Louvet Travel

Monday, August 17, 2020

Montserrat

Montserrat Flag

"The Way the Caribbean Used to Be" & "The Emerald Isle"

Why visit Montserrat?

Most ideal for traveler not seeking the traditional tropical vacation but rather a "quieter" destination to enjoy birdwatching, charter boats, diving, hiking, shoreline caves, turtle watching, volcano observation, water sports, yachts.

At a Glance

Souvenirs to Buy: Hot sauces, jewelry, photography art, and sea island cotton goods.
Local Cuisine to Try: Cassava (flatbread). Duckna (sweet potato dish). Goat Water (stew). Johnny Cakes (muffin). Saltfish (traditional). Souse (pork dish).
Local Drink to Try: Montserrat Rum Punch

History

In 1493, spotted by Christopher Columbus.
In 1632, European settlers arrived from St Kitts.
In 1783, became a British Crown Colony.
In 1960, choose to remain a colony even after Englands' statehood offering.
In 1989, Hurricane Hugo damaged more than 90% of the island.
On July 18, 1995, the capital city, Plymouth was destroyed by Soufriere Hills Volcano after being dormant for centuries.
In 1998, granted full residency rights in the United Kingdom (UK).
Since 1998, there have been two capitals, "official" in Plymouth and the "operating" one in Blades.
In 2002, British citizenship was granted.

Fun Facts

Financially supported by the British government, supplemental income derives by custom duties, fees, and taxes.
Air Studios Montserrat was opened by former Beatles producer George Martin for famous artists to relax and record on the island. Used by famous artists like Dire Straits, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, Rolling Stones, and Stevie Wonder.
Birthplace of songwriter, Alphonsus "Arrow" Cassell. His all-time hit, Hot, Hot, Hot.
On the island's northwest tip, a new tourist attraction capital is being built and due to open by 2021.
Only13 miles long and 7 miles wide (approximately 40 square miles).

Special Holidays/Occasions

Annual Events: (March) St Patrick’s Festival, (July) Calabash Festival, (August) Cudjoe Head Festival, (October) Open Fishing Tournament, (November) Alliouagana Literary Festival, & (December) Alliouagana Literary Festival
Holidays: New Year's Day, Saint Patrick's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Labour Day, Whit Monday, Monarch's Official Birthday, Emancipation Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, & New Years Eve

Good to Know

Visitors are not permitted on the southern half of the island deemed "exclusion zone" area.
Has no four lane roads, international chain stores, neon signs, or traffic lights.
Said to resemble coastal Ireland.
Known for their Irish folk culture, shamrock decorations, Irish names, and Irish step dance.
Much of the southern end of the island is uninhabitable.
Legend says anyone drinking the spring water from Runaway Ghaut Fountain will be drawn to repeatedly return to the island.
Buses can be irregular and considered unreliable.
Ferry from Antigua arrives at Port Little Bay (island north).
You may be interested to read, Living with the Unexpected (written by A.K. Possekel).
There are only 2 gas stations on the island.
Not all businesses accept credit cards.
Only has 1 bank (Bank of Montserrat).
Exchangeable currencies are: Barbados Dollar (BBD), Canadian Dollar (CAD), Pound Sterling (GBP), & US Dollar (USD).
Avoid displaying flashy jewelry, expensive electronics, and large amounts of cash.
Air Ambulance services are available to Antigua and neighboring island Flymontserrat.
Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
Do not enter with ammunition or firearms without prior express consent from the British government.
Prevalent Diseases: Chikungunya & Dengue.
Traffic moves to the left hand side of the road.

This international destination requires:

A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.

Hurricane Season is June - November.

Coolest Season: January
Humid & Hottest: July - November
Peak Season: December - June

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Plymouth
Museums: Montserrat National Trust
Popular Attractions: Bat Cave, Bunkum Bay Beach, Brades, Carr's Bay, Center Hills, Falmouth Harbor, Garibaldi Hill, Let's Go Limin Rumshop, Little Bay, Montserrat National Trust’s Botanical Garden, Old Road Bay Beach, Oriole Walkway Trail, Rendezvous Bay, Runaway Ghaut, Silver Hill, St George Hill, The Cot, & Woodlands

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Friday, August 14, 2020

Antigua (ahn-TEE-guh) & Barbuda (bahr-BYU-duh)

Antigua & Barbuda Flag

"Land of 365 Beaches"

For American travelers who have been to The Bahamas or the Virgin Islands wishing to further explore the Caribbean Islands, this can be a great next destination.

Why visit Antigua?

Offers a sophisticated atmosphere to enjoy bird watching, bone fishing expeditions, deep sea fishing, pink or white sand beaches, ich history, sailing, sea kayaking, snorkeling, tennis, and tubing.

Fort James Beach, Fort Bay, Antigua. Photo Credit: Kelcie Papp

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Betty's Hope Estate & Fort Berkeley
Museums: Museum of Antigua & Barbuda
Popular Attractions: Antigua Distillery, Botanical Gardens, Cades Reef, Devil's Bridge, Falmouth, Fig Tree Drive, Heritage Quay, Liberta, Mount Obama (formerly Boggy Point), Nelson's Dockyard, Parliament Building, Public Market, Redcliffe Quay, Shirley Heights, St John's Cathedral & St Peter's Church

Antigua Cruise Port. Photo Credit: neufal54/Pixabay

Why visit Barbuda?

Great for a day trip, otherwise an island destination offering true solitude and quietness to enjoy bicycling, bird watchers, hiking, pink or white sand beaches, and wilderness.

Photo Credit: Toni Paul/Pixabay

History

3100 BC, Siboney's were on Antigua.
In 1632, the English settled on Antigua.
In 1685, Barbuda was leased to two brothers.
In 1705, Christopher Codrington wanted to purchase Barbuda from Queen Anne; a 99-year lease was granted for the price of "one fat sheep if demanded".
In 1889, English Harbor closed.
Until 1981, the English ruled the island.
In 1968, became an independent state within the Commonwealth of Nations.
In 2003, the American University of Antigua College of Medicine was established.

Photo Credit: photosforyou/Pixabay

Fun Facts

These islands are Spanish for ancient and bearded.
Tourism dominates its economy with supplemental income from financial services and online gambling.
The Black Pineapple is not black but, rather differs to it's dark green exterior unripe color.
Betty's Hope (Antigua) is the only operational wind-powered Sugar Mill amongst the Caribbean Islands.
Crossroads Center, a drug and alcohol addiction rehabilitation center (Antigua) was founded by Eric Clapton, Guitarist, and hospital executive groups.
Antigua was one of the first countries to legalize, license, and regulate online gambling.
You may enjoy reading A Small Place written by Jamaica Kincaid and Hornblower in the West Indies written by C.S. Forester.
A movie that may inspire your travels, The Sweetest Mango (2001).
Antigua is one of the busiest Eastern Caribbean cruise ports.

Photo Credit: Val Collins/Pixabay

Good to Know

Daylight savings time not observed.
Barbuda Express, high-speed catamaran runs between St Johns and Barbuda five days a week.

Hurricane Season is June - November, their impact usually occurs between mid-August to mid-October.

Coolest Season: January - February
Humid & Hottest: August
Peak Season: December - April
Shoulder Season: May - November

Antigua. Photo Credit: falco/Pixabay

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Thursday, August 13, 2020

St Kitts & Nevin (NEE-viss)

St Kitts & Nevin Flag

Why visit St Kitts "Sugar City"?

For travelers seeking a tropical destination for bird watching, golf, diving, fishing, hiking, history, lush tropical greenery, rain forest, shopping, spa, uncrowded beaches, volcanic landscape, water sports and zip lining.

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Berkeley Memorial, Bloody Point, Brimstone Hill, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Independence Square, Milliken Estate, Romney Manor, The Cotton Ginnery & The War Memorial
Museums: International House Museum and Edgar Challenger Library & National Museum
Popular Attractions: Ballast Bay, Basseterre, Carib Breweries, Catholic Church of Immaculate Conception, Christophe Harbour Marina, Fairview Great House & Botanical Gardens, Frigate Bay, Half Way Tree, Mt Liamuiga, Pelican Mall, Royal Beach Casino, St. George's Anglican Church, St. Kitts Scenic Railway, The Strip & White House Bay
Annual Events: (April) Booby Island Regatta & Sailing Festival (June) Carnival (September) Independence Week (December), St Kitts Music Festival

Photo Credit: Holger Woizick/Unsplash

Why visit Nevin "Queen of the Caribees"?

The traveler seeking a quieter island destination to enjoy bird watching, golf, diving, fishing, hiking, history, lush tropical greenery, rain forest, shopping, spa, uncrowded beaches, volcanic landscape, water sports, and zip lining.

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Alexander Hamilton House & Christena Memorial Plaque
Museums: Horatio Nelson Museum & Museum of Nevis History
Popular Attractions: Cottle Church, Gallipot Tamarind Bay, Montravers Estate Nelson's Spring, Nevis Beekeepers Cooperative, Nevisian Heritage Village, Pinney's Beach, St George’s Anglican Church, St James Winward Church, St John's Fig Tree Church, St Paul's Anglican Church & St Thomas' Lowland Church
Annueal Events: (April) Booby Island Regatta & Sailing Festival, (June) Culturama, (September) Independence Week, (December) Gingerama

Photo Credit: Susan Frazier/Pixabay

History

In 1713, was fully taken over by the British (St Kitts).
Begun 1910, the St Kitts Scenic Railway was constructed for the sugar industry, today used as a scenic tour.
In 1929, Nevis had their first air-mail delivery.
In 1983, became one independent nation, but each operates its own internal affairs.

Fun Facts

The Islands economy is agriculture, light manufacturing, and tourism.
During the 19th Century, Nevis is known as "Spa of the Caribbean".
Birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, first U.S. Secretary of Treasury (Nevis), also where he met his wife, a young widow of a sugarcane plantation owner.
French Settlers brought green African monkeys, which have multiplied outnumbering the human population.
St. Kitts' was originally named, Liamuiga (means fertile soil) by the Kallinago Indians.
Nearly 400 shipwrecks surround St. Kitts and Nevis.

Dr Kennedy A Simmons Highway, Saint Kitts & Nevis. Photo Credit: Katelyn Comer

Good to Know

Taste the island and treat yourself to a CSR & Ting (Cane Spirit Rothschild with local grapefruit). A liquor produced from the remains of sugarcane production roots stemming from South Africa.
You may enjoy reading A History of St Kitts written by Vincent K Hubbard.
Movie to inspire your travel, Missing in Action 2: The Beginning (1995).
Of the two islands, Nevis has better beaches.
It's illegal to wear camouflage clothing!

Hurricane Season is June - November; while suggested being outside of the "Hurricane Belt" it was hit by Hurricane Olga in 2007.

Coolest Season: January - February
Humid & Hottest: June - October
Peak Season: December - April
Shoulder Season: May - June

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park, Sandy Point Town, St Kitts & Nevis. Photo Credit: Derrick Miller/Pixabay

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

St Eustatius

Sint Eustatius Flag

Why visit St Eustatius (aka: Statia)?

Great for eco-travelers desiring an uncrowded island to enjoy beaches, culture, exotic birds, hiking, history, relaxation, scuba diving, tropical rainforest, volcanic mountains, walking.

At a Glance

Souvenirs to Buy: Crochet goods, handcrafted wood necklaces, and hand sewn clothing.
Local Cuisine to Try: Bolo Pretu (cake). Carnistoba (goat stew). Funchi (porridge). Pan Bati (pancake).

History

In 1493, Christopher Columbus sighted the island during his second voyage.
In 1636, the Dutch settled on the island.
During 1700, a trading hub for cotton, slaves, and sugar from Europe to Africa.
In 1776, when the U.S. declared Independence, was the first foreign power to officially salute a U.S. flag vessel.
In 1863, the island's population and the economy began to decline with the emerging of larger ports.
In 1939, President Franklin D Roosevelt visited while onboard USS Houston to present the First Salute plaque.
In 1998, The Quill became a National Park.
In 2010, became a special municipality within The Netherlands.

Fun Facts

During the 17th Century, Treasure Hunters search the beaches for Blue Grass Beads after big storms. Only found on the island used to trade for cotton, rum, sisal, slaves, and Tabacco.

Special Holidays/Occasions

Annual Events: (July) Carnival
Holidays: Emancipation Day & Statia Day

Good to Know

Daylight savings time not observed.
Not the recommended destination if the beach or nightlife is your primary interest.
There are no high rises, luxury resorts, or timeshares.
The island has 2 decompression chambers.
You may enjoy reading The First Salute - A View of the American Revolution written by Barbara Tuchman.

This international destination requires:

A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
Tourist VISA not required for visits under 180 days.

Hurricane Season is June - November.

Coolest Season: January
Humid & Hottest: July - September
Peak Season: December - April

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Fort de Windt
Museums: Battery Corre Corre, Lynch Plantation Museum & St Eustatius Historical Foundation Museum
Popular Attractions: Boven Mountain, Cherry Tree House, Honen Dalim, Lynch Beach, Miriam C Schmidt Botanical Garden, Oranje Beach, Oranjestad, Signal Hill, St Eustatius Marine Park, St Eustatius National Park, The Golden Rock, The Quill, Three Widows Corner & Zeelander Beach

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

Saba (say-bah)

Saba Flag

"Unspoiled Queen of the Caribbean"

Why visit Saba?

Ideal for the outdoor enthusiast seeking a slower pace in charming small inns, dramatic views, hiking, mountains, rain forest, relaxation, seclusion, snorkeling, tranquility, tropical plants, and wildlife. In addition, participating with local crafts such as canvas painting, cooking, glass art, jewelry making, Saba lace, and tie-dying.

At a Glance

Souvenirs to Buy: Handmade tropical wear, lace, rag dolls, rum, silk screen fabrics, spices, tropical clothing, and watercolor artwork.

History

In 1632, the first Europeans came to the island following a reef shipwreck.
In 1816, became apart of The Netherlands.
During 1900, Saban men were renowned sailors wanted for Dutch oil fields of Venezuela.
Before 1940, Dutch engineers claimed the terrain would be impossible to build roads.
By 1943, the first road was built about three-quarters of a mile to The Bottom.
In 1947, the first motor vehicle arrived.
In 1959, the first aircraft landed.
In 1963, the road stretch was completed.
In 1972, Fort Bay pier was completed.
In 1987, Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF) was established.
In 1992, Saba University School of Medicine was established.
In 2010, became a special municipality of The Netherlands.

Fun Facts

Known to a former sanctuary for pirates and their families. Pirate, Hiram Beakes said, "dead men tell no tales".
Zion's Hill was formerly called Hell's Gate. Its name changed after several complaints from the church.

Special Holidays/Occasions

Annual Events: (September) Culinary Week, Sunset Hike, (October) Arts & Crafts Market, Sea & Learn, (November) Anniversary of Captain Leo, Bizzy B 5K Race, Lobster Fest, Pride Week, (December) Saba Weekend & Wahoo Food Fest.
Holidays: New Years Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, Kings Day, Labour Day, Ascension Day, Whit Sunday, Carnival Monday, Saba Day, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day.

Good to Know

Daylight savings time not observed.
Island has no beaches, fast food chains. or traffic lights.
Has 1 gas station, 1 road, 3 jail cells, 4 street sweepers, and 4 towns.
Roads are very narrow, steep, and winding.
Ferry Service connects to Sint Maartin and St Barts. Anticipate choppy waters.
Given the underwater tower depth of volcanic rock starting at 300 ft down and rise to about 85 feet beneath surface; deep dives are possible. The Saba Conservation Foundation also operates a hyperbaric chamber in the event of any emergency.
Rough ocean waters makes it not conducive for beginner snorkelers.
Mandated by Saba Law, the charming gingerbread-style houses must be painted white with red, sloping roofs and green shutters.
Dinner service tends to be between 7PM - 10PM.
Lacks sandy beaches.
Hitchhiking is common.
Due to frequent falling rocks avoid the temptation to swim at Wells Bay.
Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
Prevalent Diseases: Dengue & Zika.
Medical care does not meet our western standards.

This international destination requires:

A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
Tourist VISA not required for visits under 180 days.

Hurricane Season is from June - November.

Coolest Season: December - February
Humid & Hottest: July - October
Peak Season: December - April

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: The Ladder & Mary’s Point
Museums: Dutch Museum Saba, Harry L. Johnson Museum, Maj Osmar Simmons Museum, & Saba Heritage Center
Popular Attractions: Crispin Trail, Elfin Forest, Fort Bay, Ladder Bay, Mount Scenery, Sabab National Marine Park, The Bottom, The Gap, Windwardside, & Zion Hill

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Monday, August 10, 2020

Saint Barthélemy (san-bar-TAY-le-mee)

Saint Barthélemy Flag

"Heaven on Earth"

Why visit St Barthelemy (aka: St Bart, St Barts or St Barth)?

For the affluent Luxury Traveler seeking ATV adventure, beautiful white sand beaches, boating, designer boutiques, diving, duty-free shopping, French ambiance, leisure fine dining, hilly landscape, open air jeeps, snorkeling, Swedish vibes, uncrowded destination, and yachts.

Photo Credit: Reissaamme/Pixabay

At a Glance

Souvenirs to Buy: Art, cigars, cosmetics, crystal, designer clothing, flower essences, handcrafted straw goods, jewelry, liquors, mahogany reproductions of colonial furniture, natural haircare products, perfumes, porcelain, pottery, watches, and wine.
Local Cuisine to Try: Accras (cod fritters). Fangui (cornmeal dish).

History

In 1493, Christopher Columbus sailed passed the island.
In 1648 French Settler moved onto the island.
In 1651, the island was sold to the Knights of Malta.
In 1763, French mariners from Normandy and Brittany moved onto the island.
In 1878, sold the island back to the French.
In 1957, David Rockefeller, an American Millionaire purchased a property on the island. Transforming to upscale island tourism.
In 1996, the first St Barth Film Festival was held promoting Caribbean films and filmmakers.

Fun Facts

The only Caribbean Island once a Swedish Colony. Yet, the culture, cuisine and language is distinctly French.
Referred to as the "French Riviera" in the Caribbean Islands.
Before the French Revolution, King Louis XVI sold the island to King Gustav of Sweden in exchange for Sweden Trading Rights.
A volcanic island encircled by shallow reefs.

Shell Beach, Gustavia, Saint Barthélemy. Photo Credit: kristinekelly/Pixabay

Special Holidays/Occasions

Annual Events: (January) Carnival, Literacy Festival & Book Exchange, Music Festival, (March) Gastronomic Festival, St Barth Festival of Caribbean Cinema, St Barts Bucket Regatta, (April) Les Voiles de St Barth Regatta, St Barth Film Festival, (May) SBJAM Music Festival, St Barth Cata Cup, (July) Fête in Anse des Cayes, Heritage Festival, Northern Neighborhood, (August) Feast Day, Fetes Patronale, Fête of St Barthélemy, Fête of St Louis, SB Jam Festival, Regattas, Windward Island Fête, and (November) Gustavialoppet.
Holidays: New Years Day, Easter Monday, Labour Day, V-E Day, Ascension Day, Whit Monday, Bastille Day, Assumption Day, All Saints Day, Armistice Day, and Christmas Day.

Good to Know

Daylight savings time is not observed.
Gustaf III was ranked the world's third most airport on The History Channel, Most Extreme Airports program.
Sint Maarten is a short ferry ride, however, strong currents can make for rough water crossing.
Nude and topless sunbathing is permitted.
Whales Migrate Season is May - April and August for sea turtles.
French is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Windsurfing is popular on windward beaches.
Restaurant Bar, Le Select is said to be Jimmy Buffett's inspiration to "Cheeseburger in Paradise" song.
You may enjoy reading Case et Cuisine - Traditional Living & Fine Dining in St Barthelemy.
Movies that may inspire your visit Arthur (1981), Arthur II (1988) and Salt (2010).
Volleyball is the most popular sport on St Barts.
Restaurants tend to add a 15% service charge.
Taxi drivers expect a tip of 10% of the fare.
There are public bathrooms.
Has no rivers or streams.
La Ligne de St Barth is locally sourced products from the island consisting of flowers and plants.
Tourism industry is unevenly regulated and inspections do not commonly occur.
Prevalent Diseases: Chikungunya & Dengue.

This international destination requires:

A valid passport and one blank page for entry stamp.
Currency Restrictions for Entry/Exit: $10,000EUR.

Hurricane Season is June - November.

Coolest Season: January - March
Humid & Hottest: June - September
Peak Season: December - April
Shoulder Season: September - October

Your Must-See & Do

Historical Sites: Fort Gustave
Museums: Corossol Musee Interocean, Musee Municipal de St. Barthelemy and Museum le P'tit Collectionneur.
Popular Attractions: Anse de Flamands, Anse de Grande Saline, Anse de St Jean, Corossol, Anse de Toiny, Anse du Colombier, Anse du Gouverneur, Columbier Lookout Point, Grand Cul de Sac Beach, Gustavia, Le Petit Anse, Lorient, Nature Reserve of Saint-Barthélemy, Swedish Belfry and Swedish Clock Tower.

Photo Credit: H Rabbitt/Pixabay

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" ~ Saint Augustine

All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.