By Angela Pape
While the cold winter months linger over the Northeast, I often envision a tropical paradise where I can feel the warmth of the sun radiantly shining down upon my skin. For millions of us every year, this dream becomes a reality as we travel to popular destinations including Miami, Cancun or the Bahamas. We have all taken pleasure in such vacationing hot spots at some point or another but why do we insist on revisiting these tourist havens? What ever happened to discovering the enchantment of the road less traveled? Located on the exotic island of Nevis, West Indies, Nisbet Plantation Beach Club offers just that, an experience which is refreshingly like no other. It truly represents all that is “unhurried, unspoiled, uncommon.”
When your time comes to escape from the daily demands of life and leave behind the ever-increasing pace of the city there is no better place to do so than at Nisbet Plantation. Nisbet grants you a chance to relax under palm trees on the shore of turquoise waters as the gentle breeze keeps you cool from the revitalizing sun. This beach club is designed to help you lose yourself in time and space while benefiting from the rare chance to do absolutely nothing. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the rejuvenation of its care-free atmosphere!
Everyone at Nisbet, as well as on the island at large, seems to operate under the same worriless, lighthearted frame of mind. This contagious outlook is easy to appreciate once you’ve gained insight into the way of life on Nevis. Nevis is an island where time plays no role; rushing is simply not an option. Drivers honk their horn as to suggest a friendly hello to others on the road rather than the crude gesture we too often encounter in New York. And taxi drivers, receptionists, and tour guides alike jump on the opportunity to share with you the history of this captivating island they feel fortunate to call home.
Located along the border of the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, Nevis is a lush, green island teeming with history. Although under British rule until 1834, Nevis maintains its significance in American history as it was the birthplace of Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton. However, it was British Naval Captain, Horatio Nelson, who came to marry Fanny Nisbet, and live together on Nisbet Plantation. Constructed in 1778, Nisbet Plantation originally functioned as a sugar plantation until later transformed into a coconut plantation as the sugar trade became less lucrative. This 30 acre estate now serves as the Caribbean’s only plantation resort located directly on the beach.
Whether for a couple’s retreat, a family vacation, or a weekend hideaway, Nisbet’s 36 private and romantic cottage-style accommodations offer precisely what it is you’re looking for. In fact, Nisbet’s current owner, David Dodwell, was named Caribbean Hotelier of the Year in 2010 for his outstanding performance in areas such as hotel operations, food and beverage, property maintenance, and staff training. Nisbet has also been the recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award for six straight years and was named “The Caribbean Hideaway Resort of the Year” in Andrew Harper’s Guide. Yet it is not only the accommodations which have received such high praise as Nisbet’s Palm Spa has also been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler. To top it off, the service at Nisbet was ranked among the best in the world by Travel + Leisure!
The personable and inviting service provided at Nisbet Plantation will certainly surpass any previous experience. No matter how you chose to spend your time at Nisbet you can be sure that the award-winning staff will work around the clock to best suit your needs. Lose yourself in a book while relaxing on a beachfront hammock, lounge by the freshwater pool and hot tub, or enjoy a rum punch and listen to the harmonious sounds of the steel band. Treat yourself to some of the outstanding services at the Palms Spa and bring your relaxation to a whole new level. To entertain your more active desires, use of the on-site tennis courts is a courtesy to all guests just as complimentary kayaks and snorkeling gear are available for exploration of the plentiful coral reefs. Don’t miss the daily afternoon tea elegantly served on the Great House terrace or the weekly Manager’s Cocktail Party and Beach BBQ that will have you dancing the night away!
Begin each day at Coconuts, the open-air, poolside restaurant and feast on an assortment of pastries, fruits, and other breakfast favorites. Try the juice of the day flawlessly blended from local fruits such as kiwi, star fruit, and papaya. Eat lunch with the sand at your feet at Nisbet’s fun and exciting Sea Breeze Beach Bar and cool off with a special island cocktail seasoned with freshly grated nutmeg. For dinner, experience the grace and refinement of the historical Great House which dates back to 1778. Here you can indulge in a beautifully prepared three-course gourmet meal in a candlelight setting under the stars. Allow yourself the luxury of sampling a Taste of Nevis, a selection of seasonal fares found locally on the island. From grilled Mahi Mahi to Wahoo Ceviche or Caribbean Stuffed Lobster, these fresh catches are sure to please. No meal would be complete without dessert, especially once you’ve gotten your hands on the Chef’s own creation that changes daily along with the rest of the menu.
With your taste buds skillfully satisfied, you can start planning which island adventures to take part in. On land or by sea, your options are endless. Ride in an off-road ranger during a land tour of Nevis and be on the lookout for the commonly sighted Green Vervet monkeys as well as a variety of other fascinating wildlife. Climb the volcanic Nevis Peak brilliantly covered in tropical rainforests and catch breathtaking views of surrounding islands. Go horseback riding along the white sand beaches and up the mountain slope, through the village where you are greeted by welcoming locals. Explore untouched shipwrecks and discover life under the sea on a half day snorkeling trip. Set sail on a sunset cruise or coast through the crystal waters on a catamaran.
For most of those who visit Nevis, there is one activity which reigns supreme. Found at #101 on Nisbet’s list of things to do, do what they’re famous for – nothing! Put your mind at ease and relish in the natural beauty of Nisbet’s serene surroundings. Uncover the simple pleasures in life and leave your worries behind. And discover what the Italians call il dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing!
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