Since making the move from Dublin to St Kitts for his job as local managing director of phone company Digicel, Brian Finn has fully immersed himself in the Caribbean lifestyle.

Living in Frigate Bay, east of the capital Basseterre since last November, he says he has fallen in love with the relaxed atmosphere and friendly attitude of the locals.

"Although it's a completely different culture, the mentality of the Caribbean people and the Irish is very similar - work hard and play hard. I really like the fact that the people here are so laid back; they'll think nothing of stopping in the street and having a chat with you." Finn says the atmosphere in St Kitts ahead of next year's Cricket World Cup has been wonderful.

"There's a real buzz in the air. The cricket matches here have such an amazing atmosphere, full of bright colours and loud music during the breaks. Everyone gets into the spirit of the game - what they refer to here as 'liming'. The major appeal of St Kitts, along with its sister island Nevis, is that it has kept its natural beauty, avoiding overcrowding and commercialisation.

"You get a real sense of what it's like to be in the Caribbean. There's also the added benefit of having beautiful weather and a great social life. It's a whole different world and I'd highly recommend t to anyone considering a visit or a permanent move."  - LM