts, to Charlestown. The ferry ride typically takes about 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a small charter flight directly to Vance W. Amory International Airport (NEV) on Nevis, which is a short taxi ride away from Charlestown.

Charlestown is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. There are also local minibuses that operate on fixed routes around the island. Renting a car is an option for those who prefer more flexibility, but be aware that driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency in Saint Kitts and Nevis is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD). US Dollars are also widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Charlestown for cash withdrawals.

Charlestown is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take basic precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Charlestown has a local police station and a medical facility, Alexandra Hospital, which can handle most emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Charlestown where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Remove hats and sunglasses when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and courteous on local minibuses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Good day' or 'Hello'. A handshake is a common form of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Charlestown like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don’t miss visiting the Museum of Nevis History and the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton. For a unique experience, take a hike up Nevis Peak for stunning views of the island and surrounding sea.