Situated along the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean Sea, the US Virgin Islands comprises 50 cays and isles, both inhabited and uninhabited. Three of these include the biggest and most populated — St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in the mid-1400’s, it was bought by Danish royalty in 1733 and was subsequently sold to the US Government in 1917, making it an American territory observing US-governed laws. Many of its indigenous residents come from African or West Indian ancestry. But a few European, Middle Eastern, North American and Asian people also currently reside in the islands. The official language of this territory is English, but a big percentage of the population speaks Spanish.
Its pristine beaches, blue waters, subtropical temperature, colourful plant and sea life, make it a favorite paradise vacation spot of many tourists. US Virgin Island’s economy relies mostly on tourism. There are about 5,000 hotel rooms within the major islands and a host of fun-filled activities visitors will surely treasure and enjoy. Apart from being a prime tourist destination, the US Virgin Islands is also a popular wedding venue, where couples can choose to get married indoors or outdoors, in the garden, on a boat, by the beach or even underwater!
Getting Around
The best way to get around the islands is through boats. And here, there are plenty of motorboats and sailboats for rent. If your budget affords it, you can even charter one, complete with your own crew. But if you are experienced with sailing, you will find that cruising through the currents will be very relaxing as there are hardly any obstructions or tides in the waters. You may also opt to rent a car to get around. But do take note that in many parts of these islands, the mode of transportation is best left to just walking.
Things to See and Do
Without a doubt, tourists visit this territory to commune and be overwhelmed with its natural beauty. Enjoying the waters and white sandy beaches is surely on top of most people’s list.
Coki Beach in St Thomas is where most tourists are. It is one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. It is also a paradise for shoppers and those out for a great time. There is a duty free shop here, as well as a number of trendy bars, including the world-famous Hard Rock Café.
Regarded as the islands real treasure, a big part of St. John is actually a national park where hikers and outdoor activities enthusiasts may find pleasure in. Many visitors prefer this island for snorkelling, para-sailing, kayaking, surfing or scuba-diving; and there are about 40 beaches to choose the best spot from.
The largest among the three, St. Croix boasts of an underwater park. The beaches here are also open to the public for free. The town of Frederiksted and Christiansted at St. Croix are also famous for its rich architectural history.
Tourists are required to obtain a permit from the proper government agency before they are able to go fishing. Their laws are quite strict on non-residents disturbing marine life. Permits may take a few days to be given, so it is best to plan early if you have this in your itinerary.
If you have had enough of the water and intend to stay dry for a few days, you can enjoy various activities offered in the islands’ many resorts, such as golfing, mountain biking, hiking, and horseback-riding. Chartered day or sunset tours and cruises are offered all over the islands. You can choose from any of these types: speed boats (for thrill rides), power boats (for picnics or snorkelling), catamarans (for a romantic cruise), ocean fishing boats and Tiki party boats.
Atlantis Submarine is a unique tour where visitors are taken inside a real submarine in which one can experience, first-hand, exotic sea creatures swimming beside and around the submarine.
Nightlife, Dining and Drinking
The food of choice in the island is inevitably seafood. Even at small restaurants, you can partake in a meal of lobsters and other kinds of fish. The drink of choice is rum or its variation, the rum punch. Smaller towns spend a quiet, laidback night enjoying beer and music while nights in bigger towns are reserved for that fun-filled party atmosphere.
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