Overview
Basseterre is one of the oldest towns in the Eastern Caribbean, founded in the early 17th century. Most city structures date from after the great fire of 1867, giving it a distinctive colonial character.
Architecture · Beach · Day Trips · History · Nightlife
Before you go
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is available on St. Kitts. WiFi is common in hotels and some cafes. US-style power plugs (Type A/B, 110V) are standard.
Culture
The national drink is "Ting with a Sting"—grapefruit soda with local rum. Using local CSR rum instead of imports is preferred by locals. Cricket is the dominant sport, with T20 Caribbean Premier League matches at Warner Park.
Money
The local currency is East Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but US dollars are accepted virtually everywhere. Credit cards work at larger establishments. For duty-free shopping, show your cruise card, foreign driver's license, or passport.
Safety
Basseterre is generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions against petty theft apply, especially around cruise terminals and tourist areas.
Transport
Public buses have green licence plates and serve 5 main routes. Taxis are readily available at cruise terminals with negotiable rates. Caribelle Batik is 11 miles outside town; consider a taxi or organized tour.
