Go to one destination, but
experience three distinct islands.
Your destination is the U.S. Virgin
Islands, which are part of the Lesser
Antilles of the Caribbean.
There are about 50 islands, but
only three of any consequence to
visitors.
The largest of the three
major islands, St. Croix, seems
untouched, rolling back time with
its pastel buildings and charming
shops. Take in the historic towns of
Christiansted and Frederiksted.
The liveliest of the three islands
is St. Thomas which delivers
sophisticated dining, tempting dutyfree
shopping and a great night life.
The smallest of the three islands
is St. John with a national park and
world-renowned beaches.
What to do
Take your choice: tennis, golf,
horseback riding, kayaking, biking,
hiking, sportfishing, scuba diving,
sailing, parasailing and windsurfing.
Island hop with a private water taxi,
seaplane, helicopter, ferry, private
yacht or even a jet ski.
Buy paintings, furniture, jewellery
and other arts and crafts. (The famed
Crucian hook bracelet and jewellery are
designed with larimar, a rare Caribbean
gem.)
Where to stay
There is a vast choice from
environmentally sensitive campsites to
luxurious resorts, private houses, villas
and condominiums.
The islands have become a favourite
spot for honeymoons because of the
range of activities, the natural beauty
of the islands and the many small
beaches that offer some privacy for
lovers.
Travel tips:
- Winter average temperatures are
25º C Summer averages are 28ºC - Currency is U.S. dollars.
- Time zone is Atlantic Standard
Time. - St. John: noted for its beaches,
22 hiking trails, diving and
snorkeling. - St. Croix: the only underwater
national monument in the U.S.
Has some of the most beautiful
tropical fish and coral in the
Caribbean. - St. Thomas: sophisticated
environment but don’t miss the
kayak tour of its marine sanctuary
and Mangrove lagoon to view
egrets, barracudas, jellyfish
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Spring/Summer 2013.
