Charlestown, Saint Kitts and Nevis 🇰🇳
#1227
,
Nomad Score:
58%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Charlestown is the capital of Saint Kitts and Nevis, known for its rich history and beautiful coastal views. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1,200 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); 1 USD ≈ 2.70 XCD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Drinkable. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 60Hz, 🔌 Type G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available from Flow and Digicel. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Banks include First Caribbean International Bank and Republic Bank; ATMs widely available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include traditional hotels, guesthouses, and short-term rentals via platforms like Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are widely accepted. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are popular for short stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Options like the Ocean's Edge Hotel provide budget-friendly lodging. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Waterfront areas with easy access to shops and restaurants. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Close to Coworking spaces near the town center, providing access to amenities. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Wellness Center offers a quiet space for remote work. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Rising Tide Cafe is popular for remote work with good Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local business meetups often held at community centers. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups for expats often organize dinners and activities. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | App-based services are limited; local taxis are available. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals can be found at local shops for around XCD 50/day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Frigate Bay Beach, a 15-minute drive. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | LIAT offers regional connections to other Caribbean islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and JetBlue service the area through Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The main road connecting to Basseterre and surrounding areas. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Limited public transport; local taxis and hire cars are primary transit methods. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Day passes are not available; pay-as-you-go for taxis. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Ferries connect to Nevis, taking about 30 minutes. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Joseph Nathaniel France General Hospital for primary healthcare. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Yoga Retreat offers classes and wellness workshops. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | A local gym also offers short-term memberships for visiting fitness enthusiasts. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Self-service laundromats are limited; some hotels offer laundry services. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Local delivery services are available; check with restaurants for delivery options. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Local favorite is 'Stewed Saltfish' with provisions. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Plant-based options available at Cafe Verde. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | The Cupcake Cafe offers a wide range of homemade dessert options. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets offer fresh produce and snacks at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon and local online shops provide delivery options. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Supermarkets like Ram's and Pricesmart offer grocery delivery services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Rodney Bay area has vibrant nightlife and bars. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Wadadli Brewery is famous for its local beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | The Wine Rack offers a selection of local and international wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Try local street food at the Charlestown Public Market. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and Italian cuisine is available at various restaurants. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The National Museum of Saint Kitts is a cultural highlight. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Timothy Hill Art Gallery showcases local art. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | St. Mary's Anglican Church dates back to the 18th century. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Carnival celebrations in early January are a major highlight. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Visit the downtown area for local crafts and shops. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Small performance venues host local bands and theater. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Charlestown Public Market is the best for local cuisine and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Reggae and calypso music are predominant in local venues. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Local murals can be found around downtown Charlestown. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Culinary classes are offered in local cooking schools. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The Legend Gallery features local artists. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Historic buildings line the waterfront providing scenic views. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Rich maritime and colonial history reflected in local architecture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Conaree Marsh is suitable for birdwatching and nature walks. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | St. Kitts National Park includes hiking trails and scenic views. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Trails around the coastline ideal for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Brimstone Hill offers breathtaking views of the island. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Hotspots for viewing migratory birds include the Codrington College grounds. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas on Frigate Bay Beach. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post office offers parcel services; FedEx has a presence. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops can assist with minor repairs; wider options in Basseterre. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Table tennis is played at the community center. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language exchange meetups hosted periodically. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Visit the local library for study space and quiet. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Charlestown Community Center hosts various events and classes. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited; most gaming occurs in home settings or local cafes. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Several small casinos exist in St. Kitts; the largest is the Royal St. Kitts Casino. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 2,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = XCD 100,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = XCD 80,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 2,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XCD 168,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = XCD 150,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XCD 3,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XCD 240,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XCD 2,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = XCD 200,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% for businesses. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system based on earnings. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25%. |
| 🧾 VAT | 17%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, strict oversight on foreign corporations. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual tax based on value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 5% standard rate during property transactions. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No income tax for expatriates residing temporarily. |