The U.S. Virgin Islands: Your Caribbean Home Away From Home
Posted: Wednesday, February 16, 2011
by Anita Dunham-Potter
For American tourists who have never taken a Caribbean vacation and are overwhelmed by the number of options, a good first trip might be the Virgin Islands of the United States (USVI). An easy trip in terms of proximity and cultural similarities to the U.S., the USVI are a comfortable vacation destination for American travelers looking for a Caribbean escape with the familiar feel of home.
The average temperature in the USVI is 78 degrees year-round, with the summer historically being the warmest months. Temperatures reach the mid-80s from June through August, but cool to the 70s in the winter months from December to February.
The official language of the USVI is English and the official accepted currency is the U.S. dollar, making it an easy escape for Americans, who don’t need a passport when traveling from the States.
St. Croix
The largest of the USVI islands, St. Croix is nicknamed “Twin City” by the locals in reference to its two main tourist towns: Christiansted and Frederiksted. Both towns promise tourists a unique experience, one very different from the other.
Christiansted has a rich Dutch history, showcased through the town’s architecture that borders the central seaport which was once a Caribbean trading hub molasses and rum. Christiansted is known for its historic buildings, many of which are yellow in color including Fort Christiansted, the Government House, the Old Danish Customs House and the Scale House. Free guided tours are available on weekends and by appointment on weekdays at most of Christiansted’s historical sites.
After the history lesson, visitors at Christiansted can head over to the central boardwalk to plan a day of water sports and activities. Rent a jet ski or kayak and head out on the ocean for a fun day of exploring. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular at this port.
Visitors to Frederiksted will also find some historical sites, including Fort Frederik and its adjoining Emancipation Park, a beautiful tree-lined park that sits right on the waterfront. Frederiksted’s main tourist attraction might be the Cruzan Rum Distillery, where visitors can get a tour and sample authentic Cruzan rum for only a few dollars admission.
Just north of St. Croix, tourists can venture a few miles to Buck Island Reef, a national monument and uninhabited island that serves as a nature reserve for endangered species and marine life, including sea turtles. Though no fishing is allowed, Buck Island is known for its reefs and marine species and is known as one of the Caribbean’s top scuba and snorkel diving spots.
St. John
Perhaps the quietest of the three main USVI islands in terms of tourist activity due to its low development, St. John is a relatively hidden treasure in the Caribbean. The main town, Cruz Bay, is nicknamed “Love City” by the locals as it serves as the island’s main port and is the heart of the all tourist activity from shopping to the point of origin for ocean excursions.
Two-thirds of St. John is occupied by the Virgin Islands National Park, a popular tourist attraction that has something for everyone. Nature trails, beaches and historic structures can all be found in this reserve where visitors can do everything from snorkeling to camping. Two of St. John’s most popular beaches are in the park: Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay. Both white-sand beaches are a great spot to snorkel or dive to explore the beautiful coral reefs below the ocean’s surface.
St. Thomas
Historically considered the most popular USVI island in terms of tourist activity, St. Thomas differs from its two USVI counterparts when it comes to notable attractions. Nicknamed “Rock City” by the locals, St. Thomas showcases its volcanic origins and boasts the highest point in the USVI at Crown Mountain.
Tourists on St. Thomas will note the island’s infamous hills which create a memorable and scenic landscape seen from both land and see. Cruises pulling into this popular port can immediately notice the beautiful peaks and valleys that dot St. Thomas’ shoreline, and tourists venturing onto the island can take in the views during leisurely tram rides up one of its many mountainsides.
Beach lovers and water bugs would be smart to visit Magens Bay, one of the USVI’s most popular beaches. White sand, palm trees and turquoise waters set the scene for a beautiful day of sunbathing, and snorkel gear is available to rent for those wishing to explore some of St. Thomas’ famous reefs.
Source:
http://www.paradisebymarriott.com/article-details?include=142751
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