For American tourists who have never taken a Caribbean vacation and are overwhelmed by the number of options, a good first trip might be to the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). An easy commute in terms of proximity and cultural similarities to the US, the USVI is a comfortable vacation destination for American travelers seeking a Caribbean getaway with the familiar feel of home.
Named on his second voyage by Columbus for Saint Ursula and her virgin followers, the US Virgin Islands are made up of three main islands: St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. Neighboring the British Virgin Islands, the USVI lies in the Caribbean Sea less than 50 miles east of Puerto Rico.
The average temperature in the USVI is 78 degrees year-round, with summer historically being the warmest months. Temperatures reach the mid-80s from June through August, but cool down to the 70s in the winter months of December through February.
The official language of the US Virgin Islands is English and the accepted official currency is the US dollar, making it an easy escape for Americans, who do not need a passport when traveling from the United States.
Santa Cruz
St. Croix, the largest of the USVI islands, is nicknamed “Twin City” by 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, which is shown through the architecture of the town that borders the central seaport, once a center for the Caribbean molasses and rum trade. Christiansted is known for its historic buildings, many of which are yellow, including Fort Christiansted, Government House, the Old Danish Custom House, and Scale House. Free guided tours are available on weekends and by appointment on weekdays at most of Christiansted’s historic sites.
After the history lesson, Christiansted visitors can head to the central boardwalk to plan a day of activities and water sports. Rent a jet ski or kayak and head out to the ocean for a fun day of exploration. Snorkeling and diving are also popular in this port.
Visitors to Frederiksted will also find some historic sites, including Fort Frederik and the adjoining Emancipation Park, a beautiful wooded park that sits right on the waterfront. Frederiksted’s main tourist attraction might be the Cruzan Rum Distillery, where visitors can take a tour and sample authentic Cruzan rum for just 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. Although fishing is not allowed, Buck Island is known for its reefs and marine life and is known as one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Caribbean.
San Juan
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 “City of Love” by locals, as it serves as the island’s main port and is the heart of all tourist activity, from shopping to the point of origin of maritime excursions.
Two-thirds of St. John is taken up by the Virgin Islands National Park, a popular tourist attraction that has something for everyone. Nature trails, beaches, and historic structures can be found in this reserve where visitors can do everything from snorkeling to camping. Two of St. John’s most popular beaches are located in the park: Cinnamon Bay and Trunk Bay. Both white sand beaches are a great place to snorkel or dive and explore the beautiful coral reefs below the ocean 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 locals, St. Thomas exhibits its volcanic origins and boasts the highest point in the US Virgin Islands at Crown Mountain.
Tourists on St. Thomas will notice the island’s infamous hills that create a picturesque and memorable landscape seen from both land and sea. Cruise ships calling at this popular port can immediately notice the beautiful peaks and valleys that dot the St. Thomas coastline, and tourists venturing to the island can enjoy the views during trolley rides along one of its many slopes.
Beachgoers and water lovers would do well to visit Magens Bay, one of the most popular beaches in the US Virgin Islands. White sand, palm trees, and turquoise waters set the stage for a beautiful day soaking up the sun, and snorkel gear is available for rent for those who want to explore some of St. Thomas’ famous reefs.
Source: Caribbean home away from home
