GETTING THERE: If you are taking a ferry from St. Kitts to Nevis be mindful that the last ferry to the island is usually at 5pm. We missed the last ferry due to a delayed flight and were told by Nisbet staff that we had to take a water taxi at a hefty price of $100-250(US$) per person. After prodding the locals we found a car ferry on the other side of St. Kitts, about a 15 minute car ride, that takes you to Nevis and brings you closer to the Nisbet location at the normal ferry cost -8USDollars. Unfortunately, we were disappointed that this well known fact was not offered as an option by Nisbet staff or the taxi driver representing Nisbet who picked us up from the airport.
WELCOME & ORIENTATION: Good welcome, typical rum drinks, cold towels, warm reception. However, during our stay when entering the office to ask for assistance it often felt like an intrusion. We didn't find the office staff offering much information except what was absolutely necessary (example: finding out the total cost after a car rental which we never did find out!). I got more information logging on to the Internet that is available there.
GROUNDS: Beautiful palm trees everywhere. Avenue of Palms is as grand as it looks. To get to your room there are no pathways which makes for a very natural and organic feel to every stroll. I must admit that it does have a bit of a campy feel. There is a constant breeze on the beach and the beach at Nisbet is beautiful but not ideal for swimming or snorkeling if that is something you desire to do. At times, especially weekends, a spot on this beach was prime real estate. The pool is nice but even that was crowded.
ROOMS: We stayed in a Junior Suite. Very spacious, clean and updated. Decor suits the tropical atmosphere. The balcony has a distant but nice view of the ocean. Not all rooms have a view.
There is a fridge in the room that is well stocked with drinks that a
parched traveler or sun worshipper needs but with overly inflated prices. (Example: Water, small bottle - $3.50, at a local store a large bottle of water costs approx. $1...be mindful that if you go to a local store it is priced in Carribean $) For the price of the stay at Nisbet it would be nice if they gave complementary water.
MEAL PLAN: Breakfast at Coconut's is by the pool and is comfortable and has delicious coconut pancakes and an array of fresh juices and fruit. It was wonderful! Tea Alfresco at 3:30pm was also nice but it is hard to get seating, or you may need to share a table with other guests. TIP: Ask for tea in the main house. Dinner at the Main House was consistently above average. The chef presented a different menu every day with great variety to suit all tastes. Gourmet, portions not to small or large, just right! Creative dishes like wahoo cerviche with avocado harbenero salsa was amazing.
WAIT STAFF: At meals service is quick but once you have your food you are abandoned. If you desire another drink or extra bread plan on waiting if you will ever get it!! The staff is friendly and warm yet it lacks in attentiveness! At times the friendly tone seemed superficial and not genuine, almost awkward!!! There are a few exceptions! Violet had the combined friendliness with the attentiveness. She asked consistently if you needed a refill on coffee she was aware of your needs at all times. She impressed me and she was genuine and grasped what it takes to be in the hospitality industry. Another honorable mention is a waitress, Glendina, she was also aware of people's needs even if she was not waiting on you, combined with her hearty laughter she had a way of making you smile. It is simple but that makes a meal more enjoyable and a place you want to frequent!
BOTTOM LINE: Disappointed, had more expectations based on the reviews. For the price we expected it to equal in quality!
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC
Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
Probably not
I recommend this hotel for:
Older Travellers, Families with Small Children
I do not recommend this hotel for:
Young Singles, Girlfriend getaway, People with disabilities
I selected this hotel as a top choice for:
Beach / Sun, Great food / Wine