VISITOR & LOCAL GUIDE FOR 49 YEARS
NOVEMBER 2020
ST. CROIX THIS WEEK MATT
JARVIS COVER ARTIST HISTORICAL ORIGINS OF CRUZAN RUM
OUR DANISH CONNECTION EARLY ARCHAEOLOGY
LOVE & CHANGE IN
THE TIME OF CORONA ONLINE STUDENT GALLERY
To Do o Go WHERE T HOW T o Find It WHAT
Attractions Tours/Events Shopping Food & Drink Local Art Watersports Beaches/Golf Getting Around Road Maps Staying Here Buying Here Get Fit/Be Well Sky Watch
1 Company St STE 1 Christiansted, VI
b o a r d wa l k
ne x t to t w i n c i t y coffee
1 (877) 766-9284 fo rt c h r i s t i a n s va e r n
Son ya Ltd
Twin City Cafe Company house
The Original St. Croix Hook. fine island jewel ry. often imitated, never du plicated . sonyaltdstore.com sonyaltd@gmail.com @sonya.ltd
CONTENTS
OC TOBER/NOVEMBER 2020
MEN’S COALITION OF THE VI
8
BOTANICAL GARDEN OF THE VI Family Time at the Garden!
10
DUTY FREE ALLOWANCE
23
THE HISTORICAL ORIGINS OF CRUZAN RUM – EARLY DECADES
30
LEATHERBACK BREWING CO St. Croix Craft Beers
35
LOCAL FARMSTANDS
36
MEET THE COVER ARTISTS
39
OUR DANISH CONNECTION Early Archaeologists
41
NEP2UNE SCUBA DIVING
47
TURTLE NESTING SEASON
59
YAG FOUNDATION The Bold, Brave, and Beautiful!
60
LOVE & CHANGE IN THE TIME OF CORONA – ONLINE GALLERY
62
WHAT TYPE OF ISLANDER ARE YOU? Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty
60
OCTOBER KEBRA KEZA “African Lady” Graphite & Acrylic NOVEMBER MATT JARVIS “Breakfast” Oil on Canvas
MAPS 54 56 58
ST CROIX ROAD MAP CHRISTIANSTED MAP Walking Tour FREDERIKSTED MAP Walking Tour
ST. CROIX THIS WEEK Effects of a Virus.
ON THE COVERS
25
nt.
5
23
4 EVENTS CALENDAR 7 ATTRACTIONS & TOURS 10 SHOP DUTY FREE 22 EASY SHOPPING GUIDE 24 FOOD & DRINK 34 EASY DINING GUIDE 36 LOCAL ART 38 WEDDINGS 40 WATERSPORTS 46 BEACHES 47 GOLF & TENNIS 48 GOOD TO KNOW FACTS 50 STAYING HERE EASY HOTEL GUIDE 52 GETTING AROUND RENTAL CARS,/TAXIS/FERRY 60 GET FIT/BE WELL 62 BUYING HERE 65 SKYWATCH
Pink Lady .
ANACAONAS DE BORINQUEN VI-PR Friendship Exhibit
Detail, Vintage Cruzan Rum Label.
3
Susan Wall
FEATURES
IN EVERY ISSUE
Rum And Win e Ba r Res taur a
Turtle Nesting Season through December.
47
Angelina Springer
Morris Caribbean Publications St. Croix This Week St. Thomas / St. John This Week St. Thomas In A Day IN THE USA
PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER DISTRIBUTION
Charlotte Atkins Chelsea Sunshine Liz Covert
Copyright 2020. No part may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.
MANAGING EDITOR - MEDIA CONSULTANT Susan S. Wall 340-773-0715 / 340-277-9642 stcroixthisweek@gmail.com e-edition – stcroixthisweek.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 1
on St. Croix
Our Voted Best Award-Winning Voted Best Real Real ® Estate Agency REALTORS are Estate Agency aton your service on St. St. Croix Croix Our Our Award-Winning Award-Winning ® REALTORS ® ® are REALTORS are at your service Claudia at your service Rosalee Carrington Hays Gage
Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner
The Virgin Islands Of The United States OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR GOVERNMENT HOUSE
1105 King Street Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S.V.I. 00820 Ava Gail Bourdon Ava Gail CanegataBourdon Broker-Owner Dianne Ava Gail Bourdon Broker-Owner O’Reilly Broker-Owner
Claudia Claudia Carrington Emelyn Claudia Kelly Pugh Carrington Morris-Sayre Carrington
Rosalee Rosalee Hays Gage Christopher Rosalee La Toya Ault Hays Gage Jones Hays Gage
Dianne CanegataJason Dianne CanegataO’Reilly Dianne CanegataWalker O’Reilly O’Reilly
Emelyn Emelyn Char Emelyn Morris-Sayre Emelyn Gregoire Morris-Sayre Morris-Sayre Morris-Sayre
Christopher Joe and Juliet Christopher Jones Christopher SanJones Martin Jones
Jason La Toya Jason Walker Jason Lettsome-Ault Walker Walker
Karen Char Maria Gregoire CharDel Stanton Gregoire Valle Gregoire
Char
Joe and Juliet Timothy Joe and Juliet San Martin Joe and Juliet Providence San Martin San Martin
La Toya La Toya Lettsome-Ault LaJennell Toya Lettsome-Ault Bryan Lettsome-Ault
Karen Karen Yvonne Stanton Karen Stanton Toussaint Stanton
Timothy Patrick Timothy Robin and Walt Providence Timothy Providence Providence Frazier III Providence
340-773-1048
info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com www.remax-stcroix.com
Jennell
Yvonne Toussaint Jennell Bryan Jennell
Bryan Bryan
Timothy
RE/MAX St. Croix
#5 Company Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 Each Office is Independently Owned & Operated
Yvonne
Andre Toussaint Yvonne Toussaint Yvonne
340-773-1048 340-773-1048 info@remax-stcroix.com
Toussaint Toussaint
Robin and Walt Adina Espinosa Robin and Walt Frazier III Robin and Walt Frazier III III Frazier
RE/MAX St. Croix info@remax-stcroix.com RE/MAX Croix info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com #5 CompanySt. Street, Christiansted, VI 00820 info@remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com #5 Company Street, 00820 Office is Independently Owned &VI Operated www.remax-stcroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com Each Company Street, Christiansted, Christiansted, VI 00820 www.remax-stcroix.com #5 Each Office Office is is Independently Independently Owned Owned & & Operated Operated www.remax-stcroix.com Each www.remax-stcroix.com 2 • Oc tober/November 2020
Tel: (340) 773-1404 Fax: (340) 713-9806
Tel: (340) 772-1000 Fax: (340) 772-0333 Welcome to our beautiful Virgin Islands of the United States. Our islands are unique in what they each offer and our communities are filled with people who are proud of our storied history. While visiting, I encourage you to immerse yourself in our culture and to explore the unique offerings of all four Islands that make up our paradise.
St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, sits to the south of our small island chain and is renowned for its pastoral landscapes, Danish architecture and historical landmarks. With its offshore wrecks and unbelievably beautiful underwater reefs, St. Croix is also a popular destination for diving enthusiasts. Be sure to visit the historic towns of Frederiksted and Christiansted and indulge in St. Croix’s renowned art and delicious culinary scenes. St. John is one of the smaller U.S. Virgin Islands and conservation center of the territory. It is best known for its pristine beaches and the attractions within the Virgin Islands National Park, which occupies more than half the island. The lands in the Virgin Islands National Park shelter migrant birds and the mangroves support corals and anemones. As with all the Virgin islands, you will find that St. John provides a rich mix of our culture and history. St. Thomas is our business and shopping center and the seat of government. Charlotte Amalie is the capital town of the U.S. Virgin Islands and is one of the busiest ports of call for cruise ships in the Caribbean. St. Thomas is among the most popular destinations in the Caribbean for sailing and yachting enthusiasts. Water Island is the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and rests just off the coast of St. Thomas. It is mostly residential but offers fun attractions like Honeymoon Beach and quaint accommodations. The island can be reached by ferry from the Crown Bay Marina or by other vessels. As the Lieutenant Governor and Governor, both Treganza Roach and I wish you a warm, fun-filled stay and please accept our invitation to return often to our paradise. Albert Bryan, Jr. Governor
Anacaonas
de Borinquen
Traditionally Puerto Rican women are the leader of the household, community, and are an integral part of Puerto Rican society. This group show, of well-known, important Puerto Rican artists, will reflect the diversity of the Puerto Rican woman through original works, silk-screens, and lithographs.
History buffs can experience St. Croix’s vibrant history through its architecture, historic landmarks, food, music and traditions. Explore the magnificent Estate Whim Museum, a restored 18th century greathouse and sugar plantation, Forts Christiansvaern and Frederik or tour the lush gardens of the St. George Village Botanical Garden. Early risers can catch a picturesque sunrise at Point Udall, the easternmost point in the United States.
The collection, of 75 masterworks, that is part of a traveling exhibit that includes artists like Emeli Vando, Alberto Ortiz Collazo, Lillian Colon, Antonio Maldonado, and Torres Soto, forms part of the Collection of Labiosa Center for the Arts and its Gallery W. Labiosa, the oldest in Puerto Rico in Old San Juan. This gallery was established over 50 years ago by one of Puerto Rico’s renowned artists, the late Wilfred Labiosa, widely recognized for his graphic and textile designs and art work. Many of the artists in the show were his teachers and students. Ten of Wilfred Labiosa’s works will be presented in their own gallery called “Homage to Women.”
Christiansted and Frederiksted, our main seaside towns, are a shopper’s nirvana with charming boutiques offering everything from handcrafted jewelry and apparel to colorful local art. Visitors enjoy a generous $1,600 duty-free shopping allowance.
On behalf of the Department of Tourism, I hope you have an amazing vacation experience in St. Croix. Thank you for choosing the U.S. Virgin Islands. Sincerely,
Joseph Boschulte Commissioner USVI Department of Tourism
Emeli Vando
Our chic hotels, resorts and cozy bed-and-breakfast inns will pamper you with warm hospitality, while our world-class restaurants tempt your taste buds with local and international menus. St. Croix’s wide array of the entertainment choices, including fairs, festivals, live concerts and gaming venues ensure that the fun never ends.
At press time, it was uncertain if gatherings would be allowed by October so CMCA will have the exhibit up on their website by October 2, may be able to Livestream it, and open their doors if it is allowed. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts www.cmcarts.org | (340) 772-2622
Alberto Ortiz Collazo
Adventurers and nature lovers can spend time hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, sailing or golfing at one of our championship golf courses. Scuba diving enthusiasts can experience five different dives in one day. For a more relaxed approach, swim in the crystalline waters of Buck Island, the only naturally occurring underwater National Monument in the U.S.
In explaining the name of the show, Anacaona is defined as the Golden Flower but was a great Taino Indian war chieftess, sister of Chief Bojekio and the wife of Chief Caonabo. She was the prettiest Taina woman of all the Caribbean and had 80 regional chiefs under her command in the region of Jaragua! Borinquen is the native Taino name for Puerto Rico. Boricua, the native Taino name for an individual living in Puerto Rico.
Seil Roman
Welcome to St. Croix, a land of spectacular beauty, rich cultural diversity and intriguing history. The largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, with 84 square miles of rolling hillsides, pristine beaches and a tropical rainforest, St. Croix offers endless opportunities to pursue your heart’s desire and create a unique vacation experience.
In keeping with our annual tradition of celebrating our friendship with Puerto Rico, The Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts on Strand Street, Frederiksted, will be assembling and exhibit, even in these challenging and uncertain times, to honor the Puerto Rican Boricua women and how artists depict and honor her.
Lillian Colon
Dear Visitor,
Alberto Ortiz Collazo
Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Oct 2 – Nov 7
Oc tober/November 2020 • 3
Events Calendar OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2020
THURSDAYS, 7-10PM Solo Artist or DJ Night Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine, (340) 718-0544
Cruise Arrivals* Frederiksted Pier
Ann E. Abramson Marine Facility Virgin Islands Port Authority—
LAST THURSDAYS, 6PM Seaside Wine Club Seaside Market & Deli, Gallows Bay 4 wine & food pairings, free. (340) 719-9393
*Check www.viport.com to confirm the most current schedule. COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Any or all of these events will be modified or cancelled if necessary to comply with any orders or restrictions at this time. Please call, check websites, Facebook, or text prior to events.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 8PM UNTIL Live Bands Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine, (340) 718-0544. MONDAY-SATURDAY. Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands. Members, Guests, Public invited. See schedule below.
OCTOBER 15 is the deadline for event considerations for the DEC 20/JAN 21 issue. Email event info, in the format you see here, to Liz Covert at lizcovert@yahoo.com
MONDAY-SUNDAY Dine In and Takeout The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza Open Daily, 11 am – 10 pm, Menu on FB. (340) 643-6455
ONGOING
MONDAY-SUNDAY Dine In, Curbside Pick-up, Takeout Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant Open Daily, 6 - 10 pm, Menu on FB. (340) 643-4729
WEEKLY ALL DAY To-Go Art Class Kits Caribbean Themes! Cost, $35. with brushes. Barbara’s Art Studio, Company Street. Text (340) 514-9038 to order kits. MONDAY-WEDNESDAY, 9AM-1PM Self-guided Garden Tours for the Public Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands. Adults, $8., Seniors & residents, $6., kids under 12, $1. Cash only. 340-692-2874, www.sgvbg.org MONDAY – FRIDAY, 3-8PM Open for Pick Up Only The Deep End Bar & Grill Green Cay Marina Temporarily cancelling Crab Races & Disco Bingo with current Covid-19 restrictions. www.newdeepend.com, 340-718-7071 MONDAY-SATURDAY, 9AM-1PM Self-guided Garden Tours for Members & Guests Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands. Free Guest passes accepted, local & group discounts. (340) 692-2874, www.sgvbg.org
4 • Oc tober/November 2020
MONDAYS, 5:30PM Crab Races & Steak N Ale Night BREW STX, (340) 713-9820, FB TUESDAYS, 5-8PM Two for Tuesday Specials BREW STX, (340) 713-9820 Ask about live music!
SATURDAYS, 6-8AM V.I. CARES INITIATIVE Join us in keeping our shorelines clean; Various meeting spots, check FB. Let’s Clean Up St. Croix! Bring mask, they provide gloves, garbage bags, pickers. FIRST SATURDAYS, 9 AM-NOON Nursery Plant Sale Botanical Garden of the VI (340) 692-2874, www.sgvbg.org THIRD SATURDAYS, 10AM Orchid Awareness & Education Group Meets Community United Methodist Church Complex, Frederiksted, (340) 514-5349, FB. SUNDAYS, 5PM Blues Society Band Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine, 340-718-0544
BY APPOINTMENT
TUESDAYS, 7PM until Best Karaoke Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine, 340-718-0544
Art @ Top Hat Company Street, Christiansted Changing exhibits of works by local Virgin Islands fine artists. TopHat0055@gmail.com, (340) 513-3558
WEDNESDAYS, 7-10PM Open Mic Night Nauti Bar & Grille, Hospital Street, behind Bryan’s Marine, 340-718-0544
Henle Studio Company Street, Christiansted Showcasing painting and prints by Maria Henle; Photographs, books and films of St Croix s premier photographer Fritz Henle; Tina Henle photographs (340) 332-1628, www.henlegallery.com
THURSDAYS 10AM-11AM Garden Zen Yoga Great Lawn under Flamboyant Tree. Bring masks, mats, water. Free. Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands. (340) 692-2874, www.sgvbg.org, FB THURSDAYS, 5:30PM-CLOSE Seafood Boil Night BREW STX, (340) 713-9820 Ask about live music!
Maufe Gallery Strand Street, Christiansted Unique and dynamic artwork and on-site jewelry workshop at Cruzan Gold. (340) 332-4556
Events Calendar SAVE THE DATE!
VIRTUAL YAG Foundation (YAGF, Inc) Beauty & the Bra Submission deadline: Oct 10, Winners announced: Oct 14, Virtual Reception TBA “Sip-in-Pink for a Cause” Happy Hour, Oct 30, 6-7:30pm; Paint & Sip, Oct 2020, Date TBA Check website or FB/YAGCANCERFOUNDATIONVI for updates. (340) 332-9115, www.yagfoundation.org
SUNDAYS. Eddie Russell’s Quelbe Jazz Band. Livestreaming Oct 13 & Nov 18.
Joyia-Inspirational Jewelry Queen Cross Street, Christiansted Virtual Styling Sessions by phone or video/Zoom. Regular hours when permitted during Covid-19. (340) 713-4569, www.joyiajewelry.com/styling St. Croix Hiking Association We’ve got Hikes! Give us a call or check our website for upcoming hike info & where to meet! (340) 772-2073, www.stcroixhiking.org St. Croix Environmental Association Looking for outdoor activities for kids? Give us a call, send an email, or check our Facebook or website for activities as Covid-19 restrictions & best practices allow. (340) 773-1989, info.atsea@gmail.com, www.stcroixenvironmental.org
V.I. Pace Runners Virtual Races V.I. Pace would like to interest you in participating in optional Virtual Races. www.surveymonkey.com/r/vipaceraces Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty Virtual Open Houses, 1 PM Saturdays Go to CBVirtualOpenHouse.com to watch! Eddie Russell Quelbe Jazz Band Livestreaming, FB/Jazz in the Park STX Last Sundays, Oct 25 and Nov 29, 6-7pm. Eddie returns live at the Christiansted Bandstand, the last Friday of each month, when Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.
OCTOBER 2020 VI-PR FRIENDSHIP MONTH The VI-PR Friendship Committee has stayed engaged with the community this year, donating school supplies to younger students, scholarships to graduating Seniors and health provisions to our Seniors. However, the 56th Annual VI-PR Celebration this year has been postponed to 2021 due to the Governor’s Covid-19 restrictions. 2-31 TUESDAY-SATURDAY, 11AM-5PM Virgin Islands – Puerto Rico Friendship Exhibit Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, Strand Street, Frederikted. Features Puerto Rico artists Alberto Ortiz Collazo, Lillian Colon, Emily Vando Abrazo and others. See this show at the Museum in Frederiksted or on our website! We hope to do a live stream as well. Stay tuned. (340) 772-2622, www.cmcarts.com
OCTOBER. Breast Cancer Awareness Month. YAG Foundation. Pg 59.
THE MEN’S COALTION OF THE V. I. The Men’s Coalition of the US Virgin Islands (MCVI) was founded in 1985 as a non-profit, nonpartisan, non-sectarian organization with a purpose of developing, promoting, and implementing programs to help eliminate family violence and violence in general. Group education programs are conducted for men and women who batter, raising awareness of the impact of Domestic Violence (DV) and other forms of violence in the USVI. We are governed by a Board of Directors composed of community leaders who are interested in the welfare of the community and are the only agency in the USVI that is federally-approved to provide Primary Batterer Intervention Programs offering primary treatment (education & counseling) for batterers. We also run a ‘Rites of Passage Program’ for 7–12 year old boys focusing on manhood, anger management and conflict resolution. Over the last 34 years, the MCVI has provided counseling and support services to over 800 men and women. We play a critical role in addressing DV and violence and welcome any support and funding from individuals, businesses and organizations interested in reducing violence within our community.
Raising Impact Awareness Helping to Eliminate Family Violence Counseling and Support Group Education Programs
OCTOBER. VI-PR Friendship. Our 56th year!
8am-12pm Monday-Friday (340) 778-2161 Rt.#70 at Sion Farm Intersection Oc tober/November 2020 • 5
Events Calendar TAKE TIME FOR THESE! 8-12 THURSDAY, 6PM 20th Annual Golden Hook Guy/Gal Reel Challenge Green Cay Marina Captain’s Meeting, Oct 8, 6pm, Battle on the high seas, Oct 10-11, 6am – 3 pm—Gals fish Saturday; Guys on Sunday. Awards Banquet, Oct 12, 6pm. www.fishstx.com, FB
NOV 1. D. Hamilton Jackson Day.
Susan Wall
3-24 OCTOBER, 10AM-1PM Five Wheel-Throwing Classes Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Strand Street, Frederiksted Beginners, learn from Master Potter, Sarah Lee Hayes, how to make round pots using the potter’s wheel! Oct 3, 10, 12, 17, 24. $200. Includes clay; firing fee based on size of pieces. www.cmcarts.org, 340-772-2622
13 SUNDAY, 6-7PM Sunday Jazz, Eddie Russell Quelbe Jazz Band Livestreaming, Facebook/Jazz in the Park STX Eddie will return to live performances at the Christiansted Bandstand when Covid-19 Restrictions are lifted. 24 SATURDAY, 11AM-1PM Jumbies in The Garden, “A Pumpkin Melee” Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands St Croix Children’s Museum Pop-Up, Costume Parade, Pumpkin Carving Competition, Pumpkin cooking competition and more! Free for children 12& under; Member adults, $5. (340) 692-2874, www.sgvbg.org 26 MONDAY Hurricane Thanksgiving Day Observances
NOVEMBER 2020 1 SUNDAY D. Hamilton Jackson/Bull & Bread Day Since 1927, honors the life and legacy of St. Croix labor leader, community activist, journalist, and newspaper publisher, David Hamilton Jackson. 1-7 TUESDAY-SATURDAY, 11AM-5PM Virgin Islands – Puerto Rico Friendship Exhibit Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, Strand Street, Frederikted. Features Puerto Rico artists Alberto Ortiz Collazo, Lillian Colon, Emily Vando Abrazo and others. See this show at the Museum in Frederiksted or on our website! We hope to do a live stream as well. Stay tuned. (340) 772-2622, www.cmcarts.com 5-9 THURSDAY, 6PM 20th Annual Wahoo Tour & Series Finale Green Cay Marina Captain’s Meeting, Nov 5, Wahoo Tour, Nov 7, Awards Banquet, Nov 9. www.fishstx.com
6 • Oc tober/November 2020
NOV 9-30. Jodie Hollander, Artist-in-Residence, CMCA.
9-30 NOVEMBER Artist-In Residence, Jodie Hollander Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Strand Street, Frederiksted Planning six events during her stay: Ekphrastic Poetry Workshops, Poetry of Grief and Healing (as a Response to the Hurrianes), Telling Your Story Through Poetry, Nature Writing, Lecture— “Capturing Feeling Through Sound: Why Music Matters in Poetry,” Reading From My Dark Horses. Jodie holds a BA (Cum Laude) from Pomona College, an MA in English Literature from Boston University, and an MA in Creative Writing (Poetry) from Bath Spa University In the UK. She is the recipient of a National Endowment for the Humanities Grant to study Dante in Italy, a Fulbright Fellowship in South Africa, and a Mac Dowell Colony fellowship. In 2018 she was selected as the first poet in residence at the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff and selected by the NPS to Spearhead a brand new initiative “Poetry In the Park” in an effort to bring more poetry to the public in the state of AZ. (340) 772-2622, www.cmcarts.com 13-30 TUESDAYS-SATURDAY, 11AM-5PM Island Art & Soul Exhibit Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts Strand Street, Frederiksted Original artwork from this year’s 27th Annual Art & Soul Calendar 2021! View Online or at the Museum Center. (340)-772-2622, www.cmcarts.com, See cover, Pg 37! COVID-19 DISCLAIMER: Events will be cancelled if necessary to comply with COVID-19 restrictions; Please check websites, Facebook or text/email prior to events.
Attractions & Tours SOAK UP SOME CULTURE!
ATTRACTIONS PLEASE CALL AHEAD.
MANY OF THESE LISTINGS HAVE SHIFTED DAYS & HOURS OF OPERATION WITH THE PANDEMIC. Arthur Able Complex — 340-772-1000 Built in 1799 and once a Danish School, now the Office of the Governor in Frederiksted. Redesigned by architect William Taylor, it was dedicated to Arthur Abel, a St. Croix joiner and builder, in Sept. 2009. Prince Street, Frederiksted. Caravelle Hotel Casino — 340-773-0687 Newest Slot Machines, Video Poker, Spin Wheel Games, Cash Raffles. In-town Transportation. Days and Hours, see Ad below. Christiansted Block Party Series. Facebook. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts — 340-772-2622. Exhibiting the arts of St. Croix and the Caribbean community. 18th Century Danish townhouse; Artist-in-Residence program. Gift Shop. Annual Calendar. Tues – Sat, 11am – 4 pm.
advance notice. Mahogany Road, Frederiksted. www.llgfarm.com Lord God of Sabaoth Church — 340-773-1320 Originally a Dutch Reformed Church built in the 1740s, was sold to the Lutherans in 1831. Rehab under the direction of General Peter von Scholten. King Street, Christiansted. One North Street —340-514-7114 Historic and restored Christiansted townhouse. One of the finest collections of antique West Indian Mahogany furniture and artifacts anywhere in the VI. Tours, meetings, luncheons. 24-hour notice. www.stxestatetour.com Pt. Udall Millennium Monument Easternmost point in the US. A giant sundial marks the azimuth of the first sunrise of 2000. Schooner Roseway – 340-626-7877 National Historic Landmark. Gallows Bay, Christiansted. Nov – May. Local Office. Sunset Sails, 4-6pm. Holiday events. www.worldoceanschool.org.
Fort Frederik.
Ted Davis
Divi Carina Bay Casino —340-773-7529 Table Games for seasoned players and newcomers. Over 250 Slot, Video Poker, and Multi-game Machines—traditional and video reel. Ticket Play. Live entertainment. Carina Café. Estate Whim Museum— 340-772-0598 Sugar Factory, Mill, Slave Quarters, Great House. Grounds map with guided and self-guided options. Exhibits. Open Wed & Sat, 10am – 3pm; Research. Library by appointment. Ft. Frederik Museum —340-772-2021 Built in the 1750s, this Historic Landmark, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Five permanent collections on display. Open Mon – Fri, 9am – 4pm. See Frederiksted Walking Tour, Pg 58. Government House —340-773-1404 Built for a Danish merchant in 1749, it now houses offices and a Governor’s apartment. Courtyard gardens and sweeping staircase to a 2nd-story ballroom. King Street, Christiansted. Historic Landmark. Hams Bluff Lighthouse—First lit in 1915 under the Danish Government. North of Frederiksted; historic landmark. See Guided Hikes, Pg 9.
2020
Open, 9am - 1 pm Mon - Sun, Members & Guests Mon - Wed, General Public Verify Hours Before Arrival Museum Store
Lawaetz Family Museum — 340-473-1557 18th Century Danish farm homestead managed by Ridge2Reef Farm and backed by the Lawaetz family. National Historic Registry. Open Wed and Sat, 11am-3pm. Group tours any day with Oc tober/November 2020 • 7
Attractions & Tours
DISCOVER 1500 EXOTIC SPECIES ON 16 ACRES @ THE BOTANICAL GARDEN! St. Croix’s National Parks —340-773-1460 1. Buck Island Reef National Monument Proclaimed a National Monument by President Kennedy in 1961. Spectacular beach, hiking and snorkeling trails. 7 miles from Christiansted. Accessible by NPS Authorized Concessioners; find them in Watersports, Pages 40-42. www.nps.gov/buis 2. Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, includes Ft. Christiansvaern, Old Customs House, Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse & Slave Market, and Old Scale House. The Steeple Building is closed for renovations. Fort open 8:30 am – 4:30 pm daily; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Site parking; public restrooms on Church Street. Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve exhibit, 2nd floor, Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm. 340-773-1460. 3. Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve Founded in 1992 in cooperation with the VI Government, the Park documents the human and natural Caribbean world of early indigenous settlements here 4000 years ago through the 1500s. Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493. Nature preserve. Closed for major renovations after double hurricanes in 2017. New Visitor’s Center coming; exhibits moved to Ft. Christiasvaern at the Christiansted National Historic Site, Mon – Fri, 10am – 2 pm.
TOURS Aerial—Scenic, Island Hopping Cape Air, 100 flights a day. 800-CAPE-AIR. See ad Pg 9 for Caribbean destinations. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands, established in 1972. Sixteen acres, 1500 native and exotic species. Restored buildings and ruins of a 19th century Danish sugar cane plantation. Open daily, 9 am – 1 pm, except Christmas. Museum Store. Nursery open First Saturdays, 9am – 2pm. 340-692-2874. 8 • Oc tober/November 2020
Quality Time at the Garden— Family Memberships!
Fort Christiansvaern Sentry Box.
Wild Peacock.
Ted Davis
Susan Wall
Located on 16.5 acres in Estate St. George is one of our ‘Island Treasures’—The Botanical Garden of The Virgin Islands. Since 1972, The Botanical Garden has been an advocate for our native and exotic plant species and our natural and cultural heritage. There are over 1500 plants in our collection including bromeliads, orchids, cactus, succulents, and sansevieria that can be seen while touring the grounds. The Garden is home to the St. George Village Botanical Garden Museum and The St Croix Seashell Museum, as well as a working Nursery. Thousands of students visit the garden every year on field trips and for workshops learning about flora, history, and the heritage of the property. The Garden is a 501c3 non-profit organization, and relies on outside support. One opportunity to support SGVBG is to become a Garden Member. Membership allows you to visit as often as you like for free on non-event days. You also get free admission to about 400 Reciprocal Admission Programs (RAP) at other botanical gardens in the U.S. Your Garden Membership works for you wherever you go! You also enjoy a 10% discount on Nursery and Museum Store purchases, and receive our monthly Newsletter, The Conch Call, to stay informed on all the fantastic events that are upcoming. When you become a Garden Member, you become a part of the SGVBG Family and we encourage you to invite friends and family to join as well. The Gift of Membership to SGVBG is priceless as well. Joining The Garden is simple. Go to our website, click on Membership, and fill out the form and pay on a secure site. Benefits and Membership Rates are all right there. We invite you to become a member of The Botanical Garden of the VI at St. George Village today!! If you have any questions or would like to be a Garden Volunteer, call or email Amy Parker Desorbo, Director of Events and Rentals. The Botanical Garden of the VI – www.sgvbg.org events@sgvbg.org – 340-692-2874
Attractions & Tours
TRY LOCAL BREWS—RUM, BEER, VODKA! TOURS...CONT. Christiansted — “Alexander Hamilton’s Christiansted,” Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), Thursdays, 9:45am, minimum 2 guests. 340-277-4834. www.chantvi.org. Danish—Christiansted, Frederiksted, Island, Nina York, (English, too). 340-332-4451. Frederiksted — Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism (CHANT), 340-277-4834. Horseback — Beach, Rainforest, Ruins. Cruzan Cowgirls, 907-841-1990. Leatherback Brewing Company—VI Craft Beer, Brewery and Tasting Room. Casual food, Island Life store, Self-tours. (340) 772-2337, www.leatherbackbrewing.com, FB Ridge to Reef Farm—Certified Organic. Tours and farm stays in camp-style eco lodging. Workshops in permaculture, agroforestry, and living skills. 340-473-1557, ridge2reef.org Rum Distilleries — Captain Morgan Visitor Center, Monday – Friday, 9 am – 5 pm. Gift Shop, 340-713-5654; Cruzan Rum Distillery, Visitors Pavilion & Store, 9:30am – 4pm, M-F. Tours, 10am – 3pm. 340-692-2280. Sion Farm Distillery, MUTINY Island Vodka — Craft cocktails, chef created menu, free tours. Please call for current hours: 340-690-9322. www.mutinyislandvodka.com,
Point Udall.
USVI Dept of Tourism
CHANT Crucian, Heritage & Nature Tourism
@mutinyislandvodka, @sionfarmdistillery
PLEASE CALL AHEAD.
MANY OF THESE LISTINGS HAVE SHIFTED DAYS & HOURS OF OPERATION WITH THE PANDEMIC.
Salt River.
Historical Walking Tours Nature Hikes & Tours
(340) 277-4834 • www.chantvi.org
Susan Wall Oc tober/November 2020 • 9
Shop Duty-Free! LOCAL MARKETPLACE!
$1600.00
DUTY-FREE ALLOWANCE! For US citizens, this is
DOUBLE the $800.00 limit from other islands! Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will allow visitors to the USVI to enter the US with up to $1600.00 per person of duty-free purchases. ib designs. New Breadfruit Collection supports local ‘Trees that Feed’ projects.
COMPANY STREET Asha World Designs – +1-340-690-6512
Climb the steps next to Common Cents Pub and you will find the marvelous ASHA shop. British owner Sarajane sells eclectic world adornments and attire gleaned from her extensive global travels. Her signature clothing line is hand made with pride in India, Thailand and Bali using hand block printed, hand loomed natural fabrics with globally sourced fabulous prints. To compliment the ASHA collection you will find a treasure trove of unique jewelry designs, accessories, gifts, textiles and homewares. This season also brings Pitchulik, Mungo, Erika Peña, Björg, some exciting collaborations and several new capsule clothing lines from emerging world designers. www.ashaworlddesigns.com, @ashaworlddesigns
EBBE’S STORE – 340-773-3020
Approaching their 50thAnniversary, opened by her parents in 1969, Vivian Ebbesen-Fludd swings open the shutters of EBBE’S STORE five days a week to welcome you in. The early-style, open-air storefront still remains today and inside you will find “a little bit of this, a little bit of that, a little bit of this and that.” Madras fabric in dozens of patterns, school plaids and solids, clear and printed plastic table coverings, craft and notion supplies, infant and children’s clothing, men’s and women’s accessories, local books, towels, fans, beautiful ribbon and lace, and gifts, just to name a few! Located on the corner of King Cross and Company Street, open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri, and Sat, 11:30am – 5:30pm. Closed Wed and Sun. Facebook.
JOINT DECLARATION
This is a Customs Declaration that can be made by family members who live in the same household and return to the United States together. These travelers can combine their purchases to take advantage of a combined flat duty rate, no matter which family member owns a given item. The combined value of merchandise subject to a Flat Duty Rate for a family of four traveling together would be $4,000. Purchase totals must be rounded to the nearest dollar amount.
ALCOHOL
If you are at least 21 years old, you may also take up to five liters of alcohol duty-free as part of your $1,600 exemption, as long as at least four liters were purchased in the USVI, and at least one of them is a product of the USVI, like Cruzan Rum. Liquor boxes are free to check aboard your return flight.
TOBACCO
Returning resident travelers may import tobacco products only in quantities not exceeding the amounts specified in the personal exemptions for which the traveler qualifies. See below for up-to-date specifics on Customs Duty information concerning Rates, Duty-Free Shop articles, and Mailing and Shipping Goods.
E•den South, [eed-n south] n: The Best of St. Croix
Tastes of History Within Your Reach
■ Handcrafted Preserves & Syrups ■ Rainforest-Inspired Tees, All Ages ■ Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce Monday - Saturday, 10 am - 4 pm Company Street, Christiansted • 340-713-1003 10 • Oc tober/November 2020
LEARN MORE
Eden South. Divine and authentic Crucian treats.
US Customs & Border Protection www.cbp.gov • (877) 287-8667
Shop Duty-Free! TRY IT, LOVE IT, BUY IT! ib designs – 773-4322 (say “eye-bee”)
An island favorite in historic Christiansted, this gallery is home to the distinctive designs of local artist/metalsmith, Whealan Massicott. Whealan has been crafting for over 25 years and is fortunate to have a fabulous team of artisans join him in creating magical jewelry. Being a musician at heart allows life’s movements, patterns, and rhythms to play out in his raw, organic designs. Ib designs Feel Good Jewelry is a salute to the simplicity of life and to the inspiration of creativity. Truly artful, truly unique, truly Caribbean! Feel Good Jewelry for Feel Good People. Stop in to say hi to Whealan, Kris, and the rest of the ib family. Find us on Facebook. www.islandboydesigns.com.
Ebbe’s Store. Exotic African print fabrics. Susan Wall
Asha World Designs. Indian spinning rings.
Eden South – 340-713-1003
Located at historic #3 Company Street, Eden South is an unexpected oasis of divine and authentic Crucian treats. Come in to see our contemporary line of preserves and syrups from old-time recipes, books by local authors, colorful rainforest and recipe t-shirts and sample our famous Jack’s Bay Pepper Sauce—also available as a personal-sized bottle for easy carry-on when travelling. Our product line is made only from in-season, locally sourced fruit and is prepared in small batches for consistent quality. We are dedicated to bringing you the best time-honored traditions of St. Croix, conveniently packaged to help you enjoy and express Crucian culture, wherever you may be. www.edensouth.com
EBBE’S STORE EBBE’S STORE ~Est. 1969~ ~Est. 1969~
~Est. 1969~
“A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That” Diego Conde
4 King Cross Street Christiansted - 340-773-3020 EbbesStoreInfo@gmail.com
On the Corner Where King Cross Meets Company Oc tober/November 2020 • 11
Shop Duty-Free!
LOCAL, HANDMADE JEWELRY A MUST! COMPANY STREET....cont The Shoe Bar – 340-713-1445
Located at 55 Company Street, The Shoe Bar is St. Croix’s premier shoe boutique, carrying styles for both men and women. Ladies can select from bcbg, Chinese Laundry,Vince Camuto, Jessica Simpson, Nine West, Bandolino, Naots and more. For the Gents, we have Nunn Bush (a Florsheim brand), Clarks, Kenneth Cole and Naots sandals and dress shoes. We are very proud to be the only authorized dealer for Naots in the Virgin Islands. Stop by and enjoy a glass of wine while you shop! Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am -5 pm. Facebook, The Shoe Bar VI.
SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry – 340-778-8605
Joyia Inspirational Jewelry. Check out our Pathways Collection as 2020 has been full of unexpected twists and turns. Create your path.
Hook up with the Original- Sonya’s St. Croix Hook. Located at #1 Company Street since 1964, an introduction to the hand-wrought jewelry at Sonya’s begins with the pleasantly inexpensive hook bracelet which is often imitated, never duplicated. Our designs include: hurricanes, hearts, flowers, sea life, breast cancer awareness, and so much more. All creations are crafted in sterling silver, 14 & 18 karat gold—bracelets, rings, earrings, and pendants. Our loyal customers continue to vote our jewelry #1 in the Virgin Islands. Visit us at www.sonyaltd.com Toll-free: 877-766-9284.
Top Shoe Brands ■ Men’s ■ Women’s A glass of wine while you shop.
BCBG, Jessica Simpson, Vince Camuto, Nunn Bush, Clarks, & Naots, just to name a few. 55 Company Street • 340-713-1445 12 • Oc tober/November 2020
The Shoe Bar. Style and comfort in Naot best sellers!
Sonya, Ltd. Company Street, Christiansted.
Shop Duty-Free! LOCAL BOOK DEBUTS! PAN AM PAVILION The Purple Papaya – 340-713-9412
OUR DANISH CONNECTION, Nina York
A collection of 72 short essays, from the pages of ST. CROIX THIS WEEK, 2009 - 2019, this book documents our islands extensive cultural legacy from 1733 as a colony of Denmark then sold with St. Thomas and St. John to the U.S. in 1917. It covers classic architecture, place names, cultural pursuits and websites offering genealogy records from a period when part of the population had come from Africa in enslavement. Despite that dishonorable legacy, a friendly attitude prevails between the USVI and Denmark, with mutual friendship societies, exchange visits and tourism. This book gives insight into this multifaceted interaction in an informal format with Danish translation.
Nested in St. Croix’s historic Christiansted, and embedded in the hearts and minds of everyone who has entered through its doors, is the Purple Papaya Souvenir and Gift Shop. The store is loaded with a full line of souvenirs, cold drinks and snacks, the largest selection of embroidered tee shirts and sweatshirts, Hawaiian shirts and dresses, sun tan lotions, sunglasses, towels, hats & caps, disposable cameras, batteries, and quality beach/swimwear for the entire family. So, if you are looking for excellent customer service, and quality merchandise, come on in. It’s the island’s number one spot for ALL your Duty Free shopping,and vacation needs. It’s where you always get more for Le$$!
Purple Papaya. Largest selection of men’s and women’s swimwear.
CREATIVE CALLALOO Danica M. David
In this vibrantly illustrated book, St. Croix artist Danica M. David, poet Winifred Oyoko Loving, and chef Mark E. Davis serve us a delicious and nourishing blend of recipes, poetry, art, and history. “It has always been my dream to showcase Virgin Islands culture in a book, showcasing my passion for art, poetry and food,’ says Danica. This unique and satisfying Caribbean book has the colors and flavors of the Virgin Islands on every page! The vibrant art will enlighten your spirit and the appealing recipes will satisfy your appetite. The book is a retrospective of Danica’s 25-year career as an artist. www.creativecallallo.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 13
Shop Duty-Free! BUY LOCAL!
Fan coral pendant.
ib Sonya, Ltd. Shop instore or online now, sonyaltdstore.com
QUEEN CROSS STREET
LOCAL LIFE
Baci Duty Free – 340-773-5040 On the corner of Queen Cross and Strand Street, Baci has been here to serve you for the past 24 years! See our large assortment of local hand-made island hook bracelets in silver, gold and black/gold/silver Titanium. Try on St. Croix’s most-wanted designer USA hand-made stacking bracelet by Vahan in silver and gold with diamonds and other gem stones. Chaney, Larimar, Lafonn, St. Croix beads for Pandora, Atocha ship wreck and Greek, Roman coin jewelry. South Sea Pearl necklaces. Designer sunglasses from Gucci, Kate Spade, and many more. Polarized sport sunglasses from Costa, Oakley, Maui Jim, Ray-Ban, and Salt Life. Swiss watches from Alpina, Frederick Constant, Luminox, Mido, Swiss Army, and Tissot. Japanese-made from Bering, Casio, Citizen, Guess, Invicta, and Seiko. The largest walk-in cigar humidor in the VI with topselling brands from Arturo Fuente, Padron, My Father, Monte Cristo, Macanudo and Cohiba. Largest selection of rums from around the world like Ron Zacapa. www.bacidutyfree.com
Stacked Dreamcatcher rings.
designs
New Breadfruit bracelets. Land Crab. A morning visitor.
14 • Oc tober/November 2020
Susan Wall
ib designs, Company Street, Christiansted
Shop Duty-Free! WHAT’S IN STORES!
MON - SAT, 10AM - 6PM QUEEN CROSS & STRAND ST, CHRISTIANSTED 340-773-5040 - 340-332-4449 BACIDUTYFREE.COM LARGEST SELECTION OF CIGARS IN THE VI! STATE-OF-THE-ART WALK-IN CEDAR HUMIDOR.
Baci Duty Free. Vahan timeless, luxury jewelry collections since 1968.
JOYIA-Inspirational Jewelry – 340-713-4JOY (4569)
Artist and jeweler, Joyia Jones, invites you to visit her family-operated studio where we create handcrafted jewelry using silver, gold, and precious stones. Set your intention with our free engraving that allows you to customize your Joyia jewelry with an inspirational word, name, or date. Check out our collection of one-of-a-kind antique spoon pendants, cuffs, and rings. Jump on the trend of mixing metals with our stackable rings and bangles and don’t forget to take a look at our unique square jewelry – we have square rings, bangles, and necklaces! Be inspired. Be creative. Be intentional. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram! Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm. Queen Cross Street www.joyiajewelry.com
Before Travel
Visit usviupdate.com for the latest travel requirements. Travelers, 15 and over, must complete a travel certification on this site 5 days before departure. COVID-19 test results are required for those from highly impacted states* & who have spent more than 7 days in and are traveling from these states. To avoid quarantine, get test results within 5 days prior to travel.
Arriving in the USVI
All travelers are required to maintain social distancing and wear a facial covering. NO MASK, NO SERVICE. Present your USVI Travel Screening Portal certification. Travelers required to have a test must produce their original COVID-19 test result. Temperature checks will be performed; thermal scanners are in use. *States with 10% or more positivity rate according to Johns Hopkins University. Blue Heron Fishing.
John Connors
USVI Dept of Tourism | 800-372-USVI (8784) (This info was at press time.)
A RC T I C S A I L I N G For pioneers and global explorers! Multifunctional watches with sapphire cr ystal.
A RC T I C S A I L I N G For pioneers and global explorers! Multifunctional watches with sapphire cr ystal. w w w.bering time.com
w w w.bering time.com
Oc tober/November 2020 • 15
Shop Duty-Free! FOUND ON ST. CROIX
Sublime STX. Florencia wraps up in an Orchids of Joy Sarong.
QUEEN CROSS STREET cont... Tropical Bracelet Factory Outlet – 340-719-0672
Protect your skin & look good doing it! UPF 50 + Protective Clothing Clothing blocks 98% of UVA/UVB rays Original artwork licensed from artists Made locally on St. Croix!
We are not only a store but an attraction not to be missed specializing in magnificent jewelry made on the premises. See how your special piece is designed, created, and finished through our studio’s glass windows. View our extensive collection of stainless steel, copper, platinum, gold, and silver earrings, pendants, and rings. We have the largest selection of island bracelets, chaney, Larimar, conch, diamonds of all colors and sizes, certified ancient coins, natural pearls including the most unique of them all— “The Queen Conch Pearl.” Free rum samples from our extensive liquor collection available daily. Stop in for a rare cigar to commemorate your vacation. Known for our locally made crafts and collectables, take home a real souvenir made right here on St. Croix. Open Monday – Saturday, 10-6pm.
STRAND STREET
Crucian Gold- 340-244-2996
Located in the Caravelle Arcade in Christiansted Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5pm
(340) 713-3113 www.sublimestx.com
16 • Oc tober/November 2020
FEEL THE LOVE and discover how Crucian Gold’s original designs are inspired by St. Croix’s natural beauty and culture. Visit our Christiansted store where Nathan Bishop and our family of jewelers create the Island Bracelets, Chaney Collection, and a wide array of stunning original silver and gold artisan jewelry and gifts. Mon-Sat 10am5pm, FB & IG, www.cruciangold.com
Asha World Designs.
Shop Duty-Free! OWN IT, MAKE IT YOURS!
RJS Handmade Designs. Uniquely created; make it your own.
Tropical Bracelet. Sting Ray from the Alma Sea Life Collection; sterling and exotic wood inlay.
Susan Wall
RJS Handmade Designs – 340-642-3291
Expect the best from Silversmith, Rosa Asencio! For over 16 years, her unique, handmade silver jewelry has received the highest level of customer satisfaction. In addition to forging, hammering, texturizing and soldering, Rosa uses the Lost Wax Casting Method— an ancient process dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. Although demanding, it is still the best method for capturing exquisite detail in metal objects rewarding the artisan with an object of great individuality. Visit the store to see the complete collections of earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets, inspired by the island’s beauty and culture. “Something is
Rosa Asencio Silversmith
340-642-3291 N ST EW
StranORE! d Stre et
HANDMADE DESIGNS
Strand StreetArcade #5 Strand Street, Caravelle
www.rjshandmadedesigns.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 17
Shop Duty-Free! SHOP TIME, TAKE TIME!
Everything is Sublimation Dyed, so images never fade or wear off, becoming part of the fabric. We have a great selection of long and short sleeve shirts in men, women, youth and toddler styles plus dresses, sarongs, and buffs. Rounding it out is Pura Veda reef-friendly organic sun block and after sun products, sunglasses, locally-crafted jewelry, and sandals. Located in the Caravelle Arcade between Dashi Restaurant and The Remedy. Stop by and try a complimentary sample of locally-brewed Leatherback beer. www.sublimestx.com, Facebook. Mention this ad for 15% off!
FREDERIKSTED
CMCA Gift Shop – 340-772-2622
Small Wonder. Clothes and toys for boys and girls from around the world.
STRAND STREET...cont. bound to catch your eye!” New, expanded store on Strand Street, Christiansted. www.rjshandmadedesigns.com; Facebook.
Small Wonder – 340-773-5551
A delightful children’s store filled with a large selection of swimsuits, sunhats, sunglasses, St. Croix tee shirts, sundresses & shirts in tropical prints—cool, 100% cotton & linen clothing for boys & girls in sizes from Newborn to Pre-teen. Also find sturdy wooden educational toys, doll houses, rocking horses & train sets by Plan & Brio. Special items include sterling silver feeding spoons, ceramic piggy banks, adorable stuffed animals, dolls & doll furniture, children’s tables & chairs, baby & children’s accessories, plus yearround holiday & event costumes. Layaway & Baby Shower Registry available. Located just steps from the Government Parking lot at 1110 Strand Street.
Local Art & Crafts at your fingertips—Annual “Island Art & Soul” Calendars (buy online), Books, Cloth and Carved Bowls, Greeting Cards, Home Accessories, Jewelry, Dolls, Glass, Beaded, and Shell Ornaments, Paintings, Pottery, Prints, Tee Shirts, Tiles, Wall Hangings, and Wire Sculptures. Inventory changes regularly so check us out often! Visit the new Gift Shop at Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, housed in an 18th-century Danish townhouse on the Waterfront, Strand Street, Frederiksted. Open Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 5 pm and ‘Cruise Ship Days.’ www. cmcarts.org. Like us on Facebook!
GALLOWS BAY
Rare Finds – 340-713-9254 This fascinating shop is found at the gateway to Gallows Bay — turn left on East End Road at the By-Pass traffic light. Here you’ll discover an assortment of different, fun gifts and collectibles. Open Wednesday thru Saturday, they offer something old, something new, something for every taste and budget. Browse here for a memento of St. Croix.
Sublime STX Sun-Protective Clothing – 340-713-3113 Made on St. Croix, our clothing images of animals, fish, coral, birds, turtles, waves, and more are digitized from licensed original paintings! Lightweight and perfect for swimming, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, diving—anything under the sun—with UPF50+ moisture-wicking fabric. 18 • Oc tober/November 2020
J&H Clothing. Classy Lacoste Polos in stock now!
Shop Duty-Free! LOCAL ESSENTIALS!
Crucian Document1
1/26/07
10:18 AM
Page 1
Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts. Flamboyant, by Puerto Rican artist, Aldubar.
Gold
Just Steps from the Gov’t Parking Lot!
Tropical print Sundresses & Shirts Swimsuits and Sunglasses Sunhats St. Croix Tee Shirts Sun Hats, Swimsuits & Dresses Wooden Toys 4 Company St., Christiansted 1110 Strand Street, Christiansted
340-773-5551
CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER ARTS FOR THE
Crucian Gold. Strand Street, Christiansted
10 Strand St. F’std 340.772.2622 Tue-Sat 11am-5pm Local Arts • Gift Shop www.cmcarts.org
Susan Wall
Antiques, Unique Gifts and Collectibles
Open Wed., Thur., Fri., Sat. 10 am - 4 pm At the Gateway to Gallows Bay
340-713-9254
olos, ste P Tees o c a e L ultur New tock! backs - C S n I ’S Snap sMEN colors! - Tee y n n ma s - Jea s s - Tops gear t Tank - Dresse & Gym Peters Res , m S 0 m i ’ 7 p w N . -S m -5 ll Rt ME WO s - Jeans apana Ma Thurs 10-a6pm k t s a m n e a a T tW Tu Sat 10 861 airs a Fri - ) 244 - 9 Upst 0 4 (3 Oc tober/November 2020 • 19
Shop Duty-Free! TAKE HOME HANDMADE!
Mall across from Plaza Extra East over Martha’s Deli. Open Mon – Thurs 10 am - 5 pm and Fri – Sat 10 am – 6 pm. Can’t wait to see you! Facebook.
Plaza Extra East – 340-778-6240 Great Price. Right Value. With great low prices, Plaza Extra East features thousands of your favorite grocery store brands as well as foreign specialty foods, bulk packaged items, a full service bakery, deli, and prime meat counter. Plaza offers a large produce section featuring fresh fruits, vegetables and herbs, including locally grown items. In addition to a wide selection of wine and spirits, Plaza Extra East is also home to Doctors Choice Pharmacy. Conveniently located in Peter’s Rest, Plaza Extra East is your one stop, shopping destination for all your grocery, home, and personal care needs. www.plazaextraeast.com
Sweet Lime Furnishings – 340-719-6360 Crucian Gold. Handcrafted local Chenay bracelets and rings.
GALLOWS BAY ... cont. Undercover Books – 340-719-1567 If you are looking for an independent bookstore in St. Croix, Undercover Books & Gifts in Gallows Bay is it. The Bistro is located right next door, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee after browsing the shelves. Undercover has everything you need in a bookstore. You will find the latest in fiction, and non-fiction as well as a fantastic children’s section. Don’t be surprised if you run into one or two local writers while you’re there; they have a great local interest selection and provide a comprehensive representation of the local talent. Open Mon – Fri, 9 am – 5 pm, Sat, 10 am – 4:30 pm. www.undercoverbooksstcroix.com
Undercover Books & Gifts
AROUND THE ISLAND J&H Clothing – 340-244-9861
Gallows Bay, St. Croix
Phone: 719-1567 Phone: 340-719-1567 20 • Oc tober/November 2020
Can’t seem to find the right outfit? Don’t know what you should wear for a special event? Come see Tamika at J&H Clothing, a small fashionable boutique with women’s dresses, active wear, and swimwear, and men’s shirts, jeans, cultural tees, hats and more! We offer classic brand polos from Lacoste and Ralph Lauren. Our goal is to provide a variety of modern choices that can be worn for ANY occasion. Find us upstairs at Watapana
Want that WOW factor in your home or condo? Sweet Lime Furnishings, on Constitution Hill, can help you get it, with indoor furniture made from teak, mahogany and other durable hardwoods; outdoor furniture in elegant unfinished teak, man-made wicker over aluminum frames or durable plastic lumber with a 20-year warranty; comfy sofas and chairs in washable or Sunbrella fabrics; exotic, one-of-a-kind pieces and the work of some of St. Croix’s best-known artists. Our inventory is huge, and we’re adding to it all the time! We’re also happy to special order. Tuesday - Saturday, 10am – 4 pm, www.sweetlimefurnishings.com, Facebook
The Museum Store – 340-692-2874 The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands Museum Store specializes in botanically themed gifts, books and local art. Offering tasteful home decor and dazzling jewelry designs matched only by the Garden itself! If you’re a cook you’ll find one of the best collection of cookbooks on the island and other kitchen items. There’s great stuff for kids as well, with a focus on toys and books that are both fun and educational. Remember your trip to the Botanical Garden and St. Croix with a memento from The Museum Store. Open Mon - Sat, 10 - 4 pm & cruise ship days.
Oc tober/November 2020 • 21
Shop Duty-Free! TELL ME WHERE TO GO SHOPPING!
FIND IT HERE! Art @ Top Hat
Art / Crafts / Paintings/Fabric Bath, Body & Hair/ Supplements Beach / Travel Gadgets Binoculars Books / Cards Cameras Cigar Humidor Clothing - Children Clothing - Men Clothing - Women Coffee / Tea / Condiments Crystal / China Fashion Accessories Fashion Eyewear/Sunglasses Handbags/Totes Home Furnishings/Accessories Jewelry Liquor Local Fruits / Preserves / Produce Music CD’s Pet Supplies Shoes / Sandals / Hats Souvenirs / Gifts Sunscreen Supermarket / Deli / Bakery Swimwear Tee Shirts Toys Watches
Easy Shopping Guide
F
F
Asha World Designs
F F F F F F F F F F F F
F F F
Baci Duty Free
F
Christa’s Art Gallery
F
CMCA Gift Shop
F
F
F F F F
F F
F F
F
F F F
F
F F F F
Plaza Extra West
F
F
F F
F
F
F F
F
Purple Papaya
F F
F F F F
F F F
F
F F
F
Seaside Market & Deli
F F F
F
F F F
F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F F
Sonya, Ltd. Sublime STX
F F F
F
F
The Shoe Bar
F F F F
22 • Oc tober/November 2020
F F
F F
F F F
F
F F F F F F F
F F F
F
Small Wonder
F F
F
RJS Handmade Designs
Undercover Books & Gifts
F
F
Plaza Extra East
Tropical Bracelet Factory
F
F
Joyia Inspirational Jewelry
The Museum Store
F
F
J&H Clothing
Sweet Lime Furnishings
F
F
ib designs
Rare Finds
F
F
Cultured Naturals Body Care Eden South
F F F
F
Crucian Gold Ebbe’s Store
F F F
F F
F
F F F F F F F F F F F F F
F F F F F F
F F
The Historical Origins of Cruzan Rum—The Early Decades From far left: The Greathouse, Estate Diamond, Frederiksted; Malcolm Melchior Skeoch; Gordon Merwin Skeoch and Miles Malcolm Skeoch.
by Gwendolyn Skeoch
A
s a distinct brand name and a specific rum, the origin of Cruzan Rum can be traced to January, 1934, when The Diamond Rum Company was founded, for the purpose of distilling and selling Cruzan Rum, by the Malcolm Melchior Skeoch family on St. Croix, US Virgin Islands following the repeal of Prohibition. The company took its name from Estate Diamond, in Prince’s Quarter, Frederiksted, St. Croix, which was purchased by Malcolm Skeoch in 1910 from F. Lunney, Planter, and A. E. Stakeman, Lawyer, executors of the estate of the deceased Thomas Hewitt (Please see Mortgage Bond & Ledger (1910) under Attachments). At the time of the 1910 purchase, St. Croix was part of the Danish West Indies. In addition to serving as the Skeoch family residence, Malcolm purchased Diamond to be a “working estate”, cultivating cane, pasturing the needed livestock, and manufacturing sugar and rum.
The United States formally acquired the Danish West Indies for strategic reasons on March 31, 1917. This change of sovereignty was generally welcomed by the planters on St. Croix, since the U.S. had long been the principal market for their agricultural products. Hopes for economic revitalization failed to materialize mainly for two very different reasons. Six days after the purchase of what was thereafter known as“the Virgin Islands of the United States,” the U.S. abandoned its neutrality and entered World War 1 on the side of the Allies. Less than seven months later, a persistent temperance movement in the United States prevailed politically and a resolution calling for a Constitutional amendment to achieve Prohibition was presented in Congress. That resulted in the 18th Amendment (Prohibition) being introduced in 1918, ratified in 1919, and enforced beginning January 17 1920. Prior to that however, Estate Diamond, which was bankrupt at the time of the 1910 purchase, totaled 425 acres of which 280 acres had previously been a temporary Wartime Prohibition Act was passed on November 18, 1918. The Volstead Act, which allowed for the enforcement of the in sugar cane cultivation and 145 acres in pasturage for working 18th Amendment, was passed in 1919. Not until December 05, 1933 livestock. It featured the customary Great House (planter’s residence, could alcoholic beverages be legally commercially distilled, in this instance known familiarly as Diamond House); a village (workers transported or sold, anywhere within the United States quarters); the remains of a windmill, as well as a or its possessions. (The operative word is “legally”.) functioning steam mill (successive technologies used Prior to the to crush sugar cane); and a “works” (boiling house) early 1930’s, with a defunct pot still. Skeoch set about the task of Cruzan Rum, either The American experiment with Prohibition was a failure, renovating and reactivating the estate. and ended with its repeal by the 21st Amendment on as a brand name December 5, 1933. Anticipating this repeal, Malcolm or specific rum, Skeoch and his son, Gordon, had been zealously repairMolasses is the principal by-product of cane sugar was unknown. ing and upgrading the distillery at Diamond which had and an essential ingredient in the manufacturing of been seriously damaged by the violent 1928 Hurricane. Consequently, rum. Throughout Danish sovereignty, many large sugar estates on when the 21st Amendment was signed, the Skeochs were ready and St. Croix had their own stills and made their own rum. The number of the first batch of Cruzan Rum was rolled out on January 06, 1934 at active distilleries on estates noticeably declined during the last Diamond Distillery on Estate Diamond in Frederiksted, St. Croix. quarter of the 1800s. It should be noted that the practice of assigning a distinctive name (or brand) for the purpose of marketing any rum distilled on St. Croix was unknown until the 20th Century. The phrase A few years prior to this event, at the height of the American “Crucian (or Cruzan) rum”—note the lower case for “rum”—was Depression and Prohibition, Malcolm had suffered a heart attack originally only a generic reference to the rums distilled on St. Croix. and, Gordon, age 15, had had to leave school in Antigua, and return An estate literally branded its barrels of sugar, molasses, and rum for home to help support his family. He continued his education via export with the name of the St. Croix estate. Prior to the early 1930’s, correspondence and obtained a business degree. From 1931 until Cruzan Rum, either as a brand name or specific rum, was unknown. 1944, Gordon, in addition to helping his father on weekends with the There are several versions stating why the name was spelled Cruzan creation and running of Cruzan Rum, also worked full time during as opposed to Crucian. According to Gordon Skeoch (who helped the week at Rob’t. L. Merwin & Co. in Frederiksted, in a managerial his father, Malcolm, create Cruzan Rum) the name was based on position, despite his young age. Santa Cruz which St. Croix had previously been named by Columbus in 1493 when it was discovered and subsequently briefly owned by By the end of Prohibition (December 1933), most of the pot stills/ Spain. “Cruzan” was also felt to have more marketing appeal. distilleries in St. Croix were permanently defunct. continued on page 35
“
”
Oc tober/November 2020 • 23
OUT OPEN FOR TAKE- P CURBSIDE PICK-U DELIVERY SPACED SEATING
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED
Mushroom and Chevre Quiche, Basmati Rice with Fresh Pineapple Salsa or Linguine with Portobello Mushroom Cream Sauce. Open Tuesday – Friday, 11:30 am – 2:30 pm, reservations recommended. Join us for a glass of wine, a lovely lunch and admire the local artwork in the cafe. A unique setting, not to be missed; a best kept secret... until now. Company Street in Apothecary Hall. Menu posted daily on Instagram and Facebook.
Breakers Roar Tiki Bar – 340-773-6330 Breakers Roar opens in November on the waterfront next to the King Christian Hotel! The bar, specializing in Pan-Asian/West Indian flavors, sports an old world nautical theme with sailing ships, sea creatures, and underwater memorabilia. You can expect a full menu of amazing handcrafted, tropical cocktails like The Big Fundamental, Drinking Like a Fish, Mai Tai, Pina Colada, Moko Jumbie, or 3 Dots & a Dash! made with fresh-squeezed juices and more! Choose from Tiki Classics, Tiki Gold Standards, and Breakers Roar Originals. Come on over and indulge in our wide selection of spirits including 50 different types of rum! Happy Hour. Follow our IG page for updates.
5 9 K I N G S T R E E T , C H R I S T I A N S T E D | www.breakersroar.com
BREW STX – 340-719-6339 BREW STX is the only restaurant and microbrewery located on the beautiful Christiansted boardwalk. The two-level waterfront venue provides spectacular views and upscale bar fare! The menu features a variety of shareable appetizers, handhelds, fresh fish dishes, steak dinners, and many vegetarian options including a ‘build-your-own’ salad or rice bowl! Enjoy one of the HOUSE brews on tap created right on site! (Full bar available). Kitchen open 11 am – 10 pm, 7 days a week. Live music weekly. Facebook & Instagram.
Luncheria. Signature Nachos.
Susan Wall
Café Christine | Art Gallery – 340-713-1500 Nestled in a quiet historic courtyard, Café Christine offers fresh salads & small batch cuisine, using local ingredients when available. House-made desserts. Menu changes daily but includes signature dishes like Vegetarian Platter, Croque Monsieur or Madame, Dark Chocolate Flourless Torte and Coconut Pie. You might also see Salmon Spread with Mixed Greens, Artichoke,
The best spot on the Boardwalk for The best spot on the Boardwalk for Burgers & Beer! Burgers & Beer! KITCHEN OPEN: KITCHEN OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11-10 Mon-Thurs 11-10 FRI & SAT 11-11 FRI & SAT 11-11 SUN 11-9 SUN 11-9
340-773-3400 340-773-3400 BAR BAR OPEN OPEN LATE! LATE!
The Courtyard - 340-773-7728 Right across the street from Government House on King Street, you’ll find the hidden oasis called The Courtyard. Known for its locally-sourced, organic cold press juices, and fresh fruit smoothies, they now offer soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche along with Vegan and gluten- free options! Sip a cup of coffee, relax, and take a peek at our latest ‘artist-of-themonth’ works on display. Most weekends, we offer Art, Yoga, or Wine and Food Workshops; schedule on our Facebook page. Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am 6 pm; give us a call for drive-thru or pick-up service! We’re available for private parties up to 50 people. www.thecoutyardstx.com, Facebook. 40 Eats & Drinks – 340-692-0524 Located in the heart of Christiansted, the newly renovated and reimagined 40 Eats & Drinks will be a must stop for visitors and locals alike. This establishment will focus on TO-GO items with curbside pick-up, as well as proper social distancing dine-in options. A fun menu awaits those who enter, with choices for everyone. They will revive the Danish open face sandwich, the Smorrebrod, as well as the classic Mac and Cheese Shoppe. Over 5 soups daily, an inspired salad selection and creative Pot Pies are just the start to your mouth-watering experience at 40. The Grab-n-Go section will have snacks, bottles of wine and fun oddities to entertain your senses. Brunch will be served Saturday & Sunday; creative new specials. Open 11am to 7pm Mon - Fri & 9am to 3pm Sat & Sun. Downtown Christiansted has hosted a myriad of incredible restaurants, and the owners of 40 Eats & Drinks are proud to continue that tradition. Grounded Café – 340-626-9993 Grounded Cafe began at Victorious Believers Ministries as an outreach to encourage visitors to
Bistro / Art Gallery TUESDAY - FRIDAY 11:30 AM - 2:30PM 6 COMPANY STREET, CHRISTIANSTED UP THE STAIRS AT APOTHECARY HALL (340) 713-1500
Farm fresh food in a historic courtyard setting (340) 773-6330 4PM - MIDNIGHT M - S
24 • Oc tober/November 2020
340-719-6339 340-719-6339
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED
come and have coffee before service. With this in mind, we opened our first location at the VIYA building that had everything but a Grounded Cafe! We’re now also on Strand Street in Christiansted and the Sunny Isle Food Court. We use Fair Trade beans, Roots Java from Rwanda in fresh blends made to order. Nitro Brew available. With our hot and cold brewed beverages, signature sandwiches, specialty drinks, hand-crafted salads, soups, fresh-baked novelties, and desserts, Grounded Café is more than coffee, we’re an experience! See our complete Menu online. Get the Grounded Café App at your App Store and order ahead! All three locations open at 7am. www.groundedcafevi.com, IG, FB, T. Luncheria — 340-773-4247 This restaurant is an institution on St. Croix - a taste of Mexico in Christiansted for 37 years! All the locals know owner, Lenny, and Louie, bartender on Thursday and Friday evenings, making the best Margaritas your way! Enter through the big pillars and follow the Danish brick wall up to the bar for ordering. Enjoy all your favorites, at casual tables in a terraced, outdoor courtyard - Nachos, Salads, Quesadillas, Burritos, Enchiladas, Tacos and Tostadas. Enjoy “Two’fer Tuesday” with 2 Tacos for $5, and 2 Beers for $5. End then there’s “Thursday Night Tacos,” 2 Tacos for $3, dine in only. Located on Company Street in
Apothecary Hall and open Monday - Saturday, 11 am 9 pm, Thursday 11 am - 10 pm, closed Sundays. The Mill Boardwalk Bar and Brick Oven Pizza – 340-643-MILL Very simply put, exceptional harbor views, friendly service, the best Pizza on the island, and more! This open-air, waterfront pizzeria is best described with these notes—Local wood- fired, custom-built brick oven; fresh dough made in-house daily. Charred and chewy crust. Cosa nostra cheese. Open kitchen. Gluten free “anti” pizza menu items. Yellowfin tuna poke. Rum cake ice cream sandwiches. Amazing sunsets. Eclectic mix of locals and visitors. Fast and friendly service. That pretty much sums it up! Open 7 days a week, 11am – 10pm (subject to change). Facebook, Trip Advisor, Instagram. Nate’s Boathouse – 340-692-6283 Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or Sunday brunch on our boardwalk patio or in our breezy, open-air restaurant overlooking beautiful Christiansted Harbor. Watch the local fishing boats deliver their daily catch of Wahoo, Tuna, or Mahi-Mahi—we specialize in the fresh seafood brought to our dock every day. Creative dinner options incorporate an eclectic blend of world cuisines along with a unique, affordable wine list. Drink specials from the most complete bar on the
FRESHLY BREWED FAIR TRADE “ROOTS JAVA” RWANDA COFFEE
Organic & Fresh Signature Sandwiches Specialty Drinks • Salads • Soups Fresh-baked Novelties • Desserts 1 Christiansted - (340) 626-9993 2 VIYA Building - (340) 626-6799 3 Sunny Isle - (340) 626-6339 Open Mon-Sat • Closed Sundays
ORDER ONLINE
Use our Grounded Café App on your smartphone!
www.groundedcafevi.com
340-692-0524
340-643-4729 Oc tober/November 2020 • 25
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED
CHRISTIANSTED cont... island. Open 7 days, 8am – 9pm, ½ -Price Happy Hour, 4–6pm. FB, IG, www.natesboathouse.com
Only steps from the Boardwalk with a bite for everyone. Local cuisine, Pizza, Wings, and our Famous Beetchz Shrimp. Home of the Crucian Conclusion!
Nauti Bar & Grille – 340-718-0544 This is Christiansted’s ‘Sports Bar on the Water’ with HD TVs inside and out. Come ‘Feel the Breeze’ on our waterfront patio, play pool, darts, and cornhole. We are the Home of ‘Real Texas BBQ,’ fresh local seafood, the coldest beer and hand-crafted libations! Also serving up smoked USDA Choice beef brisket, ribs, sausage, chicken, seafood and scratch-made food prepared fresh daily. “We smoke the good stuff ” so come out early because it goes fast! Family-friendly, great staff, fun games, dancing! Weekly live events—check our Facebook page for current listings. We’re just off Hospital Street down on the water’s edge. Take a left at the BBQ sign; lots of parking. Open 3 pm until we close, 7 days a week; food service 3 - 10 pm. www.nautibargrille.com, FB Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant – 340-643-4RAW (4729) The area of the historic Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant was originally used to hold people coming off the boat and awaiting medical examinations before being allowed to enter the town and island; notice the coral
DYNAMITE TACOS Located next to Shupe's On The Boardwalk, Dynamite Tacos is a walk-up window that serves authentic street style tacos, Don Julio frozen margaritas, and a variety of Mexican beer. Featuring handmade corn tortillas filled with your choice of beef barbacoa, pork carnitas, mojo chicken, or roasted veggies. Add a side of seasoned rice and beans, chips and salsa, and more to make your meal complete!
juices & fitness center
Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Tues/Wed/Thurs 7:30am - 2pm Fri/Sat 7:30am - 10pm Sun 8am - 2pm
The Courtyard 2017.indd 1
Kings Alley, Christiansted
(340) 713-8899
Takeout & Catering Available
26 • Oc tober/November 2020
340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com
Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House
1/6/17 11:50 AM
Food & Drink CHRISTIANSTED / GALLOWS BAY
walls and bars on the windows! Today, come savor craft cocktails, a wide array of rums & wines, fresh seafood including local fish & lobster, sushi, and numerous other mouthwatering options! Visit our beautiful restaurant and luscious courtyard for a memorable dining experience, Monday to Sunday, from 6 to 10pm (subject to change). Also inquire about hosting your next social/corporate event with us - catering on-site! Reservations available. Follow us on Facebook & Instagram for updates and our menu. Tripadvisor. Salty Beetchz-340-713-8899 Located in King’s Alley, Salty Beetchz Bar and Grill is the perfect place to relax and enjoy an eclectic mix of local and stateside cuisine. Whether you want to watch the game or have a nice family dinner, this is the place for you. Just steps away from the Boardwalk, you will find Salty Beetchz large outdoor deck, perfect for dinner or cocktails under the stars and beautiful lighting. With a wide variety of options, you’re sure to find a great bite for everyone on your guest list. Be sure to try the famous Beetchz Shrimp or wrap your night up with the Crucian Conclusion. Take-out and Catering available. Open for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner—Tues/ Wed/Thurs 7:30am-2pm, Fri/Sat 7:30am-10pm, Sun 8am-2pm. Closed Mondays.
GALLOWS BAY
Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar – 340-713-0222 This Mexican Restaurant & Sports Bar (little Mexico in Gallows Bay) is owned by Chef Maria Fonrouge—actually from Mexico! They will transport you there with authentic Mexican cui- sine— something for everyone—meat lovers to vegan. Burritos and Tacos, made-to-order, are served as fast as you can say “Andale!” Special-value Kids Menu. Margaritas, Sangria, Micheladas, 9 Draft Beers, and Maria’s Signature Drinks made fresh daily. There are 14 TVs for our Sport Fans. Eat in AC or in the courtyard. Kitchen open Monday, 11 am – 9 pm, Tuesday – Saturday, 11 am – 10 pm. Follow us on Facebook for menus and daily specials. Seaside Market & Deli – 340-719-9393 Seaside Market & Deli is St. Croix’s only gourmet market! With a full-service bakery and deli, Seaside offers made-to-order sandwiches, fresh breads, deli meats, and a variety of sweet treats. Shop Seaside for a huge selection of wines, gourmet cheeses, specialty food items, and the freshest meat and seafood on island. We feature a variety of convenient, ready-made foods
Mexican Restaurant & Sports Bar
Authentic Mexican Food
Best Margaritas & 9 Draft Beers on Tap!
LUNCH & DINNER Monday 11 am - 9 pm Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm
340-713-0222 Gallows Bay Marketplace including a fresh soup and salad bar, and a buffet featuring hot entrees and sides plus a large selection of fresh produce, including local selections, and a coffee & juice bar featuring your favorite coffee drinks, fresh squeezed juices and smoothies. Seaside Market & Deli – Eat Fresh. Live Smart. Facebook
SHUPE’S on the Boardwalk – 340-773-3400 Looking for something affordable and quick? Look no further! Shupe’s on the Boardwalk offers casual waterfront dining, featuring fresh, hand-ground burgers, hand-cut fries, chicken wings, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, soft-serve ice cream, and more. All meals served in an easy-travel paper bag. Of course, a full bar at your disposal as well! The best spot on the Boardwalk for burgers and beer! Open Monday – Thursday, 11 am – 10 pm, Friday & Saturday 11 am - 11 pm, Sunday, 11 am – 9 pm. Facebook & Instagram. TOAST Diner – 340-692-0313 This cozy, award-winning diner near the boardwalk waterfront boasts an extremely creative menu including Venezuelan-style arepas, breakfast allday-long, rum cake French toast, the diner burger, biscuits and gravy, the decadent Peanut Butter and Jealous Sandwich, daily specials, and more! While a full bar is available, locals and visitors depend on the Build-Your-Own-Bloody- Mary, and the best coffee on St. Croix! Come with company or come alone and make a new friend. Toast is sure to become the ritual start to your day! Walk-ins only. Phone orders welcome. (facebook, Trip advisor, Instagram, twitter)
340-718-0544
Open weClose. close. Open77days daysaaweek weekat--noon Openuntil Till We BehindBryan’s Bryan’s Marine Marine on the water. Behind water. Oc tober/November 2020 • 27
Food & Drink FREDERIKSTED
FREDERIKSTED
Beach Side Café — 340-772-1205 or 340-772-1266 The Beach Side Café at Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel in Frederiksted offers fresh catch seafood specials, American and local dishes with tropicallyinspired cocktails and mocktails hand-crafted from local juices, along with our house-made desserts on the island’s best beach for fun-in-the-sun and spectacular sunsets. Open Thursday – Monday, 11 am – 8:30 pm, and our fabulous Saturday and Sunday Brunch from 10am until 3pm with dinner following from 4:30 until 8:30. Join us Tuesday and Wednesday for our outdoor grill 11am until 6:30 pm featuring burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chicken and Mahi sandwiches. Visit Sand Castle on the Beach and the Beach Side Café for everything you’ll need to enjoy a true St. Croix experience. Ciboné – 340-719-2663 Back and even better, Cibone is an exciting, intimate dining experience. Featuring local, farmfresh ingredients and wild-caught seafood, they were an Entre award-winner in the 2017 Taste of
Lunch, Dinner, Weekend Brunch
and Spectacular Sunsets Reservations at 340-772-1266
fine seafood 340-719-2663 28 • Oc tober/November 2020
Eat With Fred – 340-777-Fred (3733) “A Barefoot Chic” dining experience on Strand Street, Frederiksted! Eat With Fred is an elegant yet casual beachfront dining venue with beautiful West End views and sunsets. Come as you are! Eat With Fred has a relatively small “set” menu with a more expansive Feature Menu each day so that they can focus primarily on locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal St. Croix flavors providing a truly unique culinary experience. At press time, they are offering only Carry Out and Delivery Menus. Visit www.eatwithfred.com for options and pricing and order online!
Tap Deck. Sushirolls! Tuna, Salmon, Shrimp, Duck.
St. Croix. Located in the charming and historic Limetree Courtyard on King Street, they are open Tuesday – Saturday for dinner, 6 – 10 pm, and on Sunday for Brunch, 10 am – 3 pm. Like us on Facebook!
Six Nine Restaurant & Bar - 340-772-6969 Welcome to Six Nine, Frederiksted’s newest, revitalized restaurant, in the former Pier 69 location! Nestled in the romantic waterfront courtyard in front of Frederiksted Pier, we offer an elegant, outdoor or indoor, dining experience. For dinner, enjoy hand-cut steaks, fresh local seafood, homemade pastas, daily specials, a weekly oyster happy hour, all complimented by a carefully curated and fun wine and cocktail list. Lunch is more casual, offering sandwiches, burgers, fish tacos and more! Follow us on facebook @sixninestx or online at sixninestx.com. Opening at the beginning of November. Reservations highly recommended! Lunch Tues-Sat 12-3pm, dinner Tues-Sat 6-9pm, Sunday Brunch 11-4pm. Tap Deck Bar & Billiards - 340-773-5227 Tap Deck is located on the waterfront in front of Frederiksted Pier! Enjoy an eclectic small bites menu, daily chef specials, domestic and imported draft beer, and an extensive cocktail selection. We offer both inside air-conditioned seating, and outdoor balcony seating with a view of the Pier and the always amazing West End sunset. Come for poke, flatbreads, salads, sliders, our famous Spinach-Artichoke Dip and more, and stay for the inviting atmosphere and professional, fun bartend-
Food & Drink EAST END
G
E
RS
Deep End Bar & Grill — 340-718-7071 Tucked between Tamarind Reef Resort & Spa and Green Cay Marina sits the Deep End Bar & Grill serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner 6 days a week!
UR
Photo, Susan Wall
New Comfortable 6’ DistanceSafe Seating on Our Terrace. New Full Menu To Go if You Prefer. Call Ahead for All Dine-In & To-Go Reservations. Closed Wednesdays.
ISE
M
A
Cheeseburgers in Paradise – 340-718-1118 For the best in local and off-island entertainment, check out this schedule. We have the legendary Llewellyn singing songs of the Caribbean on Saturday nights and Brian Wilson on Sunday. Two Fridays a month, we feature one of Chicken Charlie’s amazing bands from the states. Come out and dance to your favorite 60s rock-n-roll and feast on fresh local lobster, great steaks and other specials. “There’s nothing like a hamburger at Cheeseburger’s (overheard recently), the East End Headquarters for food, fun, and frolic!” Facebook.
E
EB S E
IN
Blue Water Terrace – 340-692-BLUE (2583) A restaurant and catering business with a fabulous view across from Buck Island! Specialties are steaks and seafood, ‘Lori’s Famous’ Fried Chicken, BBQ ribs, lasagna, chicken pot pie, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Find Lori’s housemade desserts, ice cream, and local artwork and jewelry in the Market. Open nightly for dinner, 5 – 9pm, Sunday Brunch, 10am – 3pm. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Call ahead for reservations, catering parties, or to have your food ready for pick up! www.bluewaterterrace.com, Facebook.
SEE YOU SOON, PAULI, LORI, TAYLOR, & JEDI
ER
D
EAST END
Duggan’s Reef — 340-773-9800 It’s easy to see why this beachfront restaurant, an informal, open-to-the-breeze spot overlooking Buck Island, has been a local favorite for more than 35 years—voted Best Seafood on St. Croix by readers of the Daily News! Start off with drinks or your choice from the wine list. We specialize in local lobster and fresh fish. Also enjoy pasta, filet mignon, and our choice of freshly prepared desserts. Try Frank Duggan’s Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 1:30 pm, with Eggs Benedict, weekly specials, Mimosas or Bloody Marys. Reservations welcomed! Dinner served 6 nights a week. Closed Mondays. September, closed last three weeks.
A
ers. We’re also the first restaurant on St. Croix to eliminate single use plastic! Entrance is on the 2nd floor, through the Six-Nine courtyard in front of the Pier! Open daily for happy hour 3pm-5pm and dinner 5-10pm. Follow us on Facebook @ TapDeckSTX or online at tapdeckstx.com
Restaurant & Catering St. Croix’s East End, Gorgeous Buck Island View!
CH
Blue Water Terrace. Dessert Lovers Unite!
Dine undercover, poolside, or on the beach all with a smashing view of Green Cay! With a great selection of tropical blender drinks and a diverse menu, there is something for everyone. Come see us for Weeknight Specials – Mango BBQ Ribs, Tuesday, live entertainment—Yoshea on Sax, Wednesday, no entertainment, Thursday, Disco Bingo, Friday, Crab Races, Sunday Brunch, Bill Bass Steel Pans when available. Open Mon – Sat, 7 am – 9 pm, Sun, 8 am – 2 pm. www.newdeepend.com, Facebook.
I C A’S P
AR
st. croix • USVI • 340.718.1118
Open 365 Days
Dine Undercover, Poolside, or on the Beach! 718-7071
“
Think of us for your catered parties, private functions overlooking Buck Island, sweet tooth fix, last-minute lunch box, fried chicken picnics, ice cream cravings, pizza-n-beer, Sunday afternoons, & the finest cuisine & spirits.
”
Restaurant: Hand-cut Steaks & Fresh Local Seafood, Lori’s Famous Fried Chicken, Crab-Stuffed Wahoo, Apple BBQ Ribs, Rack of Lamb, Fresh Lobster Dishes & our Homemade Stone-Baked Pizza! Housemade Desserts from scratch and Ice Creams! Catering: LET US CATER FOR YOU! Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family!
340-692-BLUE (2583) www.bluewaterterracevi.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 29
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE
NORTH SHORE
AMA Cane Bay – 340-227- 3432 Located in a dramatic setting on St. Croix’s Northshore is AMA Cane Bay and award-winning Digby Stridiron is your Chef! “AMA,” he says, “is the indigenous Taino word for the ocean/body of water and definitely reflects our cuisine and location!” A waterfront, fine dining restaurant offering a relaxing ambiance, amazing views, and stunning sunsets! AMA Cane Bay utilizes sustainably-sourced local ingredients to prepare their entrees, a fusion of Caribbean and American cuisine. Come join us when you feel like dining with the sounds of the waves or unwinding at the top deck bar. Open for dinner and drinks, Tuesday - Saturday, 5 – 9 pm and Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 2 pm. www.amacanebay.com, Facebook, Instagram
Leatherback Brewing Company. Authentic Virgin Islands Craft Beer.
Cast Iron Pot – 340-692-2477 Here lies the essence of Local Cuisine! “We strive to preserve tradition and culture while keeping a modern flare and extend our hospitality and authentic flavors to the St. Croix community and our visitors.” Hearty dishes like Savory Stewed Chicken, Salt Fish Gundy, Red
Private Parties • Conference Room Daily Specials • Top Class Catering Tues & Wed 11 am - 5 pm Thurs - Sat 11 am - 9 pm
LOCAL LOBSTERS
Every Style – Every Day 10A La Grande Princesse
W
e’re a craft brewery located on St. Croix with an onsite Tasting Room and indoor/outdoor bar. The first beers were brewed in March of 2018 with the Tasting Room opening shortly after in May. Leatherback brews a rotating selection of craft beers using traditional brewing styles and featuring local ingredients, and we package all products on site. The 20,000 square foot facility houses a 15-barrel brewhouse and eleven 30- barrel fermenters. The newest additions to the space are two new 60-barrel fermenters, which will likely stay full of the always-popular Reef Life IPA along with one of the other flagship brews. The canning line fills up to 30 cans per minute during production. Check out the self-guided tour for a birds eye view of the brewing and packaging operations. The Tasting room serves 8-10 beers on draft as well as a selection of mixed drinks featuring locally distilled spirits. You’ll always find Leatherback’s four flagships beers, including local bush tea-inspired Bush Life Farmhouse Ale, alongside other favorites such as Soursop Double IPA or Acerola Cherry Hefe. You may also find a limited release brew (or two) or a small batch of something delicious, aged in rum barrels. The Tasting Room is decorated with murals and features a large outdoor space perfect for playing cornhole or bocce, or just relaxing and enjoying the breeze. Throughout the year, Leatherback hosts a variety of events ranging from live music, to outdoor festivals, to fundraisers for local nonprofits. The Tasting Room serves freshly baked pizzas, along with wraps and salads, perfect to pair with your favorite brews or specialty cocktails! The delicious beers and laidback, family-friendly atmosphere make Leatherback a “must try” on St Croix! Only minutes from the airport, it’s the perfect first and last stop when flying to and from St. Croix!
www.leatherbackbrewing.com, 340-772-BEER, FB, IG
30 • Oc tober/November 2020
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND
Peas Soup, Catch-of-the-Day, Pot Fish, Fresh Local Beef, Coconut Bread Pudding, and Homemade Cakes are prepared with love and passion by Burton Peterson, awardwinning local chef and owner of Top Class Catering for 20 years. Trip Advisor “Top-Rated Seafood & Caribbean Cuisine Restaurant.” Northside Road in Estate La Grande Princesse. Open Tues & Wed, 11 am – 5 pm, and Thurs – Sat, 11 am – 9 pm. Local lobsters, every style, every day! Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay – 340-718-0362 Leatherback Landing has arrived in Cane Bay! With a focus on promoting exceptional local beer while embracing and celebrating the community, the restaurant boasts a rotating selection of fresh Leatherback Brewing beers on tap and in cans along with classic island cocktails. The food menu features many favorites along with local specials made with quality ingredients sourced from farmers, bakers, and fishermen located right here on the island. Happy Hour runs from 4pm6pm daily, and brunch, which starts at 10am every Sunday, is a must. Reservations and large parties are welcome. Cane Bay is a day-trip destination where you can bring the whole family. Pull up a seat, grab a drink, and take in the natural beauty of the island. The Palms at Pelican Cove – 340-718-8920 Located 3 miles west of Christiansted, the natural Beach Side setting of The Palms Restaurant & Bar underscores the award-winning flavors coming from the kitchen. The atmosphere can be dressed up or down; Oceanfront dining is available in our open-air pavilion. The Palms Restaurant and Beach Bar is a favorite among locals and is reasonably priced. We offer Steak, Wings, Seafood, Burgers, Salads, Cold Drinks, and more! We are open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Mon-Thurs 7:30 am-10 pm, Fri & Sat 7:30 am- 11 pm, Sun 8 am-10 pm. We have nightly Chef Specials, Daily Happy Hour 3pm-6pm and Live Entertainment on Friday & Saturday nights. Call ahead for takeout orders. Reservations necessary for Parties over 6. Follow us on Facebook!
MID-ISLAND
A Better Day Café – 340-244-0333 Nestled in the heart of the Beeston Hill Gym is A Better Day Cafe, the whole-food plant-based restaurant and island’s first full-service meal prep kitchen! Founded to give St. Croix a place to eat clean delicious foods, we are proud to have been serving you for almost 2 years! Known for our home-made bean burgers, gluten-free pates, Smart Lunch Meal Prep specials, hearty soups and detox juice cleanses we are committed to making healthy eating fun, delicious and convenient! We also offer Holistic Health Consultations with our founder, Dr. Micah McIntosh, to personalize your meal plans, supplement recommendations, and combat chronic disease! We have quick pick-up for your nutritious goods and Zoom Video for appts! Call or text us daily for our tasty specials at or abetterdayllc.com/specials. Facebook
Cast Iron Pot. Conch in Butter Sauce. Self-serve breakfast Whole-food, plant-based lunch Meal Prep & Catering
U PS
TA I R S A T T H E L H IL
B E ESTON
M GY
Cold-pressed juices Smoothies Detox protocols
Mon, Tues, Thurs 9am- 2pm & 4pm - 8pm Supplements Wed, Fri 9am-6pm
(340) 244-0333 www.abetterdayllc.com
13th year! 16th year!
VISIT OUR
TASTING
ROOM LOCATED IN
ROEBUCK INDUSTRIAL PARK JUST OFF THE HIGHWAY WEST OF THE AIRPORT
LOOK FOR OUR CANNED BEER IN
Restaurant - Bar
Caribbean • Latin • Seafood
Open Mon & Tues, 11:30 - 6pm Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat, 11:30 - 9pm Sun, 10:30 - 8pm Happy Hour! Thurs & Fri, 4:30 pm – 7 pm
Mid-Island, Rt. 663
340-779-3285
& RESTAURANTS ACROSS THE ISLAND STORES 340.772.BEER Oc tober/November 2020 • 31
Food & Drink NORTHSHORE / MID-ISLAND
El Flamboyant – 340-779-3285 “People like coming here,” says owner Yvonne Villegas. “I learned to cook from my mother who had a restaurant in Puerto Rico for many years and now its my turn to cook and serve these coveted family recipes!” This colorful, family restaurant offers up a Caribbean, Latin, and Seafood menu that has been pleasing patrons for over 16 years. If you like fresh fish, lobster, conch, and shrimp, or chicken, steaks, and pork chops, you must try the way they do it at here! Happy Hour tradition on Thursday and Friday nights is to stop for a drink then take shish-kabobs home from the drive-up booth! Located between Centerline Road and the Highway on Route #663 and open Monday – Tuesday, 11:30 am – 6 pm, Wednesday – Saturday, 11:30 am – 9 pm, Sunday, 10:30 am – 8 pm.
The Palms Restaurant & Bar. Try our open-air, beachfront Pavilion!
SUPERSTORE
BIGGEST SUPERMARKET IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS!
Leatherback Brewing Company – 340-772-2337 Leatherback Brewing Company proudly produces authentic Virgin Islands craft beer with uniquely Caribbean grown ingredients and influences alongside traditional beer styles. We aim to build the community and culture around well-crafted beer and to celebrate and steward our Caribbean life! Leatherback’s flagship location, the St. Croix Brewery and Tasting Room, is located in the Roebuck Industrial Park just up the highway from the airport. Leatherback brews and cans four styles year-round and releases a rotating series of Limited Releases. Many of the styles feature local ingredients. The Tasting Room serves a selection of pizzas, wraps, salads and appetizers and features an indoor and outdoor bar with a family-friendly atmosphere. Our second location is on St. Thomas and you can also find our beers in cans and on draft in local stores and restaurants. www.leatherbackbrewing.com, FB
5 minutes from the Airport • Open 7 days a week Largest selection of fine wines & spirits • Fresh produce Proud supporters of our local farmers Fresh USDA meats, poultry & seafood • Pharmacy in store
Beach Front Dining BREAKFAST * LUNCH * DINNER
BEACH FRONT DINING
BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER Steaks, Seafood Cold Drinks
Steaks • Seafood • Cold Drinks Daily Chef Specials Live Music Friday & Saturday Daily CHEF Specials LIVE MUSIC EVERY
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Hotel Rooms w/Ocean View
#14 Plessen • Frederiksted, VI 00840-4621
340-719-1870 • plazaextrawest.com
Special Events/Functions
www.palmspelicancove.com EAT
SUPERSTORE
Gift Card
DRINK
ONLY AT THE PALMS 340-718-8920
32 • Oc tober/November 2020
BEACH
340-718-8920
Food & Drink MID-ISLAND
Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet – 340-513-0648 You’ve probably seen or visited our Mobile Parlor but have you been to our creamery/store in Peter’s Rest across from Coco-Cola Bottling Company? We now bring you our healthy, locally-made frozen treats every day! Ice creams are freshly churned in our creamery using the freshest ingredients. Contrary to most ice creams, ours are made without eggs, food colorings, stabilizers, or artificial preservatives. Non-dairy ice creams are made with premium coconut milk and sweetened with agave or maple syrup. Full spectrum CBD is infused into our CBD offerings and 100% fruit is used in the production of our fine sorbets. Book our Mobile Parlor for Special Events! “Sorbie” Rewards Program for Kids. Open Sunday – Thursday, Noon – 7pm and Friday & Saturday, Noon – 8pm. FB, IG
El Flamboyant. Beef Steak Mofongo.
Locally Made
Susan Wall
La Reine Chicken Shack – 340-718-5717 Serving the Community for 17 years! Are you ready to savor one of St. Croix’s best- kept secrets? Taste La Reine Chicken Shack’s mouth-watering BBQ chickens, slowly-cooked on wood-chip coal over an open pit! Get in line! Other menu favorites include Roast Pork, Ribs, Steak, Local Seafood, daily specials and many other island delicacies. Come min-
Sorbetiere. Locally-made ice creams—cups, cones, sundaes, milkshakes! Susan Wall
us Crucian Treat An Incredibly Delicio e cream and
hear, ic “Sorbetiere you ain’ e!” u won’t want to shar sorbet suh good , yo •Sorbie Rewards Program for Kids •Book our Mobile Parlor for Special Events •Sunday - Thursday: Noon - 7pm •Friday & Saturday: Noon - 8pm
Photos by Susan Wall
Peter’s Rest across from Coca-Cola Bottling Company 340-513-0648
•Ice Cream • Sorbet •Non-Dairy Ice Cream •Indulgent Ice Cream •Premium Quality •Egg-Free •No Preservatives •100% Real Fruit
Oc tober/November 2020 • 33
Food & Drink TELL ME WHERE TO EAT!
Easy Dining Guide Restaurant
Take Local area Out code is (340)
OPEN FOR TAKEOU CURBSIDE PICK-U T P DELIVERY SPACED SEATING
Cuisine
Meals
Credit Cards
Res.
Location
40 Eats and Drinks
X
692-0524
Fresh/Eclectic/Cocktails
L, D
AE, D, MC, V
No
Christiansted
A Better Day Cafe at Beeston Hill
X
778-8888
Vegan/Caribbean/Meal Prep/Detox
B, L, D
MC, V
Yes
Mid-Island
AMA Cane Bay
X
227-3432
Local / Gourmet / Cocktails / Waterfront
BR, D
AE, MC, V
Yes
Northshore
Beach Side Café
X
772-1266
American / Local / Seafood / Waterfront
L, D, BR
AE, MC, V
Yes
Frederiksted
Blue Water Terrace
X
692-2583
Restaurant / Market / Deli
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
BREW STX
X
719-6339
Sandwiches / Smoked Wings / BYO Salads
L, D
MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
Breakers Roar Tiki Bar
X
773-6330
Craft Cocktails / Waterfront
AE, D, MC, V
No
Christiansted
Café Christine’s / ART GALLERY
X
713-1500
Fresh / Healthy / Café-style
L
None
Yes
Christiansted
Cast Iron Pot
X
692-2477
Local / Seafood / Grill
L, D
MC, V
Yes
Northside
Cheeseburgers in America’s Paradise
X
718-1118
Continental
L, D, BR
MC, V
No
East End
Ciboné
X
719-2663
Farm / Sea-to-Table
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
Frederiksted
Deep End Bar & Grill at Tamarind Reef Resort
X
718-7071
Casual / Beachside Dining
B, L, D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
Duggan’s Reef
X
773-9800
Seafood / Steakhouse
D, BR
MC, V
Yes
East End
El Flamboyant
X
779-3285
Latin / Seafood / Caribbean
L, D, BR
None
No
Mid Island
Grounded Cafe
X
626-9993
Fair Trade Coffee / Casual Hand-crafted Meals
B, L, D
AE, MC, V
No
Csted/Sunny Isle
La Reine Chicken Shack
X
778-5717
Open Pit BBQ / Seafood
B, L, D
ATM
No
Mid Island
Leatherback Brewing Company
X
772-BEER (2337)
Pizza/Wraps/Salads
L, D
D, MC, V
No
Mid-Island
Leatherback Landing @ Cane Bay
X
718-0369
Grill / Seafood / Caribbean / Waterfront
B, L, D
MC, V, D
No
Northshore
Maria’s Cantina & Sports Bar
X
713-0222
Authentic Mexican
L, D
AE, MC, V
No
Gallows Bay
Nate’s Boathouse & Seafood Emporium
X
692-6283
Seafood / World Cuisine
B, L, D, BR
D, MC, V
Yes
Christiansted
Nauti Bar & Grille
X
718-0544
Smoked Meats/Chicken/Fresh Seafood
L, D
AE, MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
Rum And Wine Bar Restaurant
X
643-4729
Seafood / Sushi / Vegan / Craft Cocktails
D
AE, D ,MC, V, Debit
Yes
Christiansted
Salty Beetchz
X
713-8899
Local/Pizza/Wings/Cocktails
B, L, D, BR
AE, D ,MC, V, Debit
No
Christiansted
Seaside Market & Deli
X
719-9393
Gourmet /Salad Bar/ Prime Meats
B, L, D
AE, D, MC, V
No
Gallows Bay
Shupe’s on the Boardwalk
X
773-3400
Burgers / Wings / Ice Cream
L, D
MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
Six Nine Restaurant & Bar
X
772-6969
Steaks/Seafood/Pasta/Wine
L, D, BR
AE, D, MC, V
Yes
Frederiksted
Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet
X
513-0648
Locally-Made/Non-Dairy/Egg-Free
D, MC, V
No
Mid Island
The Courtyard Juices & Fitness Center
X
773-7728
Juices / Smoothies / Healthy Food
B, L
D, MC, V
No
Christiansted
The Mill Boardwalk Bar Brick Oven Pizza
X
643-6455
Brick oven pizza / Waterfront
L, D
AE, D, MC, V, Debit
No
The Palms at Pelican Cove
X
718-8920
American/Caribbean/Beachfront
B,L,D,BR
MC, V, D
Yes 6
Northside
TOAST Diner
X
692-0313
Eclectic / Venezuelan Food
B, L
MC, V, D
No
Christiansted
34 • Oc tober/November 2020
Christiansted +
Food & Drink MID-ISLAND
FARM STAND FRESH! CALL AHEAD OR CHECK ONLINE FOR CHANGES IN SCHEDULES. ARTfarm, LLC – 340-514-4873 On Summer Hours. Open on a pop-up basis only. www.artfarmllc.com, FB Crescent Farm - 340-277-0707 Sat - Sun, 9 am - 5 pm or by appointment. Solar-powered, organic farm. Seasonal fruits & vegetables. Facebook La Reine Farmers Market – 340-778-0998 Sat, 6:30 am – 11 am New Location. VI Dept of Agriculture Ag Station, East Building, on Rt. 669. Vegetables, fruits, plants, and trees. Ridge2Reef Farm – 340-473-1557 Wed & Sat, 11am – 3 pm Pick up our fruits, veggies, and meats at the Lawaetz Museum in Frederiksted. Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Sign up & pick-up locations. www.ridge2reef.org
gle with our friendly staff and local patrons in our recently renovated outdoor seating area. Enjoy one of our most popular drinks “Cruzan Confusion” at our full bar. Located mid-island on Route #75, off Centerline Road, we’re open 7 days a week serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Eat in or Take out! Facebook Plaza Extra West Supermarket – 340-719-1870 The biggest, full-service supermarket on St. Croix features organic, fresh local produce. Our Dairy Department is filled with a variety of fine cheeses, a large selection of meats, organic eggs, and juices. Our Meat Department is stocked with the finest cuts prepared by our Master Butcher; USDA meats, Certified Angus meats, poultry, and seafood. Pair your favorite cheeses, seafood, meat and desserts with our wines from the largest liquor selection on island. We have catering available from our fullservice Deli and Bakery. Try our delicious Stone House Subs, pastries and desserts. Artisan breads, platters, and hot foods served daily. We look forward to serving you. www.plazaextrawest.com, Facebook.
It is unclear from the available records whether or not R. Selwyn Fleming (Malcolm Skeoch’s nephew) invested in, and worked at, The Diamond Rum Company at this initial time, although it is clear that, two years later in 1936, Selwyn Fleming was an integral part of the formation of St. Croix Sugar Cane Industries, Inc.
Sejah Farm – 340-277-6046 or 277-9392 Mon – Fri, 10 am – 5 pm, Sat, 7 am – 5 pm Dale and Yvette Browne offer livestock, eggs, & organically grown vegetables. www.sejahfarm.com. Accepts credit cards. Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market – 340-332-3932 Sat, 8 am – Noon Produce, fresh & preserved local fruit, fresh baked goods, local honey, handmade soaps, herb and ornamental plants. Tropics Hydroponics Farm – 340-227-5546 Mon - Fri, 8 am - 4 pm, Sat, 8 - 12 noon, Sat, La Reine Market Brian McCulough specializes in Bibb lettuce, vine-ripened tomatoes, & other vegetables. Farm locations, Pg 54-55.
continued from page 23
When The Diamond Rum Company was first formed in 1934, Malcolm M. Skeoch and his wife Annie owned it, and, Malcolm and his son Gordon struggled to produce Cruzan Rum. Simultaneously, at Hermon Hill in Christiansted, Malcolm Kenneth Armstrong (Malcolm Skeoch’s nephew), who owned Santa Cruz Distillers, along with Armstrong’s business partner and investor, Victor Gibeon, manufactured Santa Cruz Rum.
Serving the Community for 17 years!
Mouth-W Mouth-Watering atering
Open-Pit BBQ Chicken Roast Pork Ribs • Steak Local Seafood
Catering for All Occasions!
Newly Renovated with Full Bar
Try our “Cruzan Confusion!”
Open 7 Days a Week! Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
In 1936, while retaining their separate company identities, Malcolm M. Skeoch of The Diamond Rum Company, and, Malcolm K. (Harry) Armstrong and Victor Gibeon from Santa Cruz Distillers, together with R. Selwyn Fleming in St. Croix, and Howard M. Wall from Portland, Oregon formed a corporation, St. Croix Sugar Cane Industries, Inc., for the purpose of marketing and distributing the St. Croix rums in the United States. Given his age and difficult family financial circumstances, Gordon Skeoch was not a financial investor until 1941. In 1943, Gordon’s younger brother, Miles M. Skeoch, (having helped out at the distillery since childhood) began working in the Skeoch family owned and operated Diamond Distillery”(aka Cruzan Rum Distillery), and subsequently came to manage the Barreling and Bottling Plant division there. He also became an officer and investor in St. Croix Sugar Cane Industries, Inc. (aka Cruzan Rum) during a later restructuring of the company in 1953. For the full account with documentation and continuation of The Historical Origins of Cruzan Rum—The Early Decades, please go to Gwendolyn’s website www.historyofcruzanrum.com.
Rt. 75 off Centerline Road
Tropics Hydropinics Farm. Fresh, local Bibb lettuce!
Eat In or Take Out • 340-778-5717 Oc tober/November 2020 • 35
On the Covers COMMUNITY ROLE MODELS!
OCT
Kebra Kaza, 16, is entering her senior year at the St. Croix Educational Complex High School and will be in her second year KEBRA KAZA of the Culinary Program at the St. Croix Career and Technical Education Center. Born on St. Croix, Kebra left island at a young age and attended school in New York and then North Carolina. Her summers were primarily spent with her father and family in St. Croix. “I have always been interested in art, my Mom is a professional commission artist and my Grandmother loved art as a hobby and both were great support for me,” says Kebra. “I like to draw landscapes, animated characters, and faces mostly.” Kebra’s St. Croix roots tugged at her and in August 2019, with the support of her Mom, Stepdad and four siblings, she left her family and home in North Carolina to embark on her desired journey to graduate from High School on St. Croix. She loves to work with her hands and is searching for her passion through her studies in culinary and visual arts. Kebra has been a member of the 340 Women’s Soccer Club and represented the Virgin Islands in the Youth National Team programs. Kebra wants to take a gap year after graduation to work and gel her plans and then head to college either in the states near her Mom or at UVI right here for a business degree and ultimate goal, her own food truck! When asked about her October cover image, Kebra reveals that she saw a photo of this women and loved the strength she saw in it and wanted to capture it in a painting. And the background? “Its whatever you want it to be, some see Africa, some see fire,” she says.
Kebra Kaza.
Mother and Child.
Hope.
Kim Taehyung.
NOV
Moko Jumbie Dream.
Matt Jarvis.
On the Boardwalk.
Hidden Treasures.
36 • Oc tober/November 2020
Dr. Matt Jarvis, a former Organizational Development specialist at NASA, is a profeslandscape and portrait artist, currently MATT JARVIS sional working from his home studio on St. Croix’s East End. “My wife and I own a vacation rental property, the East End Overlook, so I split my time between property management and painting. With all the hours spent in lockdown, it’s nice having a passion for art. It’s the perfect outlet!” Matt’s primary media is oil, although he occasionally works in acrylic, pastels, and charcoals. Stylistically, he considers himself a realistsurrealist hybrid. “I want my finished products to appear real, but with a little hi-def pop! I like high contrast, bright colors, and compositions that create drama and/or tell a story.” The need for detail, Matt says, can be labor-intensive. “In the art community, I’m considered a ‘glazer.’ I paint in layers, making adjustments or adding details as I go. Each layer brings me closer to the final product I’m envisioning, but I often forget when to quit! My longest project, a portrait of our son and daughter, took eighteen months to complete--and I still have issues with it! Matt began painting at age ten, in California’s Sierra Nevada foothills, tutored by local artists. “Aside from those early lessons and some high school art classes, I’m pretty much self-taught, which is not a good thing! Most of what I know has come from making mistakes!” So what has Matt learned over the years? “1) Have fun; 2) Have a clear, inspiring vision; 3) Remain stubborn, taking whatever time is needed to bring that initial vision to life; 4) Have a stretch goal for each project— color, movement, composition, etc.” And the most important rule at Matt Jarvis Crucian Art? “5) DON’T WEAR YOUR ONLY GOOD SHORTS.” Visit the Matt Jarvis Crucian Art page on Facebook!
Local Art
ISLAND IMAGINATION!
Art @ Top Hat – 340-692-2787 Across from the US Post Office and in a historic two-story townhouse on Company Street, the Art @ Top Hat Gallery presents changing exhibits of works by local Virgin Islands fine artists, always with amazing collections to choose from. Also sculpture, photography, pottery, antiques, and handmade jewelry. Estate sale collectibles. Happy to work with homeowners, interior designers, and businesses looking for just the right art work. Always prints, maps, cards and other island memories—and we ship! Browsers welcome. Art shows and open Art Thursdays during the winter season. Open Wed – Sat, 1-5pm and by special appointment by calling 340-513-3558. Facebook Bead on a Wire – 340-718-BEAD (2323) Learn how to make jewelry—Wire Work, Chain Maille, Pearl Knotting, Viking Knit, Stringing, Knotted Lariat, and Seed Beading—from Artisan/ Instructor, Vanessa Harvey Hinds! Visit her bright, yellow and white Bead Store in the new Richmond Courtyard, on Soboetker Lane, between Rt. 75 and the Seaplane Ramp. Find tools, seed beads, semiprecious gemstone beads, Swarovski crystals and pearls, base and precious metal wire, and stringing supplies. Attend one of her many weekly two-hour classes—check the website or Facebook page for days and hours. Let her help you plan a Jewelry Party, Craft & Sip, or Special Jewelry Event. Open Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm. www.beadonawirestx.com, Facebook. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts – 340772-2622 Our mission is to preserve, promote and exhibit the arts of St. Croix and the Caribbean community, to provide an interactive environment that encourages children, youth and adults to learn positive forms of expression, and to offer creative learning experiences which foster an understanding of the rich cultural and artistic traditions of the Caribbean, and their source. Housed in an 18thcentury Danish townhouse. Artist-in-Residence program. Come visit and join us! www.cmcarts. org, Facebook. Christa’s Art Gallery – 340-713-9959 Christa-Ann Davis Molloy was a St. Croix This Week cover artist in February and March of 2017 and since then, opened a gallery in La Grande Princesse and now on Company Street in Christiansted. Born in Trinidad, West Indies, she began an interest in art and design by the age of 11, encouraged by her Mom, her sister, her sons, and friends. She loves to paint portraits, old buildings, quadrille dancers, mocko jumbies, Caribbean scenes, and events. Lots of these images are incorporated into products at her gallery. Come see her umbrellas, shower curtains, coast-
CMCA, 27th Annual, 2021 Art & Soul Calendar Cover.
Blinky at Pelican Cove, Lyn Voytershark.
ART @ TOP HAT GALLERY
FINE LOCAL ART - PRINTS - CARDS - PHOTOGRAPHY MAPS - HANDMADE JEWELRY - VINTAGE COLLECTIBLES AUTHENTIC WEST INDIAN ANTIQUES
Learn How to Make Jewelry!
52 Company Street, Christiansted 340-513-3558
CARIBBEAN MUSEUM CENTER ARTS FOR THE
10 Strand St. F’std 340.772.2622 Tue-Sat 11am-5pm Local Arts • Gift Shop www.cmcarts.org
Weekly Classes in Stringing – Seed Beading Pearl Knotting – Wire Work Chain Maille – Viking Knit Fully-stocked Bead Store Tools – Beads – Gemstones – Crystals Pearls – Wire – Stringing Supplies Hours Wednesday – Saturday, 10 am – 6 pm
340-718-BEAD (2323) www.beadonawirestx.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 37
Local Art ART MARKET
the photography of Tina Henle. By appointment. HenleGallery.com Maufe Gallery – 340-332-4556 Maufé Gallery owner/artist Thérèse Trudeau welcomes you to the gallery where she exhibits her own work and that of other local and international artists on St. Croix. Located at Crucian Gold on Strand Street in Christiansted, Maufe Gallery shares space with jewelry designer Nathan Bishop who oversees an on-site workshop for handmade designs. There is often a new exhibit every month and live music and performance art pieces taking place. Open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. Henle Gallery.
January Light, Maria Henle.
ers, rugs, cushions, mugs, tee shirts, and face masks. Sign up for art classes and Sip and Paint events. Open Mon – Fri, 11am – 5:30pm; Sat, 10am – 3pm. Company Street. www.christaart.com. FB, IG Henle Studio – 340-332-1628 Celebrating 27 years, this historic loft, upstairs on Company Street in Christiansted, showcases the paintings and prints of Maria Henle, the photographs of St. Croix’s premier photographer Fritz Henle and
Ted Davis Galeria - 310-860-6001 (toll free!) After almost a decade in Christiansted, D&D Studio is now online! Visit us at https://ddstu- dio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroixPhotos to purchase beautiful and collectable photographs by Ted Davis. These stunning images are unique St. Croix artworks, and are great additions to your home or office decor. You can have a piece of St. Croix delivered right to your door! Call or email for more details. info@ddstudio.us
Weddings I DO!
hat could be more romantic than beginning your life together on a beautiful island? Tying the knot here can be breathtaking and stress-free with experienced wedding planners committed to every detail of your special day. Accommodations, ceremony and reception sites, menu planning, floral arrangements, photographers, musicians, transportation, special themes, and gifts and activities for your guests are all taken care of for you. With historic churches, Danish architecture, luscious villas, yachts and palm-fringed beaches, we’ve got your perfect backdrop for a memorable day. Whether saying “I do” for the first time, or renewing your vows, St. Croix sets the stage of a lifetime! For a Wedding Proposal Request, List of Vendors, Marriage License Application, and Island Wedding Brochure, visit usvitourism.vi and click on Weddings & Honeymoons. When you get married on St. Croix, you’re also in a perfect location for a romantic honeymoon! Why not have your wedding here, as well as your honeymoon, or marry here and honeymoon on St. Thomas or St. John?
Celebrating Art & Culture
Paintings - Prints - Tees - Totes - Rugs - Coasters Umbrellas - Pillows - Shower Curtains - Mugs - Face Masks
‘Sip & Paint’ Events - Art Classes 57 Company Street • 340-713-9959 340-513-8581 • www.christaart.com
Beautiful St. Croix photographs delivered right to your home!
Fritz Henle • Maria Henle • Tina Henle & other artists #55 Company St., Christiansted HenleGallery.com • 340-332-1628 38 • Oc tober/November 2020
Visit www.ddstudio.smugmug.com/Travel/StCroix or call us at 310.861.6001 for more details!
Tied the knot.
Tina Henle
Our Danish Connection Throughout the Caribbean in former days, several European nations contended for ownership of many islands for their natural resources and value as providers of the profitable sugar cane cultivation. The small Scandinavian country of Denmark was an early player in St. Thomas 1660, St. John 1718, and St. Croix as the last but most profitable acquisition purchased from France in 1733. During the 184 years this island was owned by Denmark, that distant nation left its mark in so many ways. It can be said that it would be hard to find an island whose legacy from a former colonial owner is viewed by its population in as positive and friendly light as ours. This has resulted in a close relationship between Denmark and the U.S. Virgin Islands that has brought thousands of visitors from Denmark to visit these former possessions that hold so many memories of former days before 1917, the year of the Transfer to the United States. Here are some examples: • The solid 18th and 19th architectural structures, including official buildings, commercial or private residences, constructed of brick brought here as ballast, providing a handsome link to the past still in use. • The prolific ruins of the many plantation structures that once produced sugar and rum. Including the many former windmills that ground sugar cane. • The continued use of the old plantation names for all areas of the countryside, even the 18th century division of the island into named Quarters, as well as the old Danish street names in the towns, plus the old-time numbering of street addresses. Our two towns are named for Danish kings. • The presence in four churches of the official Danish Lutheran denomination. • The old cemeteries with special sections for Danish gravesites, and thorough records by Danish scribes of everyone buried there. • The continued use of certain holidays from the Danish calendar. • The many families carrying Danish last names despite African origin, and even use of historic Danish first names for Crucian children. • The existence of a Friends of Denmark organization that carries out exchange visit Festivals by members with its sister Society in Denmark, Danish West Indian Society, in addition to offering scholarships, sponsoring visits by Danish choirs, athletes, musicians and scholars. • The existence of a voluminous website accessible by anyone that covers all the persons residing here throughout the Danish period 1734 to 1917, thanks to the thorough records kept by the Danes during that time. • Access on the internet to over 5 million documents at the Danish archives relevant to the Danish West Indies, as our islands were called. • Last, but not least, the friendly Crucian population that looks out for visiting Danes and makes them feel welcome. If you happen to be a visiting Dane, we bid you Velkommen!
ST. CROIX RELICS FROM FORMER DAYS HAVE FOUND A NEW LIFE In a location that has had human habitation for over four thousand years, it is not surprising that a treasure trove of relics can be found. But the discovery of such relics on this island was fortunately made in the early part of the 20th century – both Danes, but with quite different backgrounds. Professional archaeologist Gudmund Hatt on excursion to this area performed with his wife extensive excavations at Salt River where once an Amerindian settlement, including a ballcourt, had been situated. Its added claim to fame was that the fleet of Christopher Columbus anchored here in 1493 and initiated the first attack by Europeans on the indigenous population. The other Dane had no formal archaeology background but had an amateur’s enthusiasm for the pursuit. Folmer Andersen was the manager of Estate Bethlehem sugar factory from around 1910 and set out every weekend with a crew of supporters to explore multiple sites that legend indicated had been populated in ancient times by tribes known as Tainos and Caribs, originally from South America’s Orinoco river area. And his findings were amazing – no less than ten thousand artifacts were found, and unlike Gudmund Hatt’s discoveries in 1923 that he probably illegally sequestered for the Danish National Museum in Copenhagen, where they still are found. Andersen’s treasures of Amerindian religious and domestic artifacts were donated to the National Park Service’s St. Croix site where they are safely stored. A special exhibit at Fort Christiansvaern in Christiansted shows an ample selection thereof. But the soil of this island, having once been extensively cultivated with the growth of sugar cane, yields treasures of sorts from the not quite so ancient times when households associated with a prospering plantation economy enjoyed an active social life. Goods from all over the world were brought here, and ostentatious living was not unusual. Like ancient kitchen middens, the soil around plantation residential structures yields shards of what once were prized china as well as more modest decorated earthenware, in such ample supply that in more recent times, children who found these little shards started playing games using them as play money. They even became known as “chaney”, maybe a reference to “shards” and “money”. With their usually blue and white décor. these little shards lent themselves to having a second life as an indigenous kind of jewelry, framed in silver or even gold as pendants, rings, pins, or earrings, even bracelets. A chaney piece of jewelry tells the world that the wearer has been to St. Croix, and can be paired with another piece, the authentic St. Croix Hook Bracelet, a true sign of devotion to this special island.
Folmer Anderson. St. Croix Archaeology Society
Gudmund Hatt. National Museum of Denmark
Folmer Anderson Collection. NPS
Folmer Aderson Collection.
Chenay pieces.
NPS
NPS
ib designs chenay pendant.
Nina York, born in Denmark but a St. Croix resident since 1976, has been a contributor for this publication since 2009 and was its Managing Editor from 1990-2003. She now offers tours for visitors from Denmark and the mainland, does translations, and volunteers for Rotary and the St. Croix Friends of Denmark Society.
Oc tober/November 2020 • 39
Watersports
BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS
Big Beard’s Adventure Tours – 340-773-4482 Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Come with us to Buck Island Reef National Monument and enjoy one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean! Choose a relaxing full-day excursion aboard the sailing catamaran Renegade, with famous beach BBQ, or enjoy the beach and snorkeling on a fun half-day trip aboard our power catamaran Adventure. Experience one of our Sunset Sails; a beautiful time to be out on the water! For the ultimate St. Croix experience, all our boats are available for private charters for weddings or large groups. Gift Certificates available. Give someone the gift of an experience they will always remember. Located on the Christiansted boardwalk; retail store. Authorized National Park Service Concessioner. www.bigbeards.com, Find us on Facebook and Instagram
Caribbean Sea Adventures – 340-773-2628 Caribbean Sea Adventures. Who doesn’t love a glass-bottom boat? Fun for the whole family!
Come explore Buck Island with us! Caribbean Sea Adventures offers a variety of boating packages to fit your every need. With options ranging from full, half day or private charter trips to explore Buck Island’s underwater snorkel trail, to sunset sails along the beautiful coastline, there is an option for every occasion. New to our fleet is a 32’ Boston Whaler, offering a more intimate charter experience. All Buck Island trips include snorkel gear and instruction, guidance on the underwater trail, flotation devices, water and rum punch. Scuba diving trips and wedding ceremonies also available. www.caribbeanseaadventures.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram.
Llewellyn’s Charter – 340-773-9027 Take a fast and exciting sail with local sailing legend and calypso recording artist Llewellyn Westerman aboard his 37-foot locally-designed and built, six-passenger performance trimaran Charis+. He’s been sailing to Buck Island National Monument since 1960 and assures a comfortable arrival to the beach or the first designated underwater National Park. Snorkel gear is provided. Departs from the St. Croix Yacht Club at Teague Bay 9 to 1:00 am, 1:30 to 5:30 pm, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Personalized sails available. Call for more information and reservations
Lyric Sails – 340-201-5227
Book Online
www.CaribbeanSeaAdventures.com
Or call 340-773-2628
40 • Oc tober/November 2020
Experience the magic of Frederiksted sailing onboard the custom-built 63ft historic racing catamaran, Jolly Mon! On our signature live music sunset sail, be serenaded by local and visiting musicians as you sip on complimentary rum punch, spot turtle tracks at Sandy Point, and watch a beautiful West End sunset.
Watersports
STEAL SOME TIME AND GET IN THE WATER!
Nep2une Scuba Diving—Folks say West is Best for a reason! Look for us directly across from the world famous Frederiksted Pier where your enjoyment and safety are our #1 priority. In less than 10 minutes on calm waters, our boat trips can take you to over 30 different dive sites, like the Wrecks at Butler Bay, Armageddon, and the Swirling Reef of Death, with never more than 6 people on board so you can spend more time diving! In addition to our boat trips, don’t miss out on our guided dives of the fabulous Frederiksted Pier during the day or especially at night—it’s the best place to spot an elusive seahorse or frogfish! Experience is key in the industry and we’ve got it! All our crew members have
and “Try Dives” are scheduled in advance in small group sizes ensuring the best educational experience possible!
Nep2une Scuba Diving Crew!
been diving on St. Croix for many years and love to share the very best that St. Croix has to offer with you! We are a full-service PADI and SDI shop offering dive courses certifications from Discover Scuba/Try Diving (no experience needed), Open Water Certification, Advanced, Rescue and Professional Divemaster Certification. All training
Visit us in Frederiksted and see our full line of snorkel gear, Oceanic dive gear, SCUBA and Snorkel rentals, T-Shirts, Souvenirs, and West Indies Women’s Wear and meet Deco the Dive Dog (she loves dog treats); open 7 days a week. Check us out online to see Photos and Videos of our trips taken by our professional crew. Even better, sign up for a photo or video course and let us help you sharpen your skills! Remember, West is Best for a reason! Nep2une Scuba Diving www.N2scubadiving.com 340-227-1915
Sail to Buck Island Reef National Monument on
Buck Island Charters
Departing Teague Bay Teroro II & Dragonfly
with Captain Carl or Captain Heinz
SAIL • SNORKEL • HIKE
Sail aboard Teroro II (42’) or Dragonfly (38’) Trimarans and experience a personalized tour of Buck Island Reef National Monument. The National Underwater Trail is a snorkel sight second to none!
9:00 am - 1:00 pm 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Authorized Concessioner
100% sail powered 6 passenger custom built 37’ trimaran
Authorized Concessioner
● Snorkel equipment included ● Dragonfly exclusive to six guests ● Departs from Green Cay Marina “H” Dock
Recommended in Frommer’s Tour Guide
www.gotostcroix.com/heinz
(340) 718-3161 • teroro@msn.com
Llewellyn’s Charter 340-773-9027
Oc tober/November 2020 • 41
Watersports
TAKE THE PLUNGE—MAKE SOME MEMORIES!
Sweet Bottom Dive Center. Learn to Dive!
SCUBA DIVING ST. CROIX, USVI Dive a wreck, wall, pier and reef all in one day!
340-773-DIVE (3483)
Dive Experience. Schedule a lionfish hunt for you or your group!
Diving here is easy & accessible with an array of experiences. All dive boats are inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard and captains are USCG certified. Sea life is abundant and changes with the time of day and time of year. More than 500 species of fish, 40 types of coral and hundreds of invertebrates inhabit the water. Buck Island Reef National Monument – is 6,000 feet long, a ½-mile wide and includes the 176-acre island and 18,839 acres of submerged land and coral reef system. Frederiksted Pier – Macro life abounds; depths reach 50’ at the end of the pier; pilings are at 25’. Butler Bay Wrecks – 5 wrecks together on St. Croix’s Northwest tip; the deepest is at 110’ and the shallowest is at 20’. Salt River Canyon – This Northshore site has two walls facing each other across a quarter mile of blue water. Cane Bay Wall – Rated one of the top dives in all the Caribbean. Not to miss! -The Scuba Diving Resource
2 Breathtaking Locations • Cane Bay Beach • Davis Bay Beach
Renaissance Carambola Resort RE-OPENING SOON
Wall Diving, Boat Diving, Pier & Night Diving Available
sweetbottomdive.com 42 • Oc tober/November 2020
Sweet Bottom Dive Center. Get Certified!
Tim Linse
JOIN THE EXPERTS! BUCK ISLAND EXCURSIONS & SUNSET SAILS cont.....
Want to explore the West End by day and stay away from the crowds? Book a private day sail! Sail, snorkel, swim and relax in the always calm waters of the West while being taken care of by our professional crew! Private evening sails are also available by request. Sunset Sails sail Weds-Sun, private day sails are available daily. See our music schedule and book online at lyricsails.com or follow us on Facebook @lyricsails.
Teroro II and Dragonfly – 340-718-3161 Buck Island Charters, with Captain Heinz and his son Carl, is one of the oldest charter boat companies sailing to Buck Island Reef National Monument. Teroro II, a 42’ trimaran, is the first commercially built boat by Gold Coast Yachts at Salt River and chartered by Captain Heinz. Carl followed his father’s passion, after sailing and competing in his youth and after helping to captain Teroro II to Buck Island for 16 years, and now has is own boat Dragonfly, a 38’ trimaran. He and his father love to share their local knowledge with the guests aboard and give them a very personalized snorkeling tour of Buck Island Reef. We are recommended by Fromer’s Tour Guide and sail from Green Cay Marina.
DIVING Dive Experience – 340-773-3307 Get to know St. Croix’s underwater wildlife— Turtles, Eels, Sting Rays, Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Dolphins, and even Humpback Whales with St. Croix’s Original PADI 5-Star IDC Center! Michelle Pugh, a member of the Women Divers Hall of Fame, opened Dive Experience in 1983 and has the most experienced dive staff on the island. Diver safety, combined with fun and preservation of the marine environment are our primary concerns. Daily boat dives, Lionfish hunting dives—take your fillets home with you (yum!), and “No Moon” String-of-Pearl night dives! We offer diver training from the Discover Scuba program to dive instructor and complete dive and snorkel rental gear plus air and nitrox fills. New, expanded location on the Chritiansted boardwalk at Kings Alley. We love to dive and it shows! www.divexp.com
Nep2une Scuba Diving – 340-227-1915 Nep2une Scuba Diving, St. Croix’s newest, “old” dive shop is located just steps from the Frederiksted Pier. A service-oriented dive shop, featuring two, six-pack dive boats, to keep your dive experience personal. We are the only dive
DIVE EXPERIENCE — Diving St. Croix for 38 Years Michelle Pugh, a 41-year resident of St Croix, learned to dive in Los Angeles while high school and hasn’t stopped since! In 1992, along with Jacques Cousteau, she was inducted into the platinum Pro 5000 through SSI. In 2004, she was inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Frame for being the first woman to dive with killer whales in the wilds of Canada, the first American woman to teach diving in Moscow, Russia and for establishing the mooring system on St Croix to protect the coral reefs. Michelle was also given the SBDC and Congressional Award for Entrepreneurial Success for Dive Experience. Sam Halvorson, Captain, Instructor, Dive Master, and Videographer, has been on board for 29 years. He knows the reefs like the back of his hand. His videos are a favorite souvenir! Michelle, who’s made over 10,000 dives on St. Croix, is the only dive center owner that actually dives most everyday—guiding lots of customers by request. While developing
the dive mooring sites, she has explored most St Croix reefs and walls. Michelle has also traveled the world just to dive—like the East coast of the US from Florida to Rhode Island, the West coast from Canada to Mexico, The Red Sea, Australia, Solomon Islands, Borneo, PhilipSusan Wall pines, the Antarctic, and most of the Caribbean Islands. And, I recently returned from the Galapagos Islands! Dive Experience is St Croix’s first dive operator and the first PADI 5-star IDC center. They teach diving from novice to professional instructors. Located at Kings Alley on the boardwalk, their USCG-licensed dive boat is steps away on the dock. The full-service center features basic snorkel equipment to recreational and professional dive gear from Aqualung (US Divers) plus hats, towels, tees, Trudi Gilliam fish art and the largest Reef sandal selection on island. “With years in the business and my experience over time, I’d can say that Dive Experience is simply the best!” Advertisement
DIVE EXPERIENCE Celebrating 38 Years!
“The Name Says it All”
2020
Open: Monday-Saturday, 8 am-5 pm Sunday, 8 am-4 pm
St. Croix’s First PADI 5 Star Center Owned by Michelle Pugh,Women Diver’s Hall of Fame
Diver Training — Beginner to Instructor Dive Equipment Retail & Rentals Daily Boat DivesLion Fish Hunts Snorkel Trips
Christiansted Boardwalk at Kings Alley
Local: 340-773-3307 Toll Free: 800-235-9047 www.divexp.com
Oc tober/November 2020 • 43
Watersports WHAT ELSE CAN I DO? DIVING cont...
shop diving 33 unique, dive sites on the West End of St. Croix. Our staff offers a high level of dive service and owner/boat captain/instructor Kiersten Fidao is committed to you, our customers, ensuring our service is above the rest. Our dedicated instructors, Jenny Keith and Margi Erway, are always enthusiastic and available to help. Dive Master Paul Silnes, our primary Night Dive Guide, is ready to show you creatures that only St. Croix’s most experienced dive guides can find. Open 7-days-a-week, 8am – 5 pm. www.n2scubadiving.com, Facebook, IG
Sweet Bottom Dive Center – 340-773-DIVE (3483)
West End Water Sports. Flyboard—Experienced & First Time Rates!
Located at Cane Bay Beach in our NEW 2,200 square foot facility, we offer daily shore diving to the famous ‘Wall’ only a short distance off Cane Bay Beach. Dive our beautiful, healthy corals to see tropical fish, turtles, rays and reef sharks or schedule a boat or pier dive. Whether you’re interested in a Discover Scuba Diving experience or are working towards a certification such as Open Water, Advanced Open Water, a Specialty Course, Professional Instructor Ratings or Technical Diving, we can accommodate you. Air, Nitrox or Trimix tank fills available along with top-notch scuba and snorkeling equipment to rent. Our original location at the Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort will be reopening soon. Discover why diving with Sweet Bottom Dive Center is a sweet experience! www. SweetBottomDive.com, FaceBook.
JET SKIS / FLYBOARDING West End Water Sports – 340-227-8295 We are your #1 destination for the perfect beach day! Rent Jet Skis, Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Snorkeling Gear, Beach Chairs, Lounge Chairs, Umbrellas, and Sun Ray Floats. We also have the newest craze in Water Sports—the Fly Board! The Westside waters of St. Croix are calm and clear and our Jet Ski riding, swimming and snorkeling areas are second to none! Play unguided on a Jet Ski in a square mile of smooth clear water or, for the more adventurous, check out our extreme Wave Jumping Adventure Tour. Spend a day on Rainbow Beach for a relaxing and/or exhilarating good time, great music, volleyball, corn hole, giant jenga and your favorite food and beverages at Rhythms Beach Bar and Grill. Facebook.
KAYAK TOURS
Sea Thru Kayaks VI – 340-244-8696 Why choose sea thru kayaks? The difference is clear! The best bioluminescent light show is beneath your completely clear kayak. Other 44 • Oc tober/November 2020
Caribbean Sea Adventures. Jump in the water’s great!
Watersports
LIVE THE BIO BAY EXPERIENCE! kayak types and designs provide a limited view over the sides or a small window. In our sea thru kayaks, your entire boat will be immersed in millions of light-emitting microorganisms. Our guest list has included National Geographic,New York Times, bioluminescent scientific researchers, Boston Globe, HGTV House Hunters International, American Airlines inflight magazine, and many others. All tours begin around sunset at Salt River Marina. Experience the bay that the scientific community is calling one of the best year-round bioluminescent bays in the world. Locally owned and operated. Visit our website for more information, tour dates, availabilities, and to schedule a booking or reservation. www.seathrukayaksvi.com
Virgin Kayak Tours – 340-514-0062
Voted ‘Best Kayak Tour’ on St. Croix for the past eight years by the readers of the VI Daily News! Family owned and operated for 20 years, Virgin Kayak Tours offers nighttime Bioluminescent Tours, Salt River Historical Park & Ecological Preserve tours, and Custom Tours—half day, full day, or week long. They use the award-winning Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayaks, so your tour is effortless, even in windy conditions, and focus on St. Croix ecology, Pre-Columbian history, and the cultural landscape. “You’ll definitely see our passion shine through on every St. Croix kayak tour!” Located off Route #80 at Salt River Marina. jill@virginkayaktours.com
MOBILE SNORKEL TOURS Mermaid Adventures SeaScooter Snorkel Tours - 310-742-5015 Get ready to be propelled through the beautiful Caribbean waters on a SeaScooter snorkel tour tailored just for you. As it pulls you through the water, you conserve your swimming energy and get the most coverage of our enchanting blue waters during your snorkeling time. We are a mobile company that goes out to all the hottest snorkel locations like the Frederiksted Pier, Sandcastle, Cane Bay, and Green Cay across from Tamarind Reef. We provide high-end snorkel equipment and train you on its use before your tour time starts. We also photograph and video your entire tour. By touring with us, you are helping to keep the reef healthy for future tours and generations to come. Part of all proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix. Open every day, 9am - 6pm. www.mermaidadventures.net, FB, IG
Sea Thru Kayaks VI. See all there is to see below your all-clear kayak!
Mermaid Adventures Snorkel Tours like only Mermaids and Merman do Snorkel with ease on underwater propulsion scooters!
Book Your Adventure Today!
310-742-5015 *
Proceeds benefit reef charities on St. Croix
www.mermaidadventures.net
Virgin Kayak Tours. Award-winning Hobie Mirage Pedal Kayaks. Oc tober/November 2020 • 45
Beaches Public
MAKE A BIG SPLASH! All beaches in the USVI are open to the public although access through private property and hotels may have restrictions. Buck Island Reef National Monument The National Park Service has operated Buck Island Reef as a National Park since 1961. Underwater trail, two beaches, two picnic areas, snorkeling, shade, hiking trail, limited facilities. Seven miles East of Christiansted; use authorized National Park Service concessionaires. www.nps.gov/BUIS
Buck Island. Ted Davis
Cane Bay Beach
On St. Croix’s Northshore, this is a long, sandy beach with shade and great snorkeling; relatively shallow and nice for swimming. Diving’s famous ‘Wall’ is located here. Sweet Bottom Dive Center and EAT@Cane Bay to serve you!
Columbus Landing
Christopher Columbus landed here in 1493 at the site of Salt River Bay. Take the road to the left of Salt River Marina. Minimal facilities. Managed by the Territorial State Historic Preservation Office (DPNR), and is within the boundaries of the National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve. www.nps.gov/SARI
Cane Bay Beach.
Ted Davis
Cramer Park
Before Pt. Udall, on the East End, is a beautiful long, deep beach with bathrooms, changing rooms, and picnic tables.
Dorsch Beach
On the right, just before Sandcastle on the Beach Hotel and Beach Side Café, is a wonderfully convenient beach with parking and some shade.
Frederiksted Beach.
Ted Davis
Frederiksted Beach
Right next to Ft. Frederik, it is a favorite of cruise ship passengers. Convenient parking and changing facilities.
Rainbow Beach
North of Frederiksted this is a lively beach with bar and restaurant. West End Watersports offers flyboard, Jetski, paddleboard, and kayak rentals. Live music on Sunday afternoons. A local favorite!
Reef Beach
Right next to Duggan’s Reef Restaurant on the East End is a nice slip-of-a-beach. With a very gradual decline, the beach is perfect for windsurfing or for swimming with small children. The Reef Golf Course is across the street.
Sandy Point
Sandy Point.
Susan Wall
Located on St. Croix’s West End, this spectacular beach is part of Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge and is one the longest in the Caribbean! Leatherback Turtle nesting is underway now and the beach is closed to the public until the first week in September. Follow on Facebook.
Shoy Beach
Deep and lush, this beach is located inside the entrance to The Buccaneer Hotel; the guard gate attendant to the right will let you through. Park at the end of the road. No facilities; some shade trees. A local favorite. Shoys Beach. 46 • Oc tober/November 2020
Al Dorsa
Golf & Tennis PLAY TIME!
Green Turtle Hatchling.
BUCK ISLAND SEA TURTLE NESTING SEASON UNDERWAY!
This time of year, sea turtles need special consideration. The nesting season for Virgin Islands sea turtles (leatherback, green, loggerhead, and hawksbill) begins in March and continues through December each year. The key nesting areas on St. Croix include Buck Island Reef National Monument, U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, St. Croix’s East End Beaches (Jack’s, Issac, Southgate, Coakley Bay), and Ha’Penny Beach on the Southshore. Actually, nearly all beaches on St. Croix are potentially sea turtle nesting beaches! If you encounter turtles nesting or hatchings on ANY of St. Croix’s beaches, it is important to remember the following: 1. Protected. All sea turtles are protected throughout the USVI under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Beach users need to closely follow all regulations, especially pertaining to beach fires, dogs, no digging in dry sand and never use tent stakes. Violations are subject to prosecution under civil and criminal laws and charged heavy penalties.
GOLF
TENNIS
Tee-off at one of St. Croix’s exceptional golf courses! Carambola Golf Club – 340-778-5638
Open to the public. Stay tournament-ready! The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2143
Open 7 days a week, 7:30 am – 4 pm. Commissioned by Laurence Rockefeller and designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., a beautiful, challenging 18-hole course that stretches over 7,000 yards with water hazards coming into play on seven holes. Pro Shop. Clubs and cart rentals.Call for rates, specials, and tee times. www.golfcarambola.com
Open Monday – Saturday, 8 am – 11:30 am and 3 – 6:30 pm; Sunday, 8 am – noon. Eight East End courts; lighted courts by appointment. Pro Shop and Game Match Service. Tennis Pro available for lessons. Call to reserve court time. www.thebuccaneer.com
The Buccaneer Hotel – 340-712-2144
Open 7 days a week, 7:30 am – 6 pm. An East End, 18-hole course that takes the player over rolling hills to the water’s edge with incredible views! Call for rates and tee times. Pro Shop. www.thebuccaneer.com
Divi Carina Bay Resort – 340-773-9700
“The Links” Mini Golf Course, 18-Holes, Driving Range, Clubhouse. Temporarily closed for renovations. www.divicarinabay.com
The Reef Golf Course – 340-773-8844 Open Tuesday – Sunday, 8 am – 3 pm. A beautiful 9-hole course on the East End with phenomenal views over Teague Bay, offering traditional and Disc golf. Pro Shop. Clubs and cart rentals. Tee times not required.
The Buccaneer Hotel courts.
Steve Simonsen
Par 72 Championship Golf Course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
2. Drive Slow. Boat operators should drive cautiously; sea turtles rise slowly to the surface to breathe and it takes them several seconds to dive to safety when they hear an approaching motor boat. 3. Shield Lights. Bright lights along beaches will disorient nesting adult sea turtles and hatchlings. Coastal property owners are encouraged to modify/shield or discontinue use of outdoor lights.
5. How to help. If you find an adult or nest or hatchling sea turtle in distress, please contact one of the following: At Buck Island, NPS Resource Management 24-hour hotline—340-277-6863, Sea Turtle Assistance & Rescue Network (STAR) 24-hour hotline, 340-690-0474, Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, 340-690-9451. The National Park Service celebrates its 33rd year of research on the sea turtles nesting at Buck Island Reef National Monument and, with their partners, thanks the community for their support with continued sea turtle success in the USVI. NPS www.nps.gov 340-773-1460
Carambola Golf Club. Challenging 18-hole course. Kelly Greer
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Tee times from 7:30am - 4pm Photo by Kelly Greer
4. Keep your distance. Do not interfere with nesting or hatchling sea turtles; observe from a distance. Do not use flashlights or flash photography.
72 Estate River 340-778-5638
www.golfcarambola.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 47
Destination St. Croix GOOD TO KNOW!
DRIVE LEFT Whether renting a car or crossing the street, it is vital to remember that traffic in the USVI flows from the left side of the road. St. Croix has two towns—Christiansted at the center on the North Shore and Frederiksted at the West End. The Caribbean Sea, which surrounds the island, is always there to guide you along the roads that wind around the coast. Car rental agencies have a variety of vehicles available from sporty jeeps to roomy air-conditioned sedans, vans, and SUVs. The average price usually includes unlimited mileage but you fill the tank upon return! Both US and other driver’s licenses are recognized. The driver and front seat passenger are required by law to use seat belts and cell phone talking or texting is not allowed. Parking in Christiansted is limited. There is daytime parking in the National Park Service lot near Ft. Christiansvaern, until 4:30 pm, and a public lot with fees on Strand and King Cross Street. Running from mid-island west to within 1 mile of Frederiksted is the 4-lane, divided Melvin H. Evans Highway. The speed limit is 55. In other areas, the 35 mph limit applies; in town, 20 mph unless otherwise posted.
WORSHIP St. Croix’s history is mirrored in its old church structures. The Moravian brethren, arriving here in the 1730s from Saxony in today’s Germany, founded their mission to bring Christianity to the enslaved part of the population. The historic Anglican (Episcopalian) churches built in Gothic style include St. John’s in Christiansted and, in Frederiksted, St. Paul’s church. The large number of Irish settlers, along with Englishmen and Hispanics, have contributed to the presence of the Catholic church; Holy Cross in Christiansted is the oldest in the Virgin Islands. The Danish rule of the island from 1733 to 1917 brought the Lutheran church, which still plays a large role here. Lord God of Sabaoth in Christiansted occupies the former Dutch Reformed Church; Holy Trinity in Frederiksted was built shortly after the town was founded. The Dutch Reformed church (Presbyterian) now has a new midisland home. There are 150 churches on St. Croix, from SeventhDay Adventist to Methodist, Baptist, Church of God, and many more. Church attendance and activities are important to a large part of our population; visitors are always welcome at services, often a high point in their island experience. Many other faiths offer places of worship—a Jewish synagogue, a Hindu temple, and a Muslim mosque, to name a few. A church listing can be found in the yellow pages of our local phone book beginning on Page 48. 48 • Oc tober/November 2020
7 FLAG HISTORY HISTORY is what this island has an abundance of, going back several thousand years. Back then, the Amerindian population that had migrated here from South America called it Ay Ay. A tribe known as Caribs lent their name to the region and was encountered at Salt River in 1493 by the first Europeans, the 17-ship fleet of Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the new world. He claimed the island for Spain and called it Santa Cruz, the Spanish version of its present name. Over the following centuries, many European nations started exploiting the Caribbean archipelago, with the British, Dutch, and French joining Spain in taking possession of the rich resources found in some of the islands, battling pirates that posed a dramatic challenge to the treasures derived from mineral resources. But agriculture, in the form of sugar cane cultivation, turned out to be a winning formula, as sugar, and its by-product rum, were incredibly valuable crops. Under changing ownership by the Dutch, British and French, including a brief ownership by the Knights of Malta, this island did not prosper, and it was sparsely colonized. The French, that owned it from the mid-1600’s and gave it its present name, actually abandoned it around 1700 having failed at developing a viable plantation economy. For over 30 years St. Croix returned to its natural state, when a business enterprise of the little Scandinavian nation of Denmark, that since 1666 had taken possession of St. Thomas and later St. John to the north of St. Croix, in 1733 made the
decision to expand and purchase this island from the French. Known as the Danish West India and Guinea Company, it excelled in sugar cultivation and export made possible by slave trade from West Africa, a necessity for developing a large-scale operation of sugar cane harvests, for which this island was ideally suited thanks to its terrain and rainfall. In no time, the island was transformed, with forests giving way to planted sugar cane fields by thousands of enslaved persons who, after being brought here under horrific conditions, toiled in the fields under the hot sun. The island’s cane fields and accompanying estate structures were owned by an assortment of nationalities, with the English, Scots and Irish dominating, but the military and administration was run by Danes, after the island ownership was conferred to the Danish king in 1771. Soon, a lot of money was made here, but at a high cost of human life. The island posed health risks from tropical diseases and poor hygienic standards and opposition to the cruel treatment of the enslaved eventually brought about emancipation in 1848, several years after the British-owned islands had initiated it. But the fact that cane sugar was not so valuable since beet sugar now competed with it made conditions worse, and a revolt in 1878 led to further decline. So the islands of the Danish West Indies, as the three were called, were a sad sight and, in the early 20th century when WW1 was underway, the United States took interest in us for our strategic location, particularly as the Panama Canal had just been completed, and Germany was threatening to take possession of us. At a price of $25 million in gold, the transfer of the islands, to be known as the United States Virgin Islands, took place on March 31, 1917. And, the rest is History, of a different kind.
Isaac Bay. Ted Davis
Atlantic Ocean Puerto Rico
Tortola
US
St. Thomas
BVI
UK
St. John
Culebra Vieques
Christiansted
N
Caribbean Sea
Frederiksted
●
★
St. Croix
LOCATION/SIZE. St. Croix coordinates are 17 45’N x 64 45’W. We are part of the US Virgin Islands, located 90 miles East of Puerto Rico, and part of the Antilles chain from the Bahamas down to Trinidad. St. Croix is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, is 82.8 square miles, 28 miles long x 7 miles wide. GETTING HERE. There are direct flights on American Airlines from Miami and Delta Airlines from Atlanta. Inter-island airlines are operated by Cape Air, Seaborne, and Sea Flight VI. AE IV Ferry Service operates between St. Thomas and St. Croix. US citizens don’t need a passport; departing visitors need a photo ID. CLIMATE. Year-round temperatures range in the 80s during the day, 70s most nights, with summer somewhat warmer. Easterly trade winds keep the humidity down. Most island showers are over in minutes. Residents collect rainwater from rooftops into household cisterns. Saltwater distillation plants help the supply. With water scarce, it is used sparingly.
VIRGIN ISLANDERS. Virgin Islanders are a reserved but friendly people. “Good Morning,” “Good Afternoon,” and “Good Night” are welcome Crucian greetings. Everyone speaks English or a lilting version of it. TIME. We are on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), one hour earlier than EST but the same as EST during Daylight Savings. CURRENCY & BANKING. We use the US dollar and credit cards are accepted everywhere. First Bank (all branches) open Mon-Th, 8:30am-4pm, Fri, 8:30am-5pm. Sunny Isle & Frederiksted branches, Sat, 9am-1pm. Banco Popular Orange Grove open Mon-Fri, 8am4pm, Sunny Isle, Mon-Fri, 8am-4pm, Sat, 9am1pm. Bank of St. Croix, Gallows Bay and Peter’s Rest open Mon-Th, 9am-3pm, Fri, 9am-3:30pm. See maps for locations. TAXES. No sales tax but a 12.5% government tax is applied to hotel rooms. COMMUNICATIONS. We have several radio stations and three television stations. Cable and Dish TV carry the national news stations. Pick up the St. Croix Avis and the VI Daily News in print and go online to St. Croix Source for local news. TELEPHONE & CELL PHONE. The local area code is 340 but you don’t need to dial it for local numbers. We have a local AT&T Store at Sunny Isle Shopping Center, 340-778-6400 and Sprint Store in Peter’s Rest, 340-713-0055 for forgotten cell phone accessories or information. POSTAL RATES. As part of the US postal system, 1st class mail is .50 cents for the first
ounce, postcards are .35 cents, international rates are $1.20 for cards and letters. See maps for post office locations. WHAT TO WEAR. Island dress is casual but bathing suits and men without shirts in town or grocery stores is frowned upon. Men don’t need ties or jackets; hats are great sun protectors for everyone. No adaptors needed for personal plug-ins. MARINE LIFE. All native plants, animals, fish (unless harvested for food), coral and shells are protected under the Indigenous Species Act. You will not be permitted to leave the territory with any plants or marine life in your possession. HOLIDAYS. We celebrate US Federal holidays and local ones as well. The government closes for all holidays, banks close for most. Shops stay open except on major holidays. VISITORS BUREAU. Department of Tourism offices are located upstairs in the Frederiksted Mall, next to the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts on Strand Street. Open weekdays and cruise ship days, 340-772-0357. A smaller office, in the Kings Alley Hotel lobby in Christiansted, is open Monday-Saturday, 10-5pm. EMERGENCY NUMBERS. 911 Police, Fire, Ambulance, Landline 340-772-9111—Police, Fire, Ambulance, Cell Phone 919-684-2948—Divers Alert Network 340-773-2244—VI Territorial Emergency Management 340-778-6311—St. Croix Hospital 340-776-5283—AA 340-473-1497—Alanon Oc tober/November 2020 • 49
Staying Here Air Conditioned Beach Casino Children facilities / daycare Fitness Center Full Kitchen and Patio / Deck Golf Hiking Trails Internet Non-Smoking Pets Allowed Pool Restaurant Spa Tennis Watersports Wetbar / Microwave Whirlpool
Easy Hotel Guide
Phone The local area code is (340)
BE OUR GUEST!
Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River 340-772 1684 Buccaneer
F 340-712-2100 F F
Caravelle Hotel & Casino 340-773-0687 Caribbean Breeze Apartments 340-227-9853 & Vacation Homes Chenay Bay Beach Resort 340-201-1309
F
F
F FFFFFF
F F F FFFF F F F Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix 340-773-0210 F F Club St. Croix 340-718-9150 F F F F Colony Cove 340-718-1965 F F F F Company House Hotel 340-773-1377 F F Cottages By The Sea 340-772-0495 F F F Cruzan Classic 340-332-2504 F F Cruzan Sands Villa 972-747-7575 F F F F F Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort* 340-773-9700 F F F F F F F F Frederiksted Hotel 340-772-0500 F F F Holger Danske Hotel 340-773-3600 F F F Hotel on the Cay 340-773-2035 F F F F King Christian Hotel 340-773-6330 F F F F King’s Alley Hotel 340-773-0103 F F Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge 340-201-7983 F FF F Northside Valley 340-772-0558 F FF Palms at Pelican Cove 340-718-8920 F F F FF Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort* 340-778-3800 F F F F F F Sand Castle on the Beach 340-772-1205 F F FF FF F Sugar Beach St. Croix 340-718-5345 F F F FF F Tamarind Reef Resort, Spa & Marina 340-718-4455 F F F F F The Fred 1-844-789-8784 F F F FFFF The Waves at Cane Bay 340-718-1815 F F F F Vacation St. Croix 340-718-0361 F F F 50 • Oc tober/November 2020
F F F F F F F F
FF
F F
F F F F
FF F FFF F F FFF F FFF
F F FFFFF F F F FF F FF F FF F F
F F F FFFFF F FF FFF FFFFF FF F F F F
S
tay awhile! Come for your wedding, your honemoon, a romatiic or otherwise get-away, or family vacation! The Buccaneer—tennis, watersports, shopping, spa, beaches, pools, restaurants, and golf! www.thebuccaneer.com
*Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort and Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort closed for renovations. Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Rentals—gated, historic Frederiksted property. Walk to beaches, pier, shopping, dining. Studios, 1-bdrms. 1/2-acre garden, BBQ/kitchen, pool. www.airbnb.com/rooms/2989620. Club Comanche, Hotel St. Croix— landmark hotel in Christiansted National Historic District. West Indian charm, pool, restaurants. Main House or Bridgehouse. www.clubcomanche.com Cruzan Sands—luxury beachfront villa in Estate Salt River. Family friendly, sleeps 8! Sandy beach, great view from covered wraparound porch. www.cruzansands.com Hotel on the Cay—on a private cay in Christiansted Harbor! 53-room resort for couples, families and adventure seekers. Restaurant, terraces, beach, pool, watersports. www.hotelonthecay.com The Fred—the first new hotel on St. Croix since 1986! 22-rooms, beachfront, spa in historic Frederiksted. An eco-friendly resort “off the grid.” www.SleepWithFred.com Holger Danske Hotel—Christiansted Boardwalk. Boutique size, 42 rooms. Large balconies, restaurant, pool deck overlooks harbor, ferry ride to beach. www.holgerhotel.com
1200 King Cross Street Christiansted Boardwalk
holgerdan@aol.com www.holgerhotel.com Nates Boathouse Restaurant
1-(877)- HOLGERD
•
(340) 773 - 3600
Staying Here GRACIOUSLY LOCAL!
Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes
Club Comanche
Hotel on the Cay
The Fred
Cruzan Sands
EXPERIENCE THE CHARM OF FREDERIKSTED!
Susan Wall
Holger Danske Hotel
Susan Wall
New! - RIGHT on the Beach! 3-4 Bedroom / 4.5 Bath - Northside!
HISTORIC DANISH PARSONAGE • LUSH GATED COURTYARD
ALL NEW STUDIOS AND 1 BEDROOMS
TuesdayBreeze - Saturday, 11am - 9Homes pm Caribbean Apartments & Vacation Prince Street, Frederiksted • 340-227-9853 https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/2989620
972-747-7575 www.CruzanSands.com • Relax@CruzanSands.com
A Historic Caribbean Retreat on the Christiansted Boardwalk
340-773-0210 NOW OPEN www.clubcomanche.com
SleepWithFred.com
/SleepWithFred (340) 777.FRED (3733) 605 Strand Street, Frederiksted, VI 00840
“Step into an atmosphere of casual elegance” Hotel on tHe Cay (855) 654-0301 reservations www.hotelonthecay.com Oc tober/November 2020 • 51
Getting Around
BOOK WITH A SENSE OF ADVENTURE!
TAXI SERVICES Epidel Taxi & Tours...............................340-643-0205 Believe It Taxi Service..................340-690-3774 Rudy’s Taxi & Tours:.... 340-773-6803, 514-4600 St. Croix Taxi Association, Airport:...340-778-1088
Taxi Rates
FROM AIRPORT TO:
Keep left!
Ted Davis
OLYMPIC—ACE Rent A Car
46 Years on St. Croix!
Experience Olympic’s Friendliness! www.olympicstcroix.com • CARS: Wranglers, 4WD, Soft Top, w/AC, Hyundai Sonata, Nissan Versa, Focus, Toyota Yaris, Minivans, SUV’s •Unlimited Mileage - Low Rates • Most Credit Cards Honored • FREE pickup & return to most locations. We meet all flights at anytime.
340-718-3000 • 1103 Richmond Conveniently located 1 minute away from the seaplane at the entrance to Christiansted.
1 2 or More, Person each pay
The Buccaneer.............................$20 Carambola...................................$20 Christiansted.................................$16 Cotton Valley................................$24 Divi Carina Bay............................$24 Frederiksted..................................$12 Green Cay......................................$22 Shoy’s............................................. $20 The Palms at Pelican Cove......... $16 Tamarind Reef Resort................. $21
($10) ($10) ($9) ($11) ($12) ($6) ($11) ($10) ($9) ($11)
FROM CHRISTIANSTED TO: The Buccaneer................................$9 Cane Bay........................................$24 Carambola.....................................$30 Divi Carina Bay............................$18 Frederiksted..................................$24 Gallows Bay.....................................$6 The Palms at Pelican Cove..........$16 Tamarind Reef Resort..................$12
($5) ($11) ($12) ($9) ($11) ($3) ($9) ($6)
FROM FREDERIKSTED TO: Carambola.....................................$27 ($11) Christiansted.................................$24 ($11) Divi Carina Bay............................$36 ($18)
QE IV FERRY SERVICE St. Croix to St. Thomas
$60 One Way
Schedule subject to weather conditions
rent@olympicstcroix.com Call us direct: 888-USVI-CAR (888-878-4227) or fax: (340) 718-9000 No other discounts apply.
Restrictions may apply.
10% DISCOUNT
with this coupon presented at the time of rental on direct reservations only. Valid April 15 - December 1. 52 • Oc tober/November 2020
Depart St. Croix 8 am Arrive St. Thomas 10:20 am BOOK ONLINE! Depart St. Thomas 3 pm www.qe4ferry.com Arrive St. Croix 5:20 pm (340) 473-1322
TAXI INFORMATION
■ Christiansted Taxi Stands are on King Street near Government House and in Frederiksted near Ft. Frederik.
CONFIRM THE RATE BEFORE GETTING IN A TAXI AS TAXIS ARE NOT METERED ON ST. CROIX. RATES MUST BE POSTED IN THE TAXI.
■ These taxi rates to and from the Airport and
Towns were obtained from the Taxi Commission and have been approved by the VI Legislature. Look for only licensed taxis which carry a dome light and the letters TP on their license plate.
Taxi Charges & Special Provisions ■ The charges to areas not listed in this schedule
shall be arrived at by using the nearest place with a rate crossed to the next place ahead with a rate closest to the passenger’s destination. ■ A taxi driver, while on duty, shall not refuse any passenger unless the passenger is intoxicated and disorderly or in the possession of a pet (other than a seeing eye or service dog) that is not properly secured in a kennel. No charge for service dogs. Large kennel charge, $30., small kennel, $20. ■ Round-trip fares – double the 1-way fare plus waiting charge of $1. per minute after 5 min. ■ Radio/Phone call—the fare plus 1/3 of the basic fare. ■ Exclusive Taxi Request— pays the rate charged for 4 passengers. ■ Luggage—A flat rate of $2. Per bag is added for each passenger. The rate for items larger than 30” x 29” will not exceed $4. ■ Hourly Rates—Sedan/Mini Van (1-4 passengers), $40., Van (up to 14), $55., Safari (up to 25), $80. Rates for additional passengers will be negotiated between the taxi operator and passenger(s). ■ Sightseeing Tours—1-4 passengers, $100.00, 5+ passengers, $20. each for 3-hour tour. ■ Questions or Complaints—Call the VI Taxi Cab Commission at 340-773-1561, M-F, 8amnoon, 1-5pm. www.tcc@vi.gov
EPIDEL Taxi Service & Tours
Amador Delerme • 340-643-0205 amadordelerme2015@gmail.com stxepidelvi@gmail.com
LOWEST Rates Cars, Jeeps, SUVs, Vans! Seasonal Specials!
Low Rates Friendly Service JEEPS CARS SUVs VANS Free Vehicle Delivery to many Hotels!
Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental Car Rental
Consistently Voted Best Car Rental
Reservations budgetstcroix.com or Call 340.713.9289 • Toll Free 888.264.8894 • Airport 340.778.9636 • Christiansted by Seaplane 340.713.9289 • Cruise Ship Passengers call for reservations 340.713.9289
Renter must be 25 or older (ages 23-24 an underage driver fee applies), have valid driver's license & major credit card. An independent Budget Systems Licensee.
Oc tober/November 2020 • 53
On-the-Go Destinations! FIND IT HERE! IN, ON, AND BY THE WATER.
A 0
1
B
C
D
E
ELEVATIONS 1000' - 1200' 800' - 1000' 600' - 800' 400' - 600' 200' - 400' Sea Level - 200'
15 S ce n
The Wall
10
or h Sh t r o N
e Rd 1
15
13 2 10 6
i c Ro ad
8
G
H 7 Salt River Ba y Nati Ecological Preser
12
Cane Bay
7
9
16
14
13
11
F 9
4 12 9 4
6 5
Columbus Landing
s id e R d N o r th
5
6
5
17
10
Rainbow Beach
6 1
19
4
20 4
St. Croix LEAP Lawaetz Museum
4
4 (C Botanical Garden of ghway i H y r 17 the Virgin Islands 14 Queen Ma
Beaches Buck Island. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-0 Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Colombus Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 Cramer Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O-1 Dorsch Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 Rainbow Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3 Reef Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 Sandy Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A-5 Shoy Beach. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 St. Croix East End Marine Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 2. RE/MAX St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2
l vi
12
2
.Ev nH
a
H ns
1
HENRY E. ROHLSEN AIRPORT 1
Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge
6/ Post Offices Banks 1. Banco Popular ATM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 2. Bank of St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 3. First Bank ATM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2, H-3 4. Kings Hill Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 5. Oriental Bank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 6. Richmaond Post Office. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2
9
13 16
1 11
0
Airlines 1. Cape Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4
54 • Oc tober/November 2020
Estate Whim Museum
oad)
ine R enterl
3
Vincent F. Mason, Sr. Coral Resort Sandy Point
11
FREDERIKSTED
3 11 3
5
4 4
d. any R
g Maho
6
Carambola Golf Course
8
Rain Fores t
18
3
D am Rd 3
ue
Me
2
q C re
2
3. St. Croix Island Life Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 Condos 1. Club St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2. Coakley Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 3. Colony Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 4. Mill Harbour. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 5. The Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 6. St. C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 7. Schooner Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 8. Sugar Beach St. Croix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Farm Stand Fresh 1. ARTfarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-4 2. La Reine Farmers’ Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-3 3. Ridge to Reef (VISFI). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2 4. Sejah Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3 5. Southgate Corner Farmer’s Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 6. Tropics Hydroponics Farm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 Food & Drink 1. A Better Day Cafe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 2 AMA Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 3. Beach Side Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 4. Blue Water Terrace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M-1 5. Cast Iron Pot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1
2
ig h w a y
6 Juan Luis 5 10 Hospital 3 15 2 1 5 1 2 9
Hope
Rd
Hovensa
3
1/2 1 mile
0 1/2 1 kilometre 6. Cheeseburger’s In Paradise. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 7. Deep End Bar & Grill. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-2 8. Duggan’s Reef. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 9. El Flamboyant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 10. Grounded Café. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 11. La Reine Chicken Shack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-2 12. Leatherback Brewing Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 13. Leatherback Landing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-1 14. Plaza Extra West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-4 15. Sorbetiere Ice Cream & Sorbet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 Getting Around 1. Avis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Budget Car Rental . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 3. Centerline Car Rentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 4. Olympic - Ace Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 Hotels 1. Arawak Bay: The Inn at Salt River . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 2. Chenay Bay Beach Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-1 3. Cottages By the Sea. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 4. Cruzan Sands Villa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-0 5. Discovery Grove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-1 6. Divi Carina Beach Resort and Casino. . . . . . . . . . . . N-2 7. Hotel on the Cay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-2 8. Mt. Victory Camp Eco Lodge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-2
St. Croix Road Map FIND IT HERE! SCENIC ROUTES.
ional Park & ve
I
J
3
4 8
2
3
1
13 1 7 12
6 1 4
7 8
Chenay Bay 3 6
7
2
5
4
East End
Rd
1
S pring
d
p
5 6
e Rd
V.L . Baseline Array Telescope 10
St. Croix Yacht Club
Point Udall
Grapetree Bay
hor uth S
So
t Rd Gu
.
1
hore R
14 3 8
2
7
2
O
Cramer Park Teague Bay 8
By-Pass
S South
N
East End Marine Park
Green Cay
Green Cay Marina
CHRISTIANSTED 3
M
BUCK ISLAND REEF NATIONAL MONUMENT
1
4
14
3
L
N
5
15
K
Great Salt Pond
1
East End Marine Park Management Zones
St. Croix Dive Sites A series of dive site descriptions. 9.
Rust–op-Twist – Named after the plantation on shore. Lots of nice coral, tons of Black Durgans. Remains of upwelling pipes from a shrimp farm that Texas A&M had I the 1970s. 10. The Pennicle – This is a small sea mount that starts in 90 feet of water. Many times, Reef Sharks are seen here as well as larger fish such as Grouper and Snapper.
Brought to you by Dive Experience, Christiansted boardwalk.
No Take Zone – Protects near shore environments including mangroves, sea grass beds, lagoonal patch reefs, and linear reefs. OPERATING A PERSONAL WATERCRAFT IS PROHIBITED. ALL FISHING AND EXTRACTION IS PROHIBITED. Recreational Zone – Allows snorkeling, diving, boating, and recreational shoreline fishing. Catch-and-release guide fishing, and cast-net bait fishing are allowed with a Marine Park Permit. ALL OTHER TRADITIONAL FISHING IS PROHIBITED (including but not limited to: fish traps; spear fishing; collection of lobster, conch whelk). Wildlife Preserve Zone – Protects nesting female sea turtles using beaches in East End, Issac, Jack and Boiler Bays to lay eggs.
© Cartographers, LTD. 2020
9. Northside Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-1 10. Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort. . . . D-1 11. Sand Castle On the Beach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4 12. Tamarind Reef Resort & Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 13. The Buccaneer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 14. The Palms at Pelican Cove. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-1 15. Waves at Cane Bay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-1 Other Interests 1. Captain Morgan Distillery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 2. Caribbean Community Theater (CCT). . . . . . . . . . . . . I-2 3. Cruzan Rum Distillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 4. Estate Whim Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-4 5. Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center . . . . . . H-2 6. Island Center for the Performing Arts . . . . . . . . . . . H-2 7. Hams Bluff Lighthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 8. Library for the Blind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C-1 9. Men’s Coalition of the VI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 10. Point Udall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . P-1 11. Randall “Doc” James Racetrack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-4 12. Salt River National Historic Park & Ecological Preserve . G-0 13. St. Croix Seashell Society. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-4 14. St. Croix Yacht Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 15. Sunny Isle Shopping Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 16. The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . D-4 17. University of the Virgin Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-3
Shop Duty Free 1. J + H Clothing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-4 2. Plaza Extra East. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-3 3. Sweet Lime Furnishings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I-3 4. The Museum Store at Botanical Gardens. . . . . . . . . D-4 Sports 1. Buccaneer Golf / Tennis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 2. Carambola Golf Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E-2 3. Llewellyn’s Charter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-1 4. Mermaid Adventures. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-4, G-1 5. Sea Thru Kayaks VI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-1 6. Sweet Bottom Dive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 7. Teroro II & Dragonfly Day Sail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 8. The Reef Golf Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-1 9. Virgin Kayak Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-0 10. West End Water Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-3
FOR YOUR SAFETY “St. Croix, the Island With a Heart” AED Locations Go to stcroixaed.home.comast.net for all current locations; updated constantly. Of interest to our visitors: Cruise Ship Pier, Carambola Golf Course, St. George Village Botanical Gardens & Whim Museum; Cost U Less & Plaza East, hotels, condos, police stations. Download Crowdsav App to your smartphone & press the “Locate AED” button for location & directions to the nearest one. Know where one is closest to where you live, work, pray, play, and shop before you need it!
PETER’S REST CONVENIENCE CENTER Located on Rt. 62 between Rt. 68 and Rt. 70 taking Residential Household Waste, Green Waste, Bulk Waste, Scrap Metal & White Goods plus Household Hazardous Waste. You can also recycle your aluminum and steels cans here to support the Boys & Girls Club. Operated by Virgin Islands Waste Management. Operating Hours — Monday – Friday, 6 am – 7 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 6 am – 5 pm, Holidays, 6 am – 2 pm. Oc tober/November 2020 • 55
Q
Get Around Like a Local! FIND IT HERE! EXPLORE HISTORIC CHRISTIANSTED. 5
Protestant Cay
Christiansted Harbor
1
14
ee
e
t
Gre
75E
Str t
ee
ee
Str t
t
ee
Hi
tS rgu ate W
eS
nc
Pri
tr ll S
b
Lo
et
tre
s
Ea
t
ee
tr tS
r
ee Str
t
ee
tle
Lit
s Ho
tr lS
a
pit
t
he
Cemetery
s Farm Road
Contentment Rd
66
Christian sted By -Pas s
© Cartographers, LTD. 2020
Banks & Post Offices 1. Bank of St. Croix ATM 2. First Bank ATM 3. Post Office, Company Street 4. Post Office, Gallows Bay Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty 2. Joe & Julie San Martin at RE/MAX St. Croix 2. Emeyln Sayre at RE/MAX St. Croix 2. RE/MAX St. Croix Food & Drink 1. 40 Eats & Drinks 2. Breakers Roar Tiki Bar 3. BREWSTX 4. Café Christine / ART GALLERY 56 • Oc tober/November 2020
5. Grounded Cafe 6. Luncheria 7. Maria’s Cantina 8. Nates Boathouse 9. Nauti Bar & Grille 10. Raw and Wine Bar Restuarant 11. Salty Beetchz 12. Seaside Market & Deli 13. Shupe’s on the Boardwalk 14. The Courtyard 15. The Mill Boardwalk Bar & Brick Oven Pizza 16. TOAST Diner Get Fit/Be Well 1. Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents 2. PamperedVI Getting Around 1. Budget St. Croix 2. Centerline Car Rentals
eet
tr nS
ss
ss
t
ee
ste
ro
t
t
Str
9
4
t
ee
tr rS
ee
ch
3
Str
2
4
9
ur
1
Fis
Peter’
70
1
3
8
ee
tr nS
4
13
nC
mp
Qu
6
2
ee
e
75E 2
et
Str
Kin
8
6
15
ro
y an
1
9
1
7
6
5
3
8
4
gC
tS
eet
t
ee
tr gS
754
77
P
5
Kin
rke
t Str
75W
16
Gallows Bay
10
14 2
6
a Str
Co
2
2
Ch
tre
S nd
2
Ma
Wes
3
et
9
Qu
th
r No
e Str
2
3 11 12 4 5
P et
10
9
3
1
7
Str
4
2
11
w
1
754
2
l ita sp Ho
tre
et
2
16
1
3
5
6
Ne
8
3
3
O
15
t
13
1
ee
l ey Al s ng alk Ki W n lio he nc Pavi de ma Co n Am Arca Pa lle ve ra Ca
D BOAR WALK
3. Seaborne Seaplane Ramp Local Art 1. Art @ Top Hat 2. Christa’s Art Gallery 3. Henle Studio 4. Maufe Gallery Other Interests 1. Alanon Meetings 2. Anglican Church 3. Catholic Church 4. Christian “Shan” Hendricks Farmer’s Market 5. Department of Tourism Visitor’s Bureau 6. Florence Williams Public Library 7. Lutheran Church 8. Moravian Church 9. National Park Service
P - Parking Christiansted National Historic Site Christiansted National Historic District
(NPS Headquarters) 10. Public Restrooms Shop Duty Free 1. Asha World Designs 2. Baci Duty Free 3. Bead on a Wire 4. Crucian Gold 5. Ebbe’s Store 6. Eden South 7. ib designs 8. Joyia Inspirational Jewelry 9. Purple Papaya 10. Rare Finds 11. RJS Handmade Designs 12. Small Wonder 13. SONYA’S Fine Island Jewelry 14. Sublime STX 15. The Shoe Bar 16. Tropical Bracelet
Christiansted Map
FIND IT HERE! CONNECT WITH OUR CULTURE & HISTORY.
CHRISTIANSTED WALKING TOUR Let’s start a leisurely walking tour of CHRISTIANSTED at the site of the Old Scale House 1 on the harborfront, known as the Wharf. One section of the 1856 structure displays the scale used in former days to weigh barrels of rum and sugar. The other section holds a bookstore and gift shop as well as an information center about all things St. Croix. This is one of a complex of five buildings comprising the Christiansted National Historic Site, established in 1952, administered by the National Park Service.
P
P
Fort Christiansvaern 3 was the first public building to be started by the Danes after the island was purchased from France in 1733. It is built of Danish yellow brick and was completed in 1749 and later expanded. Its present appearance reflects the 1830’s period.
1
12
ive
The exhibit rooms have shifting exhibits of local relevance. See Events Calendar for current exhibits. Admission tickets sold at the entrance ($7). No fee for children under 16. Senior passes accepted.
r
7
D lag
F
p shi Midive Dr 10
P
t
17
rd S
1
Nearby, The Old Customs House 2 with its sweeping staircase, on the grassy area next to the Fort, was completed in 1830. It now holds National Park Service offices.
boa
t tree
h
Anc 4
Star
S Port
y
a or W
82
ST
EA
D
OA
R ND
E
Open every day from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm which also coincides with the hours of the adjacent Fort Parking Lot whose hours are strictly enforced. Brochures for all three parks available. The Steeple Building 4 across Hospital Street, formerly the Lutheran Church dates from 1753. This site, on the Walking Tour, is currently closed for renovation. Across Company Street lies the onetime Danish West India & Guinea Company Warehouse 5 , built in 1749. In its courtyard, slave auctions were formerly held. NPS 2nd Thursday Lectures held here.
N
Ov
er
loo
k
66
CHRISTIANSTED FOR YOUR SAFETY AED Locations in Christiansted i n case you need them American Legion Hall • Company House Customs House • Government House Marshall & Sterling • NPS headquarters
17. Undercover Books & Gifts Staying Here 1. Carvelle Hotel & Casino 2. Club Comanche / Hotel St. Croix 3. Company House Hotel 4. Holger Danske Hotel 5. Hotel on the Cay 6. Kings Alley Hotel 7. King Christian Watersports 1. Big Beard’s Adventure Tours 2. Caribbean Sea Adventures 3. Dive Experience
Originally, Government House 6 on King Street, was built as a home for a Danish merchant. That section dates from 1749; another section, the previous town house of a wealthy Danish plantation owner, was joined to it in 1826, together becoming the seat of the Danish West Indies government. The grand staircase and portico were added in 1830, as was the impressive ballroom/reception hall on the second floor by Governor General Peter von Scholten, who had his office and official residence here. The former are open to the public (entrance at mid-building on King Street). The Lutheran Church 7 across Queen Cross Street on King Street, was originally the Dutch Reformed Church, built in the 1740’s and transferred to the Lutherans in 1831, who brought the furnishings here from the Steeple Building. Later, the steeple was added. Walking up Queen Cross Street to Company Street takes you to Apothecary Hall 8 on the left corner, which holds both the tiny Apothecary Museum on Queen Cross Street, open anytime, and in the courtyard the Archaeological Museum, open only Saturdays 10 am-2 pm. Nearby on Company Street is the Old Market 9 , laid out in the original town plan from 1735, and still being used. The well dates from 1863. On this square you will also find the downtown Post Office.
Christiansted National Historic Site Established in 1952, Christiansted National Historic Site was the first unit of the National Park Saystem in the US Virgin Islands. The park’s historic buidings and grounds commemorate the Danish heritage (1733-1917) of the town of Christiansted, St. Croix, which was named in honor of the reigning King of Denmark and Norway, Christian VI. In the 1700s, Christiansted was part of a mercantile system that linked Europe,West Africa, and the Caribbean in the infamous “Triangular Trade.” Christiansted was the first town in the Lesser Antilles to be built on the grid system and to have a building code. Its distinctive colonial architecture reflects the town’s status as capital of the Danish West Indies (1755-1871); the great wealth generated by the export of cane sugar, molasses, and rum; and the influence of government building inspectors. Oc tober/November 57 June / July 2014 •2020 Page•57
Frederiksted Map
FIND IT HERE! DISCOVER THE WEST END.
Your tour of Frederiksted begins at Fort Frederik 1 by the cruise ship pier and newly revitalized waterfront. Construction on the Fort began in 1752 and was completed in 1760. Featuring a museum with several permanent exhibits, and an art gallery, it is open Monday – Friday, 8:30 am to 4 pm. Admission $5., children under 12 free. A public beach with showers and bathrooms is next to Fort Frederik.
2◆ 5 4 7 2 6◆
1
Locations north of Frederiksted
2
To Creque Dam Rd.
63
2 14
76
Mahogany Rd.
Hams Bluff Rd.
3
631
FOR YOUR SAFETY AED Locations in Frederiksted
10
American Legion Hall Botanical Garden Cruise Ship Pier Fire Station Police Bike Patrol Unit Sandcastle on the Beach Vincent Mason Pool Whim Museum
erik
4
Ft. Fred Beach 4
Hospital St.
King C ross St. 631
11
9 6 ★ ★
East St.
3
Queen Cross St.
14 6 ★
Fisher
5
St.
2
702
5 1 5
odist
2
1
Frederiksted Dive Sites
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Vetera nʼs Sh or
Dor Bea sch ch
e Driv e
Meth Bethel h Churc
70
Butler Bay Arnageddon Rainbow Reef Frederiksted Pier Swirling Reef of Death
Go to www.n2theblue.com for a listing of all 40 sites!
5
Locations East of Frederiksted on Queen Mary Highway (Route 70)
Estate Whim Museum • St. George Village Botanical Garden 3 ◆
4 ◆ © Cartographers, LTD. 2020
58 • Oc tober/November 2020
Governor General Peter von Scholten proclaimed the emancipation of the enslaved population in the Danish West Indies on July 3, 1848, from adjacent Buddhoe Park 2. The park contains a bronze bust of the renowned slave rebellion leader. The Oscar E. Henry Customs House 3 was built in the 1800s. The Freedom Fountain 4, facing the pier, was installed for the Emancipation 150th Anniversary Celebration. After severe damage during a labor insurrection in 1878, the town was rebuilt in Victorian style. Victoria House 5, on Strand Street, and Apothecary Hall 6, 63 on King Cross Street between King and Queen Streets, preserve the Frederksted architecture of that time. Both received storm damage in September. The Visitor’s Bureau 7, is located upstairs on Strand Street above the Frederiksted Mall and next door to the historic light blue building housing the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts 8. Frederiksted is home to a number of historic churches, including St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 9, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 10, Friedensberg Moravian Church 11, and St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church 12. The Arthur Able Complex 13, formerly The Danish School (1799), is now the office of the Governor in Fredersted at Hospital and Market Street. At Strand and Queen Cross Streets is the Athalie McFarlane Petersen Public Library 14, built in 1803. The Market Place 15, is still in use today, as it was in 1751 at the founding of Frederiksted.
WEST END ATTRACTIONS
N ew St.
S trand St.
Hill St. 1
3
6
Prince St.
Queen St.
Pier
1 goon St. ★ 2 La 8 ★ 3 ★ 1 4 4★ 9 . St 3 4 5 Custom House 12 ★ 1 3 13 2 Market15St. ATM 1 ★ 2 ★ 13 11 5 ★ ★ 7 1★ ATM 10 ★ 8 ★ ATM
King St.
ed Frederikst
1 ◆
La Grange Rd. 12
FREDERIKSTED WALKING TOUR
Tour an early Danish homestead, the Lawaetz Family Museum 1 at Estate Little 702 La Grange on Mahogany Road. Plantation ruins offer visitors a tranquil backdrop 63the Mt. Washington Labyrinth 2 , 2 miles North of for peace and contemplation at Frederiksted. Open everyday, year-round. The entrance gate is to the left when you reach the property and parking lot. The Whim Museum 3 , on Centerline Road, is a fully-restored sugar cane plantation for self and guided tours and The Botanical Garden of the Virgin Islands 4 , also on Centerline, showcases 1500 native & exotic species. Award-winning Ridge to Reef Farm 5 , on Creque Dam Road, is a USDA Certified Organic Farm with produce, tours, and workshops. The Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge is .5 mile beyond the west end of the Melvin H. Evans highway. See Events Calendar and Attractions & Tours for more info.
Banks & Post offices 1. 1st Bank ATM 2. Post Office
12. Public Restrooms 13. Rotary Club of St. Croix West 14. St. Croix Country Club
Buying and Renting Here 1. Coldwell Banker Real Estate
Shop Duty Free 1. Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts
Food & Drink 1. Beach Side Café 2. Cibone 3. Six Nine Restaurant & Bar 4. Tap Deck 5. The Fred
Sports 1. Crucian Heritage & Nature Tourism 2. Cruzan Cowgirls 3. Lyric Sails 4. Mermaid Adventures 5. Nep2une Scuba Diving 6. West End Water Sports
Other Interests 1. Albert Edwards Fish Market 2. American Legion Hall 3. Emile Henderson, Sr. Fire Station 4. Ft. Frederik Beach Bathhouse 5. Frederiksted Community Boating & Sailing Assoc. 6. Frederiksted Health Care 7. Hams Bluff Lighthouse (north of Frederiksted) 8. Legislature of the Virgin Islands 9. Our Town Frederiksted 10. Paul E. Joseph Stadium 7011. Police Bike Patrol Unit
Staying Here 1. Caribbean Breeze Apartments & Vacation Homes 2. Cottages By the Sea 3. Frederiksted Hotel 4. Mt. Victory Camp 5. Sand Castle on the Beach 6. The Fred Hotel
YAGF We’re Celebrating the Bold, Brave, and Beautiful! The Yvonne Ashley Galiber Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. (YAGF) has been serving the Virgin Islands community for almost 15 years. YAGF provides free screening and diagnostic mammograms and related services for the medically underserved and underinsured and support services for cancer survivors and their families. Yvonne Ashley Galiber, a breast and thyroid cancer survivor and the organization’s founder, leads our mission to educate the community about the risk factors for breast cancer and to advocate on behalf of Virgin Islands’ women and men touched by this disease. We establish bonds with our clients, caregivers, and their family members, encouraging them to keep their spirits high throughout their journey. YAG Foundation has partnered with many community and media organizations to bring a variety of services and successful informational Cassandra Dunn, Survivor. campaigns to diverse audiences. In 2017, we created the #BeholdtheBold campaign that showcased Virgin Islands breast cancer survivors. They shared the poignant and hopeful stories of their survival and what it truly means to be triumphant in battling this deadly disease. This campaign garnered local and global attention while bringing focus to the challenges of cancer care treatment in the territory. Research studies confirm that incarcerated women experience increased risk factors for breast cancer. Because of this, in 2019 YAGF expanded its breast health program to sponsor mammograms for female inmates at St. Croix’s Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility. This incredible campaign, made Shawna Brady-Lake, Survivor. possible with grant assistance from Rotary Club of St. Croix West, allowed YAGF to continue its mission to break through barriers to basic healthcare opportunities for those most vulnerable in our community. It’s critical that we continue to educate the public on the importance of self-checks, early-detection, and overall wellness for survivorship. We provide a free self-check guide and other resources on our website, free all-cancer support groups throughout the year at which
we welcome survivors of all cancers, a social media presence with daily inspiration and educational resources, radio appearances, and host a myriad of annual fundraising and awareness events. YAGF’s Annual Dance Mammothon is an exciting and popular event during which contestants dance non-stop throughout the evening to raise funds for the Yvonne Ashley Galiber, mammogram program. Our Beauty and the Survivor. Bra competition engages artists from all over the region and the country to decorate breast cancer-themed bras, which raises money via votes. Finally, our annual Breast Cancer Awareness Conference brings educational speakers and opportunities for the public to learn more about breast cancer and survival, specifically in our small community. As we continue to bring awareness about life-style related breast cancer risks and early detection practices (e.g. breast self-exam, annual mammograms as recommended), and advocate for greater health equity, lower mortality rates, and reasonable costs for pharmaceuticals, YAGF encourages the public to share, follow, and join us for our upcoming friendraising/fundraising events. Go to the Events Calendar, Page 5, for info at press time. Updates, details, and registration for these events will be available at yagfoundation.org or facebook.com/YAGCANCERFOUNDATIONVI in the coming weeks. Our volunteers, board directors, community partners, donors, and most of all, our clients, are working together to drive this disease from our community. According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. Each year there are approximately 300,000 new cases in U.S. women and 2,500 new cases in men. Luckily, because of the Leslye Keith-Webb, Survivor. advances in medicine and research and the support of organizations like YAGF, the survival rate continues to grow and nearly 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer survive five or more years after being diagnosed. YAG Foundation’s campaigns and programs have been made possible through its fundraising efforts and with the help of community partners including Limetree Bay Terminals, the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts, the Rotary Club, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, and many private supporters and donors. Sarah Mahurt, Survivor.
We’re NOT stopping! We celebrate the bold, brave and beautiful survivors in our community every day! Without their strength and courage, our work would not be possible. Please continue to support our organization to help our neighbors in the community by heading online to yagfoundation.org/donate.
Survivors and Thrivers!
Michelle Gibbs, Survivor.
Yvonne Ashley Galiber Breast Cancer Foundation yagfoundation.org | (340) 332-9115 Oc tober/November 2020 • 59
Stay Calm, Be Strong! FACEBOOK - VI STUDENT GALLERY ONLINE
From the Inside Out Expressive Arts Program
“Love & Change in the Time of Corona”
Left: Angelina Springer, 1 Place Winner, St. Croix Central High School Right: Khm-Shawa Samuel, 1st Place Winner, Lew Muckle Elementary School st
This art contest was a creative call to action in response to the COVID 19 pandemic. It was an artistic platform where young people can explore relationships in a changing world and become advocates for social action. In these times, we all have to learn how to flex, shift, find solutions and redirect with grace. 60 • Oc tober/November 2020
The objectives of the competition were 1) to encourage youth artists to participate and present their emotions, feelings, ideas, solutions, innovative thoughts on the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing, quarantine and the fight against the virus through art. 2) to promote youth arts in education in VI during the COVID-19 stay home quarantines and lockdowns. 3) to encourage prevention and spread of virus. 4) to share creative and resource full solutions as we navigate and cope through sudden change.
Fight Covid. Khm-Shawa Samuel 5) to promote awareness of the power of the arts as a tool to cultivate emotional resilience, promote insight, enhance social skills, reduce stress, resolve conflicts, and advance societal and environmental change. Here's the artwork of students chosen for our “Call to Artist” poster back in April and some of the winners of the contest. Angelina Springer’s images appear on both the “Call to Artist” poster and the “Online Show” poster. This 10th grader, at St. Croix
Free Mind. Che’Resa White
Heart in the Clouds. Angelina Springer
T
he arts are a medium for the expression of what we love, culture, ideas, beliefs, visions, perceptions, feelings and the struggles we face from day to day. All forms of artistic expression provide this critical outlet for people to reach within to discover and empower themselves to be creative and resourceful about finding ways to cope with sudden changes and stressful times. From the Inside Out seeks to be a part of the solution by creating sacred spaces where the arts in her various forms can happen to inspire and encourage positive personal growth. It is with Joy that I announce the launching and presentation of this 1st Annual Student Art Contest, in VI grades K-12, expressing themselves and their feelings during these times.
These are skills that cultivating the arts bless us with. These are skills that the arts heal us with. The arts teach us to problem solve every step of the way and to transmute what feels like chaos into creative opportunities for innovation, beauty and change. The initiative raised awareness about our local and global crisis, explored potential solutions, and serves to uplift our young people giving them an opportunity to inspire hope and action through the arts. The vision of our young people is needed to transform and create the world we want to live in.
2020. Jahmoi Benjamin
Effects of a Virus. Angelina Springer
by Maria Aurora Stiles
Central High School, won 1st Place, St. Croix District, for her “Effects of a Virus” painting shown here. Khm-Shawa Samuel won 1st Place in the Territory-wide Elementary School Category with “Fight Covid.” In lieu of exhibiting these works at the Caribbean Museum Center of the Arts in Frederiksted just now, you can see all the images submitted, including some from a very talented boy living in India (!), on our FB page. Please visit and tell us what you Like and add a comment for these up and coming local artists! They would love it!
Eat Right - Be Well! TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOURSELF
A Better Day Café – 340-244-0333 Nestled in the heart of the Beeston Hill Gym is A Better Day Cafe, the whole-food plantbased restaurant and island’s first full-service meal prep kitchen! Founded to give St. Croix a place to eat clean delicious foods, we are proud to have been serving you for almost 2 years! Known for our home-made bean burgers, gluten-free pates, Smart Lunch Meal Prep specials, hearty soups and detox juice cleanses we are committed to making healthy eating fun, delicious and convenient! We also offer Holistic Health Consultations with our founder, Dr. Micah McIntosh, to personalize your meal plans, supplement recommendations, and combat chronic disease! We have quick pick-up for your nutritious goods and Zoom Video for appts! Call or text us daily for our tasty specials at or abetterdayllc.com/specials. Facebook The Courtyard juices & fitness center - 340773-7728 Right across the street from Government House on King Street, you’ll find the hidden oasis called The Courtyard. Known for its locally-sourced, organic cold press juices, and fresh fruit smoothies, they now offer soups, salads, sandwiches and quiche along with Vegan and gluten- free options! Sip a cup of coffee, relax, and take a peek at our latest ‘artist-ofthe-month’ works on display. Most weekends, we offer Art, Yoga, or Wine and Food Workshops; schedule on our Facebook page. Open Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm; give us a call for drive-thru or pick-up service! We’re available for private parties up to 50 people. www.thecoutyardstx.com, Facebook. Cultured Naturals Body Care & Home Scents – 340-626-8232 Get kissed by the Cultured Naturals Body Care Hummingbird! We offer an array of natural Body, Hair, Skin and Home scent products that are made right here in St. Croix with mindful and loving care. Our products are gentle, paraban, sulfate and GMO free! CNBC has married Nature with Science to create products the entire family can use, giving awesome topical and aroma-therapeutic benefits. They are primarilyVegan featuring essential oils, botanicals, and extracts sourced right here in the VI. Check out our new baby line and men’s
Cultured Naturals. Charcoal Detox Face Mask.
line. Shop our wonderful products at, Jackie’s Beauty Supply, Plaza Extra West, Mt. Welcome Pharmacy, online at www.culturednaturalsbc. etsy.com, or at our store at 55 Company Street, Christiansted. Open Tuesday – Thursday, 10 am – 6 pm, Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 7pm. Closed Sunday & Monday.
Pampered VI — 340-773-7728 Tucked away in downtown Christiansted (King Street at the Kalmia Center), we’re a boutique spa offering exceptional, personal services. We aim to create an unforgettable client experience—let us show you what sets us apart! Luscious lashes, flawless skin, relaxing massage? We have you covered. Arrive early to enjoy our facility; beautiful showers and an infrared sauna available. The Center includes The Courtyard for healthy, locally-sourced juices, smoothies, and more! Have your next party with us! Group packages available, or let us come to you with mobile services! Book Online and see a full list of our services! Pamper Yourself! www.pamperedvi.com, Facebook.
Self-serve breakfast Whole-food, plant-based lunch Meal Prep & Catering
U PS
TA I R S A T T H E LG H IL
B E ESTON
YM
Cold-pressed juices Smoothies Detox protocols
Naturals
Body Care Products & Home Scents
Mon, Tues, Thurs 9am- 2pm & 4pm - 8pm Supplements Wed, Fri 9am-6pm
Jackie’s Beauty Supply - Plaza Extra West Mt. Welcome Pharmacy - 55 Company Street
(340) 244-0333 www.abetterdayllc.com
www.culturednaturalsbc.etsy.com
juices & fitness center
Yoga - Barre - Smoothies Juice - Breakfast - Lunch Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 6 pm
340-773-7728 www.thecourtyardstx.com
Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House
340-626-8232
Facials - Massage - Body Scrubs Eyelash Extensions & More!
340-773-7728 Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
day spa & lash lounge
www.pamperedvi.com Kalima Center, King Street, across from Government House Oc tober/November 2020 • 61
ts ble I. st kes s
E. le.
e ces al,
www.coldwellbankervi.com and www.stcroixforrent.com
Buying Here Lisa Christensen-Harris – 340-778-7000 x104 Lisa Christensen is a third generation “Cruzan” dating back to when St. Croix was under the Danish Flag. Lisa’s family has served the Virgin Islands in the government, business and public sectors. As a Sales Associate and Real Estate Specialist with Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty I have the privilege of working with some of the most Coldwell Banker St.Croix Realty – 340-778-7000 experienced andtoknowledgeable realtors Are you ready start your search for St.on Croix the look forward showing off hills “my realisland. estate?I From an islandtoretreat in the island” to other local islanders ‘statesidwith Caribbean Sea views, to aor vacation rental ers’ new St. Croix. of the things like along St.toCroix’s sandyOne coastline, to a flatI home to share withbyoff island clients is touring site shaded palm trees, paradise awaitsSt.you Croix from east St. to west you to on picturesque Croixintroducing in the U.S. Virgin the local way St. Croix. “I’ll work Islands! Led of by life Bryon Locher, the professionals with you from a $10St. piece of land toare million at Coldwell Banker Croix Realty eager dollar Cell, 340.227.7899. to helphouse!” you! Our team’s knowledge Email, of St. Croix and our combined 100+ years of real estate www.coldwellbankervi.com
SET THE STAGE FOR ISLAND LIFE!
Coldwell Banker St.Croix Realty – 340-778-7000 With broker Amy Land-deWilde at the helm, the professionals at Coldwell Banker St Croix Realty are eager to help you buy, sell or lease real estate. We offer a host of lovely homes, outstanding building sites, and both historic and commercial properties. Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty also lists an array of rental properties, ideal for your next dream vacation or long-term lease. From a bungalow on the beach to a villa with a view, we have the perfect property for you Because we keep up with the latest technology and market trends, This Week ad 09-14_Layout 1 8/21/14 2:04 PM Page 1
Stay for a Week or Stay Forever
experience make us your perfect partner to
LISA CHRISTENSEN-HARRIS REALTOR ASSOCIATE OFFICE: 340-778-7000 x 104 CELL: 340-227-7899 S T. C R O I X R E A LT Y
lisa@coldwellbankervi.com www.coldwellbankervi.com
Villa Rentals • Homes & Condos for Sale • Homesites
Gallows Bay Marketplace
GALLOWS BAY MARKETPLACE • 340-778-7000 5030 Anchor Way, Suite 12 • 340-718-7000 HOTEL THE BUCCANEER
• coldwellbankervi.com/vacationrentals coldwellbankervi.com Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty. Relax at the iconic Villa Madeleine Greathouse.
Team San Martin Outstanding Agents. Teamwork Makes Dreams Work
Outstanding Results. St. Croix’s 1st Buyer’s Agent
Selling St. Croix since 1984
Re/max St. Croix 5 Company St. Christiansted VI 00820
m www.teamsanmartin.com
Phone: 340-773-1048
Photo by Al Dorsa
n
leasing, vacation and long-term rentals. Our website, www.CalabashRealtors.com, has an extensive list of properties for sale and rent, as well as valuable resources and general information. Accept our invitation to Experience the Difference and know that you will be working with a company that loves St. Croix and puts their clients and customers first.
REMAX St. Croix yours. – 340-773-1048 make paradise We have a diverse group Joe and Juliesome of Team San Martin the on most of agents, of whom haveare lived St. respected andentire knowledgeable Team Croix their lives, thatREALTOR® are ambassadors on areexperts a long established, forSt.St.Croix. CroixWe and in the localservice-orireal estate ented business, selling St. Croix since 1984and andwww. St market. www.coldwellbankervi.com stcroixforrent.com Croix’s first buyers agents. Clients know that Team San Martin is truly connected with the successful Emelyn of Morris-Sayre – RE/MAX St. Croix outcome each real estate transaction, has a -genu303-517-5116 ine concern for your best interests, and is always Emelyn brings over 20 years to RE/ prepared to go the extra mile. experience When we find your MAX property, St. Croix, we having previously ownedthe herOffer dream will walk you through own real estate in so Colorado. is committed to Purchase terms that you’llShe have all the facts to to providing exceptional service to her make a good decision andcustomer use our negotiating skills clients and customers. Many of heracquire clients return that have helped hundreds of buyers their for additional transactions refer theirTeamwork friends dream properties. We live byorour motto: and family knowing they will be treated with makes dreams work! www.teamsnmartin.com
the utmost professionalism. Her client’s needs always come first. She has received the prestigious National Association of REALTORS Omega Tau Rho Award for Outstanding Service and she has earned the Certified Residential Specialist designation. Buying or selling, Emelyn would be honored to assist you. Her office is located on Company Street, Christiansted. Call 303-517-5116 or office, 340-773-1048. www.emsayre.com
Contact us about buying, selling Joe & Julie San Martin at RE/MAX St. Croix – or renting in the USVI and BVI. 340-773-1048
Joe and Julie of Team San Martin, are the most ® We know islands. LetREALTOR us help you respected andthese knowledgeable Team on St. Croix; a long-established, servicerealize your Caribbean dream! oriented business, selling St. Croix since 1984 Northfirst Street, Christiansted and St.11Croix’s buyers’ agents. Clients know www.homebuyvi.com 340.719.1409 they care about the successful• outcome of each real estate transaction, have a genuine concern w w and w.stcroix thisweek for their best interests, are prepared to.com go the extra mile. When they find your dream property, they’ll walk you through the Offer to Purchase terms, and use their same negotiat11/6/14 3:13 PM ing skills that have helped 100s of other buyers. Teamwork makes dreams work! www.teamsanmartin.com RE/MAX St. Croix – 340-773-1048 RE/MAX, a name you can trust Globally and Locally for over four decades. Whether you’re buying or selling a home, your success hinges upon the expert advice and services provided by your real estate agent. RE/MAX St. Croix, is a full-service real estate brokerage. Our real estate professionals are committed to provid-
62 • Oc tober/November 2020
WHAT TYPE OF ISLANDER ARE YOU? by Corinne King This is one of our favorite questions to ask our buyers! This helps us understand your ideal island lifestyle and how you want to live on St. Croix, so we can pair you with your perfect island home! Which one (or ones) are you? The Explorer We have both history and nature for you to explore! Hike the hills, walk historic ruins, stand inside a sugar mill, hunt for chenay, snorkel coral reefs, dive The Wall, swim with turtles...the explorer will always find something new to explore! The Artsy Islander Enjoy a guided meditation or yoga class, then head to either of our historic towns for a stroll along the cobblestone streets with a stop by quaint boutiques and art galleries! Take an art class or taste your way around Christiansted; we have quite the epicurean scene, delighting any and all foodies! The Beach Bum Wake up slowly to the sunrise and head to the beach with a cooler, a beach chair, and your favorite book. Find a shady spot under a coconut palm, sit back, relax and dive deep into your book until sunset. The Active Islander Tie up your laces and hit the pavement or beach before the sun comes up. We have miles of beautiful land for you to traverse! Run the hills, bike south shore, swim from Bucc to Buck, paddle board from one cove to another. There are endless activities for the active islander! The Remote Worker Start your morning with coffee on your gallery, then settle down at your desk with a magnificent sea view! Take a lunch break on the beach, maybe even fit in a swim! Heck, if you can answer emails on your phone why not pull up a chair and stay for a while! We would love to hear from you, learn more about your island personality, and pair you with your home sweet home on St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands! Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty 340-778-7000 info@coldwellbankervi.com www.coldwellbankervi.com
Living Here
CHANGE COURSE, MAKE YOUR MOVE! ing our clients with personal service based on experience, knowledge and skills. We are always excited to show off our island’s real estate market, customs, and culture. We have the reputation for putting you, the client, first and placing your needs and goals at the top the list. Thinking Real Estate?... Think RE/MAX St. Croix. View a list of our real estate professionals on Page 2 and connect with us today. info@livingonscroix.com www.livingonstcroix.com Joe Caruso – St. Croix Island Life Real Estate 340-474-0466 What is “Island Life”? Island Life is about enjoying your life. It’s about being comfortable, relaxing, enjoying the sunshine, and being on and in the water. I want to show you what Island Life is about and help you see if St Croix is the right spot for you. My professional success for the last 44 years is the result of listening to clients’ requests and using my knowledge and experience to turn those requests into realities. Listening and communication are my #1 priority, and you’ll find me to be an enthusiastic and fun agent—and an expert on St Croix Island Life!— who can help you find the property you’re looking for. joe@stcroixislandlife.com
Coldwell Banker St. Croix Realty. Your beachfront getaway at 12 Candle Reef.
www.stcroixislandlife.com 5100 Chenay Bay Christiansted, VI 00820 Joe Caruso | Realtor Cell: 340-474-0466 joe @ stcroixislandlife.com
Our local Realtors are ready to help you find your dream home today!
Experience the Difference
Gallows Bay | 340.778.7000 ColdwellBankerVI.com
Frederiksted | 340.642.3333 Oc tober/November 2020 • 63
Vintage St. Croix Prints - henlegallery.com
Frederiksted Gingerbread.
Judith’s Fancy Ruins.
Harbour Crowd, Christiansted.
Green Cay Estate.
64 • Oc tober/November 2020
STARS SHOPPING
ST. CROIX Sky Watch OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020
NORTH
Our clear skies are perfect for star gazing! VIEW THE MAP SO THAT THE NORTH INDICATOR IS FACING NORTH
Constellation names are in upper case. Star and planet names in lower case. The sun, moon, planets and stars all rise in the east and set in the west.
November Moon Phases
Full Moon...................... 1 Oct Last Quarter.................. 9 Oct New Moon..................16 Oct First Quarter...............23 Oct Full Moon....................31 Oct
Last Quarter......................8 Nov New Moon.....................15 Nov First Quarter...................22 Nov Full Moon........................30 Nov
WEST
October Moon Phases
EAST
By: Tom Lesser, formerly Senior Lecturer at the American Museum-Hayden Planetarium and frequent island visitor.
Sunrise & Sunset October Sunrise.............................................................. 6:12 am October Sunset................................................................5:56 pm November Sunrise.......................................................... 6:24 am November Sunset...........................................................5:42 pm
SOUTH
Sunrise and sunset times are based on the 15th of each month.
CONSTELLATIONS: UPPER CASE • Stars: Lower Case
As the sky grows dark over the Virgin Islands, look to the south for two very bright star-like objects. These are not stars, but two planets. The brighter of the two is Jupiter, the other is Saturn. On October 13th Mars is at Opposition, opposite the Sun as seen from Earth. Mars will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun and thus it will be brighter than any other time of the year. Mars will rise in the east as the Sun sets in in the west, and set in the west as the Sun rises in the east. Almost directly overhead look for three bright stars. Since these three form a large triangle which is visible during the Summer months, up North, they are called the Summer Triangle. Each bright star marks a different, star group or constellation. Brightest and highest in the sky is Vega, in Lyra the Harp. Fainter stars very close to Vega in the shape of a parrallelogram form the harp. To the eouth of Vega is Altair, in Aquila, the Eagle. Again, fainter stars nearby
Altair form the Eagle and you will need a lot of imagination to find an eagle there. Deneb is the third bright star and is to the east of Vega and Altair. Deneb and marks the tail of Cygnus, the Swan. Perhaps you can see a Swan here. Faint stars form the Swan’s body and long neck and others the bird’s wings. There are many legends that might account for the presence of a Swan in the heavens. One myth states that the Swan represents Orpheus, who was slain by Bacchus. However Orpheus’ music was so wonderful that he was changed into a Swan and placed in the heavens near his beloved harp. To the east of the Summer Triangle, look for four fainter stars forming a large square. This area of the sky is filled by a large animal, Pegasus, the Flying Horse. Can’t see a horse there? Don’t worry; I would only begin to worry if you said you did see a flying horse. There are four somewhat faint stars that form the square; this is the horse’s body. Other faint stars extending to the west form
the horse’s head, neck and front legs. Oh, by the way, this horse has no hind legs or tail and is flying upside-down! Why did these stars become thought of as Pegasus, the Flying Horse? No one knows. East of Pegasus is the red planet Mars. Mars is seen against the background of stars of Pisces, the Fish. Pisces has no bright stars so right now Mars makes at least one of the fish easier to find. West of Mars and below the square, look for a circle of faint stars; this is one of the fish. If you look low in the northeastern sky you can find a “W” made of somewhat bright stars. This is Cassiopeia, the Queen. It doesn’t look much like a queen, but it does look like a “W” but in the early evening at this time of year the “W” is laying on its side. If you are up before dawn, look for the very bright Venus dominating the eastern sky. Venus is the third brightest natural object in the sky after the Sun and the Moon. It is also the celestial object most often reported as a UFO.
ibdesignsvi.com . 2108 Company St Christiansted 340.773.4322 . Handcrafted feel good jewelry
boldness is not always loud