VISIT St. Thomas, St. John & St. Croix 2020 by North South Net, Inc.

Property of the hotel. Please do not remove.

MAIN STREET EMANCIPATION PARK HAVENSIGHT

Category

Inspiration

True Style

Tiffany T square bracelet in 18k rose gold, gold and white gold.

Tiffany wire bar earrings in rose gold.

WORLD OF

TIFFANYÂ´S Meet T Tiffany T Two open vertical bar pendant in white gold with diamonds.

Strength

Tiffany wire hoop earrings in gold. 2

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Details Tiffany Tiffany T True ring in gold.

Visit The Tiffany & Co. Boutique Located on Main Street in downtown St. Thomas 5182 Dronnigens Gade, 248-809-5560, Ext. 10110

Welcome

St. John Aerial On behalf of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, I extend a warm welcome and thank you for choosing our beautiful islands as your travel destination. The allure of visiting four charming islands within one vacation destination makes the U.S. Virgin Islands unique and appealing to visitors seeking an unforgettable experience. Cultural St. Croix, nostalgic St. John, cosmopolitan St. Thomas and tranquil Water Island each adds its own charm to the archipelago. With an array of inter-island transportation options available, island-hopping offers guests the opportunity to truly explore the destination.

JOSEPH B. BOSCHULTE Commissioner of Tourism

St. Croix’s charm is a manifestation of the rich history, the charming locals, architecture, cuisine and culture. Known for its historical twin cities, Christiansted and Frederiksted, the island offers travelers a modern look into its Danish past. This sea lover’s paradise offers world-class diving from coastal reefs to shipwrecks. A trip to St. Croix isn’t complete without a sailing trip to Buck Island National Monument, one of only two underwater monuments in the United States. Peace and tranquility are plentiful on St. John, as two-thirds of the island is a national park. A southern drive offers visitors one breathtaking vista after the other. Hidden within the island are over 20 hiking trails that connect the island from the Caribbean Sea to the highest peak,

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Bordeaux Mountain. Both Cruz Bay and Coral Bay offer visitors a chance to explore sugar mill ruins and enjoy eclectic shops, local cuisine and the peaceful ambience of the island. St. Thomas, known for its breathtaking harbor located in the heart of the capital, Charlotte Amalie, rewards visitors with an active and vivacious experience. Duty-free shopping downtown offers visitors a chance to walk through the historic district, as they traverse through the gades, named for small Danish side streets. As one of the most visited ports in the Caribbean, a fun-filled day consists of an island tour, a beautiful beach, a swim with the dolphins, a visit to Fort Christian and a ride on the Caribbean’s only tramway. Just within the Charlotte Amalie harbor you’ll find charming Water Island, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Honeymoon Beach’s secluded disposition creates a romantic getaway. Make sure to tour the island in a golf cart and get to know a few of the 200 residents that call this island gem home. Wonderful memories are sure to be created when you visit these islands. Please enjoy our home — your home away from home. Sincerely,

Welcome

St. Croix Welcome to the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands!

LISA HAMILTON President, U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

We’re thrilled for you to join us during our comeback year as we reestablish the territory as one of the top Caribbean destinations following two Category 5 hurricanes in September 2017. We have worked diligently to rebuild our islands and have kept that momentum going to improve our tourism product. Many businesses that closed after the storms have reopened, and we’re consistently welcoming a variety of new businesses to the Virgin Islands family. We’re also excited for many of the large resorts and hotels in the territory to once again open their doors to guests throughout 2020. During your visit, we hope you’ll take advantage of these new and time-honored dining options, shops, excursions, activities, accommodations and more. From flavorful restaurants to luxurious boutiques, let us help you find the exceptional and memorable in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a sunset sail or venture out for an exhilarating excursion, we’ve got activities to suit your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying a romantic retreat or a family holiday, we can help you create the ideal itinerary for your trip.

Along with the myriad of exciting things to do, we hope you’ll find an opportunity to visit all of the U.S. Virgin Islands, each with its own unique and vibrant character. Enjoy the picturesque charm of Water Island in the morning and discover the bustling capital of Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas in the afternoon. Explore the vast rolling hills and majestic coral reefs of St. Croix’s stunning land and seascapes. Tour the National Park trails teeming with tropical life and secluded beaches on St. John. Whether you’re looking to spend the day on the sand or at the spa, you’ll be treated to a singular experience on each island. Let this helpful resource serve as your guide as you plan your time in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where you can delight in the wonders of the Caribbean with all of the conveniences of home. Whether you’re returning to our shores or joining us for the first time, we thank you for supporting our continued growth after the storms. Enjoy your stay in paradise! Warm regards,

M Y L A G O S M Y W AY

C AV I A R C O L L E C T I O N S

Contributors

ANQUANETTE GASPARD Born and raised in St. Croix, Anquanette Gaspard is a freelance writer and blogger with extensive experience in food, travel, marketing and research. Her website, www.cruzanfoodie.com, focuses on the food culture in the USVI, the Caribbean and beyond. The blog encourages readers to experience different foods and cultures and explore locations outside of their comfort zones, allowing them to fully understand how food and travel connect people from all walks of life. Her work has been featured in publications such as Ebony and Destination Marriott and on www.onshegoes.com.

ALAIN M. BRIN A true native of the Virgin Islands, Alain M. Brin of Blue Glass Photography has spent most of his life photographing events in the Caribbean and throughout the world. He lives in St. Thomas with his lovely wife of 16 years, Soolan, where they both host luxury events at their home, Villa Norbu. The couple recently partnered with friends Gautam and Divya to introduce and establish the Spa Ceylon franchise in the Virgin Islands.

STEVE AND JANET SIMONSEN Steve and Janet Simonsen met on St. Thomas in 1987, got married at Secret Harbor in 1989 and moved to St. John in 1991. Since then, Steve’s photography has taken them around the world but has always been rooted in the islands they call home. He’s contributed to the V.I. Department of Tourism’s branding for two decades, and his work has appeared in Islands, Scuba Diving, Outside, National Geographic Adventure and Caribbean Travel + Life. They also have supplied footage to Kenny Chesney for music videos, concert tours and documentaries.

ANDREA MILAM Andrea Milam has lived in the Caribbean since 2005. Enamored with the region’s culture and natural beauty, she moved to St. John after graduating from college. There, she got married, built a home and a family, and established her writing career. Experiencing the way her island community came together following a direct and devastating hit by Hurricane Irma only further fueled her love for St. John and the Caribbean as a whole.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

CAROL BAREUTHER Carol M. Bareuther, R.D., visited St. Thomas by cruise ship in 1986, returned two months later from her native New Jersey to work as the hospital’s nutritionist and never left. One husband, two children and a three-decade tandem-writing career later, Bareuther still loves life in the USVI. She’s authored Virgin Islands Cooking and Sports Fishing in the Virgin Islands and has written for Cooking Light, Vegetarian Times, Cruising World, Marlin and Sail. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, swimming, hiking and reading.

CARTIER.COM

SANTOS DE CARTIER COLLECTION

MAIN STREET - CROWN BAY - ST. THOMAS, US VIRGIN ISLANDS - TEL: 340 776 4110 - ROYALCARIBBEANVI.COM

4848 SW 74th Court Miami, FL 33155 Tel: 305-222-7244 Email: gduell@northsouthnet.com Web: www.northsouthnet.com

PUBLISHER Garry Duell, Jr.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Vanessa Molina Santamaria

ART DIRECTOR Lisa Lawlor

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Steve Simonsen

ADVERTISING SERVICES Lisa Meersman Rosana Alfonso Duell

ADVERTISING SALES Media Marketing, Inc., St. Thomas, VI Tel: 340-774-0920

CONTRIBUTORS Carol Bareuther, Alain M. Brin, Meryl D’Sa, Anquanette Gaspard, Andrea Milam, Janet Simonsen

USVI Hotel & Tourism Association P.O. Box 2300, St. Thomas, VI 00803 Tel: 340-774-6835 Web: virgin-islands-hotels.com St. Croix Hotel & Tourism Association P.O. Box 24238, St. Croix, VI 00824 Tel: 800-524-2026 Web: www.stcroixhotelandtourism.com Like us on Facebook @USVImembership to find out the latest about U.S. Virgin Islands hotels and resorts.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Crown Brilliant Collection

That’s Beautiful Exclusively at

St Thomas US Virgin Islands A.H. Riise Mall-Main Street • Havensight Mall • Crown Bay • (340)776-5570 Tor tola British Virgin Islands Pier Park • (284) 541-8507

Table of Contents

Property of the hotel. Please do not remove.

RUMBABA SAILING THROUGH CURRENT CUT OFF OF ST. THOMAS

JOIE AT HAWKSNEST BEACH, VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK, ST. JOHN

SNORKELERS AT BUCK ISLAND NATIONAL MONUMENT, ST. CROIX

ST. THOMAS

ST. JOHN

ST. CROIX

STT 1 Welcome to St. Thomas Enjoy this cosmopolitan destination

STJ 1

Welcome to St. John Perfect spot for natural beauty

STX 1

Welcome to St. Croix Overflowing with history

STJ 6

Activities & Attractions Go beyond sun and sand

STX 4

Activities & Attractions Explore the island’s offerings

STJ 10

On the Water Discover all the ocean has to offer

STX 10

Beaches Seaside splendor

STJ 14

Beaches Splendid shorelines

STX 11

Local Spotlight Fish with a Vet USVI

STJ 18

Shopping: Retail Treasures Memorable shopping experiences

STX 12

Shopping: Treasure Trove A shopper’s paradise

STJ 26

Dining: Delicious Delights Satisfy your appetite

STJ 30

Accommodations: Tropical Retreats Find your ideal retreat

STX 18

Dining: A Taste of the Tropics Foodie favorites

STJ 32

Local Spotlight Victor Provost

STX 20

Accommodations: Room to Recharge Diverse accommodations

STT 4

Activities & Attractions Top things to see and do

STT 12

On the Water Above and below the sea

STT 16

Beaches A shore thing

STT 20

Local Spotlight My Brother’s Workshop

STT 22

Shopping: Retail Rapture One-of-a-kind retail offerings

STT 38

Dining: Global Cuisine Mouthwatering dishes

STT 48

Accommodations: A Matter of Choice Your home away from home

STT 52

Local Spotlight Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

S T. T H O M A S U S V I R G I N I S L A N D S : A . H . R I I S E M A L L - M A I N S T R E E T - ( 3 4 0 ) 7 76 - 5 570 1- 8 0 0 - 51- J E W E L D I A M O N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L .C O M

Table of Contents

122

BY CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

Dining

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

16a

MAPS

122

WEDDINGS

126

HOTEL DIRECTORY

130

VISITOR INFORMATION

BY ANDREA MILAM

WAVES OF FUN

From skimming or soaring above the waves to racing or plunging under them, aquatic adventures abound on St. Thomas.

hile it’s ridiculously tempting to spend your time on St. Thomas just lounging on the sands with

an ice-cold cocktail, you’d be shortchanging yourself on the waves of fun the island offers. Here are some ways to dive in.

Level Up With Parasail Virgin Islands, you can soar up to 300 feet above the sea, watching the boat traffic and the shore skimming by while the breeze blows through your hair — definitely one for the bucket list.

STT12 V I S I T U . S . V I R G I N I S L A N D S 2 0 2 0

Parasail Virgin Islands

Splash Down Snorkeling or scuba diving near the reefs that rim the island allow you to take in the magnificent multicolored fish that call St. Thomas home: Stoplight parrotfish, bluehead wrasse, red hind, tiger grouper, squirrelfish, spotted drum and harlequin bass are just a few of the rainbow menagerie beneath the waves. It’s actually quite easy to find great snorkeling right off most of the island’s beaches, and you can easily rent gear from outfits such as Coki Dive Center, based in Coki Beach. You can also learn to scuba dive with Coki Dive

STT13

DELICIOUS DELIGHTS From toes-in-the-sand Happy-Hour-hanging spots to upscale waterfront fine dining, St. John has a surprisingly robust restaurant scene.

or a small island, St. John punches way above its weight class when it comes to restaurant offerings. From airconditioned sports bars with frosty beers on draft to quaint, breezy outdoor eateries to upscale establishments with supremely divine dishes, St. John’s restaurants have something for everyone.

Laid-Back Lunching When you’re in search of a casual, easy breakfast, lunch or dinner, St. John has plenty of options at mid-range price points. Cruz Bay is home to the biggest concentration of dining venues of all sorts. Many restaurants are open air and serve familiar American fare. Coral Bay also offers a handful of dining options, most falling into the casual category. Sunday brunch is available on both sides of the island, and many restaurants have Happy Hour drink specials, with some giving deals on food during Happy Hour as well.

STJ26

On-the-Water Eats Plenty of new additions to the St. John restaurant scene allow you

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Take us with you on the go! View the digital edition of this publication at virgin-islands-hotels.com.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Find your way around the islands

Happily ever after

Accommodations information for all three islands

Helpful island guide

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Listings of our preferred partners

Upscale and Incredible It’s hard to treat yourself to just one night of fine dining on St. John, where the competitive restaurant scene keeps chefs on their toes and at the forefront of culinary trends. A longtime favorite, Morgan’s Mango in Cruz Bay has become an integral part of a St. John vacation for repeat visitors who laud the restaurant’s Caribbeaninfluenced cuisine, top-notch service and breezy, beautiful setting. On the other side of Cruz Bay, The Terrace dominates the French cuisine scene with carefully selected fresh ingredients and the incredible talents of Chef/Owner Erica Miner in the kitchen. Sunset views over Cruz Bay add an extra special flair to an evening at The Terrace.

STAY CONNECTED 14

134

What’s happening throughout the year

136

MEMBERS OF THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS HOTEL & TOURISM ASSOCIATION

CLAUDIA SCHIFFER

THE NEW J12 IT’S ALL ABOUT SECONDS

New self-winding manufacture movement Highly resistant ceramic watch. Swiss made. 5-year warranty.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Save the date! Mark your calendar so you can enjoy these year-round events and festivals. For more information, go to www.visitusvi.com. JANUARY

MAY

• Food, Arts and Crafts Fair, St. Croix

• Arts Alive Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Festival, St. Thomas

• St. Croix Scenic 50 Mile Ultra Marathon

• Christiansted Jump Up, St. Croix

• Crucian Christmas Festival, St. Croix • Martin Luther King Regatta, St. Thomas

FEBRUARY

• Beach to Beach Power Swim, St. John

JUNE • St. John Festival, St. John

• Water Island Classical Music Festival, St. Thomas

JULY

• Krewe de Croix Mardi Croix Parade, St. Croix

• Mango Melee and Tropical Fruit Festival, St. Croix

• Christiansted Jump Up, St. Croix

• St. John Festival, St. John

• St. Croix Agricultural and Food Fair

• Christiansted Jump Up, St. Croix

• 8 Tuff Miles, St. John

MARCH • St. Thomas International Regatta, St. Thomas

AUGUST • Annual Texas Society Chili Cook Off, St. Thomas • Annual USVI Open Atlantic Blue Marlin • Fishing Tournament, St. Thomas

• The Round the Rocks Race, St. Thomas • St. George Botanical Gardens Art in the Garden, St. Croix

NOVEMBER

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade, St. Croix

• USVI Charter Yacht Show, St. Thomas • Christiansted Jump Up, St. Croix

APRIL • The St. Croix Food and Wine Experience • Virgin Islands Carnival, St. Thomas • J’Ouvert, St. Thomas

• Paradise Jam: NCAA Division 1 men’s and women’s basketball teams go head to head in this annual tournament

DECEMBER • Annual St. Croix International Marathon

• Children’s Carnival Parade, St. Thomas

• Crucian Christmas Festival, St. Croix

• Adult’s Carnival Parade, St. Thomas

• Christmas Boat Parade, St. Croix Events and dates are subject to change.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Calendar of Events

ST. THOMAS

Tropaco Point

Stumpy Point

NELTJEBERG

go ria Ch an n

vensig

Hassel Island

384 39

it Sm

Tutu Park Mall

DONOE

ht Ma

Tillett G

ANNA RETR

Weymouth-Rhy m er Hwy RAPHUNE HOFFMAN NEW HERRNHUT

French

BAKKERO y Rd

Pacquereau 315 Bay

9 11

BOLONGO

Frenchman Bay

Flamingo Bay

Green Cay

CARIBBEAN SEA

Flamingo Point

BOVONI i Rd

B ov o n

Sprat Point

Ba y

Morningstar 12 FRENCHMAN BAY Beach

Druif Bay

Don oe

Carol Point

St. Thomas Harbor

TAM HA

Mandahl R

40 Roy L. Schneider Regional Medical Center

HM PP Ha

WINTBERG

Tutu Bay

MANDAHL 39

Water Island

l i ne

Long Bay

Virgin Islands National Park

Salt Pond Rd

e Gr W.

S ky

Mandahl P L

m an

Regis Point

Mandahl Bay

ST JOSEPH & ROSENDAL 394

30 YHG 313 Yacht Haven Grande

el hann ria C ego

Mosquito Point

t e ra n s D r

r E. G

Red Point

Crown Bay

SUB BASECBC

K ru m B a

Look for Tommy Starfish directional signs along the roads to help guide you around the island. The color-coded signs correspond to the colored routes on this map. ORANGE .......................... Airport-Red Hook BLUE ..........................Havensight-Red Hook RED ........................Smith Bay-Four Corners GREEN............................ Town-Magens Bay YELLOW ....................... Malfolie-Crown Bay REMEMBER TO DRIVE ON THE LEFT!

304

302 Beach

Lindbergh Bay

308 30

Emerald 304

Charlotte Amalie 3

LOWER JOHN DUNKO

Cyril E. King International Airport

TOMMY STARFISH

Drake’s Seat

AGNES FANCY STAABI

332

LOVENLUND da Man hl Rd

MAFOLIE

ELIZABETH

40 SOLBERG

UPPER JOHN DUNKO

University of the Virgin Islands

Brewers Bay

405

CONTANT

LINDBERGH BAY

Fairchild Park

BONNE RESOLUTION

ADELPHI JOHN BREWERS BAY

Black Point

Runnel Bay

Lucas Point

5 40

Maho gany Ru

Perseverance Bay

FORTUNA

Fortuna Bay

Mt n R d CROWN & HAWK

BONNE ESPERANCE

rtun a Fo

Barents Bay

Cro

PETERBORG

ST PETER

404

Crown Mtn. 1,556 ft. 474 m

PEARL

301

PERSEVERANCE

BETHESDA

HULL

Lovenlund Bay

Magens Bay

Reseau Bay

HOPE SANTA MARIA

David Point

404

Rd ay

BORDEAUX

BOTANY BAY

DOROTHEA

Sandy Bay

Hull Bay

333

West End

Botany Bay

CARET BAY

SORGENFRI

Neltjeberg Dorothea Bay Bay

ll B Hu

Botany Point

Santa Maria Bay

Stumpy Bay

Mail Kastel Bay Point

Caret Bay

Vluck Point

Bordeaux Bay

Atlantic Ocean

Picara Point

Bolongo Little Coculus Coculus Bay Bay Point

Sta B

Lon

9 18 7a 7b b Tol

Post Office

den

SHOPPING A.H. Riise Mall ....................... 3 Diamonds International Island Casual Rolex Boutique Bobby’s Jewelers .................... 4

Boolchand’s ........................HM Breitling Boutique.................... 5 Cartier ......................... 11, CBC David Yurman Boutique........... 6 Diamonds International .......................... 7a, HM, CBC Diamonds International Watch and Design .............. 7a Get Charmed/Chalet D’or..... 13 Hublot, St. Thomas................ 7b Little Switzerland .............9, HM

z Ba

Norre Gade Grand Galleria

308

parking

Vendors Plaza

DOWNTOWN CHARLOTTE AMALIE MAP DIRECTORY

CHURCHES/SYNAGOGUES St. Thomas Reformed Church... 1 Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas........................ 2

F.D.R. Veterans Mem. Park

Emancipation Gardens Park

oth

Information Bo

t o C ru

12 to Frenchtown CBC Crown Bay Center Terminal to Ferry

Waterfront Ferry Area

Long Bay

Veterans Dr to Airport

Post Office Alley Cardow Walk KingKing Christian Christian Walk Walk A. H. Riise Mall

ts Gad

Mall

l Plaza

omas St. Th Trust ical Histor Museum

Seven Arches Museum

Frederick Lutheran Church

3 5

Government House

Kongens Gade

Main St

11 11

1871 Stairs

Hospital Gade

Hibiscus Alley

Raade

Pa s s a g

ter Gad

Dane

ationa

Back

Gade

r Ga

Strand Gade

Tvae

Kromp Gade

General Gade

Nye

Guttets

Curacao Gade

Ro y al

Intern

e assa g Palm P Gade Tvaer Store

308

Drake’s

Dro

n nninge

s Gade

Trompe

Market Square

t s Ga d e im me lsk a f

99 Steps

Hotel 1829

parking

Trovet Strade

St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church Main

Snegle Gade

S to re

Kanal Gade

Prindesse Gade

Charlotte Amalie

LITTONS FANCY

Pandora St. Thomas .......10, HM Patek Philippe ....................... 18 The Pearl Lady...................... 15 Royal Caribbean........... 11, CBC Tag Heuer Boutique ................ 6 Tiffany Boutique.................... 18 Tanzanite International.......... 7a RESTAURANTS Amalia Café/Meson Amalia.... 8

Fort Plasde

Gade

Strade

NNoorre rr Tvaerr Gade d

S tran d Ga

Regjerings

St. Thomas Reformed Church

ade

Cr y st a

Gamle Gade

l Gade

Nye Gade

ade

St.Thomas St. Thomas Synagogue Synagogue

Tolbod G

QUEENS QUARTER

to Frenchman’ s Re

sta

Garden St

Cr y

ste

Pile Strade

Rosen Gade

Fort Christian Virgin Islands Museum

Veteran

Legislature Building

s Dr

to Havensight Mall HM Port of Sale and Yacht Haven Grande

LOCATION KEYS

WALKING TOUR THROUGH HISTORIC CHARLOTTE AMALIE ...... RESTROOMS ...................................

GAMING Southland Gaming Look for the Play Button! ........... FERRIES Native Son .......................... 12 AIRLINES Seaborne Airlines ................ 12

Nor ths ide R

d St Stran

tn. Tr a i l

r d e au x M

bat

Sab

Bay

re a t gS Kin

de Ga

Bo ay

am esh ur B

a Ba y ame shur B ay

an otp

Sa ltp on d

ro p Eu

L itt

erg u t Wat

Pan Am Pavilion

Grass Point

parking t

Williams Public t Library ing S K Lutheran Church

ita

Christiansted

t St

ter

ATTRACTIONS/TOURS Cruzan Rum Distillery...................4

oon

GROCERY STORES Seaside Market & Deli .................5

La g

RESTAURANTS Beach Side Café (Sand Castle On The Beach) (Frederiksted) ............................6

SHOPPING (Christiansted) Crucian Gold............................. 11 Hotheads ..................................12 ib designs..................................13 Joyia Inspirational Jewelry ...........9 The Natural Jewel/ The Jewel Factory ....................10 t

AIRLINES Seaborne ....................... Airport, 3

ACCOMMODATIONS The Buccaneer .............................1

Catholic Church

ST. CROIX MAP DIRECTORY

Gallows Ba

75W

Halfpenny Bay

C Apothecary Hall St een Qu

Cro

75E

Fareham Milord Point Bay

Old Market

13ompany

Great Pond Bay

parking Steeple Building

Bay

Government House

urc

an Str

12 10

11 Florence

Fort Christiansvaern

Christiansted National Historic Site

Danish Warehouse

een

lvin

D. Hamilton Jackson Park

Scale House Danish Custom House

Rod Bay

Jack’s Isaac Bay Point

rke

CARIBBEAN SEA

Isaac Bay

to Christiansted Harbor al k Seaplane Base Bo a r d w

Vagthus Point

Manchenil Bay

h Sout Robin

Grapetree Turner Bay Hole

Point Udall

Spring Bay

Cramers Park

Christiansted Harbor

Cottongarden Point Boiler Bay

ros

Knight Bay

Canegarden Bay

e Rd Shor

Great Pond

Protestant Cay

East End

624

622

le L

Lind

East End R d

Teague Point Teague Bay

Coakley Solitude Bay Bay

bypa s s

SPA SERVICES Spa Ceylon...................C

CHRISTIANSTED

GAMING ON ST. JOHN The Parrot Club...............C

Kin

6 4

THE WESTIN

FITNESS St. John Fitness ............... 6

Hil

h Fi s

WATER SPORTS Caribbean Sea Adventures (Christiansted)..........................15 West End Water Sports (Frederiksted) .......................... 17

ita

104 to: the Starfish Market the Marketplace, Palm Plaza Southside Rd

ade

102

WATER SPORTS Arawak Expeditions ........A Cruz Bay Watersports (The Westin) ....... 4 & STT Virgin Islands Ecotours Honeymoon Beach........ 5 Virgin Islands Expeditions...................A

Pri

10 Centerline Rd

Altona Lagoon

Henry E. Rohlsen International Airport

753

Christiansted Christiansted

nne

RESTAURANTS Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill.................... 5 Morgan’s Mango ........... 3 Ocean 362 (Gallows Point Resort) ... 1 The Terrace Restaurant.... 2

SHOPPING DOCKSIDE BUILDING ....D MONGOOSE JUNCTION...A Caravan Gallery Little Switzerland WHARFSIDE VILLAGE.....C Bamboo Studio

Arc

Sunny Isle

Drunk Bay Trail y Ba R am

ACCOMMODATIONS, VACATION HOMES & VILLAS Gallows Point Resort ....... 1 Westin Resort ................. 4

elle

Ali

MONGOOSE JUNCTION .............. A RAINTREE COURT ..................... B WHARFSIDE VILLAGE................. C DOCKSIDE BUILDING................. D ST. THOMAS LOCATION ...........STT

Ram Head

ra v

Christiansted Natl. Hist. Site

708

Hess Rd

Cha

h ore

75 753

vey

ran s

Golden Rock

Har

Vet e

750

Pull Point Prune Chenay Bay Bay

Kiddel Point

Fra

LOCATION KEYS–CRUZ BAY

arf Wh gs Kin lk Wa n ey All dL an gs Str Kin he nc ma k C o Wa l

Rattan

Christiansted Harbor Protestant Cay

Hill Rd

Villa

Juan F. Luis Hospital

ne LaRei

Ruth Island Long Point

e Rd

Lowry

n St Quee

Airport Rd

thsid

Rd Rd

to Airport

Long Point Bay

E Ai rport

Sandy Point

665

Hwy Evans Melvin H.

64 66

Nor

663

s Hw Evan

Green Cay

Punnett Bay Marina Beauregard Shoys Beach Bay

750

ine Rd

64 Cruzan Rum Distillery

d port R W Air

Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge

Tr a n berg Rd

667

Wait Long

Post Office

702

val

704 to Sandy Point

Point Beach

The O

St Fisher

Westend Saltpond

661

n Rd

Queen Cross

St. Paul’s Anglican Sandy Church

East St

King Cross St

Cemetery

Hospital St

Queen St

Strand St

King St

Prince St

Hill St

New St

HISTORIC DISTRICT

Estate Whim Plantation Museum 63

Carlto

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

704

rline R

Cente 70

Hwy

St. Patrick’s Church

Mary ueen

Univ.of the Virgin Islands

Pelican Cove

rl Cente

St George Village Botanical Gardens

663

ise R

Lawaetz Family Museum

65 72

h og any d R

Bijou

gan

Mon

Parad

Ma h o

ran ge Rd

Park Lagoon St

Fort Frederik

Customs House St Custom House Market Pier Place Visitor Center Market St

Boat Ramp

Midla

Frederiksted

parking

Caribbean Sea

Fort Frederick

Frederiksted

631

nd Rd

West End

Fort Frederik Beach

Paul E. Joseph Stadium

765

Blue Mountain 1,096 ft. 334 m

Rainbow Beach

750

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Sprat Hall Beach

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Butler Bay

L a G r a n g e Rd

Davis Beach

Mt. Eagle 69 1,169 ft. 356 m

751

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Annaly Bay

e Rd

Buck Island Reef National Monument

Salt River Bay National Historic Park

terlin

Winston Wells Park

Green Cay National Wildlife Refuge

Hamil

Scenic R

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201

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Salt River Bay

Cane Bay

Cruz Bay

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WEDDING VENUES Heart & Soul Unions (Emerald Beach Resort).......................1

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Post Office

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Privateer Privateer Bay Point Red Point

Hams Bluff

Wharfside Village Shopping Center

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East End Bay

Blackrock Hill

Long Bay

Hams Bay

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Leduck Island

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CARIBBEAN SEA

Ferry terminal Dockside Mall

Cabritte Horn Point

Hansen Bay

Long Point Pond Bay

Saltpond Bay Nanny Point Trail Drunk Bay

ST. CROIX

Pedestrian ferry dock

Bay St Grande Bay

Clinic Tourism Bureau

Coral Bay

Johns Folly Bay

hed

RESTAURANTS Amalia Café ........................... Downtown Caribbean Saloon Steakhouse & Bar ...................................... RH/AYH Delly Deck........................................ HM Blue 11........................................... YHG Duffy’s Love Shack (Red Hook Plaza) .......................... RH

Long Point

d Hook

Cas Cay

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Newfound Bay

Round Bay

Turner Point

Sabbat Point

Yawzi Pt. Trail

Enig

SHOPPING Crown Bay Center ........................... CBC Island Casual..................................... RH

Deck Point

Secret Harbour

U.S. Customs

Patricia Cay

Cowpet Bay

East End Rd

Friis Bay

Mongoose Junction Shopping Center

Stalley Bay

Jersey Bay

Water Point

Elk Bay

Harbor Point

Virgin Islands National Park to Caneel Bay

ho m a s

National Park Visitor Center

rgi

Bovoni Cay

322

Nazareth Compass Pt. Bay

to St. T

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Mangrove Lagoon

Great Cabrita Point Bay

Mennebeck Bay Gowed Point Haulover Bay

107 Johnson Bay Lagoon Point

CARIBBEAN SEA

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Service Dock Ba

WATER SPORTS B.O.S.S. Underwater Adventure (Crown Bay Marina).........................15 Coki Dive Center (Coki Point) ..............10 Double Header Sportfishing (Sapphire Marina).................... 4 & STJ Heavenly Days (Bolongo Bay Resort) ........................13 Magic Moments Luxury Excursions and Nauti Nymph Powerboat Rentals ......................................RH/AYH & STJ Parasail Virgin Islands (Sapphire Marina) ............... 4, HM, STJ See & Ski Powerboat Rentals...... RH/AYH Virgin Islands Ecotours Mangrove Lagoon ............................18

GAMING ON ST. THOMAS Bushwackers (Crown Bay Gaming Center) .......... CBC Winners Circle ................................. POS Southland Gaming of the Virgin Islands Look for the Play Button! .......................

Dittlif Point

NAZARETH FRYDENHOJ Red Hook Rd Ridge Rd

Muller Bay

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Bay

Bovocoap Point

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Red Hook

FERRIES Native Son ...................... Downtown, RH

Ferry Service to St. John and British Virgin Islands

Hart Bay Rondezvous

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MARIENDAL eR un Rd

Cocoloba Point

East End

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Reef Bay Sugar Mill (ruins) Wh ite Clif fs Reef Bay

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Bordeaux Mtn. 1,277 ft. 389 m

Genti Bay

Fish Bay

Stra

SMITH BAY

St John Bay Sapphire Beach

Cabes Point

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Hurricane Hole

Sanders Bay

Bay

Monte Bay Klein Bay

c P rin Mardenboro Point

Emmaus Moravian Church Coral Harbor

Rd 20

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Fish Ba y Rd

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King Hill

108

Gift Hill

104

Turner Bay

Coral Bay

Petroglyphs

104

Kon

Virgin Islands National Park

Camelberg Peak 1,193 ft. 364 m

Hil

ANNA’S RETREAT

Cruz Bay

Myrah Keating Smith Health Center

y Rd

Tillett Gardens

Smith Bay

National Park Visitor Center

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Cruz Bay Ferry dock

Ferry Boat Service

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Ruins

Catherineberg Sugar Mill (ruins)

Marney Peak 1,147 ft. 350 m

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CAR RENTALS/TRANSPORTATION Amalie Car Rental ..............................17 Budget Rent A Car........... Airport, 6, HM Discount Car Rental ..............................7 Thrifty and Dollar Rent A Car ................8

Sh ore R d

Cin

B rown Bay Tra il

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AIRLINES Seaborne Airlines ........................ Airport

Water Catchment Trail

Caneel Bay Honeymoon Beach Salomon Bay 20 Caneel Lind ail Hill Pt. Tr Point C

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388

Ruins Hawksnest Bay

Underwater Trail

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Henley Cay

Cinnamon Bay Cinnamon Bay Campground

Trunk Bay

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Coki Beach 2 Coki Point Water Bay

Ramgoat Cay Hawksnest Point

Rata Cay

Annaberg Sugar Mill (ruins)

America Point Maho Bay

Atlantic Ocean Brown Bay

ACTIVITIES/ATTRACTIONS Coral World Ocean Park ......................2 Paradise Point ....................... Havensight Parasail Virgin Islands (Sapphire Marina) ............... 4, HM, STJ Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park ............5

Francis Bay

South side Rd

HARMONY

Mandahl R

Thatch Cay

RESTAURANTS continued French Quarter Bistro.......................... FT Iggies Oasis (Bolongo Bay Beach Resort)..............13 Natural Food Grocery & Deli ..............20 Paradise Point..................................... PP PRIME taste The St. Thomas Restaurant Group: Agave ..................................... RH/AYH Caribbean Fish Market (Elysian Beach Resort).....................14 Pesce Italian (Red Hook) .......... RH/AYH RAW Sushi & Sake Bar ........................... (Red Hook) RH/AYH Sapphire Beach Bar (Sapphire Beach) ..............................4 Sunset Grill (Secret Harbour Resort) ..16 Sib’s On The Mountain Bar & Restaurant.............................21 Sudi’s Caribbean Bar & Grille .............19 Tickles Dockside Pub (Crown Bay Marina).........................15

Leinster Point

Watermelon Cay Leinster Bay

Francis Bay Trail

rail Ree f B a y T

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ACCOMMODATIONS Bolongo Beach Resort.........................13 Emerald Beach Resort ...........................1 Frenchman’s Reef Resort and Spa........ 11 The Green Iguana Hotel........................3 Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove.................9 Noni Beach Resort..............................12

Anna Point

Mary Point

Bay on na m l Tr a i

Lee Point

d P ass age Sunsi Bay Spring Bay TAMBOR &

Tutu Bay

AMERICAN YACHT HARBOR ....AYH CROWN BAY CENTER ............. CBC FRENCHTOWN ..........................FT HAVENSIGHT MALL .................HM MOUNTAINTOP ...................... MT PARADISE POINT .....................PP PORT OF SALE....................... POS RED HOOK..............................RH YACHT HAVEN GRANDE ..........YHG ST. JOHN LOCATION ................ STJ

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Mandahl Point Lee

ST. JOHN

ST. THOMAS MAP DIRECTORY

LOCATION KEYS

Fun g

Whistling Cay

Lit

tle

Rolex Boutique

Diamonds International

Tudor Watches

Little Switzerland

Luryx Duty-Free*

MK Jewelers

MAC Boutique

Rado / Tissot Boutique

Chanel Boutique Lladro Boutique Swarovski Boutique Fresh Produce Hot Look Sunglasses The Print Gallery

Swatch Boutique Turkish Grand Bazaar

MALL Experience Premier Duty Free Shopping and Old World Charm at the AH Riise Mall

Café Amici Calypso Café Belgian Chocolate Factory VI Ice Cream Co.

I.N.O.X. PROFESSIONAL DIVER 241813 *perfume, cosmetics, skincare, liquor and tobacco AH Riise Mall is located in Downtown Charlotte Amalie St omas, Virgin Islands | 340-777-2222 | www.ahriise.com

MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE | ESTABLISHED 1884

WERKS TRAVELER 6.0 MAIN STREET EMANCIPATION PARK WATERFRONT HAVENSIGHT MONGOOSE JUNCTION 877.800.9998 www.littleswitzerland.com

TRAVEL GEAR COLLECTION ONLY AVAILABLE AT THE WATERFRONT STORE

FREQUENT FLYER SOFTSIDE CARRY-ON 607260 & 607259

Show your love for St. Thomas

HAVENSIGHT MALL

MAIN STREET

9002 Havensight Shopping Center BULDING 2, NEXT TO CROCS St. Thomas, VI 00802 340-776-8550

5124 Dronningens Gade, SUITE 1 AT DRAKE’S PASSAGE St. Thomas, VI 00802 340-774-3672

ST. THOMAS DINE — SHOP — EXPLORE

Magens Bay

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

WELCOME TO ST. THOMAS

Charlotte Amalie

s soon as you arrive, you’ll notice a distinctly urbane air in St. Thomas that’s not as prominent in its sister islands. But this sophistication isn’t a product of modern times — instead,

it’s been woven into the very fabric of the island over the last three centuries. Historically, St. Croix and St. John were more agrarian; but St. Thomas, owing to its protected harbor that was perfect for trade, was declared a free port and became the place in the islands to find exotic and everyday goods. Today, shopping here remains worldclass, and Charlotte Amalie is known as the “Shopping Capital of the Caribbean.” However, St. Thomas’ natural-born bounty is also impressive. For instance, Magens Bay, with its mile-long, heart-shaped white sands that are rimmed with palms, is consistently touted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world. This combination of eco-abundance and cosmopolitan charm is what creates St. Thomas’ exceptional allure — and will keep you coming back.

Christmas Cove

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Activities & Attractions Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park

ISLAND DUET by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

St. Thomas’ attractions are like a duet harmonizing both modern urban allure and timeless natural beauty.

own and country is the best way to sum up the top sights to see and the most enjoyable things to do on St. Thomas. If you only have one day slated for sightseeing, head into the U.S. Virgin Islands’ capital of Charlotte Amalie in the morning for shopping, then spend the afternoon exploring the island. But if you can devote more time to sightseeing, there are many exciting activities to be discovered. The island’s “town” side boasts not only shops offering duty-free jewels, designer clothes and locally-crafted souvenirs but also historic churches, 19th-century styled government buildings and flowering parks that are lovely to visit on a stroll. Meanwhile, the country is where the island’s beaches, marine park and many land and sea sports are located. Here’s a rundown of attractions that best represent each aspect of the island.

In Town Main Street in Charlotte Amalie is the focal point for shopping. There are dozens of shops, boutiques and cafés, most of which are located between Emancipation Garden to the east and Market Square to the west. Many of these retailers — especially the ones between Main Street and the Waterfront — are housed in what were the old-

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A great way to take in this vista is by ziplining. time warehouses where provisions arriving by trading schooner would be stored prior to sale. In fact, the size of the ballast bricklined alleyways between these buildings was originally constructed to accommodate the wooden carts that ferried supplies from ship to stores. Recently, a revitalization effort of Charlotte Amalie (originally founded in 1672) has made its downtown area come alive with fresh paint, rebuilt sidewalks and new Euro-cobble streets. After shopping and sightseeing, take a walk along the Waterfront. Between town to the north, arms of land reaching south to the east and west and Hassel Island to the south, it’s easy to see that the Charlotte Amalie harbor was once the crater of an ancient volcano that formed the island 50 million years ago.

In Country

all via a narrow dirt road that headed east. These days, nearly all the beaches, beachfront resorts, and water and land sports are here in the “country.” To the east, the Coral World Ocean Park, adjacent to Coki Beach, is a don’t-miss destination. This five-acre marine attraction offers several exhibits, including a touch pond, an underwater observatory and the Caribbean reef encounter. The newly opened Sea Sanctuary offers an interactive opportunity to splash with dolphins. To the west, the lush hillsides rise to a panoramic mountaintop viewing point that’s over 1,500 feet in elevation. A great way to take in this vista is by ziplining with Tree Limin’ Extreme. There are six zip lines, two sky bridges, eight scenic platforms and the only “yo-yo” zip in the Caribbean (this is a type of zip line where gravity pulls riders exhilaratingly back in the opposite direction).

As recently as a half-century ago, the area of the island lying outside of town was indeed “the country.” Back then, a trip outside town was mostly good for taking in sights like farmland or grazing cows and goats,

So now that you have a glimpse of our island, get in on the balancing act and make sure you explore both sides of St. Thomas’ dynamic duality.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

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Activities & Attractions

99 Steps

A LASTING LEGACY by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

Despite being part of the United States for more than 100 years, St. Thomas’ heritage sites reflect a powerful Danish influence.

owhere else in the Caribbean, except St. Thomas’ sibling islands of St. Croix and St. John, is there a rich Danish heritage. In 1670, the Danish West India Company received its green light charter from King Christian V to settle St. Thomas in hopes that plantation agricultural would prove profitable. The first colonists landed less than a year later. They soon recognized that the natural deep water– protected harbor was a real gem for trade. Thus, the fledging settlement took the moniker “Taphus,” meaning beer halls, due to the many taverns that sprung up on the harbor’s shore to quench seafarers’ thirst. Twenty years later, the more respectable name of Amalienborg, or Charlotte Amalie

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in English, replaced Taphus in honor of the same-named Danish queen. While eventually the United States acquired the islands from Denmark in 1917, the red-painted roofs on government buildings, the street names ending in gade (which means “street”) and ballast-like bricks on streets are just a few of the visible reminders of St. Thomas’ Danish past. Here are several more.

Fort Christian This iconic landmark, the oldest standing structure on St. Thomas and named for Denmark’s King Christian V, was built between 1672 and 1680, with its picturesque Victorian clock tower added in 1874. Through the years, it’s housed the island’s

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Fort Christian governor and government offices and has even served as a prison. Today, it’s open for tours with a small museum located in the former dungeon.

Frederik Evangelical Lutheran Church Recognizable for its overall Neoclassical and Gothic architecture, its “welcoming arm” staircase outside and its massive mahogany altar and stained-glass windows inside, the Frederik Evangelical Lutheran Church is the oldest house of worship on St. Thomas. The current structure was renovated in 1826 and then in 1870 and is a short walk from Main Street. Services still take place each Sunday.

Emancipation Garden Park Here, on July 3, 1848, the Emancipation Proclamation was read, announcing the end of slavery on St. Thomas, an act first started on St. Croix earlier that day. Look for the seven-foot-high monument located on the west side of the park that depicts a former slave blowing through a conch shell. It commemorates the way the freed slaves first celebrated. There’s also a replica of the U.S. Liberty Bell here, too. A white-painted, decorative-trim bandstand still plays host to concerts.

A UNIQUE LAND & SEA EXPERIENCE

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS, AQUARIUMS, WATER ACTIVITIES, SHOPS & CAFES

GET UP CLOSE & PERSONAL

ADJACENT TO COKI BEACH, ST THOMAS, USVI

(340) 775 1555, WWW.CORALWORLDVI.COM STT7

Activities & Attractions

V.I. Legislature Building First built as barracks for Danish troops in the 1800s, this two-story edifice located on the Charlotte Amalie waterfront later housed U.S. Marines in the aftermath of the U.S. purchase of the islands. But for the last 50 years, the territory’s 15 senators (each representing one of the three major U.S. Virgin Islands) call this building their place of work. The public is welcome to sit in on hearings.

99 Steps Navigating the island’s hilly terrain wasn’t easy. So the Danes took bricks, used as ballast on sailing ships, and created step-streets throughout Charlotte Amalie. The best preserved of these is located on Government Hill, to the immediate east side of the former Hotel 1829. This “street” connects up to the neighborhood where Blackbeard’s Castle, originally a Danish watchtower built in 1679, is situated. Despite the catchy name, there are actually a few more than 99 steps.

Government House A bright red-painted Danish-style guardhouse stands watch in front of this threestory building, first constructed in 1867 as a meeting place for the Danish Colonial Council. The stately structure, which nowadays serves as the territorial governor’s office, is notable for its Neoclassical architecture and the beautifully intricate ironwork on the balconies.

St. Thomas Synagogue Sand floors are a signature feature of this Hebrew house of worship, built in 1833 by a congregation of Sephardic Jews from Spain and Portugal who historically used this soft

substance to muffle the sound of prayer during the Inquisition. Formally named Beracha Veshalom Vegimulth Hasidim, meaning “Blessing and Peace and Loving Deeds,” the synagogue is the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere and the oldest in continuous use in the United States.

Camille Pissarro Birthplace Located on Dronningens Gade, better known as Main Street, in Charlotte Amalie, this two-story pastel pink–painted building is indeed where this famed Impressionist painter was born in 1830. Along the covered brick-lined passageway to the courtyard within, there are a few narrative panels that tell about the artist’s life. Upstairs, there’s an art gallery where some of Pissarro’s works are on display.

Market Square Dating back to the early 1800s, this has been a popular downtown meeting place. These days, vendors continue to sell locally grown fruits, vegetables and seasoning herbs here. Those who want a taste of the tropics would do well to get here before dawn on Saturdays for the largest and freshest selection. However, there are vendors here seven days a week.

Saints Peter & Paul Cathedral Don’t miss the breathtaking murals of Old and New Testament scenes on the cathedral’s ceiling. Take a free guided tour or attend any of the daily masses. The present church dates to 1848, although Denmark’s King Christian VII officially sanctioned the Catholic Church in 1773.

St. Thomas Synagogue

Going Wild If you want to go further in exploring the countryside of St. Thomas, a wide range of eco-excursions are available. Here are a couple of green getaways to try. PARK IT HERE: St. Thomas offers a number of gorgeous options for exploring the island’s flora and fauna. The Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial Park, in Charlotte Amalie, is a great spot to view tamarind, baobab and Brazilian ironwood trees. The arboretum at Magens Bay Park, adjacent to the samenamed beach, is home to over 150 rare and unusual exotic trees as well as the more familiar turpentine, genip and mahogany. As for fauna, look for lizards, iguanas and land crabs on Hassel Island, which is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. GO DEEP: With Virgin Islands Ecotours, you can explore the protected areas of the Cas Cay-Mangrove Lagoon Marine Reserve & Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located on St. Thomas’ southeast shore. The tour company offers guided 2.5-, 3- and 5-hour trips that include seeing seabirds and juvenile fish in the mangrove forests, snorkeling along a coral-rimmed reef, hiking to sea pools, seeing blowholes and trekking to volcanic cliffs on a deserted island.

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

CORAL WORLD OCEAN PARK Get up close and personal with the beauty and magic of Caribbean marine life. View a coral reef from the unique Undersea Observatory while staying dry and enjoy daily presentations. Add-ons include Dolphin Swim & Sea Lion Swim Programs, Shark Encounter, SNUBA, Sea Trek and the Nautilus Semi-Submarine. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Summer schedule varies. Adjacent to Coki Beach; 340-775-1555; www.coralworldvi.com HEBREW CONGREGATION OF ST. THOMAS The Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas, established in 1796, is one of the three National Historic Landmarks here. It is the oldest synagogue in continuous use under the American flag and second oldest in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors welcome. No admission fee. Well-stocked Judaica Gift Shop. Services every Friday at 6:30 p.m. 2116 Crystal Gade; 340-774-4312; www.synagogue.vi PARASAIL VIRGIN ISLANDS Come fly over the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands with Parasail Virgin Islands and experience the thrill of an offshore powerboat ride, parachuting, ballooning and gliding all in one action-packed adventure at a fraction of the cost. Ages 6 and up, with a 100 percent safety record. Parasailing is fun for the whole family! Sapphire Beach Marina; 340-227-8303; www.parasailvirginislands.com SOUTHLAND GAMING OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS Win big jackpots! Video lottery is the hottest bet in gaming. Blackjack, keno, poker or whatever your game, there is Vegas-style action day and night. Whether in a resort, beachfront, local restaurant or any of the over 35 locations, it’s sure to be exciting! Over 35 locations, including Bushwackers (Crown Bay Gaming Center), St. Thomas, and The Parrot Club, St. John; 340-776-4111; www.southlandgaming.com TREE LIMIN’ EXTREME ZIPLINE PARK Soar through the rainforest on a 2.5-hour zipline canopy tour. Take in the breathtaking views from eight aerial platforms and six exhilarating zip lines and soak up the sun on our two incredible sky bridges as your ACCT-trained guides lead you through this experience of a lifetime! 7406 Estate St. Peter, across from the Great House; 340-777- ZIPS (9477); www.ziplinestthomas.com

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PLACE YOUR BETS by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

Video lottery terminals offer a higher-tech approach to gaming with touchscreen, state-of-the-art gaming.

hile St. Thomas has obvious open-air charms, you may also want to explore the action happening in the great indoors; and for that, video lottery terminals (VLTs) are a pretty safe bet. VLTs are touchscreen gaming machines that are found in resorts, restaurants and retail establishments throughout St. Thomas via companies such as Southland Gaming. You can enjoy a quick game or go longer, since many of the places that offer VLTs are air-conditioned and serve food and beverages; some even provide entertainment. But you don’t have to be technologically savvy to play a VLT — it’s as easy as using apps on a cell phone. Plus, the games offered are familiar ones. There’s lotto, roulette, keno, blackjack and several forms of card games. Some VLTs offer one game; others feature a whole menu of playing options. Either way, just insert money into the terminal and start trying your luck. When finished, the VLT will print a ticket reflecting the cash balance. Or, if there are winnings, the VLT retailer will pay out the amount on the ticket. Two especially great places to try VLTs are at Bushwackers at the Crown Bay Gaming Center — located at the Crown Bay Center west of Charlotte Amalie in the Subbase area — and the Winner’s Circle, which is in the Port of Sale Mall on the eastern side of the Charlotte Amalie harbor. While VLTs can be a lot of fun, you may want to go beyond the touchscreen to try your luck at a conventional Vegas-style casino with gaming tables. If so, you can easily get your game on by heading 40 miles south to St. Croix.

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Activities & Attractions

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

WAVES OF FUN

From skimming or soaring above the waves to racing or plunging under them, aquatic adventures abound on St. Thomas.

hile it’s ridiculously tempting to spend your time on St. Thomas just lounging on the sands with

an ice-cold cocktail, you’d be shortchanging yourself on the waves of fun the island offers. Here are some ways to dive in.

Parasail Virgin Islands

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On the Water

Aquatic adventures abound on St. Thomas. Center. Or, if you’re already certified, ask the center about their beach, boat or night dives. Another cool option for exploring St. Thomas’ underwater world is on a B.O.S.S. (Breathing Underwater Submersible Scooter). Aqua Adventures offers a 30minute guided tour on a B.O.S.S., which travels only about eight feet below the surface. The B.O.S.S. tours are done in a calm cove off of one of St. Thomas’ uninhabited offshore islands. Think Robinson Crusoe meets Dory!

Stay Afloat Kayaking allows you to reach memorable parts of the islands you otherwise wouldn’t experience. Virgin Islands Ecotours offers a number of tours aboard two-person, easy-to-paddle, plastic, sit-atop kayaks. The company offers everything from a 2.5hour guided kayak and snorkel to a 5-hour

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adventure that includes a hike to volcanic cliffs and rock-rimmed blowholes, plus a picnic. Some beaches and resorts also rent kayaks.

Cast Off You can set out for sea for a half-day, a full day or a relaxed sunset sail. Choose from traditional single or monohulled vessels or roomy two-hulled multihulls such as Heavenly Days, a 53-foot catamaran that sails daily out of the Bolongo Bay Beach Resort. Trips from St. Thomas stop at offshore cays, at bays in neighboring St. John (home of the Virgin Islands National Park), or even on the shores of the British Virgin Islands to the east or Puerto Rico’s offshore “Spanish Virgin Islands” of Culebra and Vieques to the west.

Outfits in Red Hook like See & Ski, which rents 26- to 33-foot Prowler catamarans, and Nauti Nymph, which charters its 29-foot Fountain V-hull vessels, are closest to St. Thomas’ eastern offshore islands, St. John and the BVI. Or, feel like a star for a pampered day in paradise on a fully crewed, gourmet-provisioned 45.5-foot Sea Ray from Magic Moments Luxury Yachts.

Haul in Try your luck reeling in and releasing a monster blue marlin or boating great-tasting dolphinfish (mahi-mahi), wahoo or blackfin tuna offshore. Closer to shore, catch several smaller species such as barracuda, bonito, jacks, rainbow runner, snapper and tarpon. Double Header Sportfishing, with its fleet of sleek sport fishers and experienced crew,

Power Up

can help you catch these fish and more on

Take the wheel yourself or hire a captain when you rent a powerboat for the day.

half-, three-quarter and full-day charters, as

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

well as marlin-only trips.

Courtesy of Magic Moments

MAGIC MOMENTS Discover the heights of luxury at sea level with Magic Moments. This company is available on St. Thomas and St. John, has been voted Best Day Excursion Company by readers of the Daily News and has consistently received the highest ratings on TripAdvisor. Explore the most beautiful destinations of the British and U.S. Virgin Islands on these lavish and elegantly appointed yachts. Request the new â&#x20AC;&#x153;remarkably reduced re-intro pricingâ&#x20AC;? when you call for a very special rate. For reservations, call 800-734-7345; www.yachtmagicmoments.com

Magic Moments cruising the waters of St. Thomas.

NAUTI NYMPH Look for experience when it comes to choosing the right powerboat company and explore the beauty of the U.S. and British Virgin Islands away from the crowd. Since 1984, Nauti Nymph has served the community with its sleek Fountain center console boats. Nauti Nymph has been consistently voted Best Powerboat Rental Company in the Virgin Islands by readers of the Daily News. For reservations, call 800-734-7345; www.nautinymph.com

Discover all the U.S. and British Virgin Islands

340-775-5066

340-775-5066 bookings@magicmoments.com www.yachtmagicmoments.com

booking@nautinymph.com www.nautinymph.com

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Beaches

Lindquist Beach

A SHORE THING by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

It’s easy to enjoy the beach in St. Thomas; the tough part is deciding which beach experience to first sample.

ore than 40 beaches rim the island of St. Thomas. Some are mere spits of sand, while others are mile-long, palm-lined shores that are inherently Instagrammable. Best of all, they’re all close by. Regardless of whether you’re staying on the north, south, east or west side of St. Thomas, there’s a beautiful bucket-list beach that’s only 15 minutes or less of a drive away. What’s more, each beach features its own unique personality. That means it’s possible to visit a different part of St. Thomas’ sandy coast every day for over a month and soak in something new each time. It’s no wonder that the U.S. Virgin Islands ranked #1 on U.S. News & World Report’s list of Best Caribbean Beaches.

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Coki Beach Here’s a selection of shore things to try:

NORTH Best Something-For-Everyone Beach: Magens Bay is a mile-long, heart-shaped beach that’s perfect for everything from sandcastle building to sprints by the sea. Magens Bay also features convenient facilities such as picnic tables, bath houses, a bar and restaurant, and even a swimwear boutique. If you want to change up from simply soaking up the sun, the beach also offers watersports rentals that include paddle boards and kayaks.

Best Surfing Beach: At Hull Bay, winter storms in the north Atlantic pump a sizable swell south, sometimes with six- to eight-foot waves, especially between December and April. The rest of the year, swimming and snorkeling take center stage. Once you work up an appetite on the waves, there’s a bar and restaurant across the street that’s easy to find because of its surfboard-shaped sign.

SOUTH Best Snorkeling Beach: It’s no secret among islanders and savvy previous visitors — the rocky coastline off the right side of Secret Harbor boasts an incredible underwater view. Here, in this calm, protected bay, colorful schools of parrotfish, sergeant majors and angelfish swim amid the offshore coral reef. There’s a dive shop here that rents snorkel and scuba equipment, as well as kayaks, paddle boards and floats.

Experience the

ULTIMATE

Explore the brilliant undersea world with your own personal underwater motor scooter. Begin your adventure by boarding our 60 ft. custom dive yacht for a scenic cruise to the crystal clear dive site and then enjoy a guided tour of stunning tropical reefs and colorful fish of the Caribbean.

No Diving Experience Necessary! Call for Reservations

(340) 777-3549 www.bossusvi.com

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Beaches EAST Best Island Atmosphere: Coki Beach is a favorite among locals and may remind some folks of Coney Island, especially because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right next to Coral World Marine Park. Here, rimming the shore youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find brightly painted wooden shacks where vendors sell West Indianâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;style foods, rum drinks, tropical-themed T-shirts and even dry dog food for fish feeding. There are also Jet Ski rentals, hair braiders and the Coki Dive Center, all of which are popular with the daily cruise ship visitors who come for a taste of island life.

Best Beach for Nature Lovers: At Lindquist Beach, coconut palms, sea grape trees and stands of mangroves line the pink-tinted white sands that separate the lush landscape from the bright blue sea. Even though thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifeguard, picnic tables and restrooms, the big draw is the ability to sun, stroll or swim from several spots with a view that spans nothing but nature. In 2019, Lindquist Beach was named one of the Best Caribbean Beaches by Forbes.com. WEST Best Beach to See Sea Turtles: At Brewers Bay, dense patches

Magens Bay

EST.

of seagrass that span from the beach to the airport runway across the bay attract endangered green and hawksbill sea turtles. In fact, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s common â&#x20AC;&#x201D; especially on a calm, clear day â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to see a turtleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head briefly break the seaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface. No guarantees, of course, but if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lucky, you may get a glimpse of these fascinating creatures.

1983

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

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B.O.S.S. UNDERWATER ADVENTURE Experience the ultimate thrill of a lifetime with your own underwater motor scooter. The B.O.S.S. allows you to view the marvels of the sea with no diving experience necessary… and you are the driver! Explore the brilliant undersea world and enjoy a guided tour of the stunning colorful fish and tropical reefs. Call for reservations. 340-777-3549; www.bossusvi.com COKI DIVE CENTER The Coki Dive Center is a PADI 5-Star Resort facility since 1989. Located at Coral World, it offers the best in beach and boat dives, Discover Scuba dives, certified reef tours, night dives, dive gear rentals, snorkel rentals and PADI 3-Day Open Water Certification courses, all at the best prices. Coral World, East End; 340-775-4220; info@cokidive.com CRUZ BAY WATERSPORTS Celebrating 35+ years, Cruz Bay Watersports is the premier company for a funfilled day on the water. With a diverse fleet of catamarans and motor vessels, it offers trips to the BVI, sunset sails, scuba diving and PADI instruction, snorkeling, dinghy rentals and a retail location with unique souvenirs and rental gear. Westin Resort, St. John; 340-775-6555; www.cruzbaywatersports.com

SEE & SKI POWERBOAT RENTALS Island-hop, snorkel, fish, beach bar it — your itinerary is individualized to make it your day! The fleet features 26- and 31-foot Prowler Cats, which are known for their smooth, dry ride and are equipped with full bimini tops, fuel-efficient reliable engines, USCG safety equipment, coolers and freshwater showers. A Dock, American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook; 340-775-6265/866-775-6268; www.seeski.com VIRGIN ISLANDS ECOTOURS Professional guides lead five tours daily in St. Thomas’ Mangrove Lagoon: Cas Cay Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure — 5 hours with lunch, 3 hours or 2.5 hours — and Sunset and Night Kayak tours. Or, rent a kayak and explore the beautiful protected lagoon on your own. Book online and SAVE 10% using promo code VISIT. Mangrove Lagoon, St. Thomas; 340-779-2155; www.viecotours.com

Explore the Mangrove Lagoon

DOUBLE HEADER SPORTFISHING A fleet of three boats will take you inshore or offshore for a half-, three-quarter or full-day fishing adventure. The company specializes in live bait fishing to improve the number of catches. They catch all the local species inshore or offshore and will target monster shark trips. St. Thomas/St. John; 340-777-7317; www.doubleheadersportfishing.net HEAVENLY DAYS Award-winning Swim with Turtles halfday snorkel tour to Buck Island with light snacks and cold drinks included. Sip Champagne during a romantic two-hour sunset sail through Charlotte Amalie Harbor or enjoy Sunday Funday with a snorkel stop at Buck Island, then sail to Honeymoon Beach on Water Island for lunch and afternoon beach time. Bolongo Bay; 340-775-1800; www.heavenlydaysvi.com

More than 40 beaches rim the island of St. Thomas.

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Local Spotlight

TURNING RISKS INTO REWARDS by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

rowse among the titles in the pink-painted, cupboard-sized Little

the at-risk young men and women enrolled in the My Brother’s Workshop (MBW) program.

Free Library in the Roosevelt V.I. Veterans Memorial Park in downtown Charlotte Amalie. Two blocks to the west, buy a smoothie or homemade rum cake from the single-story, red-roofed, blue-shuttered café on Back Street. Further afield, sit at one of the laser-engraved handcrafted wood tables at the St. John Brewery in Cruz Bay on neighboring St. John or sip a signature Painkiller at one of the smartly constructed picnic tables at the Soggy Dollar Bar on the British Virgin Island of Jost Van Dyke. If you’ve enjoyed any of these activities or are planning to, then you’ve seen up close the hands-on fruits of the labors of

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My Brother’s Workshop started with four trainees in 2007 as a way to end youth crime and violence by providing hope and faith to at-risk youth through mentoring, counseling, education, on-the-job training and job placement. Today, the program has grown to four facilities offering six programs that annually serve 120-150 young people age 16 to 24, and now MBW is one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Students learn carpentry, woodworking, construction skills, welding, CAD (computer-aided design) programming and fiberglassing, as well as the culinary arts and customer service

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

through our workshops and café,” explains Jenny Hawkes, executive director of MBW and MBW Café and Bakery. “However, they are also taught a strong work ethic, such as arriving to work on time every day, how to call out when they can’t come to work, how to use a time clock and how to communicate with others and supervisors.” Trainees also receive résumé building and anger management instruction. MBW staff serve as mentors, and licensed social workers are on staff to help guide the young people. For those who have not obtained a high school diploma through traditional means, this is also possible through the MBW’s online educational component.

“Our graduates have found employment in many different areas like hotels, restaurants, retail stores, grocery stores, the airport and others. Some of our students have attended our local university or have gone to the U.S. mainland to pursue higher education. Other students have joined the military and can be found in all the branches,” says Hawkes. Visitors are welcome to call ahead for a tour of the MBW’s vocational training facilities, located across from the Tutu Park Mall. This, and the Café in town, are where lives are changed daily while working on building library shelving or restaurant tables and even baking a cake. For more information, visit www. mybrothersworkshop.org.

TREK THROUGH TIME by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

Hassel Island

A day trip to Hassel Island will surely take you back — to distant times in the island’s colorful history.

lthough there’s no regular boat service or bridge, you can get to Hassel Island via stops on request when taking the Water Island ferry or by taking a tour on a chartered vessel either through the St. Thomas Historical Trust or through Virgin Islands National Park. Once you arrive, this 135-acre island floating in Charlotte Amalie Harbor will offer a close-up view of the lives of the soldiers and shipwrights who lived and worked here during the 19th century. A bit of background: Hassel Island is not its original name — and it didn’t start off as an actual island. It was first called “Estate Orkanshullet” or “Hurricane Hole,” and this was later changed to Hassel, a derivation of the surname of James Hazzell, who bought the land in 1784. Nearly a century later, Hassel became an island when the Danish government created a cut in what was a peninsula to make it easier for water to circulate and for vessels to navigate through the Charlotte Amalie harbor.

Today, Hassel Island features several historic sites worth visiting, including Prince Frederik’s Battery, the Garrison House and Creque’s Marine Railway. The Battery, constructed in the late 18th century, strategically sits on Hassel’s southeastern coast and was meant to keep privateers and pirates from entering the harbor. Later renamed Fort Willoughby by Great Britain, the building was home to British soldiers during the French Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. The nearby Garrison House, eye-catching because of its tall, red-painted vaulted metal roof, once stored military equipment and munitions. On Hassel’s northwestern side, the Railway remains as a testament to the boom in St. Thomas’ steamship traffic in the mid-19th century. Though the site ceased operations in the 1960s, the historic facility remains the oldest steam-powered marine railway in the Western Hemisphere.

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Courtesy of A.H. Riise Mall (2)

by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

RETAIL RAPTURE

You’ll find a bounty of great buys and stores galore when you shop on St. Thomas.

f you walked along the waterfront in downtown Charlotte Amalie back in the mid-1700s, you’d see cotton, tobacco, rum and, of course, sugar being onloaded to schooners en route to the soon-to-be United States to the north and Denmark and the rest of Europe to the east. By century’s end, the Danish king declared this deepwater, well-protected harbor a free port. That gave the green light for an international mix of American and European merchants and importers to set up warehouses.

St. Thomas soon became a major trading entrepot in the Caribbean. Fast-forward to the 21st century. The Charlotte Amalie waterfront is still lined with historic warehouses — only today, these depositories-turned-upscale shops now sell precious gems and jewelry, designer watches, brand-name clothing, crystal and china, the latest electronics, rum and other spirits, tobacco and more in sparkling display cases. The heart of shopping in

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Shopping

TRENDING TIMEPIECES

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a variety of watches with unrivaled quality for keeping time in style.

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER Rolex Boutique at A.H. Riise www.ahriise.com/rolex SANTOS DE DUMONT The Cartier Boutique www.cartier.com SANTOS DE CARTIER SKELETON Royal Caribbean www.royalcaribbeanvi.com

BREITLING SUPEROCEAN HERITAGE B01 CHRONOGRAPH 44 Breitling Boutique Little Switzerland www.littleswitzerland.com

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

TAG HEUER NEW LINK LADY Tag Heuer Boutique Little Switzerland www.littleswitzerland.com

OMEGA SEAMASTER 300M Omega Boutique Little Switzerland www.littleswitzerland.com

AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK SELFWINDING Diamonds International www.diamondsinternational.com

St. Thomas is Charlotte Amalie’s Main Street, famously nicknamed the “Shopping Capital of the Caribbean.” Main Street is located one block north of the waterfront, and its highest concentration of shops is found on the section between Emancipation Garden and Market Square. To say Main Street is paved with diamonds and gold isn’t exactly hyperbole. In fact, jewelers far outnumber other types of vendors. One of the biggest of these is Diamonds International, whose stores throughout St. Thomas also operate under the brand names Tanzanite International, Watches International, DI Watch and Design, DI Collections and the Diamonds International Outlet Store. Rings, wedding-style for women and men, are especially popular. Pearls are another precious find. The Pearl Lady shop, to the east of Emancipation Garden, has a wide range of pearl types, including South Sea and freshwater cultured pearls that are perfect for rings, earrings and pendants. Beyond jewelry, find casually

comfortable clothing at Fresh Produce in Hibiscus Alley. Shopping aficionados can also get their fix beyond Charlotte Amalie. To the west, the Crown Bay Center offers brick-and-mortar jewelry, clothing and souvenir stores as well as casual out-of-doors kiosks. One of these booths sells the signature Sandals for Your Neck brand, a line of necklaces with sandal-shaped pendants in an A to Z of colors and themes. You’ll find this same make in one of the Main Street jewelers, as well as in Red Hook, where other shops proffer everything from tropical sun lotions to sportfishing gear. For necessities like T-shirts, towels and other items, head to the Tutu Park Mall in the center of the island to find large national-brand retailers. Closer to Charlotte Amalie, the Havensight Mall boasts over 50 shops, many of which are the same retailers that have stores on Main Street. Boolchand’s, located only in Havensight, is the place to go for a range of cameras and electronics at reasonable

prices. Boolchand’s Pandora store is another definite go-to for jewelry. Next door, the Port of Sale Mall houses a shoe store, bakery and tobacco shop among others. The adjacent Shops at Yacht Haven Grande feature jewelry, clothing vendors and more. Vendors Plaza, which sits at the waterfront side of Emancipation Gardens, is a great place for discounted T-shirts and Caribbean-style souvenirs. Buys are best on St. Thomas for two key reasons. First, the prices of many products are, on average, 20 to 30 percent lower than their counterparts on the U.S. mainland. Second, shopping is duty-free. This means every U.S. resident, including children, can take home up to $1,600 in duty-free goods. This is double the allowance of most other Caribbean islands. What’s more, adults can also take back five cartons of cigarettes and up to five liters of liquor duty-free, as long as one of the five liters is made in the U.S. Virgin Islands. So as you explore the island’s charms, make sure to make time for some treasure hunting.

St Thomas US Virgin Islands: A.H. Riise Mall Main Street - Havensight Mall - Crown Bay (340) 776.5570 1.800.444.4025 www.DiamondsInternational.com

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Shopping

MAKE A

STATEMENT

Over the years, Cartier’s stylistic features have become signatures of unrivaled originality in watchmaking. www.cartier.com

PANTHÈRE DE CARTIER Medium model, yellow gold

SANTOS DE CARTIER Large model, automatic, steel, interchangeable metal and leather bracelets

BAIGNOIRE Small model, white gold with brilliant-cut diamonds

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

BOLD AND

BEAUTIFUL

The creation of the Juste un Clou bracelet in the 1970s marked a turning point in jewelry design. The wrist-hugging unisex bracelet and ring embodies an assertive attitude. www.cartier.com

JUSTE UN CLOU CUFF BRACELET White gold with diamonds

JUSTE UN CLOU RING White gold with diamonds

JUSTE UN CLOU RING Pink gold JUSTE UN CLOU RING Yellow gold

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Shopping

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

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Fashion Forward USVI fashionistas share their advice for creating an authentic Caribbean look. Most USVI visitors follow a similar fashion playbook when they visit us: swimsuits, shorts, a cover-up, maybe flip-flops. However, true island style isn’t as simple as dressing down or wearing less. To help you truly nail the effortless style of USVI natives, we asked a couple of them for advice.

Lighten Up

Open-toed sandals and breezy fabrics are the recommended must-haves. Aside from these, wearing your favorite cotton shorts or sundresses will make your island adventure cooler by providing more flexibility and less heat retention. Igdaliah Pickering, a fashion designer from St. John, recommends wearing lighter and breathable

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fabrics and sun hats when visiting the sunny islands. “An ideal island outfit is a sun hat and a cute maxi dress with a slip.” She also highlights that prints are very important, since they add character to your clothing. “Prints add color and personality to your outfit and help with camouflaging flaws,” she adds. In men’s fashion, bold colors are becoming popular for shorts and pants. Linen and silk are also preferred because of their breathability and comfort.

When in Doubt, Accessorize!

Hair accessories are big this year for Caribbean fashion. Experiment with different hair clips or beads, headbands, or hair scarves to upgrade your look. Joyia Jones from Joyia Inspiration Jewelry on St. Croix tells us that a constant trend in the Caribbean is to wear layers of different kinds: the more colorful, the better. “Don’t be afraid to adorn different layers of bracelets and chains,” she advises. Jones also points out

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Igdaliah Pickering that Caribbean jewelry has a sentimental value. “In the Caribbean, wearing pieces of jewelry is a way of telling a story. Here, people collect jewelry of different kinds and pass it down through generations.” Therefore, purchasing a piece of jewelry is not just adding to your souvenirs. It’s more than a traveler’s memory of visiting the islands; it’s a way of capturing the story of the island. She recommends buying a necklace with the map of the island or some other symbolic representation of life on the island. These can be further personalized with engravings and intentional words.

Explore Local Brands

There are currently many young and innovative designers in the Caribbean who are changing trends and establishing new traditions. Visit some local brands to see what edgy and chic designs they have to offer. From minimalistic looks to more iconic statements, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you.

Courtesy of Joyia Inspiration Jewelry (left)

Joyia Inspirational Jewelry by MERYL D’SA

Courtesy of Igdaliah Pickering (right)

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Shopping

CARIBBEAN

CHIC

From sparkling jewelry and stylish fashion to trendy accessories and the latest in electronics, the U.S. Virgin Islands have just what you need (and want).

TIFFANY KEYS COLLECTION STERLING SILVER NECKLACE Tiffany & Co. Boutique www.littleswitzerland.com

FANCY YELLOW CANARY CUSHION-CUT DIAMOND RING Royal Caribbean www.royalcaribbeanvi.com

PANDORA Pandora Boutique Facebook: @PandoraStThomas

FRESH PRODUCE Island Casual Facebook: @IslandCasual

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BELLE ÉTOILE Bobby’s Jewelers www.bobbyjewelers.com

LEATHER PEARL NECKLACE The Pearl Lady The.Pearl.Lady.1@gmail.com

SAFI KILIMA TANZANITE RING Diamonds International www.diamondsinternational.com

CROWN OF LIGHT REGAL BANGLE Diamonds International www.diamondsinternational.com

GOPRO HERO8 BLACK Boolchandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s www.boolchand.com MARCO BICEGO PRINCESS COLLECTION Little Switzerland www.littleswitzerland.com

JOHN HARDY STERLING SILVER BAMBOO BRACELET Little Switzerland www.littleswitzerland.com

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Shopping

THE CHARMING STORY OF

THE SANDAL MAN

Sandal Dangle Earrings with 14K Gold Overlay

treeanchors, coqui frogs, cruise ships, iguanas, starfish, hibiscus, turtles, and more. The list is endless. Charms come in a variety of enamels, with micro-pave Swarovski crystals, set in sterling silver with white gold overlay. You can also get the iconic flip-flop in semi precious stones like opal, larimar, and onyx, as well as in 14 karat gold with diamonds.

Virgin Islands jewelry designer, Sunil Mohanani, knows most visitors are looking for gifts to take home for family and friends that won’t empty their wallets. At Get Charmed Factory Outlet in the historic Landmark Building on Garden Street, he offers fun, affordable, and whimsical charms, earrings, and bracelets—“all the bling without the cha-ching.” Growing up in his parents’ Main Street jewelry boutique, Sunil saw the growing demand for high quality fashion jewelry without the high-end price. Sunil’s original Sandals for your Neck flip-flop pendant line, for which he owns the U.S. copyright, appeals to travelers with hundreds of fanciful sandal pendants, and he wholesales the popular line around the world. The charm selection grows continuously, and has branched out well beyond the original sandal. There are literally thousands of charms including STT34 Vdivers, ISIT U . S . V I R Gpalm IN ISLANDS mermaids, sailboats,

14k gold sandals from $199

Get Charmed also offers a vast collection of universal island-inspired beads that fit your charm bracelet brand. The V.I. Bling bracelet, made with a St. Thomas bead on spun silk strands, is popular with young and old alike. The V.I. Love Knot bangles are another great memento to take home for $20. The V.I. Happy Turtle pendants come in six Swarovski crystal colors with flippers that move and do a happy dance on your neck. To complement their pendants, they have many options in sterling silver chains in different lengths as well as an adjustable chain, crystal mesh, leather and silk cords to fit your own personal style. 2020

Sunil is constantly looking for ways to offer fashion-forward jewelry at a reasonable price. You’ll find original stingray-skin cuff bangles, mother-of-pearl jewelry, leather and cultured pearl necklaces and much more. Don’t miss the new inlaid Larimar island-inspired pieces like the hand-made Caribbean Hook bangle as well. This must-see collection is as fun to browse as it is to buy. Receive a free gift with any $20 purchase.

Pavé Starfish Silk Bracelet

340-776-3950 www.igetcharmed.com www.sandalsforyourneck.com getcharmedvi@gmail.com sandalsforyourneck@gmail.com Facebook - Get Charmed Sandals For Your Neck Chalet D'or Instagram - @igetcharmed Twitter - @getcharmedvi

INSIDER’S GUIDE There are so many world-class shopping opportunities to discover on St. Thomas. The only question you will be asking yourself is, “Where do I start?”

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Shopping

DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL Celebrated jeweler Diamonds International brings the most coveted timepieces and luxury goods to the Caribbean. Need a bit more temptation? Each Diamond Collection purchase receives a free diamond pendant to sweeten the value. The Crown of Light, an exclusive premium diamond available only at Diamonds International, is not to be missed. Ask for a personal preview of the stunning bridal jewelry, diamond studs and complete jewelry collection. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands - A.H. Riise Mall, Main Street, Havensight Mall and Crown Bay; 340-776-5570 / 800-444-4025 / 284-541-8507 / 800-51-JEWEL; www.diamondsinternational.com

A.H. RIISE MALL The A.H. Riise Mall offers the Virgin Islands’ most extensive assortment of quality duty-free goods at substantial savings compared to U.S. retail prices. There is no sales tax in the U.S. Virgin Islands, so you save even more on your purchases. 37 Main Street; 340-777-2222 www.ahriise.com BOBBY’S JEWELERS Your family jeweler in the Caribbean for over three decades, Bobby’s carries a wide variety of diamonds in all colors, sizes and innumerable mountings. All the latest trends are aplenty, as are rubies, emeralds, sapphires, tanzanite, Morganite, pink motherof-pearl and Australian opal. Its After Sales Service guarantees your peace of mind. 12 Main Street, St. Thomas; 800-2326229; www.bobbyjewelers.com BOOLCHAND’S Established in 1930 with family-run locations on Aruba, Curaçao, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, Boolchand’s has been voted one of the best duty-free stores in the Caribbean (Caribbean Travel + Life). In addition to a full range of quality branded compact and DSLR cameras, lenses and accessories,

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binoculars and electronics, Boolchand’s also features fine timepieces. Havensight Mall, Bldg. 2; 340-7760794/0302; www.boolchand.com CARTIER Cartier is one of the world’s most exclusive and exciting watchmakers. Founded in 1847 in Paris, the company makes jewelry and watches and has developed a reputation as one of the top luxury manufacturers in the world. Cartier means quality, making pieces that stay in style well beyond the current trend and last for years. Cartier looks beyond the fleeting fashions of the day, forging a style out of its extraordinary history, travels and encounters with exceptional personalities. Find Cartier products at Royal Caribbean on St. Thomas; www.cartier.com CROWN BAY CENTER Whether its souvenirs, jewelry, watches, liquor or perfume, you’ll find all the brands you dreamed of at great prices. Stroll the seaside shops, stop by the free rum tasting booth for a sample of Virgin Islands locally produced rums or take a photo at the historic Sugar Mill. Visit the restaurants and bars for great food and drink. Try your luck with some friendly gaming entertainment. 340-774-2132; www.crownbaycenter.com

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

LITTLE SWITZERLAND For over 65 years, Little Switzerland has been the Caribbean’s leading authorized retailer for luxury watches, designer jewelry and fine diamonds — all at duty-free and taxfree prices. Ask about their preferred zero interest financing up to 36 months, available on the spot, as well as extended watch warranties and their Best Price Guarantee. Main Street, Emancipation Park, Waterfront, The Ritz-Carlton, Havensight Mall, Crown Bay, Mongoose Junction; 877-8009998; www.littleswitzerland.com PANDORA Collect your stories and express yourself with Pandora jewelry! Their hand-finished pieces tell the story of the things that make you, you. Pandora gives a voice to your loves. Whether they are places, people or passions. Discover their island charms and take a piece of St. Thomas home with you. www.boolchand.com/pandora

Courtesy of Little Switzerland

Breitling Boutique

ISLAND CASUAL Going to the beach to relax or even attend a wedding? No problem! You’re covered at Island Casual. Featuring major brands of clothing, swimwear and accessories for men and women, including Fresh Produce, Tommy Bahama, Margaritaville, KikiSol, Mojo, Palm Beach Sandals, Sakroots and a lot more. Located in the A.H. Riise Mall (formerly Fresh Produce), in historic downtown Charlotte Amalie; 340-774-0807 and in Red Hook at the East End Galleria; 340-775-9964; Facebook: @IslandCasual

THE PEARL LADY This unique, elegant store offers a full selection of Japanese Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and freshwater cultured pearls in both classic and contemporary styles. A full range of gorgeous pearl jewelry awaits you, including rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants and clasps. Also offered, for your existing necklaces, is a restringing and redesign service. Next to Fort Christian, Downtown Charlotte Amalie; 340-774-5875; The.Pearl.Lady.1@gmail.com ROLEX BOUTIQUE AT A.H. RIISE A.H. Riise is the British and U.S. Virgin Islands’ authorized Rolex dealer. A.H. Riise offers one of the Caribbean’s largest selections of Rolex watches, as well as an After Sales Service Center. Rolex watches can be found on the BVI in Tortola Pier Park and on St. Thomas in the A.H. Riise Mall. 37 Main Street, St. Thomas; 340-777-6789; www.ahriise.com/rolex ROYAL CARIBBEAN Since 1969, Royal Caribbean has continued its commitment to quality, elegance, beauty, innovation and serving their patrons with the highest level of customer service, establishing a satisfied and loyal customer base throughout the world. Royal Caribbean is the authorized dealer for fine handcrafted timepieces from world-famous manufacturers such as Cartier, IWC, Panerai, A. Lange & Söhne, Vacheron Constantin, Glashütte Original, Piaget, Franck Muller, Baume & Mercier, Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Frederique Constant and Alpina, as well as trendy watches from Fossil, Guess, Ice, Invicta, Luminox, Seiko, G-Shock, Skagen, Michael Kors and the made-in-America Shinola watches. Also available is a wide assortment of everything Mont Blanc. Royal Caribbean has the finest collection of fancy yellow, pink, blue, brown and white diamonds; platinum, 14k and 18k gold gem set jewelry; and a grand selection of emerald, ruby, sapphire and tanzanite jewelry. It also offers the largest selection of diamond earrings in St. Thomas, with over 1,000 pairs in stock. It’s also the largest camera and electronics store in the Virgin Islands, offering digital SLR, mirrorless and compact cameras; binoculars; and portable audio from top brands such as Canon, Nikon, GoPro, Olympus, Fujifilm, JBL and more. Royal Caribbean now carries sunglasses. Get the latest styles from Gucci, Cartier, Costa, Carrera, Chopard, Chloé, Dita, Etnia Barcelona, Etro, Fossil, Jimmy Choo, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade, Revo, Salvatore Ferragamo, Serengeti, Tom Ford, Vuarnet and more. Choose from over 2,000 pairs of sunglasses. Main Street and Crown Bay Center, St. Thomas; 340-776-4110; www.royalcaribbeanvi.com

Fresh-Brewed

Flavor

Analytical Chemist Kevin Brown combined his passion for freshbrewed ales with scientific precision to create the Virgin Islands’ first craft production brewery in 2015. These days, Frenchtown Brewing is widely recognized for its exceptional #islandhopped craft brews, drawing crowds of hop heads to Frenchtown Brewing for a taste of his signature staples and seasonal favorites. The tasting room crowd happily debates which is the best — the Hop Alley IPA, the Frenchie Farmhouse Saison, the 86º & Sunny Pale Ale, the Caribbean Crush Cream Ale…or one of the many seasonal selections. What is the brewer’s favorite? “The one in my hand,” he quips. Named after quirky, quaint Frenchtown on the Charlotte Amalie harbor, Frenchtown Brewing is now found on tap in select locations around the island. Craft beer lovers are in luck, however, as the brewery’s expansion plans that were stalled by the 2017 hurricanes are back on track. In spring 2020, look for the new 15-barrel brewery, taproom and event complex to open across the harbor at Bluebeard’s Resort, featuring magnificent views of Charlotte Amalie and the ocean. Be sure to like the Frenchtown Facebook page at frenchtownbrewing so you can stay on top of the opening date and to get hours and directions for your visit. At the current location, stop by either tasting room for a tour, which more than likely will be led by Kevin himself or his wife, Terri. Bring your hometown favorite to share and plan on leaving with a can of exceptional island-hopped goodness, a T-shirt and the memory of experiencing yet another facet of local flavor on St. Thomas. For more information, visit www.frenchtownbrewing.com or call 340-690-2104.

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Dining

by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

Caribbean Fish Market

GLOBAL CUISINE

Despite its local delicacies, St. Thomas has become an international destination — and this is reflected in the wide variety of world cuisines you’ll find here.

A good example of this melting pot is the national dish of “fish and fungi.” The fish is Caribbean, but the dish’s other ingredients are from other lands: Garlic is native to Asia, okra is from Africa and onions are said to have originated in either Asia or the Middle East. Regardless of roots, fish and fungi distinctly reflects St. Thomas’ flavorful flair; and you can sample it and other island dishes by taking a guided food tour through downtown Charlotte Amalie.

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Beyond homegrown goodness, the St. Thomas dining scene remains delectably diverse. In fact, you can take your taste buds on a world tour without ever leaving this 32-square-mile island. Here’s how.

American Typical American breakfast fare like bacon and eggs, pancakes and French toast — as well as lunch favorites like burgers, salads and sandwiches — are available east and west of the Charlotte Amalie harbor at the Deli Deck, in the Havensight Shopping Mall, and at Tickles, located at the Crown Bay Marina. Tickles is also open for dinner with standard favorites like fried chicken. High atop the harbor, Prime at Paradise Point boasts a menu that would satisfy a cattle baron. There’s wet-aged filet mignon, dry-aged rib eye and a first-class menu of toppers like Cabernet Shallot Butter and Peppercorn Horseradish Sauce. In Red Hook, you’ll enjoy water views while digging into BBQ Baby Back Ribs, New York Strip Steak or Blackened Tuna at the Caribbean Saloon Steakhouse & Bar.

Courtesy of St. Thomas Restaurant Group

wo words best describe the delicious cuisine of St. Thomas: melting pot. While the expression is somewhat of a cliché at this point, it aptly describes the culinary diversity on the island. It started with the fruits and vegetables cultivated by the Amerindian peoples who first populated the island. Later, the Danish influence arrived via colonization, then wave after wave of Europeans, Africans, East Indians, Chinese and, most recently, North Americans, all of whom introduced a whole pantry of ingredients plus their own signature cooking styles. The result? Virgin Islands cuisine.

Elysian Beach Resort, East End, St. Thomas 340.714.STRG (7874) www.CaribbeanFishMarketVI.com

Open Air

RELAXED FINE DINING ON ST. THOMAS

Within walking distance of the Ritz Carlton, the allure of beachside dining and the cool breezes of Cowpet Open Daily for Dinner Bay bring locals and visitors alike to enjoy the freshest of seafood served 5pm to 10pm on island. Happy Hour 5pm to 7pm The sounds of the waves on the beach mixed with superior service set the Brunch Served stage for our chefs to dazzle you with Sundays from 10am to 2pm their creations! Reservations Recommended

American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook, St. Thomas 340.714.STRG (7874) www.PesceVI.com

Air Conditioned Reservations Recommended

HOMEMADE PASTA, SEAFOOD & LOCAL INGREDIENTS

Classic Italian dishes comprised of only the highest quality ingredients, including local line-caught ﬁsh.

Open Daily for Dinner Creative blends of herbs and spices, 5pm to 10pm with a fusion of fresh ingredients and Happy Hour at local seafood add a contemporary Pesce Bar twist to the elements of phenomenal 5pm to 7pm Italian cuisine that has proudly served the East End of St Thomas for over a $20 Pasta Night decade. Every Monday!

American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook, St. Thomas 340.714.STRG (7874) www.AgaveVI.com

Air Conditioned Reservations Recommended Open Daily 11am to 1am Happy Hour 4pm to 6pm DJ every Friday Night!

ORIGINAL TAKES ON TRADITIONAL TASTES

Modern and vibrant, the warm environment invites you to savor the amazing food, from the creamy queso and fresh guacamole to creative tacos and sizzling fajitas with housemade corn tortillas. Agave boasts an extensive tequila and mezcal list as well as a full bar. Be sure to try one of the many innovative tequila or mezcal cocktails!

Live Music Weekly!

Air Conditioned Reservations Recommended

American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook, St. Thomas 340.714.STRG (7874) www.RAWvi.com

Secret Harbour Beach Resort East End, St. Thomas | 340.714.STRG (7874) www.SunsetGrilleVI.com

Sapphire Beach Bar, East End Sapphire Beach Resort,St. Thomas 340.714.STRG (7874) | www.SBBvi.com

SIGNATURE ROLLS MADE WITH LOCAL FISH & FLAVORS OF THE TROPICS

BEACHFRONT SUNSET DINING

WHITE SAND CASUAL BEACH BAR

A menu of both traditional sushi and unique specialty rolls made with only Open Daily for Dinner the freshest ﬁsh, fruits and vegetables from throughout the Caribbean. Each 5pm to 10pm roll is crafted to order for the perfect Happy “Maki” Hour balance of ﬂavor and visual appeal. Daily 5-6pm Enjoy the extravagant list of premium sake, sushi friendly beers and wines, and specialty cocktails. The vibe is fun, hip and playful. The scene is sleek, modern and sophisticated.

Open Air Reservations Recommended Open Daily for Lunch 11am-5pm Open Daily for Dinner 5pm-10pm Private Air-Conditioned Dining Room Available

Fine Dining with a romantic beachfront ambiance. Plates designed with local ﬁsh and the best cuts of meat ensure that Sunset Grille can satisfy even the most sophisticated of palates. Interested in a more private setting? Choose to dine in the Wine Room, which can accommodate up to 15 guests.

Beachfront dining Open Daily 11am – 6pm Happy Hour Monday – Friday 4-6pm Saturday & Sunday ALL DAY! Live Music Weekly!

Sapphire Beach Bar is a piece of heaven in the sands of Sapphire Beach. Enjoy an ice cold beer or a specialty frozen cocktail while admiring one of the most beautiful sceneries that St Thomas has to offer. Come for a casual, beachfront dining experience in an unforgettable setting!

Live Music Weekly!

For reservations at any of the St. Thomas Restaurant Group restaurants, please call 340-714-STRG (7874) www.StThomasRestaurantGroup.com

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Dining

AMALIA CAFÉ

Asian Bite into the best of both worlds at RAW Sushi + Sake Bar in Red Hook. Signature rolls include Dat North Drop (shrimp, crab, tuna, chayote and mango togarashi dust), named for famous fishing grounds, and Dat Rasta Man, a vegetarian mix featuring kimchi vegetable slaw, grilled pineapple and Jamaican Jerk seasoning.

Caribbean Caribbean spiny lobsters don’t have claws like their Maine counterparts, but their tail meat is lip-smacking sweet. The Sunset Grille, located beachfront at Secret Harbor, is famous for its Lobster Pot Pie. Across the bay at the Caribbean Fish Market, lobster is on the menu in nearly a half dozen ways, including butter-broiled and crab-stuffed. At Sudi’s Caribbean Bar & Grille, located poolside at Sapphire Bay, it’s locally caught seafood — including lobster — that’s the star of the show. Along with fish and steak, lobster is also featured in a fusion of tropical flavors in the seven-course tasting menus at Blue Eleven, located at Yacht Haven Grande. Across the way, in Charlotte Amalie’s Long Bay area, vegetarians can order Caribbean-seasoned veggie burgers, spinach and eggplant lasagna and stirfried tofu at the Natural Foods Grocery & Deli.

French Get your French Creole fix at the French Quarter Bistro in Frenchtown. There’s Blackened Catfish, Crawfish and Shrimp Étouffée and Jambalaya with Shrimp and Andouille Sausage.

International Select from a couple of countries’ cuisines on one menu at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort’s Iggie’s Oasis. Examples are Fish Tacos, BBQ Ribs, Shrimp Penne Pasta, and Grilled Mahi Creole. Similarly, the dishes are as eclectic as the dishes at Duffy’s Love Shack in Red Hook. Choose from selections like Jamaican Jerk Nachos, Pacific Rim Skewers (coconut Thai chicken with peanut sauce) and a Cheeseburger in Paradise.

Italian Classic Bruschetta, Fettuccine Alfredo and Frutti di Mare (PEI mussels, shrimp and calamari over garlic white wine linguine) offer a taste of Italy at Pesce Italian in Red Hook. The signature dish here is the half-pound meatball served with house-made marinara, shaved Parmesan and organic basil.

Spanish The best paella this side of Spain is at the Amalia Café, located in picturesque Palm Passage in Charlotte Amalie. Chef Owner Randolph Maynard’s Paella Valenciana features chicken, calamari, shrimp, mussels and clams over saffron rice. Finish with a slice of Chocolate Torte for dessert, a nod to Maynard’s wife, Helga’s, German roots.

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PRIME BEEF AMBIANCE OUTSTANDING SERVICE RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED 340-690-2191

PRIME & T ASTE AT P ARADISE THE BEST POINT VIEWS ON ST. THOM AS

CARIBBEAN CUISINE LOBSTER AND SHRIMP ROLL SIGNATURE BUSHWACKER 340-690-2191 STT41

Dining

EAST END AGAVE MEXICAN KITCHEN & TEQUILA BAR American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook 340-714-STRG (7874) www.agavevi.com

Modern and vibrant, Agave offers original takes on traditional tastes. The warm environment invites you to savor the amazing food, from the creamy queso and fresh guacamole to creative tacos and sizzling fajitas with house-made corn tortillas. Be sure to try one of the many innovative tequila or mezcal cocktails.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $11 to $16 Entree: Sizzling Fajitas: Your choice of chicken, steak, shrimp or

veggies served with flour tortillas, Cheddar-Jack cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream, cilantro-lime rice and black beans Cocktail: The house Agavarita

CARIBBEAN FISH MARKET Elysian Beach Resort, East End 340-714-STRG (7874) www.caribbeanfishmarketvi.com

Caribbean Fish Market boasts an extraordinary culinary experience with an array of seafood from local fishermen and fresh herbs grown locally. Complete with a premium crafted cocktail menu and breathtaking view of Cowpet Bay, CFM is a win-win! Be sure to join for Sunday morning brunch, with live music and bottomless mimosas.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $20 to $40 Entree: Crabcake Stuffed Caribbean Lobster: Whole Caribbean lob-

ster filled with crab cake stuffing, served with garlic mashed potatoes and grilled jumbo asparagus Wine: Cakebread Cellars, Sauvignon Blanc

CARIBBEAN SALOON STEAKHOUSE & BAR Top Floor, American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook 340-775-7060 www.caribbeansaloon.com

Fun, casual atmosphere with Caribbean flair! The Caribbean Saloon overlooks American Yacht Harbor marina and St. John for beautiful views. Enjoy signature steaks, pastas, seafood and more, with an extensive late-night menu. Lunch and dinner seven days a week. DJ, live music and large-screen TVs in air-conditioned comfort.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $10 to $30 Entree: Saloon Signature Filet and Seafood Pairing — Our hand-cut

tenderloin, wrapped in thick cut hickory-smoked bacon, grilled to perfection and topped with melted Gorgonzola cheese. Accompanied by our Caribbean Crab Cake with lemon dill sauce, garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach. Wine: Six Eight Nine Red, Napa Valley

DUFFY’S LOVE SHACK 6500 Red Hook Plaza, Red Hook 340-779-2080 www.duffysloveshack.com

We’re not a restaurant — we’re a bar that serves great food, includ-

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black-bean salsa Cocktail: Lime in Dee Coconut served in a fresh-hulled coconut

PESCE ITALIAN American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook 340-714-STRG (7874) www.pescevi.com

Offering the best house-made pasta, Pesce’s menu is a creative blend of herbs and spices, fresh ingredients and local seafood, which add a contemporary twist to the elements of phenomenal Italian cuisine. Their Wine Spectator’s Award-Winning List is sure to offer many options to pair the perfect wine with any of the Italian delicacies.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $20 to $40 Entree: Frutti di Mare: PEI mussels, shrimp and calamari served

atop fresh house-made linguine with a garlic white wine tomato broth Wine: Decoy, Duckhorn Vineyards

RAW SUSHI + SAKE BAR American Yacht Harbor, Red Hook 340-714-STRG (7874) www.rawvi.com

RAW Sushi + Sake Bar boasts creative signature rolls incorporating the flavors of the tropics, served alongside traditional Japanese sushi using fresh, local fish. Enjoy the extravagant list of premium sake, sushi-friendly beer and wine, and specialty cocktails. The vibe is fun, hip and playful, while the scene is sleek, modern and sophisticated.

of the Vol

no ca

Menu Sampler Entrees: $8 to $14 Entree: Jerk chicken soft tacos with sides of fried plantains and

Home

ing wings, nachos and fish tacos. Great grub, generous portions and award-winning, handcrafted cocktails. Happy Hour daily. Kid friendly till the streetlights come on. Over 18 after 10 p.m. Making the world a better place to party.

RED HOOK EST. 1994

erybody v e & y t r a ap ffet gave y's Love Shack. Its u B y m m i J uff "What if look like D w your inhibitions d l u o w t I blo came? anteed to Head paradise." r a u g t s o alm t's Parrot away . . . . i Washington Post - The

DANCING MARGARITA MONDAYS CARIBBEAN LOBSTER WEDNESDAY LUNCH & DINNER King Crab Saturday EPIC LADIES NIGHT DAILY HAPPY HOUR $3.75 PAINKILLERS

Menu Sampler Entrees: $10 to $20 Entree: RAWkin’ Roll: Panko tempura shrimp, seared ahi tuna,

avocado, cucumber, sesame seeds and RAWkin’ sauce Sake: Momokawa Pearl Junmai Ginjo Nigori

ndly till rie

Ki d F

Sapphire Beach Bar is a piece of heaven in the sands of Sapphire Beach. Enjoy an ice-cold beer or a specialty frozen cocktail while admiring one of the most beautiful sceneries that St. Thomas has to offer. Come for a casual, beachfront dining experience in an unforgettable setting.

Making the world a better place to party 9pm

SAPPHIRE BEACH BAR Sapphire Beach Resort, East End 340-714-STRG (7874) www.sbbvi.com

Menu Sampler Entrees: $10 to $15 Entree: Tropical Chicken Sandwich: Grilled chicken breast topped

with Swiss cheese, bacon, pineapple and honey mustard Cocktail: Strawberry Delight: Bacardi light rum, strawberry rum, pineapple and coconut mix, topped with a strawberry float

340.779-2080 STT43

Dining

The St. Thomas dining scene remains delectably diverse. SUNSET GRILLE Secret Harbour Beach Resort, East End 340-714-STRG (7874) www.sunsetgrillevi.com

Sunset Grille will captivate you with the pristine waters of Secret Harbour Beach, gorgeous sunsets and the sound of gentle waves. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menus appeal to all with creative Caribbean ingenuity. Delight in one of the many mouthwatering steak or fresh seafood entrees. Don’t forget to ask about the chef’s nightly features.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $10 to $40 Entree: Caribbean Lobster Tail and 12 oz. NY Strip: Fresh Caribbe-

an lobster and USDA prime steak served with Caribbean rice and pea pilaf, tropical ratatouille, fried quail egg, pea tendrils, citrus beurre blanc and demi-glace Wine: Orin Swift, “The Prisoner”

SUDI’S CARIBBEAN BAR & GRILLE 6700 Sapphire Village, St. Thomas VI 340-777-5423 www.sudisvi.com

Sudi’s serves tropical dishes that are inspired by the flavors of St. Thomas and other areas across the Caribbean for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch at our poolside location in Sapphire Village. Live music and daily Happy Hour.

LUNCH, DINNER AND WEEKEND BRUNCH WITH A CARIBBEAN FLARE Sapphire Village on the East End of St. Thomas 340.777.5423 • sudisvi.com STT44

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Menu Sampler Entrees: $11 to $26 Entree: Sandwiches, pizzas and fresh local seafood Cocktail: Home of the Original Bushwacker (invented in 1975 at The Ship’s Store Pub, now Sudi’s)

BOLONGO BAY IGGIES OASIS Bolongo Bay Beach Resort — South of Town 340-775-1800 www.iggiesoasis.com

One of the island’s longest-running restaurant brands. We’re keeping Iggies Beach Bar & Grille’s spirit alive at Iggies Oasis located poolside at Bolongo Bay. Come for cocktails, great food including prime rib (Sundays), lobster, nightly specials and live music. Lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., bar open until midnight.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $19 to $39 Entree: 12 oz. New York Strip steak grilled to juicy perfection served

with charred tomatoes and scallions and a side of mashed Caribbean sweet potatoes

Wine: 19 Crimes Red Blend

CROWN BAY TICKLES DOCKSIDE PUB 308 Crown Bay Marina 340-776-1595 www.ticklesdocksidepub.com

A casual dining spot on the water, where locals and visitors enjoy the open-air atmosphere. Open 365 days a year serving local and national favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Listen to weekly live entertainment while enjoying your favorite frozen drink at the full-service bar. Tickles Dockside Pub is kid friendly. Major credit cards accepted.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $5 to $25 Entree: Tender conch platter in a West Indian onion-butter sauce

with fresh vegetables and rice Cocktail: Tickles’ famous Bushwacker

FRENCHTOWN FRENCH QUARTER BISTRO Frenchtown, St. Thomas 340-774-6539 www.frenchquarterbistrovi.com

New Orleans cuisine with a flair located in the heart of Frenchtown, St. Thomas. Delicious dishes packed with flavor that won’t disappoint. Their wine list is competitively priced. French Quarter Bistro’s menu is available online and on their Facebook page.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $20 to $30 Entree: Bourbon Strip Steak Au Poivre with black pepper, bourbon,

cream and butter served with mashed potatoes and asparagus Wine: Higher Ground Pinot Noir (Monterey County)

CHARLOTTE AMALIE AMALIA CAFÉ/MESON AMALIA 5143 Palm Passage 340-714-7373 www.amaliacafe.com

Amalia Café is a delightful, open-air Spanish-themed restaurant in historic downtown St. Thomas Palm Passage. Owner Maynard first developed his love of wholesome, delicious Spanish cuisine while working with Chef Francisco Sancho of Barcelona who became his mentor and friend. The menu is heavy on tapas, with favorite Spanish entrees and daily specials. The wine list offers a nicely priced selection of hard-tofind Spanish labels, and they offer a popular catering choice for island parties. Maynard and Helga’s other food business, Pita Express, delivers tasty nutritious lunches to downtown shops and offices.

Menu sampler: Entrees: $18 to $38 Entree: Paella Valenciana: shrimp, mussels, clams, calamari, scallops

and chicken over saffron rice Wine: Glass of red wine Sangria

Cajun Inspired Sample Menu Appetizers

Oysters, Crab Cakes, Chicken & Andouille Gumbo, French Onion Soup, Beet Salad. Entrees

Shrimp & Grits, Whole Branzino, NY Strip Steak, Double Cut Pork Chops, Duck Two-Ways. Desserts

Banana Bread Pudding, Beignets, Cheesecake, Southern Pecan Pie Braised Short Ribs

Whole Branzino

Competitively Priced Wine List

Mon- Fri Sat Sun 11am-2am 2pm-2am 4pm-2am frenchquarterbistrovi.com

Classic Cheesecake

Double Cut Pork Chop

340-774-6539 Frenchtown, St.Thomas

@frenchqbvi

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Dining

NORTHSIDE SIB’S ON THE MOUNTAIN BAR & RESTAURANT 33 Estate Elizabeth, Northside 340-774-8967 www.facebook.com/sibsonthemountain

An iconic neighborhood hangout offering a dining celebration of food, flavors, family and friends accompanied by a lively nightlife experience. Featuring a menu devoted to Classic American Cuisine with a home-style cooking flair. Whether you are seeking fun for the whole family or a night out with the gang, there is something for everyone at Sib’s on the Mountain.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $12 to $29 Entree: Chicken Fried Chicken: Battered and deep-fried tenderized

chicken breast over mashed potatoes and sautéed mixed vegetables finished with house home-style gravy Wine: Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay, California

YACHT HAVEN GRANDE BLUE ELEVEN Yacht Haven Grande 340-777-2511 www.blue11stt.com

Experience local ingredients at their finest while enjoying a special-

ly created tasting menu. Wine pairings are added for a truly unique dining experience. Great atmosphere. Plenty of parking. Located next to Bad Ass Coffee. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 6 to 11 p.m. Reservations recommended. It’s not just dinner — it’s an event.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $$$ Entree: Tasting menu changes daily Wine: Wine pairing per menu

HAVENSIGHT DELLY DECK Havensight Mall 340-776-9943 www.dellydeckrestaurant.com

Feeding St. Thomas since 1976. Discover what everyone has known for 40 years — that Delly Deck is the closest thing to a diner that you will find on island. Delly Deck’s menu includes a traditional breakfast and lunch with a Caribbean flavor, served all day. Voted “Best Breakfast of the VI on St. Thomas.”

Menu Sampler Entrees: $4.25 to $23.95 Entree: Cancun Salad with grilled chicken breast, romaine lettuce,

tomato, shredded Cheddar mix and ranch dressing Beverage: Funky Monkey

blue eleven Come and experience local ingredients at its finest.

Featuring tasting menus with wine pairings. AT YAC H T H AV E N G R A N D E 340-777-2511 Open Tuesday thru Sunday 6pm - 11pm. www.blue11stt.com

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All Roads Lead to Sib’s 4 One! GREAT FOOD AND FUN!

NATURAL FOOD GROCERY & DELI Mandela Circle 340-775-3737 www.naturalfoodsgrocery.com

yourself to a bottle of wine from their award-winning list and pair it with signature 45-day dry-aged Tomahawk steak. The outstanding service and personalized attention make dining at Prime at Paradise Point a Caribbean must.

Natural Food Grocery & Deli has the largest selection of preserva-

Menu Sampler Entrees: $25 to $58 Entree: Surf-n-Turf: 5 or 10 oz. filet, half locally caught lobster

tives-free groceries, over 100 bulk herbs, many lines of vitamin supplements, the largest selection of herbal teas in the Virgin Islands and a full deli/juice bar serving the most famous, award-winning, secret recipe veggie burger in the Virgin Islands. See their complete menu, order and have it delivered to you at www.islanddirect.com.

Menu Sampler Entrees: $7 to $14 Entree: Veggie Burger/wheat pita, Vegetable Lasagna, Broccoli Cheddar Quiche, Baked Tofu Sandwich, Vegan Sloppy Joe, as well as all kinds of sandwiches and salads made to order

Beverage: Juice Bar

stuffed with crab, citrus arugula, garlic and chive potatoes, jalapeño beurre blanc and oysters bleu

Wine: Cult Cab taste AT PARADISE POINT St. Thomas, USVI 340-690-2191 Caribbean-style cuisine paired with the best view on the island. Enjoy their “Almost World-Famous Lobster and Shrimp Roll” while sipping on their signature Bushwacker.

PRIME AT PARADISE POINT St. Thomas, USVI 340-690-2191

Menu Sampler Entrees: $8 to $16 Entree: Almost Famous Lobster Roll: Locally caught lobster,

Welcome to PRIME, St. Thomas’ premiere steakhouse. Located at the

shrimp, fresh baked potato roll, lemon-chive aioli and seasoned house fries

top of Paradise Point, the stunning view and enchanting ambience is unlike anywhere else in the Virgin Islands. Treat

Cocktail: Frozen Bailey’s Bushwacker

Grocery & FEEDING ST. THOMAS SINCE 1976

Voted Best

Breakfast & Johnny Cake by The Readers of The Daily News

Havensight Mall, St. Thomas 340-776-9943 Mon-Sat 7am-4pm & Sun 8am-3pm Check out our menu at www.DELLYDECKRESTAURANT.com

Mandela Circle St Thomas, USVI

Call 340-775-3737 to place a deli order for pick up.

DELIVERY AVAILABLE

Specializing in Natural Groceries, Specialty Health & Beauty Aids. Now Carrying Beyond Products

TRY ONE OF OUR FAMOUS VEGGIE BURGERS FROM OUR NATURAL DELI

See our complete deli menu, order, and have delivered to you from

www.islanddirect.com STT47

Accommodations

by MERYL D’SA

A MATTER OF CHOICE St. Thomas accommodations are diverse enough to match up with the exact island experience you’re after.

he sound of warm gushing water and playful cheers in the background. Colorful and mesmerizing views of the ocean and the rest of the island from the windows of your villa. Exploring the island’s history within a quick stroll from your hotel room. A day of rip-roaring activities with the whole family at a beachfront resort. St. Thomas has it all — a lodging option for every need, whether you want an intimate cozy holiday or a family gathering.

Snug Spots For couples and honeymooners looking for a quiet and restful holiday, St. Thomas has many island boutique hotels and guesthouses

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built for a comfortable experience with quality service. Choose from a simple bed and breakfast, a room at a romantic historic inn or a home built during the Danish rule in the historic town of Charlotte Amalie. Enjoy a dreamy evening in a hot tub while sipping your favorite wine or soak your feet in the warm sand at the beach while taking in the beauty of the island.

On the Waterfront There are several beach resorts lined up on the island’s coast promising breathtaking views of the ocean and thrilling watersports opportunities. St. Thomas has a variety of options for families or large groups who prefer to not wander far from the shore. Beach-

OPENING SUMMER 2020

All-new in St. Thomas

Lighthouse @ The Reef

An elevated retreat like no other in St. Thomas featuring stunning ocean views, world-class amenities, and an unmatched beach

Lobby

experience. Get lost in paradise at the all-new Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort and Spa.

ocean view rooms and suites • private balconies three clifftop pools • full - service spa choice of premiere dining venues unparalleled virgin island beach

F R E N C H M A N S R E E F S T T H O M A S .C O M

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Accommodations

St. Thomas has a lodging option for every need. front resorts provide an opportunity to enjoy activities closer to the water but also take some time to unwind with deluxe amenities such as private pools, recreational activities, spas, all-inclusive packages for unlimited dining and drinking, and more. The two- and three-bedroom villas provide space and comfort for large parties, making them ideal for family vacations, where each member of the family can enjoy the vacation in their own way, whether it’s dipping into the infinity-edge pool, working out in the fitness center or engaging in family-friendly activities fit for everyone.

Make Yourself At Home Planning to stay for a longer period of time? Rent a place as your home for a week or

two, either by the beach for sun lovers or on a mountaintop to enjoy stunning views and explore the island. Villas are available with two, three or more bedrooms; fully equipped kitchens; pools; hot tubs and more. Renting a villa is a good way to celebrate your family vacation by making it your own space for the duration of your stay. Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove is one complex that offers villa rentals. Surrounded by a secluded beach and overlooking the bay and Hassel Island, this resort’s villa-style lodging could be the perfect base for you to fully unwind on St. Thomas. Its design is influenced by Danish and British architecture and is reminiscent of a small, quaint village with a homey feel.

FRENCHMAN’S REEF BEACH RESORT AND SPA A beacon of the U.S. Virgin Islands, the all-new Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort and Spa sits high above the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy breathtaking views, elevated style, gourmet dining, a full-service spa and island excursions. Designed for adventurers and leisure seekers searching

for an authentic, world-class Caribbean island experience. St. Thomas, USVI; www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com THE GREEN IGUANA HOTEL The Green Iguana Hotel is a short walk to Charlotte Amalie via the 99 Steps with easy access to airports, ferries, shopping, museum and restaurants. Private bath, off-street parking, high-speed internet, Dish TV, air conditioning and more. All rooms are smoke and pet free. The Green Iguana Hotel offers great value. 1002 Blackbeard’s Hill; 340776-7654; www.thegreeniguana.com NONI BEACH A hidden gem at the foot of the Caribbean Sea, Noni Beach, a St. Thomas Resort, delivers an unrivaled U.S. Virgin Islands experience. Intimate and all new, guests will discover oceanfront boutique-style rooms and suites, locally inspired cuisine, an infinity-edge pool with cabanas and swim-up bar, and an unparalleled Virgin Islands beach. St. Thomas, USVI; www.nonibeachresort.com

Make the Most of Every Moment Discover a world of vacation options available through Marriott Vacation Club®. Join us for a personalized presentation and select from one of these gifts:

15,000

Marriott Bonvoy™ points

100

Experience Dollars

For details and to schedule your presentation, visit the Concierge desk in the lobby or call: Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove – ext. 4849.

Quaint, Comfortable, Affordable Single Nights Welcome

1002 Blackbeard’s Hill, St. Thomas 340-776-7654 STT50

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

DETAILS OF PARTICIPATION Sponsor: Marriott Ownership Resorts, Inc. d/b/a Marriott Vacation Club International. Program is for couples or individuals with a combined annual income of $75,000. Attendance at a sales presentation lasting approximately 90 minutes is required. If married or living together or with significant other, couples must attend the sales presentation together to receive this offer; individuals may purchase separately. Employees of Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, its affiliated companies, and the immediate families of such employees, are ineligible for the offer. Guest is eligible to tour the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove Sales Gallery if they have not attended a sales presentation at any Marriott Vacation Club© resort in the past three months or the Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove Sales Gallery in the past 10 months. Retail value of certificates is up to $100. Certificates will be issued upon completion of the sales presentation. List of participating merchants will be provided for gift certificates. No cash back will be given in part or whole if the purchase amount is less than $100. Premiums are not redeemable for cash and may be subject to expiration. The Marriott Bonvoy Points will be posted to the appropriate account within four to six weeks following the completion of the tour and sales presentation. For Marriott Bonvoy details, please visit marriottbonvoy.com. Expiration date of offer is December 31, 2020. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Offer subject to change without notice. Offer is nontransferable. Marriott Ownership Resorts, Inc. is the developer and an equal housing lender. ANY NAMES AND ADDRESSES ACQUIRED WILLBE USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF SOLICITATING THE SALE OF VACATION TIMESHARING PERIODS THE COMPLETE OFFERING TERMS ARE IN AN OFFERING PLAN AVAILABLE FROM SPONSOR. THIS ADVERTISING MATERIAL BEING USED FOR THE PURPOSE OF SOLICITING THE SALE OF A VACATION TIMESHARING PLAN. Marriott Vacation Club International and the programs and products provided under the Marriott Vacation Club brand are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. Marriott Vacation Club International uses the Marriott marks under license from Marriott International, Inc. and its affiliates. ©2019 Marriott Vacation Club International. All Rights Reserved. UV-19-002 /19-UV-548808

s t . t h om a s e x p erience the magic of

A hidden gem at the foot of the Caribbean Sea, Noni Beach A St. Thomas Resort delivers an unrivaled U.S. Virgin Island experience. Intimate and all-new, guests will discover oceanfront boutique-style rooms and suites, locally-inspired cuisine, and stunning ocean views. oceanfront rooms and suites

•

daily catamaran excursions

world - class dining

•

infinity pool with cabanas and swim up bar

unparalleled virgin island beach

THE MAGIC BEGINS SUMMER 2020

nonibeachresort . com

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Local Spotlight

NAUTICAL KNOW-HOW FOR THE NEXT GENERATION by CAROL M. BAREUTHER, R.D.

wenty-five-year-old Kejanna Young has lived her entire life surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the north and Caribbean Sea to the south on the 32-square-mile island of St. Thomas. Yet, like many Virgin Islanders, Young is afraid of the water. Therefore, the irony didn’t escape her family and friends when the young woman signed up for the Marine Apprenticeship Program (MAP). Over the five-week summer training period, Young and her fellow nine students graduated from learning how to swim to be skilled enough to gain employment in the crewed charter industry. “Currently, most if not all of our yacht captains, crews and technical service personnel are from the U.S. mainland,” says Oriel Blake, executive director of the St. Thomas–based Virgin

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Islands Professional Charter Association (VIPCA), the nonprofit that promotes the 300-odd charter yachts based in the territory and the marine businesses that sustain them. “We recognized that in order for the next generation of Virgin Islanders to gain employment in this potentially lucrative career path, they needed the marine educational opportunities. In turn, a key element for us as VIPCA is developing and expanding the local marine industry workforce.” VIPCA runs the MAP program with funding received through its charity arm, the Marine Rebuild Fund (MRF). This fund, founded in the wake of 2017’s duo of devastating hurricanes, has multiple missions, one of which is the creation of a marine vocational program. As a result, successful candidates are fully sponsored.

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

MAP training is intense. There’s instruction in navigation, pilotage and practical sailing on small sailboats and Hobie Cats, powerboating, swimming, scuba diving, beach resort and watersports experience, as well as marina and dock management and diesel engine maintenance. Students also spend a day with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) on its vessels and at its Marine Safety Detachment on St. Thomas, plus learn sail and power charter operations with a local operator. At the end of the program, students take the Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping (STCW) training, an entry-level qualification required to work on boats voyaging between the United States and international waters such as those of the neighboring British Virgin Is-

lands. STCW training is also the first step in students ultimately obtaining a USCG 100-ton captain’s license. Appropriately, the MAP graduation is a sunset sail aboard the 54-foot day sail catamaran, Castaway Girl. The new graduates operate the boat for a passengers’ roster that includes local dignitaries, businesspeople, sponsors and supporters. At present, 17 MAP graduates are working with local operator, Cruise Ship Excursions, aboard its Castaway catamarans and Kon-Tiki. They’re also working on The VI Cat and onboard several ferries. As a result, visitors might get to meet Young, or her fellow MAP graduates, on their next day sail. For more information, go to www.vipca.org.

ST. JOHN DINE — SHOP — EXPLORE

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VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

WELCOME TO ST. JOHN

ith the majority of the island’s nearly 20 square miles protected by the Virgin Islands National Park, St. John is the perfect spot for nature lovers. The smallest of the three

main U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John offers a little something for everyone. Shoppers are sure to love the charming, walkable town of Cruz Bay, where quaint shops abound. Hikers will be wowed by the island’s numerous trails that ascend to sweeping vistas and 18th-century plantation ruins. Animal lovers will get a thrill from the goats, sheep, donkeys, deer, cows and pigs that roam freely. And everyone is sure to find solace in St. John’s pristine shorelines, where silky white sands meet glittering turquoise waters, conjuring in residents and visitors alike a certain gratitude that only such pristine beauty can inspire. Trunk Bay

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Activities & Attractions Cinnaman Bay Plantation Ruins

HISTORIC HIGHLIGHTS by ANDREA MILAM

Delve into island history with the remnants of bygone eras.

t. John bears numerous artifacts of its multifaceted history, ranging from the rock carvings of the Taínos, peaceful

people who inhabited the island during the pre-Columbian era, to the ruins of 18th- and 19th-century Danish plantations, where sugarcane was grown and rum was produced. A number of different sites offer insights into St. John’s roots, including:

Annaberg Plantation This protected historic site was one of the island’s most active and productive sugar plantations during the 18th- and 19thcentury Danish plantation era. Walk the grounds and you’ll encounter the windmill tower, the factory where sugarcane was processed into molasses and rum, slave quarters and the cook house. www.nps.gov/viis

America Hill This trail serves double duty, offering a great hike that takes you by a number of historical sites. It starts near the Cinnamon Bay plantation ruins, first ascending sharply

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Annaberg Plantation

and then zigzagging to the top of a hillside, where a bird’s-eye view of Maho and Francis bays is your reward for that uphill trek. The red-tinged ruin that sits atop the hill served as a guesthouse for visitors into the early 19th century. www.nps.gov/viis

Elaine I. Sprauve Library Once an 18th-century plantation great house, this charming present-day library’s story is one for the books. The welcoming arms staircase, yellow limestone exterior and green trim and accents hearken back to the days when the building was occupied by original owner William Wood, who was laid to rest in a small cemetery on the library property that’s open to visitors. www.virginislandspubliclibraries.org

L’Esperance Trail Descending 1,000 feet over two and a half miles, L’Esperance takes hikers past two sets of plantation ruins and through two distinct environments — moist tropical forest at the top gives way to dry tropical forest as you near Genti Bay. Don’t miss the short

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

spur partway down the trail, which leads to the island’s only baobab tree. www.nps.gov/viis

Cinnamon Bay Plantation Ruins An accessible boardwalk takes visitors of all abilities through these sugar factory ruins; continue into the cool forest for an easy half-mile hike on the Cinnamon Bay Nature Loop. This trail is simple enough even for the youngest members of your family, who are sure to find wonder at the crypts of a Danish family and enjoy the scent of bay rum trees, whose leaves perfume the air. www.nps.gov/viis

Friends of Virgin Islands National Park This nonprofit organization offers various ways for visitors to connect to the island’s culture and history, ranging from seminars on weaving traditional market baskets to baking demonstrations at the Annaberg cook house. Visit their website or give them a call to find out what they’re offering during your stay. www.friendsvinp.org

NATURAL TREASURES by ANDREA MILAM

The Virgin Islands National Park offers natural wonders for eco-minded visitors.

ature abounds on St. John thanks to the protection of the Virgin Islands National Park (VINP). Beyond preserving the landscape, the park offers visitors numerous ways to experience the island’s exceptional natural beauty. Here’s a look at some park experiences you won’t want to miss.

also deliver. The water in the salt

Curious Carvings

Learn from the Experts

Salt Pond Bay

pond that lies behind Salt Pond Beach evaporates, leaving countless pounds of salt at its edges. Harvest some yourself and add a little island spice to your dishes with all-natural pure island sea salt. www.nps.gov/viis

Close to the bottom of Reef Bay Trail lies one of the island’s most exotic attractions — the petroglyphs, carved into rocks at the base of a waterfall by Taínos who inhabited the island around 1,000 years ago. Hike on your own but come prepared for a sweat-inducing trek back up the trail, or join the VINP’s guided hike, expected to resume this season, and enjoy a relaxing ride back to Cruz Bay by boat via the island’s south shore. www.friendsvinp.org

Every year from January through

Bird is the Word

The concept of voluntourism is gain-

You’d be hard pressed to match VINP supervisory ranger Laurel Brannick’s knowledge and enthusiasm for local birds. Learn bird facts and more with Brannick’s guided Francis Bay bird walk, which goes through a forest, by the ocean and around a salt pond, Friday mornings at 7:30 a.m. www.nps.gov/viis

ing ground, and one way you can give

A Savory Harvest

work. Just how much you celebrate

Dry periods might dull the lush green of St. John’s hills, but island droughts

www.facebook.com/gettrashedstj

April, the Friends of VINP offers the chance to connect with some of the island’s most valuable resources — its knowledgeable residents. Explore coastal habitats, hike under the full moon or snorkel the mangroves with informed guides whose expertise enriches the experience. Sign up early,

Reef Bay Trail

as these popular seminars fill up fast. www.friendsvinp.org

Give Back

back during your time on St. John is to Get Trashed. No, liquor is not directly involved with this all-volunteer group that conducts monthly litter cleanups at various places around the island, but volunteers do typically gather for an after-party or Happy Hour gettogether as a reward for their hard after the job is done is up to you.

Mangroves

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Activities & Attractions

DOWN TO EARTH by ANDREA MILAM

St. John is more than just beautiful beaches. Head inland for some land-based fun.

he pristine beaches are probably high on the list of reasons you’ve come to St. John, but the island also offers plenty of non-ocean-related activities. Whether you want to get your reps in at the gym or you’re looking to engage in some treasure hunting and exploration, you’ll find plenty of island-style outdoor pursuits on St. John.

Hiking Looking for a casual stroll, a strenuous trek with big rewards, or just want to get a little sweat in before a day at the beach? St. John’s numerous hiking trails — including America Hill and L’Esperance — offer all these options and more. Many trails take you past historic Danish plantation ruins to lookouts with sweeping views. Some trails end at the beach, welcoming you for a refreshing dip. Take an easy stroll on the accessible Francis Bay boardwalk or challenge yourself on the Caneel Hill trail, where a viewing platform with stunning 360-degree island and ocean views is well worth the effort to get there.

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Horseback Riding Let someone else do the hard work for you with a horseback ride through island trails. It’s a peaceful way to traverse St. John hillsides, and when you ride with Carolina Corral, you’re helping support a one-woman operation. Owner Dana Bartlett puts a lot of time and love into caring for her rescue horses — and donkeys, goats, sheep and countless other animals that call the Corral home. www.horsesstjohn.com

Tennis Fire up your competitive spirit with an island tennis match. Public courts in Cruz Bay are free to use, and it’s not uncommon to see residents there engaging in a little friendly competition. Be sure to bring your own racket and tennis balls if you want to hit the courts, as there’s currently nowhere on island to buy or rent this equipment. No reservations at the courts are necessary — just show up ready to play.

Cinnaman Bay Plantation Ruins

Trunk Bay Geocaching

Palm Plaza for some cardio or weightlifting.

Modern-day treasure hunting on St. John involves small trinkets, not the pirate’s gold of yesteryear. “Caches” are hidden in various places across the island, left behind by geocachers for others to discover. Take a found trinket as a memento of your time on the island and leave an item behind in its place or add your name and date to the log that accompanies most caches. www.geocaching.com

Day passes are available to visitors who can

Hit the Gym

Bay. Then sit back and bask in the Carib-

Whether you’re keeping up with your fitness regimen or you want to work off the Happy Hour libations you’ve been downing, head to St. John Fitness on the second floor of

make use of the gym’s treadmills, stationary

ST. JOHN FITNESS Cardio treadmills, bicycle, stair stepper, ellipticals, free weights, cable machine, Smith machine, dumbbells, barbells, weight machines, free Wi-Fi. Trainers available. Daily hours are 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Day $20, week $49, month $99. Get door activation code online at www.stjohnfitness.com. Palm Plaza near The Westin, St. John; 340-690-7835

bikes, ellipticals, weight machines and more. www.stjohnfitness.com

Try a Taxi Tour St. John’s colorful open-air safari taxis are a hallmark of the Love City island experience, so you may want to try a taxi tour, which you can kick off at the taxi stand in Cruz bean breeze as your driver stops along the way to point out stunning vistas, local plants

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and wildlife and historical and cultural sights. www.vitaxiassociation.com

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by ANDREA MILAM

Virgin Islands Ecotours

MAKE A SPLASH

For those looking for fun on or under the water, St. John’s cerulean seas just beg to be explored.

he waters that surround St. John are simply irresistible. From tranquil bays with crystal-clear water to shoreline mangroves whose shadows offer sanctuary to juvenile sea creatures, the ocean around the island is well worth exploring. Experience the water your own way, whether gliding across the surface on a paddle board or enjoying cocktails aboard a sunset sail excursion.

Power of the Paddle Paddling through the sea, whether atop a paddle board or in a kayak, is one of the most serene ways to experience the island’s marine life. It’s just you, your vessel of choice and the quiet sound of your paddle

Arawak Expeditions

slicing through the water. In most areas of the island, the clarity is outstanding, allowing you to spy on active coral reefs and gently gliding sea turtles from above. Arawak Expeditions rents paddle boards from their Mongoose Junction office. They’ll give you a brief introduction to the sport, which is surprisingly easy to get the hang of. Stand in the middle of the board, plant your feet firmly about shoulder width apart, bend slightly at the knees and paddle. You can expect to fall off once or twice while you get the hang of it, but in no time you’re sure to find your sea legs and off you go, paddling like a pro. You can also rent a paddle board right at the beach with Virgin Islands Ecotours, which provides rentals at

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On the Water Honeymoon Beach. Virgin Islands Expedition Company offers daily and weekly rentals; the latter includes free delivery. Arawak, Virgin Islands Ecotours and the Virgin Islands Expedition Company all rent kayaks as well and they each offer specialized on the water tours, including Arawak’s renowned five-day kayaking and camping excursion, where you’ll sleep under the stars in some of the most beautiful settings in the USVI and the BVI.

Look Below If you’d prefer to get a little more up close and personal with the coral reefs and marine life that call the island’s waters home, there are plenty of snorkeling and scuba diving options. St. John boasts the ability for visitors to snorkel right from the shore, making it remarkably easy to drift over reefs and alongside the turtles that coast effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters. Swim with the turtles at Maho Bay, view a wide variety of marine life at Salt Pond on the island’s south shore or see if you can spot an octopus or two at the Trunk Bay underwater snorkel trail. Rent your snorkel equipment from Arawak Expeditions, Virgin Islands Ecotours or the Virgin Islands Expedition Company, or go even deeper with a scuba diving excursion with Cruz Bay Watersports. For decades they’ve been descending into the deep, and their knowledgeable staff provides a safe and informational experience for everyone from beginners to those looking to earn more advanced certifications.

Sailing in Style Be sure to reserve a portion of your vacation for a boating excursion. Zip out to lunch at one of the area’s floating restaurants, or

go international with a trip to the BVI, where Painkiller-fueled debauchery rules the scene at Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay. Opt for a more tranquil experience with a sunset cocktail sail. There are numerous private charters to choose from, allowing you to customize your day on the water. Group boat tours are a great way to let the experts do the planning for you. Cruz Bay Watersports’ excursions offer a little something for everyone, from a trip to The Baths in Virgin Gorda aboard their 60-foot express cruiser to family fun with a picnic snorkel sail to a romantic Champagne sunset sail.

Keep it Reel If you’re looking for a thrill on the water, treat yourself to a fishing charter with Arawak Expeditions. Captain Arthur Jones has been fishing around St. John for more than 20 years, and he’s as knowledgeable as he is passionate about this sport. His vast abilities for reeling one in can help you land an elusive bonefish or leaping tarpon. Other species that frequent the island’s waters include snook, jacks, snapper, barracuda and many more. The many ways to experience the ocean’s wonders are enchanting, bringing you face to face with indescribable natural beauty. Some of your best vacation memories are sure to be made on the water.

ARAWAK EXPEDITIONS Experience an unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose a half-day kayak tour, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), fly-fishing, snorkeling or an extended kayaking and camping tour, you’ll leave with a better appreciation of the natural wonders of these islands. An easy walk from the Ferry Dock in downtown Cruz Bay. Mongoose Junction, Cruz Bay; 340-693-8312; www.arawakexp.com CRUZ BAY WATERSPORTS Celebrating 35+ years, Cruz Bay Watersports is the premier company for a fun-filled day on the water. With a diverse fleet of catamarans and motor vessels, they offer trips to the BVI, sunset sails, scuba diving and PADI instruction, snorkeling, dinghy rentals and a retail location with unique souvenirs and rental gear. Westin Resort, St. John; 340-775-6555; www.cruzbaywatersports.com HONEYMOON BEACH, ST. JOHN New! Golf cart shuttle from Caneel Bay Resort! Or, hike from town and enjoy a Beach Bar & Grill, watersports rentals, gift shop, snorkel gear, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, floats, beach chairs, umbrellas and lockers. Save by booking an inclusive watersports Day Pass for $49 pp. Guided kayak and snorkel with sea turtles. Book online and SAVE 10% using promo code VISIT. 340-779-2155; www.viecotours.com VIRGIN ISLANDS EXPEDITION COMPANY Journey beyond the beach! Guided kayaking, paddleboarding and hiking tours around St. John and its surrounding waters. Transportation and equipment included on full- and half-day tours. Knowledgeable staff at Cruz Bay location will help you plan independent adventures with quality rental equipment and other St. John adventure necessities. Cruz Bay, St. John; 340-775-6074; www.usviexpeditions.com

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Discover Honeymoon Beach ST. JOHN, USVI

St. John’s Other National Park Most St. John visitors are aware that the island is home to a U.S. national park, but did you know there are actually two national parks on St. John?

Courtesy of Virgin Islands Expedition Company

On January 7, 2001, the Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument was established, setting aside 12,708 marine acres to protect the fragile and unique tropical marine ecosystem in waters to the south and north of the island, as well as the Hurricane Hole area located on the east side of St. John. This ecosystem includes seagrass beds and coral reefs, threatened and endangered species such as hawksbill and green turtles and the most extensive and well-developed mangrove habitat on St. John. Thirty of the Virgin Islands’ 45 species of coral are found here, and the area provides a safe place for fish, spiny lobster and queen conch to spawn and grow. This activity attracts more than 25 species of seabirds that feed in the surrounding waters. Named for its centuries-old reputation as a safe haven for ships during hurricanes, even after the area came under protection by the National Park Service in 2001, a plan remained in place to allow local boats to shelter there during large storms. Unfortunately, during hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, most of the boats anchored there were unable to withstand the strong winds and large waves, and the boats and the area itself were heavily damaged. More than two years later, the damaged and sunken boats have been removed and the area is showing signs of life again thanks in large part to Hurricane Hole’s federal protection and lack of commercial boating. Mangrove seedlings are starting to sprout, and new coral growth has been seen in the waters. Green turtles are often seen eating the seagrass in Princess Bay, while spiny lobster and southern rays have been observed in Otter Creek. Even the roots of mangroves that died in the storms remain in place, providing a habitat for angelfish, snapper and tangs as well as new coral to thrive. Don’t miss a trip to the other national park on St. John. Virgin Islands Expedition Company provides half- and full-day kayak and snorkel tours in Hurricane Hole, including transportation from their shop located in downtown Cruz Bay across from the VINP dock. www.usviexpeditions.com

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Beaches

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by ANDREA MILAM

Cinnamon Bay

SPLENDID SHORELINES

St. John’s beaches are diverse enough to fit your favorite type of fun.

ooking for adventure? Peace and quiet? A perfectly unspoiled beach away from the crowds? Local party vibes? St. John beaches offer all this and more. Each section of shoreline on St. John has its own unique character, so you’re sure to find your ideal day in the sun.

The List-Topper Trunk Bay is a stunner of a beach that has it all. The silkiest, most pristine sands. Bluer-than-blue water. A bar and concession stand, restrooms and showers, snorkel

Trunk Bay

equipment rentals, covered picnic tables and even an underwater snorkel trail. It’s easily the most visited and most photographed stretch of shoreline on St. John, and it cleans up in the awards department, too. Most recently, Trunk Bay made Forbes.com’s 2019 list of Best Caribbean Beaches.

Where the Party’s At Hansen Bay is one of the few stretches of sand whose unspoiled beauty rivals national park beaches, yet it lies outside the park’s

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Beaches

Denis Bay

Each section of shoreline on St. John has its own unique character, so you’re sure to find your ideal day in the sun. Hawksnest Bay boundaries. Pay a minimal fee to park on the privately owned property and you’re granted access to a lively beach where the locals come to mingle. Because Hansen isn’t within the park, it’s common to see beachgoers with their pups in tow. Rent snorkel gear and get up close and personal with stunning coral reefs, or you can rent a paddle board or kayak and head out to Lime Out, the floating taco boat that anchors in the bay.

A Snorkeler’s Heaven Technically there are two Haulovers on the island’s East End — north and south. The name hearkens back to the days when boats were “hauled over” from Coral Bay to the Sir Francis Drake Channel, so while both Haulovers offer distinct experiences, they’re close enough to one another that you can

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easily check out both in one day. The north side is a pebble beach with incredible snorkeling but is easily subjected to currents and swells, so verify conditions before you head out. Haulover South is more protected, and this sandy pebble beach also has some interesting snorkeling along the eastern side, where the water is deeper.

A Zoning Out Zone Cinnamon Bay is the longest among the popular North Shore beaches, giving you plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the peace and quiet. Snorkel around the cay or join the impromptu volleyball game that tends to pop up on weekends. While the Cinnamon Bay Campground is being rebuilt, there are no amenities except for a few “porta potties,” so come prepared with

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everything you’ll need for a wonderful day at a sublimely beautiful beach.

All the Amenities Honeymoon Bay has incredible natural beauty and all the toys to help you enjoy it. Park outside the entrance to the Caneel Bay Resort and take the beach shuttle, or hike in via Lind Point and come prepared for a full day of fun. Virgin Islands Ecotours offers kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear, lounge chairs, umbrellas and everything you need to relax in the sand or explore the stunning bay. Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill has plenty of food and drink options, and the Honeymoon Beach Hut sells souvenirs, snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, hats and much more.

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Category

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by ANDREA MILAM

RETAIL TREASURES

With shops bearing items as unique as each store’s individual owner, shoppers find joy in seeking out memorable gifts and souvenirs that reflect the special character of St. John.

t. John offers a shopping experience that’s hard to come by. There are no chain stores on this island. Instead, you’ll find individually owned and operated shops selling hand-selected items sourced locally and from across the globe. In fact, it’s not uncommon to find the owner herself behind the counter, assisting customers as they seek out the perfect memento of their vacation. The highest concentration of shops is in Cruz Bay, an easily walkable

Mongoose Junction

town that’s bookended by two shopping destinations, each with its own charm and allure. Located at one end of this small town, Mongoose Junction is an architectural stunner with native stone designs, tranquil water features and lush planters throughout, making shopping a remarkably serene experience. Stop here to pick up lunch from the North Shore Deli on your way to one of

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Shopping

the island’s beautiful beaches, or enjoy a relaxing breezeway lunch at Sun Dog Cafe. Browse creations by local artists at the Bajo el Sol Gallery & Art Bar, which also hosts events and themed exhibitions aimed at highlighting the island’s history and culture. Pick up some adorable island-inspired souvenirs at Island Fancy, where offerings include small toys, trinkets and books to help your little ones remember their special time on island. Stunning island photographs are incorporated into works of art at the St. John Experience Gallery, and Just Beach has everything you need for a fabulous day on island, including sunscreen, snorkel gear rentals, hats, swimsuit cover-ups and much more. Mongoose Junction’s Caravan Gallery is a must-stop shop. Prayer flags and wind chimes hanging outside the entrance set the tone for this store, where you’ll find exotic treasures from all corners of the globe. Jewelry, gifts and artifacts from Tibet, In-

donesia, Africa and beyond line the shelves here; and Caravan’s sales associates are knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. No trip to St. John is complete without selecting your very own hook bracelet, and Caravan offers options for men, women and children. Shopping at Caravan is like perusing a world traveler’s treasure chest. African masks, Buddha statues, artwork featuring ancient fossils, keepsake boxes and wood-inlaid cribbage boards are among the boutique’s ever-rotating inventory. Bring home the beauty of St. John with Steve Simonsen’s classic book, Living Art. A favorite of residents and visitors alike, this coffee table book is full of stunning images and makes a great gift. It’s available on Amazon, Steve’s website (www.stevesimonsen.net) and in local stores. A book with a more somber subject matter is the St. John Community Foundation’s St. John Recovery Book: A Community Perspective on Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

This publication provides an in-depth look at how the catastrophic 2017 hurricane season affected St. John, and is a truly gripping read. This book is available on Amazon, the Community Foundation’s website, and in local stores. Find essentials like an ATM, pharmacy, mail center, grocery store and bookstore at The Marketplace, also located in Cruz Bay. Eight miles to the east, Coral Bay offers a small selection of shops that are as charming and eclectic as the town itself. Whether you’ve come prepared with a shopping list of specific items or you’re just browsing to see what catches your fancy, shopping on St. John is sure to be a memorable experience. From souvenir T-shirts to hook bracelets to homemade hot sauces, island treasures will bring a smile to your face long after you’ve departed, keeping alive the memories of your happy time on St. John.

fun, affordable jewelry, unique gifts and authentic artifacts rtifac s from aro around the world

Upstairs U t i att M Mongoose Junction, J ti St. St JJohn h • 340-779-4566 340 779 4566 • caravangallery.com ll

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Shopping by the Sea The moment you arrive in Cruz Bay by ferry, you’re greeted by Wharfside Village, a cute, colorful Caribbeanstyle collection of shops lining the Cruz Bay beachfront. Connected by exterior breezeways, the shops at Wharfside offer everything from handmade crafts to fine jewelry to spices and local hot sauces. Wharfside’s beautiful waterfront setting and the shops’ varied offerings and friendly staff make it a wonderful location for some island-style retail therapy. At Wharfside Village’s Bamboo Studio, you’ll find designs that give a nod to the island — like petroglyph-themed earrings, rings and bracelets — as well as their take on the well-known hook bracelet, whose hook is shaped like a “J” for St. John. Bamboo Studio’s charms and pendants display the outline of St. John or feature a compass rose with the island’s latitude and longitude coordinates. You can also customize your own charm or bracelet with a loved one’s name or initials. There’s even a dedicated hurricane collection, featuring an iconic hurricanethemed swirl incorporated into pendants, earrings and bracelets, showcasing the island’s strength and resilience following Irma. Once you’ve selected gifts for yourself and your loved ones back home, why not try your luck with a little roll of the dice? Head to the Parrot Club at Wharfside Village, where you can cool down while turning up the heat at the blackjack table. Video slots, poker and roulette are also on offer. When you’re in the Parrot Club, you’re sure to end up shoulder to shoulder with a St. John resident or two; islanders love to wager for a win at this popular venue.

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Shopping

You’ll find individually owned and operated shops selling hand selected items sourced locally and from across the globe.

BAMBOO STUDIO Want to show your love for St. John? Take home a handmade charm necklace in sterling silver, 14k gold or a combination of both — and create a charm that is uniquely yours. They also carry a wide selection of hook bracelets and petroglyph jewelry. “All handcrafted by our artisans... inspired by our island.” Wharfside Village; 340-776-0669; www.bamboovi.com

MONGOOSE JUNCTION Discover St. John’s premier shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Mongoose Junction hosts 30 unique businesses amid tropical landscaping and beautiful stone architecture. Explore boutique shops and galleries, courtyard cafés and restaurants, including the island’s only brewery. Just a five-minute stroll from the Cruz Bay ferry dock. North Shore Road, Cruz Bay; 340-7748175; www.mongoosejunctionstjohn.com

CARAVAN GALLERY Caravan Gallery is the place for affordable and fine jewelry, unique gifts and authentic artifacts from around the world. In their Mongoose Junction location, you will find the original St. John Hook bracelet, locally made jewelry and the best selection of Larimar, the “Gemstone of the Caribbean.” Mongoose Junction; 340-779-4566; www.caravangallery.com

SPA CEYLON Located in the heart of Cruz Bay, this unique Ayurveda boutique will arouse your senses with vibrant colors and exotic fragrances from a wide range of all natural treatment oils, body scrubs, body lotions, moisturizing balms, body mist, cleansing bars, shower gels and much more. The boutique’s White Collection & Tropical Destination Collection make for perfect bridal gifts. Wharfside Landing, Cruz Bay; 340-725-5497

WHARFSIDE LANDING CRUZ BAY, ST. JOHN - 340.725.5497

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Courtesy of Mongoose Junction

SHOPPING FINDS 1

1. Custom Sterling Silver Petroglyph & Larimar Pendant. Caravan Gallery; www.caravangallery.com 2. Customizable Charm Necklace. Bamboo Studio; www.bamboovi.com 3. Eau de Ceylon perfumes. Spa Ceylon

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Dining

by ANDREA MILAM

DELICIOUS DELIGHTS From toes-in-the-sand Happy-Hour-hanging spots to upscale waterfront fine dining, St. John has a surprisingly robust restaurant scene.

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On-the-Water Eats Plenty of new additions to the St. John restaurant scene allow you

Courtesy of Ocean 362

St. John’s restaurants have something for everyone. to combine a day at the beach — or on the water — with an amazing culinary experience. Maho Crossroads, located just across the street from one of the island’s most stunning North Shore beaches, offers grilled foods like burgers and hot dogs with local specialties including lobster and roti when available. Grab a drink from the bar and relax beachside in the shade in one of Crossroads’ ultra-comfy beach chairs. Bikinis on the Beach is another venue that offers quick and easy eats at a beautiful beach. Sandwiches, wraps and ice-cold beverages pair perfectly with pristine Honeymoon Beach. A meal at Lime Out on the island’s East End is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Where else can you get tacos made to order in a lime green boat floating in a pristine bay?

Island Vibes Don’t miss one of the best things about the Caribbean — its cuisine. Pick up a pate — a pastry that’s stuffed with spiced chicken, beef, saltfish or vegetables, then deep fried — for a flavorful and easy snack on the go. Hercules in Cruz Bay is the best spot to grab a pate on your way to the beach. There are a handful of other local options in Cruz Bay, so don’t be afraid to branch out and try something new like stew goat or oxtail

at De Coal Pot, where portions are plentiful. And if you’re on island in June, the annual Food Fair is a literal smorgasbord of local entrees, tarts, jams and jellies, local juices and much more.

Lunch by the Sea Some St. John beaches do have food offerings, but for the most part, you’ll want to bring lunch with you if you’re planning to stay and soak up the sun for a while. A handful of delis in Cruz Bay offer easy graband-go sandwiches and sides, or you can opt for something heartier with a heaping container of delicious fried chicken, pasta salad, coleslaw and other picnic-inspired foods from an island grocery store.

Custom Cooking If you get in the mood to exercise your culinary creativity, you’ll be happy to know that most of the island’s accommodations, which mostly consist of private condos, homes and villas, offer fully stocked kitchens. You’ll find most of the basic ingredients needed to cook a meal at the island’s grocery stores, which have regular sales and surprisingly competitive pricing. Want to make use of your villa’s kitchen but don’t feel like doing the work yourself? Hire a caterer to cook

for you in-house, allowing you and your companions to enjoy sunset cocktails on the patio while an incredible custom meal comes together just for you.

Dining Dress Code St. John’s casual nature extends to its restaurant scene. Even at the most high-end establishments, you won’t be turned away for lack of a tie or sport coat. Men are welcomed in shorts and short-sleeve collared shirts, and women can dine in sundresses. Flip-flops are accepted footwear in all dining venues. Do remember when leaving the beach that shirt and shoes must be worn at all establishments and when you’re anywhere other than the beach. Local culture leans toward the conservative side, so please respect the locals and cover up when you leave the beach. The island’s numerous restaurants, bars, and supermarkets make it easy to treat yourself to a sumptuous meal, kick back with the locals over a beer or two, or dine in at your hotel or villa. With plenty of dining options, you and your traveling companions are guaranteed to leave feeling pleasantly full and happy.

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Dining

Cuisines of the Caribbean

Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill

Please join Carlos & Maria for a neo-Caribbean experience conveying the juice and jazz of the islands…a carnival of flavors and lifestyles.

BIKINIS ON THE BEACH BAR & GRILL 340-779-2155 www.bikinisonthebeach.com Experience paradise on St. John’s loveliest remote beach with beach creature comforts along with a bar and grill, gift shop and restroom facilities. Watersports rentals, lounge chairs, umbrellas, snorkel gear rentals, lockers, pool floats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. All-day use of the watersports rentals for only $49 per person. Menu Sampler Entrees: $10 to $16 Entree: Pulled pork, cheeseburger, wild salmon burger, tuna, turkey and Greek salad wraps and hot dogs Beverage: $25 souvenir silicone cup comes with free 16 oz. Painkillers or Painquillas and all refills 16 oz. with the 12 oz. price.

MORGAN’S MANGO Cruz Bay, St. John 340-693-8141 www.morgansmango.com Since 1992, Morgan’s Mango has been offering a neo-Caribbean experience conveying the juices and jazz of the islands with a carnival of flavors and lifestyles. A sophisticated yet casual place of dazzling light with tropical breezes and starry nights that all play a part in a sensory dining experience.

Lobster Night Every Tuesday and Saturday! Live Music Wednesday Cruz Bay, St. John

Across form the National Park Dock

Dining Nightly 5:30 - 10:00 p.m. Reservations Recommended

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Menu Sampler Entrees: $18 to $42 Entree: Creamy Seafood Paella: CARIBBEAN FUSION — A Caribbean twist on a traditional dish. Fresh mahi, shrimp, mussels and calamari sautéed with peppers, onions, peas and rice, then simmered in a rich saffron cream sauce Wine: Nita Priorat, Spain (available by the glass or bottle)

EYMOON BEACH HON st. john OCEAN 362 Five-minute stroll from Cruz Bay 340-776-0001 www.ocean362.com Perched above Gallows Point Resort’s beautifully landscaped five-acre property, Ocean 362 brings you modern “island to table” style cuisine paired with stunning sunsets and views of the twinkling lights of St. Thomas after dark. Just a five-minute stroll from the passenger ferry and the heart of Cruz Bay, the restaurant celebrates every aspect of what it means to eat local with a modern take on traditional Caribbean dishes. With its convenient location, open-air dining room and top-floor cocktail bar, Ocean 362 is a perfect venue for special celebrations. Call 340-776-0001 for dinner reservations or to request availability for a private event. THE TERRACE RESTAURANT On the waterfront in Cruz Bay, St. John Five-minute walk from the ferry

340-779-8550 www.theterracestjohn.com A French-influenced, chef-driven restaurant that is redefining fine dining in the Virgin Islands with an elevated yet accessible menu featuring fresh local seafood, premium meats and an eclectic wine list. Offering refined, contemporary and classic cuisine, The Terrace boasts sunset waterfront views from its rustic, stone building in the heart of Cruz Bay, St. John. Menu Sampler Entrees: $32 to $48 Entree: Pan-roasted local wahoo and steamed littleneck clams, leek and black truffle risotto, roasted baby carrots, applewood smoked bacon crumbles and fresh herb cream broth Wine: Sequoia Grove Chardonnay, Napa Valley, California, 2012

BAR& GRILL

MA NGROVE LAGOON st. thomas

Try our Painkillers!

bikinisonthebeach.com

(340) 779-2155

Chef Erica & Robin Miner The Terrace is a French-influenced, chef-driven restaurant with an elevated yet accessible menu featuring fresh local seafood, naturally raised meats, local produce, premium ingredients and an eclectic wine list. Mo nday - S atu r d ay . <><><><> Dinner is served from 5:30pm Sunset Happy Hour at the bar 4:30pm-6:30pm <><><><> theterracestjohn.com open

Please call for reservations or private events

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Accommodations

Courtesy of Gallows Point Resort

TROPICAL RETREATS by ANDREA MILAM

From cozy studios to lavish villas and everything in between, your perfect St. John getaway awaits.

odging options on St. John are as unique and charming as the island itself. First, you should know that all-inclusive beachfront accommodations don’t exist on the island. In fact, beachfront accommodations are hard to come by thanks to the Virgin Islands National Park, which protects much of the island — including those stunning, unspoiled shorelines that surely attracted you to St. John in the first place.

Staying Seaside That said, there are a handful of seaside accommodations, like Gallows Point Resort, which is located on a peninsula at the mouth of Cruz Bay. This condo community boasts incredibly lush landscaping, creating a serene setting and providing a privacy buffer between each unit. Its small oceanside pool is a wonderful place to unwind and realign with some early morning yoga, or perhaps you’d prefer to pursue relaxation in a different way — with an afternoon poolside cocktail, watching the boats come in and out of the island’s main harbor. An on-site restaurant offers the best sunset views for a romantic dinner, and Gallows Point’s convenient Cruz Bay location makes it easy to walk into town for shopping or meals, or to grab a taxi to the beach. The island does offer one beachfront hotel — The Westin St. John Resort, which combines vacation villa-style accommodations with a resort-style getaway on Great Cruz Bay Beach. Just a two-minute drive from Cruz Bay and a short walk across the street from a wellstocked grocery store, the Westin offers two restaurant options, watersports and boat excursions, and the largest pool on island, where vacationers gather by afternoon to engage in fun games and competitions with resort staff.

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Chill in a Villa Despite those shoreside options, most St. John visitors seek out their own private condo or villa. In fact, this style of accommodations makes up most of the island’s inventory, and there are numerous villa management companies who will guide you to the property that’s perfect for you. Decide what you’re looking for, whether it’s stunning panoramic views, a private pool, air conditioning, or proximity to your planned activities, and your management company will do the rest. VRBO and Airbnb are fast becoming a popular way to book a vacation villa, or you can reach out directly to book with the property’s owner, which can help you save on fees. Check out www.stjohn-villarentals.com, an easy-to-navigate website that allows vacation rental owners to connect directly with prospective guests. Note that most St. John rentals will charge based on the size of your party, allowing owners to mitigate the costs associated with larger parties, including providing additional linens and extra power and water used. Some villas only allow Saturday to Saturday bookings, so you’ll want to consider this when booking your flight.

GALLOWS POINT RESORT Discover the sweeping panoramic views and stunning sunsets from the Gallows Point Resort’s private oceanfront location on a lushly landscaped five-acre peninsula. Offering newly renovated, onebedroom oceanfront villas, a gift and gourmet coffee shop, concierge service and fine dining at the highly proclaimed on-site restaurant, Ocean 362, the resort was especially designed with your vacation experience in mind. Five-minute stroll from Cruz Bay; 340-776-6434; www.gallowspointresort.com

Sweeping panoramic views. Stunning sunsets. Lush 5-acre, private oceanfront peninsula. Designed with your vacation experience in mind. 5-minute stroll from Cruz Bay, St. John 340-776-6434 | gallowspointresort.com

Modern â&#x20AC;&#x153;island-to-tableâ&#x20AC;? cuisine. Traditional Caribbean dishes with a modern twist. The freshest local ingredients available. Stunning views for a sunset dinner. Professional staff, refined service, chef-driven dishes & craft cocktails.

AT GALLOWS POINT RESORT 5-minute stroll from Cruz Bay 340-776-0001 | www.ocean362.com

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Local Spotlight

Courtesy of Victor Provost (2)

STEEL PAN MAN by ANDREA MILAM

Victor Provost has taken St. John’s steel pan sound around the globe.

usic was always a part of St. John native Victor Provost’s young life, but his passion was never truly ignited until a piano lesson at the St. John School of the Arts. It wasn’t the ivory keys that tickled his fancy — it was the sounds of steel pan band Steel Unlimited II drifting down from the arts school’s main room up above that grabbed Provost’s attention. “I went to check it out and saw all my friends were there, and it seemed much cooler than playing the piano by myself in the basement,” Provost laughs. “I joined Steel Unlimited II that day.” Steel pan instantly became Provost’s instrument of choice,

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and he even managed to monetize his musical talent as a high school student, when he’d perform on his tenor outside Bamboula in Mongoose Junction to help attract customers and later at the Caneel Bay Resort. His prowess behind the pan would later see him heading up the Love City Pan Dragons’ Baby Dragons program, performing with a Pittsburgh-based band that took him on two European tours, and running an after-school music program similar to the Pan Dragons in Virginia Beach.

lor’s and graduate degrees, and

At the age of 26, Provost decided it was finally time to pursue a music degree. He studied for five years at George Mason University, earning his bache-

ica and, of course, throughout

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was hired at the school upon graduation. Provost founded a program at the university specifically for students wanting to study steel pan as their primary instrument. His teaching schedule is flexible enough that he’s been able to tour and record with jazz greats like Paquito D’Rivera, Monty Alexander, the late Hugh Masekela and Dion Parson’s 21st Century Band; and Provost’s music career has taken him around the world to a dozen European countries, the Middle East, China, South Amerthe Caribbean. The steel pannist makes sure to return to St. John annually, where he performs at the very place his music career

began — the St. John School of the Arts. When Provost is back home, a fresh, hot beef pate, an icy cold Heineken and a trip to Hawksnest Beach are high on his to-do list. He likes to hike down Reef Bay and across the beach to a small trail that leads right to his childhood home’s backyard. Provost says he hopes visitors will sample the local cuisine while they’re on island at venues like Hercules Pate, Miss Lucy’s, De Coal Pot or Hillside Terrace. “I want them to get a beef pate, or some oxtail or conch in butter sauce,” he says. Listen to Provost’s music, see his performance schedule or buy his CDs at www.victorprovost.com.

ST. CROIX DINE — SHOP — EXPLORE

Danish Customs House

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WELCOME TO ST. CROIX

Frederiksted

n St. Croix, evergreen mountaintops, unspoiled beaches and sustainable cuisine await you. The sunrise invites you to conquer the day, the sunset lingers while bursting with red-orange hues and

the cool night breeze surrounds you as you wander along cobblestone sidewalks on an evening stroll. Combine luxury, unspoiled nature and a culture overflowing with history and you’ve arrived on the shores of the gateway to the Caribbean. The island’s seven-flag colonial history —

dating back to the early 1400s — lends to the eclectic blend of cultures found within its 84 square miles. Warm and friendly St. Croix locals (called Crucians) will always offer a jovial smile followed by a “Good morning,” “Good afternoon,” or “Good night” at the start of every conversation. Discover every square mile of this ideal destination, which is filled with a vibrant art and culture scene and offers abundant opportunities for sightseeing, shopping and relaxing. Protestant Cay

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Activities & Attractions

TIMELESS TREASURES by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

A deep range of activities let you explore St. Croix as it was while savoring how it is.

hile a number of landmarks offer you a deep dive into St. Croix’s colorful past, you can also enjoy the island’s captivating present by touring iconic areas. The historic town of Frederiksted — also known as ‘Freedom City’ — is experiencing a renaissance of sorts. Burgeoning revitalization efforts have resulted in a surge of new businesses being established in the town, ranging from hotels and restaurants to cafés and retail stores. Here are some of the island’s notable historical and cultural attractions that you don’t want to miss.

Whim Plantation Museum Featuring a fully restored great house, slave quarters and sugar mill, this authentic Danish plantation offers insights into life on the estate grounds during the 1700s. Spanning over 12 acres, this is the only sugar plantation museum in the Virgin Islands. Look out for tall stalks of sugarcane growing in one of the nearby plantation gardens. Take in the

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museum’s impeccably manicured grounds, which feature bright tropical flowers, plants and trees. Visitors can even trace their ancestries at the on-site research library and archive repository.

Fort Christiansvaern and Fort Frederik Learn about the two most iconic and impressive historical structures on St. Croix that were constructed in the mid-1700s and mid-1800s to protect Christiansted and Frederiksted from pirates and privateers. Fort Christiansvaern, located on the east end of St. Croix in Christiansted, was the first structure built by the Danish after the island was purchased from France in 1733. Besides serving as a protective barrier and as the living quarters for Danish troops, the fort also enforced the collection of customs duties. In the west, Fort Frederik functioned as the defense of Danish colonial interests in the Caribbean and the western end of St. Croix. Named for King Frederik V, Fort Frederik was completed in 1760; and since then, it has served as the focal point of several significant historical events, including the Emancipation Revolt of 1848, the 1878 Labor Riot and Fireburn and one of the 1917 ceremonies transferring the Virgin Islands to the United States.

Fort Frederik to the public, it features a medieval Chartres-style, seven-circuit labyrinth that was designed and built by Nancy Ayer, the estate’s current owner. Historically, labyrinths have been used to facilitate meditation, quiet prayer and self-reflection: This is easy to accomplish on the estate’s grounds while surrounded by lush foliage and tropical flora that include banana, avocado and citrus fruit-bearing trees. Considered by many to be the most beautiful historic restoration in the Virgin Islands, this 12-plus-acre property features a magnificent view overlooking green hills, above treetops, down the length of a nature preserve and out to the sapphire-blue Caribbean Sea.

St. George Botanical Gardens This 16-acre estate located on the west of St. Croix is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the botanical, historical and cultural collections on its grounds. Boasting over 1,500 plant varieties, St. George showcases the cultural and historical value of the island’s plants as sources of food, medicine and decoration. Additionally, locals and visitors flock to St. George Botanical Gardens every summer to celebrate the “Queen of Tropical Fruit,” the mango! Every July, mango lovers de-

Labyrinth at Estate Mount Washington

velop a greater appreciation for the fruit by

Discover restored sugar plantation ruins that were found on this private property. Open

learning how to grow them and discovering

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countless ways in which they can be used.

Salt River National Historic Park

ECOLOGICAL PHENOMENONS by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

hile some visitors find it hard to tear themselves away from the island’s gorgeous beaches (kind of hard to blame them!), they’re not the only bounty that Mother Nature blessed the island with. Here are a few ways to kick off your ecotourism expeditions in St. Croix.

Watch Out

Lighten Up

Arrange an escorted night outing at the

Go for the glow by gliding in a clear kayak through one of only six year-round bioluminescent bays in the world. The “living night lights” that will be lighting your way are naturally caused by a high concentration of bioluminescent microorganisms called dinoflagellates. Kayak tours take place at Salt River Bay located on St. Croix’s North Shore.

largest leatherback turtle-nesting site in the United States. Watch female turtles dig nests and lay their eggs or be mesmerized as hatchlings break out their shells and crawl to the sea. The turtle nesting watches

Live in the Past

take place at Sandy Point, one of the lon-

Known as the site of Columbus’s 1493 landing, Salt River National Historic Park serves as a protected ecological reserve and tropical ecosystem home to threatened and endangered species. A kayaking tour on the notable shores explores the exact spot where Christopher Columbus landed on his second voyage to the Americas.

gest stretches of beach in the Caribbean. It is located on St. Croix’s West End at Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge. Visitors can contact them via Facebook to join any of their upcoming turtle nesting watches that are open to the public. www.facebook.com/sandypointnwr

Treat Them Get ready for a free show while casually strolling along Christiansted’s Boardwalk. Schools of tarpon have figured out that visitors feed them, so they gather for treats, often leaping spectacularly out of the water to nab them.

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Category

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by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

Estate Whim

ADVENTURES

ON LAND AND AT SEA Move from past to present with the island’s land-based sporting life and fun on and under the sea.

repare for an adventure of a lifetime with these action-packed activities that are sure to delight.

Ride Rough Get a different perspective on St. Croix by literally going off the beaten path. Hop into an open-air jeep that will take you to notable spots that are otherwise hard to reach, such as the hilltops of Blue Mountain and the tide pools. Take a scenic drive through the rainforest and stop in at Mt. Pellier Domino

Club, affectionately known as Norma’s. Here, guests can experience one of St. Croix’s most popular family-friendly attractions — the beer drinking pigs. See these enormous creatures guzzle a can or two of golden suds in the most unique way and check this attraction off your St. Croix bucket list. You can also go off-road in an ATV with a 90-minute guided excursion along mountainous trails on St. Croix’s North Shore. Get ready for a fast-paced trek where you can spy historical ruins from the early 1800s

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Activities & Attractions

West End Water Sports

Mermaid Beach at The Buccaneer

as well as gorgeous panoramic views of the shoreline. If you want

Get in the Spirit

to keep the adrenaline rushing after this ride, consider pairing this

A trip to St. Croix is not complete without a taste of the island’s favorite spirit: rum. Tour the “don’t hurry” facility at the Cruzan Rum Distillery and see how its use of pure, natural ingredients and processes has solidified Cruzan Rum as a world-renowned spirit.

excursion with a thrilling Jet Ski trip.

Savor Local Flavors If you don’t have much of a need for speed and your trip tastes trend a bit more towards indulgent and relaxed pursuits, try a guided food tasting and cultural walking tour in Downtown Christiansted. You can enjoy sampling authentic local cuisine and taste firsthand why St. Croix is considered a premier culinary destination in the Caribbean.

Go Under Nothing compares to snorkeling and diving in the warm, aquamarine waters of St. Croix where underwater trails and 3,200-foot sea walls await you. Head to Buck Island with Caribbean Sea Adventures for a guided underwater snorkeling tour and discover the diverse sea life of St. Croix.

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Line Up Sign up for a spectacular deep-sea fishing experience on St. Croix’s waters where you can throw out your line and catch your share of mahi-mahi, wahoo, tuna and marlin. Try your hand at fly-fishing or bottom fishing and if you’re lucky, you might get to fight a tarpon.

Splash Down Head to Rainbow Beach on the west side of St. Croix and kick-start your adrenaline rush with West End Watersports. Kayaking, wakeboarding, tubing and snorkeling are a few ways to have some fun in the water. Or you can hop on a Jet Ski for a thrilling ride on the calm blue waters or defy the laws of gravity when you take flight with the newest watersport, flyboarding.

Prepare for an adventure of a lifetime. CARIBBEAN SEA ADVENTURES Known for its fabulous snorkeling and white-sand beach, Buck Island is St. Croix’s top attraction. Caribbean Sea Adventures offers a variety of boating packages, including custom private charters, fishing charters, half- and full-day trips to explore Buck Island’s underwater snorkel trail, and sunset sails with complimentary Cruzan rum punch. Six boats for endless escapes. 59 King’s Wharf, Christiansted; 340-773-2628; www.caribbeanseaadventures.com WEST END WATER SPORTS All-in-one beach company with the best watersports and beach rentals on St. Croix. Their fleet of Jet Skis are always new, and they have the newest craze in watersports — the Fly Board! Spend a relaxing and/or fun-packed day and enjoy great food and beverages next door at Rhythms at Rainbow Beach. Rainbow Beach, West End; 340-277-8295; www.wewatersports.com

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Beaches

by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

Sandy Point

SEASIDE SPLENDOR The island’s sunny shores are as versatile as they are beautiful, offering a range of experiences.

hether you want a popular beach with the magnificent views and crystal-clear waters or a quaint and tranquil beach to get away from it all, St. Croix has a beach with your name on it. Here’s a look at some of the island’s best spots for the beach lover in you.

Best for Snorkeling Turtle Beach at Buck Island National Monument: Because of a uniquely marked underwater trail, Turtle Beach is best known as a top spot for snorkeling. Turquoise waters, white sandy shores and a brilliant view of St. Croix make this designated national park — located seven miles east of Christiansted — nothing short of a Caribbean dream.

Best for Jaw-Dropping Views Sandy Point: Recently named one of the Best Caribbean Beaches for 2019 by Forbes.com, Sandy Point Beach is a secluded slice of paradise on St. Croix’s West End that features one of the longest stretches of sugary-white sand in the Caribbean. As a popular nesting site for leatherback, hawksbill and green turtles, the beach is closed between April 1 and September 1 and opens only on weekends during the rest of the year.

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Best for Couples Shoy Beach: Located inside the entrance to The Buccaneer and

encircled by sea grape trees, this private beach welcomes you with the sound of gentle waves crashing ashore. While Shoy Beach offers no amenities, its plentiful shade and solitude make it a great couples’ escape.

Best for Families Rainbow Beach: Located in Frederiksted, this lively beach is ideal

for families in search of the proverbial fun in the sun. There’s something for everyone at this local favorite: Grab refreshments at the restaurant bar, play a game of volleyball, hop on a Jet Ski, test your balance while flyboarding or enjoy live music with locals on weekends, among other options.

Best for Going Solo Protestant Cay: Located just a brief ferry ride from the

Christiansted harbor, Protestant Cay is the perfect location for sunbathing, swimming or day drinking like a pro. Grab a bucket of beer or refreshing cocktails from the bar and witness the activity as seaplanes take off and land throughout the day. After a hard day of play, don’t miss the island’s exquisite sunsets as the sun dips behind rolling hills against this scenic shore, providing the perfect ending to an island day.

GIVING HONOR WHERE HONOR IS DUE by

Anquanette Gaspard

hat started out as an act of gratitude has grown into a nonprofit organization that’s geared towards supporting the veterans of St. Croix and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Thanks to Barbara Peel, Fish with a Vet USVI has organized several fishing tournaments, talent shows and other fundraisers in an effort to raise money for the organization so it can support veterans in need of medical and housing assistance, mental health treatment and the ultimate goal of establishing a veteran recreation center and retreat. We sat down with Peel to learn more about her and the organization.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your connection to St. Croix? I’m from Long Island, New York, but my husband Tony and I have been visiting St. Croix for over 20 years. Within 24 hours of our initial visit to the island, we knew we would retire here. We felt that it was a place where you can live and not just visit. After 31 years as a high school teacher, we made the official move in

2014. Since Tony was a marine surveyor, we launched a fishing charter business called Forever and Always Fishing Charter.

How did the idea of Fish with a Vet USVI come about? One day, I had an idea to take a few veterans out on Veterans Day for a day of fishing on the water. It would be a way of thanking them for their service. Before I knew it, two weeks later we had created a small tournament called Fish with a Vet with six boats and 21 veterans. When the tournament ended, we had a huge celebration at the marina with more than 100 people, including members of the V.I. Coast Guard and V.I. National Guard. The 2017 tournament almost didn’t happen due to hurricanes Irma and Maria, but thankfully, we were able to pull it off. That year’s after-party quickly became a thank-you celebration for the veterans and the relief workers for all of their hard work. Retired Air Force veteran Brian Boschen said it was the most honored he ever felt about being a veteran since leaving the service. In 2018, I

established the organization as a nonprofit; and soon after, I applied for and received 501(c) (19) status.

What are ways Fish with a Vet USVI gives back to the St. Croix community? Now that we’re a nonprofit, we have board members working together to help the veteran community as much as possible. Ways that we give back are by keeping the veteran memorials on island clean and in good shape, as well as assisting veterans in need of medical treatment or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our main goal is to establish a veteran recreation center and retreat where the money we raise goes towards achieving that goal for things like money to purchase land, building plans, etc.

What has been your most memorable moment since launching Fish with a Vet USVI? At our second annual corn hole tournament in July 2019, I met a female Army veteran who came out to support the organization in honor of her son, a marine who died while serving. She mentioned that she could never cross paths with a veteran who is without and not offer to help. That same night, she met a veteran who was in desperate need of a place to stay and she offered him her guest bedroom until he was able to get on his feet. Coincidentally, that same veteran gifted his $750 cash raffle prize won that night to Fish with a Vet USVI as a way to say “thank you” for helping him when he needed it the most. It was such a touching moment, and I’ll never forget it.

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by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

Crucian Gold

TREASURE TROVE

No need to search too far for buried treasure because the island features both famous brands and one-of-akind souvenirs to remind you of your time here.

hat’s a trip to St. Croix without a heaping dose of retail therapy to commemorate your visit to the big island? Locally handcrafted jewelry, fine artworks, duty-free wine and spirits are a small sampling of unique finds that are sure to fulfill any shopper’s wish list.

Fashion Forward Satisfy the fashionista within! Add a little flair to your vacation wardrobe by acquiring exclusive clothing found only on St. Croix

Christiansted

in quaint boutiques and shops in both Christiansted and Frederiksted. For the best selection of beach apparel that caters to all shapes and sizes, you can stop in at Hotheads for your pick of colorful sarongs, cover-ups, hats and accessories. If you’re in search of authentic Crucian apparel, pick up any clothing made with the cultural madras fabric. Dating back to the 14th century, this dyed plaid material is often hand woven and an almost immediate identifying product of the Caribbean.

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Shopping

Stroll the stores set on charming cobblestoned streets as you search for flaw less pieces to add to your collection. Double Duty

ib designs

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Definitely consider stocking up on libations while on the island; the duty-free allowance for U.S. citizens is $1,600 per person, including children, and this is nearly double the amounts of other islands. Goods such as perfume, tobacco, cameras, jewelry, china, crystal and electronics will not incur any duty when purchased during your visit. Moreover, visitors can take up to six bottles of liquor back with them in their checked luggage for free as long as one of the

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

bottles was made locally in the U.S. Virgin Islands, like the local Cruzan Rum.

Seeking Shine With one of the largest concentrations of handmade jewelers in a square-mile radius, downtown Christiansted is ideal for treasure hunting. Stroll the stores set on charming cobblestoned streets as you search for flawless pieces to add to your collection. One option to consider would be the signature handmade Crucian hook bracelet. This is one of the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most beloved jewelry pieces, representing the beauty, culture and unique heritage of the 84-square-mile island. You can find this piece and much more at shops such as Perfection Jewelers and Tropical Bracelet Factory Outlet. Stop in at ib designs for handcrafted feel-good jewelry inspired by nature and crafted by Whealan Massicott, a local artist and metalsmith. For an assortment of bracelets, earrings and inimitable charms, visit Joyia Inspirational Jewelry on Queen Cross Street for that perfect piece. And if sustainable is part of your

shopping matrix, browse the unique jewelry collection at Crucian Gold — they’re crafted from recycled and eco-friendly sources. In business since 1972, the Bishop family and their team of artisans design and create original jewelry pieces in gold, silver, copper and local materials. If heirloom items set with precious stones are what you fancy, The Natural Jewel is where you go for pieces featuring coral, pearls and Larimar, among other types.

Back to Basics If it turns out you’re in need of basics like flip-flops or a swimsuit, St. Croix’s department stores, boutiques and grocery stores should have exactly what you’re looking for at great prices, especially since there is no sales tax or duty added to most items. Visit Seaside Market & Deli in Gallows Bay to get your hands on the freshest produce, seafood and meats on island. Stock up on any staples you might have forgotten to pack, like sunscreen or first aid supplies. And don’t forget to grab a handful of go-to snacks for those late-night munchies.

A Crucian Crucible One great way to learn more about the island and remember your visit is by purchasing a copy of Creative Callaloo, a vibrantly illustrated book written by St. Croix artist Danica David and showcasing recipes, poetry, art, history and other cultural aspects of the Virgin Islands. Readers will be delighted by the thought-provoking poems from Winifred “Oyoko” Loving and the cultural recipes from chef Mark E. Davis. With these dynamic elements, David’s book serves up a scrumptious blend of cultural topics, including a short history of the islands, the people and the traditions. Various paintings throughout the book capture the true essence of Virgin Islands culture while introducing readers to the people of the territory, both

past and present: a market lady, carnival women in elaborate headdresses and one wearing a large straw hat, three historic Queens (Queen Mary, Agnes, and Mathilda), student musicians playing trombone and a reggae musician at the stand-up bass. This unique and satisfying Caribbean book blossoms with the colors and flavors of the Virgin Islands on every page. You can purchase your copy at local bookstores on island or on www.creativecallaloo.com.

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Shopping

SHOPPING FINDS 3

1. Beach Apparel and Hats. Hotheads; www.hotheads.vi 2. Handcrafted Island Bracelets. ib designs; www.ibdesignsvi.com 3. Caribbean Cuff. Joyia Inspirational Jewelry; www.joyiajewelry.com 4. Handcrafted Two-Tone Classic Bracelets. Crucian Gold; www.cruciangold.com CRUCIAN GOLD Feel the love of Crucian Gold’s handcrafted jewelry inspired by St. Croix’s natural beauty and culture. Visit the Christiansted store where Nathan Bishop and their family of jewelers create the Island Bracelets, Chaney Collection and a wide array of stunning original silver and gold artisan jewelry and gifts. Strand Street; 340-244-2996; www.cruciangold.com HOTHEADS Hotheads delivers beach apparel for all shapes and sizes. Full-figured women can find attractive styles in swimwear separates, with larger cup sizes and long-torso pieces. You’ll find colorful sarongs, cover-ups, bags and accessories, not to mention the reason for the store’s name: hats, hats and more hats. Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Queen Cross Street, Christiansted; 340-773-7888; www.hotheads.vi IB DESIGNS ib designs is home to the distinctive designs of local metalsmith Whealan Massicott. Crafting for over 25 years, Whealan is motivated by the complexity of the Caribbean’s people, beauty and culture. Whealan’s richness of imagination and creativity allow each piece to express diversity, emotion and life’s beauty. 2108 Company Street, Christiansted; 340-773-4322; www.ibdesignsvi.com JOYIA INSPIRATIONAL JEWELRY Joyia offers everything from sterling silver bangles, rose gold stackable rings and men’s cuff bracelets to one-of-a-kind custom pieces. They handcraft inspirational, personalized jewelry. Their intention is to radiate love, through jewelry, to you the wearer. Therefore, each piece is handmade and engraved right here on St. Croix. Transform your inspirations into jewelry! Queen Cross Street, Christiansted; 340-713-4JOY (4569); www.joyiajewelry.com THE NATURAL JEWEL & THE JEWELRY FACTORY One-of-a-kind handcrafted sterling silver and natural precious stone jewelry. The largest variety of Larimar, corals and cultured saltwater pearls all hand knotted and set by Michelle. Find your authentic, locally sourced Chaney jewelry here. All jewelry designed on premises. The Natural Jewel carries the Original St. Croix “Wave” bracelet, as well as the St. Croix Hook bracelet, both handcrafted by Jack III. Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. And they will ship! 1114 King Street, across from Government House; 340-773-3845; www.thenaturaljewelstcroix.com

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SEASIDE MARKET & DELI St. Croixâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only gourmet market. Featuring a full-service bakery and deli, huge selection of wines, gourmet cheeses, specialty food items, the freshest meat and seafood, a large selection of fresh produce, including local selections, and a variety of ready-made foods including a fresh soup and salad bar, made-to-order sandwiches and a hot buffet. 2001 Estate Mt. Welcome, Christiansted; 340-719-9393; www.seasidemarketstx.com

Natural THE

JEWEL

ONE OF A KIND D Handcrafted sterling silver jewelry D Authentic, locally sourced Chaney jewelry D Largest variety of Virgin Islands Cardow Mens & Womens D D D D

Watches and Jewelry in Christiansted Natural and precious stone jewelry Larimar - One of the largest selections on St. Croix The St. Croix "Wave" bracelets and rings St. Croix Hook bracelets hand crafted by Jack III

The largest variety of cultured Saltwater Pearls all hand knotted and hand set by Michelle.

Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. We will ship.

1114 King St , Christiansted Across from the Government House 340.773.3845 | thenaturaljewelstcroix.com STX17

Dining

by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

A TASTE OF THE TROPICS Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or just looking to casually explore local flavors, St. Croix will delight your taste buds one meal at a time.

ustainable seafood and locally grown fruits and vegetables drive both St. Croix’s authentic island cuisine and its superbly prepared selection of international favorites, allowing for visitors to get a true taste of St. Croix in every sense of the word.

Local Must-Haves Trade in your morning coffee for a cup of local bush tea. Pair this intoxicating medley of mint, lemongrass, ginger and basil with local homemade butter bread or a coconut pastry. Or you can sample a heartier Crucian breakfast that has been enjoyed by locals for generations: a wholesome plate of saltfish and smoked herring, boiled egg, spinach, banana fritters and johnnycakes (a delicious deepfried dough). If you’re feeling a little peckish, try a savory pate (pronounced puh-tay): These flaky island pastries are filled with spiced beef, chicken, lobster or veggies. Another local favorite is callaloo — a green soupy one-pot stew made with rich, leafy greens served over a ball of fungi (a cornmeal-based dumpling). And no meal on St. Croix is complete without a popular local drink like passion fruit, tamarind, sorrel, mauby or ginger beer.

Casual Choices In addition to the local fare, visitors will find a variety of cuisines available throughout the island, including American, Asian, Italian, French and Mexican. These international options offer tasty casual fare that’s ideal for a relaxed lunch or dinner while you explore the island. For instance, you can pair a picture-perfect view with a tasty lunch on the Christiansted Boardwalk or escape to a hidden courtyard in downtown Frederiksted for an icy afternoon smoothie or a

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filling sandwich or wrap. For the perfect comfort food that’s fun to eat, grab a pizza pie with all the toppings from a local pizzeria and share with family and friends.

Elevated Eats Of course, more elegant options are also on the table in St. Croix. Head west to Frederiksted and catch a spectacular sunset any night of the week while dining on a mahi coconut jasmine rice bowl and spicy mango cucumber salad at Beachside Café at Sand Castle on the Beach. The amazing views in their open-air, seaside terrace restaurant easily level up your meal. The culinary landscape on the island has evolved into one with an intense focus on sustainable agriculture and eco-friendly processes and techniques that support and protect the environment. For instance, The Reef Responsible Sustainable Seafood Initiative is designed to help create a sustainable seafood industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The program partners with local restaurants that are committed to supporting local fishermen while making conscious decisions about the seafood that they purchase, prepare and serve to their customers.

Tasty Toasting No trip to St. Croix is complete without a drink or two (or three) of rum, the popular island spirit. Try a Cruzan Confusion — St. Croix’s version of a rum punch made with extra punch or a Cruzan Dark ‛n Stormy made with Cruzan Dark Rum and local ginger beer. If craft beer is more your speed, grab a pint of locally made beer at almost any restaurant or even a six-pack at the local supermarket.

BEACH SIDE CAFÉ Sand Castle on the Beach Hotel, Frederiksted 340-772-1266 www.sandcastleonthebeach.com The Beach Side Café at Sand Castle on the Beach in Frederiksted offers American favorites along with fresh-catch specials and house-made desserts. Enjoy the best location for sunsets while sipping one of our handcrafted cocktails or mocktails made from fresh local juices. Call 340-772-1266 to reserve your seaside table. Menu Sampler Entrees: $12 to $25 Entree: Mediterranean Pasta with sautéed tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic and capers tossed with feta cheese, olive oil and artichokes. Add chicken, mahi or shrimp. Wine: Grüner Veltliner white, Austrian

Savor This Slice of Paradise Courtesy of Virgin Islands Food Tours (2)

Virgin Islands Food Tours is the newest tour company on the island. This guided food tasting and cultural walking tour in Downtown Christiansted is a unique Crucian foodie experience that allows guests to enjoy six exclusive tastings of authentic local cuisine and let their palates show them why St. Croix is considered a premier culinary destination in the Caribbean. The idea to launch the tour came about when the owner realized that not many visitors to the island had tasted the local cuisine. Furthermore, even island residents were missing out on some of the best places to get local dishes. So, in November 2016, Virgin Islands Food Tours was born. Not only do tour guests enjoy a taste of St. Croix, but they also gain insight into St. Croix’s rich history and eclectic culture. After sampling local delicacies while learning about the island’s seven-flag colonial history, its Danish architectural influence and how sustainability and agriculture are the backbone of the island’s cuisine, visitors are transformed into locals in just one afternoon. Each tour is led by passionate and knowledgeable local guides in groups no larger than 12 people so as to ensure a personalized, intimate experience for each guest. www.vifoodtours.com

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Accommodations

by ANQUANETTE GASPARD

The Fred

ROOM TO RECHARGE St. Croix accommodations options offer many ways to stay, allowing you to reconnect with nature, try something new or just chillax.

eady to live the suite life? When it comes to St. Croix lodging, our unique collection of accommodations is diverse enough to fit a wide range of expectations. Below we look at a few of the options, ranging from a brand-new boutique resort to serene spaces and bucolic getaways.

from the golden shores of turquoise beaches. You can opt for a

Renew at the Newest

Zen Zones

A laid-back, calm and casual experience is what Caribbean vacations are made of; and St. Croix delivers on that fundamental wish at a number of charming accommodations that feature the usual oh-so-good amenities like spas, snorkeling and poolside lounging. One option is The Fred, the island’s newest hotel. This adult-only boutique resort sits directly along the historic downtown waterfront in the heart of Frederiksted. At The Fred, guests experience a touch of Old World charm complemented with modern amenities, vibrant art and a hip, fresh ambience. For a change of pace, a welcomed stay in a charming bed and breakfast is exactly what the doctor ordered for rest and relaxation.

Natural Attractions Become one with nature at a number of eco-lodgings designed to help you further appreciate the beauty of St. Croix. While some are tucked away in the hills of the rainforest, others are a short walk

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rustic eco-bungalow built from local tropical hardwood or elegant, beautifully appointed villas. Hikes through gorgeous walking trails, yoga, kayaking, scuba diving and picking local fresh fruit are just a few of the eco-experiences to enjoy.

Perhaps the simplicity of the Caribbean is what you prefer: waking up to the sounds of crashing waves just outside your door and feeling cool tropical breezes caressing your skin once you step outside. If so, you’ll want to explore one of St. Croix’s beachside villas or book a room at one of the island’s well-known oceanfront resorts. These simple yet elegant accommodations let you reach the beach in a few steps and immerse yourself in island life. Take a leisurely walk along the shores in search of St. Croix’s beloved chaney, which are unique pieces of china found on the beaches and grounds of old sugar plantations on island. Better yet, find your zen with a sunrise yoga session on the pool deck of your villa. Whether a short stint or an extended family vacation, a girlfriends’ getaway or a solo adventure, St. Croix offers a deep variety of bases to launch your exploration of the island.

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text and photos by

ALAIN M. BRIN, BLUE GLASS PHOTOGRAPHY

HAPPILY EVER AFTER

Make that magical day even more enchanting by tying the knot in the USVI.

ven the most firmly traditionalist among us may change their minds when they contemplate a wedding

even establishing a new family tradition. Does that last part sound far-fetched? Well, about 4,000 weddings are celebrated on St.

in the U.S. Virgin Islands — stunning white-

John and St. Thomas every year…roughly 10

sand beaches, palm-fringed hills and sap-

per day. And a surprising number of these

phire-blue water will have that effect. But

folks picked the islands because of their

it’s not just about looks or causing some Ins-

family members. “My late brother intro-

tagram envy (though that’s pretty cool, too).

duced the island to my dad and me 15 years

Getting married in the USVI is also about

ago. And now my husband is also in love

reconnecting in paradise with friends and

with St. John,” says Gaylyn Walz, who had

family, exposing you and your loved ones

her wedding at Villa Kismet on St. John in

to a dynamic Caribbean culture and maybe

June 2019.

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Weddings

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Loving More Than the Look Why do people fall in love with the islands? As occurs with spouses, it’s usually about more than just their looks. The USVI offer a rich range of experiences, including rum tastings, beach barbecues, island-hopping, watersports, superb shopping, gaming, day-sail adventures and much more. This offers options not only for the happy couple but also for their guests. You can keep it informal and let guests explore the island for themselves or organize group outings to make memories together. And as part of the enjoyment, it’s very easy to immerse yourself into island life — which lots of couples seek to do these days.

An Easy Process Before you book, it’s important that you understand a few basics about getting married in the USVI:

“Today’s wedding couples don’t want to read about our tropical way of life — they want to also experience it as authentically

There’s no need for a blood test.

as possible. They want to hear our hurricane survival stories,

There’s no waiting period.

and they really want to be part of our success story,” observes

It’s recommended you file your marriage application, so the court has it 8 to 14 days before you arrive on the island.

Add your date of arrival to the cover letter you send with your application so the court knows.

Soolan Nilsen of Villa Norbu Events. “We extended our wedding date for a year after hurricane Irma devastated St. John. We wanted to be part of the recovery process, so we introduced as many people as possible to the Virgin Islands in hopes that they would also fall in love and return,” says Alyssa Miller, who married her beloved Austin in May 2019 at Susannaberg Plantation Ruins on St. John. Alyssa and Austin’s St. John wedding experience was featured on UPTV to millions of viewers.

Once you and your beloved arrive on the island, you pick up your marriage license at Virgin Islands Superior Court. Then you get married by a licensed officiant or minister and return the signed marriage license to the court.

Part of experiencing USVI as authentically as possible comes down to the food, whether it’s delectable Caribbean fare, elegant international cuisine or scrumptious seafood. “Let’s get them the freshest local fish and lobster we can get our hands on,” says Chef Paul Trujillo of Villa Norbu. He believes that access to daily caught tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo and spiny lobster is the icing on the cake for the perfect Virgin Islands wedding experience. “It’s about giving them something that they can’t get at home. The view and the food have to always complement each other,” he observes.

GALLOWS POINT RESORT WEDDINGS Gallows Point Resort offers two stunning wedding locations on their lushly landscaped grounds for your perfect island wedding — all with picturesque water views and gorgeous sunsets. Their recommended St. John wedding coordinators will help plan every aspect of your special day. Gallows Point Resort is sure to deliver enchanting moments that you and your guests will never forget. Just a five-minute stroll from the heart of Cruz Bay; 340-776-6434; www.gallowspointresort.com. HEART & SOUL UNIONS The fabulous wedding team at Heart & Soul Unions will assist you every step of the way, from initial contact to the end of your wedding day. Their goal is to give you a unique wedding experience that fits your personality and style and that also fits within your budget. Emerald Beach Resort, 8070 Lindbergh Bay, St. Thomas; 888-587-5661; www.heartandsoulunions.com

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MEETING FACILITIES

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RATES

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UNITS

Hotel Directory

ST. THOMAS HOTELS Bolongo Bay Beach Resort 340-775-1800 | 800-524-4746 reservations@bolongobay.com www.bolongobay.com

Emerald Beach Resort 340-777-8800 | 800-233-4936 reservations@emeraldbeach.com www.emeraldbeach.com

Lindbergh Bay Hotel and Villas 340-774-2525 | 800-792-2742 reservations@lindberghbayhotelandvillas.com www.lindberghbayhotelandvillas.com

Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort and Spa www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com

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Noni Beach Resort — Autograph Collection 888-236-2427 www.nonibeachresort.com

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas 340-775-3333 www.ritzcarlton.com

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Secret Harbour Beach Resort 340-775-6550 | 800-524-2250 info@secretharbourvi.com www.secretharbourvi.com

Sugar Bay Resort & Spa 340-777-7100 | 866-237-3267 reservations@sugarbayresortandspa.com www.sugarbayresortandspa.com

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$200–$415 per night

$180–$350 per night

$119–$229 per night

Call for details

$339–$1,549 per night

$185–$755 sgl $350–$725 dbl per night

$140–$670 per night

•

ST. THOMAS SMALL HOTELS Bellavista Scott Hotel 340-714-5500 bellavistascotthotel@gmail.com www.bellavistascotthotelvi.com

Bunker Hill Hotel 340-774-8056 info@bunkerhillhotel.com www.hotelbunkerhill.com

Flamboyan on the Bay Resort & Villas 340-777-6000 | 877-850-4465 www.flamboyanresortvi.com

The Green Iguana Hotel 340-776-7654 | 855-473-4733 info@thegreeniguana.com www.thegreeniguana.com

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$134–$224 per night

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$79–$135 per night

Call for details

$135–$200 per night

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$1,833–$2,513 per week

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SPA

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TENNIS

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per night

MEETING FACILITIES

Point Pleasant Resort 888-619-4010 www.pointpleasantresort.com

$108–$214

NONSMOKING

HANDICAP ACCESS

Mafolie Hotel 340-774-2790 | 800-225-7035 info@mafolie.com www.mafolie.com

RATES

UNITS

LODGING FACILITY

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ST. THOMAS VACATION HOMES, VILLAS AND RENTAL AGENTS At Home in the Tropics 340-777-9857 www.athomeinthetropics.com

Calypso Realty, P.C. 340-774-1620 | 800-747-4858 carlene@calypsorealty.com www.calypsorealty.com

Magens Hideaway 972-989-3066 magenshideaway@gmail.com www.magenshideaway.com

Villa Fratelli Cresta 340-514-9441 manager@fratellicresta.com www.fratellicresta.com

$229–$339 per night

$2,100– $8,000 per week

Call for details

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ST. THOMAS TIME-SHARES Bluebeard’s Beach Club 340-776-4770 www.bluebeardsbeachclub.com

Bluebeard’s Castle Resort 340-774-1600 | 843-238-5000 info@spmresorts.com www.spmresorts.com

Elysian Beach Resort 340-775-1000 | 800-438-6493 www.elysianbeachresort.net

Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham 340-775-8300 | 888-870-2927 www.margaritavillevacationclub.com

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Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove 340-693-4800 www.marriott.com

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The Ritz-Carlton Club, St. Thomas 340-775-3333 | 888-209-5557 www.ritzcarltonclub.com

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Call for

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details

$115–$200 per night

$200–$600 per night

$200–$800 per night

$345–$569 per night

Call for details

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$200–$639 per night

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175

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KIDS CLUB

The Westin St. John Resort Villas 340-693-8000 | 800-937-8461 www.westinresortstjohn.com

MEETING FACILITIES

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POOL

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$345–$695 per night

RESTAURANT

KITCHEN

TENNIS

RATES

Gallows Point Resort 340-776-6434 | 800-323-7229 info@gallowspointresort.com www.gallowspointresort.com

LODGING FACILITY

WATERSPORTS

UNITS

Hotel Directory

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ST. JOHN HOTELS

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ST. JOHN VACATION HOMES, VILLAS AND RENTAL AGENTS Coconut Coast Villas 340-693-9100 | 855-245-0499 coconutcoaststjohn@gmail.com www.coconutcoast.com

$197–$636 per night

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The Hills Saint John 800-727-6610 www.vacationvi.com

Call for details

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Island Getaways 340-693-7676 kathy@islandgetawaysinc.com www.islandgetawaysinc.com

$1,900– $10,400 per week

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St. John Signature Villas & Condos 884-STJ-Line www.stjohnsignature.com

$1,750–$28K per week

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The Buccaneer 340-712-2100 | 800-255-3881 reservations@thebuccaneer.com www.thebuccaneer.com

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$271–$2,481 per night

Divi Carina Bay Resort 340-773-9700 | 877-773-9700 management@divicarina.com www.divicarina.com

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Hotel on the Cay 340-773-2035 | 855-654-0301 info@hotelonthecay.com www.hotelonthecay.com Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa 340-778-3800 www.renaissancestcroix.com

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$271–$400 per night

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$79–$279 per night

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$186–$529 per night

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Call for details

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ST. CROIX HOTELS

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ST. CROIX SMALL HOTELS Arawak Bay, The Inn at Salt River 340-772-1684 | 877-261-5385 info@arawakbaysaltriver.co.vi www.arawakbaysaltriver.co.vi

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$95–$225 per night

The Fred 340-777-3733 | 844-789-8784 info@sleepwithfred.com www.sleepwithfred.com

Call for details

The Inn on Strand Street 340-719-1272 | 340-772-0500 info@innonstrandstreet.com www.innonstrandstreet.com

Call for details

King’s Alley Hotel 340-773-0103 | 800-843-3574 info@kingsalleyhotel.com www.kingsalleyhotel.com

$149–$239 per night

The Palms at Pelican Cove 340-718-8920 | 800-548-4460 info@palmspelicancove.com www.palmspelicancove.com

$209–$589 per night

Sand Castle on the Beach 340-772-1205 | 800-524-2018 info@sandcastleonthebeach.com www.sandcastleonthebeach.com

$149–$469 per night

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Sugar Apple Bed & Breakfast 754-300-6983 | 310-890-8111 sugarapplebedandbreakfast@gmail.com www.sugarapplebedandbreakfast.com

Call for details

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Tamarind Reef Resort, Spa & Marina 340-718-4455 | 800-619-0014 reservations@tamarindreefresort.com www.tamarindreefresort.com

$200–$325 dbl per night

Call for details

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GYM

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KIDS CLUB

Cottages by the Sea 340-772-0495 | 800-323-7252 vacation@caribbeancottages.com www.caribbeancottages.com

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MEETING FACILITIES

Call for details

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NONSMOKING

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HANDICAP ACCESS

Company House Hotel 340-773-1371 www.hotelcompanyhouse.com

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SPA

$62–$379 per night

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RESTAURANT

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TENNIS

Club Comanche Hotel St.Croix 340-773-0210 | 888-406-8030 info@clubcomanche.com www.clubcomanche.com

WATERSPORTS

$140–$180 sgl $140–$350 dbl per night

POOL

BEACH

RATES

KITCHEN

UNITS

Caravelle Hotel & Casino 340-773-0687 | 800-524-0410 info@hotelcaravelle.com www.hotelcaravelle.com

LODGING FACILITY

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ST. CROIX CONDOMINIUMS Caribbean Breeze 303-888-6899 www.caribbeanbreezecondo.com

ST. CROIX VILLAS Villa Dawn 303-888-6899 www.villadawn.com

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Visitor Information

USEFUL INFORMATION Helpful tips for navigating your way around our islands BANKING

MAIL & BUSINESS SERVICES

Currency is the U.S. dollar. There are ATMs located throughout.

U.S. postal rates apply on the U.S. Virgin Islands. The U.S. Postal Service offers Express Mail service that reaches any U.S. destination the following day if mailed before noon or within two days if mailed after noon. Priority Mail reaches the U.S. mainland in three to five days. Major couriers such as FedEx and UPS offer service to and from the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Banks are generally open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with service windows open later. Some banks have Saturday hours, 9 a.m. to noon. Traveler’s checks and major credit cards are accepted. There is no sales tax in the territory.

COMMUNICATIONS Most accommodations have in-room telephones. When calling the U.S. mainland, dial “1,” then the area code and number. The area code for the USVI is 340. There is no need to dial “1” and the area code when making local calls from a USVI landline. Most major U.S. cell phone service providers have coverage areas in the USVI. Many accommodations offer Internet access; and Wi-Fi is available in select locations.

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MEDICAL The integrated health system, called the Schneider Regional Medical Center, is comprised of the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital and Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute on St. Thomas and the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center on St. John. Trauma and emergency care are offered, plus other specialties including pediatrics, cardiology, oncology, neurology, ophthalmology and orthopedics as well as others. 340-776-8311; www.rlshospital.org

A beacon of hope & light in downtown Charlotte Amalie

ST.THOMAS

REFORMED CHURCH Founded in 1660

Sunday 10 a.m. services are culturally & musically rich and diverse. Visit our historic Sanctuary

All are welcome! 5 Crystal Gade, at the corner of Crystal and Nye, Charlotte Amalie (340) 776-8255 • stthomasreformedchurch.org

RELIGION

THE HEBREW CONGREGATION

Worship services for many religions are offered in the USVI. Check the local directory for information.

OF ST. THOMAS

TRANSPORTATION

National Historic Landmarks here. It

Airlines:

The Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas, established in 1796, is one of the three is the oldest synagogue in continuous

American Airlines: 800-433-7300

use under the American flag and second

Bohlke International Airways: 340-778-9177, 800-653-9177

itors welcome. No admission fee. Well-

oldest in the Western Hemisphere. Vis-

Cape Air: 800-227-3247

stocked Judaica Gift Shop. Services every

Delta Airlines: 800-221-1212

Friday at 6:30 p.m. 2116 Crystal Gade;

JetBlue Airlines: 800-538-2583

340-774-4312; www.synagogue.vi

The STRC app is available in the App store in Mac and Android formats.

Visit the

Historic Synagogue Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas

The spiritual home of the Jews of St. Thomas since 1796.

LIAT Airlines: 866-549-5428 Spirit Airlines: 801-401-2222

ST. THOMAS REFORMED CHURCH

United Airlines: 800-864-8331

Founded in 1660, this historic church hosted

AUTO RENTALS

home church of Edward Blyden, father of

Many major car rental companies have offices in the USVI. All require valid driver’s licenses and credit cards to rent vehicles of all sizes. Make sure to drive on the left and buckle up; it’s the law.

Pan-Africanism. Destroyed by fire, flood and

BUSES Air-conditioned VITRAN buses run in the city and rural areas. On St. John, VITRAN buses run between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. 340-774-0165. On St. Thomas, city

the Transfer Day service in 1917 and was the

hurricane, the sanctuary has been rebuilt each time, serving residents and visitors alike. Tours available by appointment. Sunday services at 10 a.m. All are welcome! 5 Crystal Gade, at the corner of Crystal and Nye, Charlotte Amalie; 340-776-8255; www.stthomasreformedchurch.org

Our Synagogue is one of the three National Historic Landmarks on St. Thomas and just a short walk from Main Street. Visit our adjacent Weibel Museum & Judaica Shop. Plan your destination Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Wedding or Vows Renewal with us. We are here to help you. Open to Visitors: Mon.-Thurs. 9am - 4pm, Fri. 9am - 3pm Contact us at: info@synagogue.vi | www.synagogue.vi Phone: 340-774-4312 | Fax: 340-774-3249 Join us for Services: Fridays 6:30pm

This architectual gem has all the original elements from its construction in 1833.

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Visitor Information buses run between the Schneider Regional Medical Center area west to town. Country buses travel between town and Red Hook every two hours from early morning to early evening. 340-774-5678. On St. Croix, bus service between Christiansted and Frederiksted runs at regular intervals between 5 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. daily, except Saturday and Sunday. Fares are $1 for those under 55 years of age, and $0.55 for seniors. Seniors with a Senior Citizen Card ride free. 340-778-0898 or 340-773-1290.

DEPARTURES FROM TORTOLA DEPARTURES FROM ST. THOMAS

RT - ROAD TOWN RH - RED HOOK

8:00am RT to RH 8:30am WE to RH 9:30am RT to CA 3:00pm RT to CA 4:00pm WE to RH

BOOK ONLINE: Nativesonferry.com

7:45am RH to WE** 8:25am/8:55am CA to RT (Monday - Saturday)** 1:30am CA to RT 1:45pm CA to RT (Sunday) 3:15pm RH to WE WE - WEST END 4:00pm CA to RT 5:00pm RH to WE/RT CA - CHARLOTTE AMALIE

Global Marine’s Tug Life: 340-775-6279 Inter Island Services, Inc. St. John: 340-776-6597 Love City Car Ferries: 340-779-4000 Varlack Ventures: 340-776-6412

TAXIS Cars and communal vans offer service in the USVI and are regulated by the government. The visitor’s guide Places to Explore publishes the most current rates.

FREE Pick-Up & Drop Off at Airport and Hotels. Some Restrictions Apply.

340-776-4858

WE’LL TAKE YOU THERE.

Boyson’s Inc. Car Ferry: 340-776-6294

Transportation Services: 340-776-6282

CONNECTING THE VIRGIN ISLANDS FOR OVER 44 YEARS

YOU CHOOSE WHERE.

FERRIES St. Thomas/St. John

Toll Free: 877-478-2833

We want to complete your stay in the USVI with outstanding customer service

New Models. Great Rates. Free Pick Ups. 340-776-1500 | www.thriftystt.com

Always Low Prices on SUVs, Cars & Minivans. 340-774-0111 | www.dollarstt.com

Experience the free, island famous, eco-friendly, propane powered shuttle to the airport in air conditioned luxury!

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Located next to the Airport St. Thomas, USVI

w w w .d i sc ou ntc a r .v i

and excellent new vehicles.

www.amaliecar.com amaliecar@yahoo.com

AMALIE CAR RENTAL Amalie Car Rental is committed to completing your stay in the U.S. Virgin Islands with outstanding customer service and excellent new vehicles. They are ready to serve their clients so they may enjoy their beach vacation, family time or business travels. St. Thomas; 340-774-0688; www.amaliecar.com BUDGET RENT A CAR Budget Rent A Car is the No. 1 choice for car rental on St. Thomas, offering a wide selection of well-maintained vehicles. At Budgetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s convenient locations, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a warm, friendly staff and a wide selection of cars, jeeps, SUVs, trucks and minivans. Call for free pickup or drop-off. Harwood Highway, Cyril E. King Airport and West Indian Cruise Ship Dock; 800-626-4516; www.budgetstt.com DISCOUNT CAR RENTAL Conveniently located right around the corner from the Cyril E. King Airport with free pickup. Discount Car Rental has the lowest car rental rates on St. Thomas and St. John and the best weekly rates. Clean, new vehicles that are comfortable and safe with air conditioning, automatic drive and all the amenities. Next to the St. Thomas Airport; 340-776-4858; www.discountcar.vi NATIVE SON FERRY They have daily scheduled trips but are also available for charters, companies or private trips. You can travel from downtown St. Thomas to downtown Tortola. Red Hook, St. Thomas to West End, Tortola. Taxis are available from all ports. Book online. Main office: 340-774-8686, CHA Office: 340-774-8685; www.nativesonferry.com THRIFTY CAR RENTAL & DOLLAR RENT A CAR Welcome to paradise! Thrifty and Dollar invite you to explore all the Virgin Islands in the comfort of their large variety of brand-new models, including sedans, jeeps, SUVs and full-size cars. Great deals, outstanding service and a free airport shuttle await you. Call or book online for the best deal. Airport Adjacent; 340-776-1500; www.thriftystt.com 340-774-0111; www.dollarstt.com

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Index of Advertisers

ACCOMMODATIONS

The COVE at Frenchman’s pg. STT50 800-307-7312 www.marriottvacationclub.com Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort and Spa pg. STT49 www.frenchmansreefstthomas.com Gallows Point Resort pg. STJ31 340-776-6434 www.gallowspointresort.com The Green Iguana Hotel pg. STT50 340-776-7654 www.thegreeniguana.com Noni Beach Resort pg. STT51 888-236-2427 www.nonibeachresort.com

ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS

Bushwackers (Crown Bay Gaming) pg. STT11 340-776-4111 Coral World Ocean Park pg. STT7 340-775-1555 www.coralworldvi.com Parasail Virgin Islands pg. STT5, STT19 340-227-8303 www.parasailvirginislands.com Parrot Club pg. STJ23 340-776-4111

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St. John Fitness pg. STJ9 340-690-7835 Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline Park pg. STT9 340-777-ZIPS (9477) www.ZiplineStThomas.com

CHURCHES & SYNAGOGUES The Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas pg. 131 340-774-4312 www.synagogue.vi St. Thomas Reformed Church pg. 131 340-776-8255 www.stthomasreformedchurch.org

RESTAURANTS Agave Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.agavevi.com

Blue Eleven pg. STT46 340-777-2511 www.blue11stt.com

Ocean 362 pg. STJ31 340-776-0001 www.ocean362.com

Caribbean Fish Market pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.caribbeanfishmarketvi.com

Pesce Italian pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.pescevi.com

Caribbean Saloon Steakhouse & Bar pg. STT42 340-775-7060 www.caribbeansaloon.com

PRIME at Paradise Point pg. STT41 340-690-2191

Delly Deck pg. STT47 340-776-9943 www.dellydeckrestaurant.com Duffy’s Love Shack pg. STT43 340-779-2080 www.duffysloveshack.com French Quarter Bistro pg. STT45 340-774-6539 www.frenchquarterbistrovi.com

Amalia Café/Meson Amalia pg. STT40 340-714-7373 www.amaliacafe.com

Iggies Oasis pg. STT44 340-775-1800 www.iggiesoasis.com

Beach Side Café pg. STX19 340-772-1266 www.sandcastleonthebeach.com

Morgan’s Mango pg. STJ28 340-693-8141 www.morgansmango.com

Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill pg. STJ29 340-779-2155 www.bikinisonthebeach.com

Natural Food Grocery & Deli pg. STT47 340-775-3737 www.naturalfoodsgrocery.com

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

RAW Sushi + Sake Bar pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.rawvi.com Sapphire Beach Bar pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.sbbvi.com Sib’s on the Mountain Bar & Restaurant pg. STT46 340-774-8967 www.facebook.com/ sibsonthemountain Sudi’s Caribbean Bar & Grille pg. STT44 340-777-5423 www.sudisvi.com Sunset Grille pg. STT39 340-714-STRG (7874) www.sunsetgrillevi.com taste at Paradise Point pg. STT41 340-690-2191

The Terrace Restaurant pg. STJ29 340-779-8550 www.theterracestjohn.com

ib designs pg. STX14 340-773-4322 www.ibdesignsvi.com

Tickles Dockside Pub pg. STT45 340-776-1595 www.ticklesdocksidepub.com

Island Casual pg. STT31 340-774-0807/340-775-9964 Facebook: @IslandCasual

SHOPPING

Joyia Inspirational Jewelry pg. STX17 340-713-4JOY (4569) www.joyiajewelry.com

A.H. Riise Mall Map 340-777-2222 www.ahriise.com Bamboo Studio pg. STJ23 340-776-0669 www.bamboovi.com

Little Switzerland Inside Front Cover-pg. 1, pg. 2-3, pg. 5, pg. 7, Map 877-800-9998 www.littleswitzerland.com

Bobby’s Jewelers pg. 10 800-232-6229 www.bobbyjewelers.com

Mongoose Junction pg. STJ20-21 340-774-8175 www.mongoosejunctionstjohn.com

Boolchand’s pg. STT28-29 340-776-0794/0302 www.boolchand.com Caravan Gallery pg. STJ22 340-779-4566 www.caravangallery.com Cartier pg. 9, pg. STT26-27 www.cartier.com Crown Bay Center pg. STT31 340-774-2132 www.crownbaycenter.com Crucian Gold pg. STX15 340-244-2996 www.cruciangold.com Cruzan Rum, Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits Inside Back Cover www.cruzanrum.com Diamonds International pg. 11, pg. 13, pg. STT25 340-776-5570/800-444-4025/ 284-541-8507/800-51-JEWEL www.diamondsinternational.com Hotheads pg. STX16 340-773-7888 www.hotheads.vi

The Natural Jewel & The Jewelry Factory pg. STX17 340-773-3845 www.thenaturaljewelstcroix.com Pandora Map www.boolchand.com/pandora The Pearl Lady pg. STT31 340-774-5875 The.Pearl.Lady.1@gmail.com Rolex Boutique at A.H. Riise Back Cover 340-777-6789 www.ahriise.com/rolex Royal Caribbean pg. 9, pg. 15, Map 340-776-4110 www.royalcaribbeanvi.com Sandals for Your Neck pg. STT34 340-776-3950 www.sandalsforyourneck.com Seaside Market & Deli pg. STX17 340-719-9393 www.seasidemarketstx.com Spa Ceylon pg. STJ24 340-725-5497

Steve Simonsen Photography pg. STJ17 340-513-9687 www. stevesimonsen.net/ Home/Books.html

TRANSPORTATION Amalie Car Rental pg. 132 340-774-0688 www.amaliecar.com

Budget Car Rental pg. 133 800-626-4516 www.budgetstt.com Discount Car Rental pg. 132 340-776-4858 www.discountcar.vi Native Son Ferry pg. 132 340-774-8686/340-774-8685 www.nativesonferry.com

Double Header Sportfishing pg. STT17 340-777-7317 www.doubleheadersportfishing.net Heavenly Days pg. STT19 340-775-1800 www.heavenlydaysvi.com Honeymoon Beach, St. John pg. STJ13 340-779-2155 www.viecotours.com Magic Moments pg. STT15 800-734-7345 www.yachtmagicmoments.com Nauti Nymph pg. STT15 800-734-7345 www.nautinymph.com

Seaborne pg. STX21 www.seaborneairlines.com

Parasail Virgin Islands pg. STT5, pg. STT19 340-227-8303 www.parasailvirginislands.com

Thrifty Car Rental & Dollar Rent A Car pg. 132 340-776-1500 www.thriftystt.com 340-774-0111 www.dollarstt.com

See & Ski Powerboat Rentals pg. STT18 340-775-6265/866-775-6268 www.seeski.com

WATERSPORTS

Arawak Expeditions pg. STJ13 340-693-8312 www.arawakexp.com B.O.S.S. Underwater Adventure pg. STT17 340-777-3549 www.bossusvi.com Caribbean Sea Adventures pg. STX9 340-773-2628 www.caribbeanseaadventures.com

Virgin Islands Ecotours pg. STT19, pg. STJ13 340-779-2155 www.viecotours.com Virgin Islands Expedition Company pg. STJ12 340-775-6074 www.usviexpeditions.com West End Water Sports pg. STX9 340-277-8295 www.wewatersports.com

WEDDINGS

Coki Dive Center pg. STT18 340-775-4220 info@CokiDive.com

Gallows Point Resort Wedding pg. STJ31 340-776-6434 www.gallowspointresort.com

Cruz Bay Watersports pg. STJ2-3 340-775-6555 www.cruzbaywatersports.com

Heart & Soul Unions pg. 125 888-587-5661 www.heartandsoulunions.com

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Association Members

MEMBERS OF

THE U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS HOTEL & TOURISM ASSOCIATION HOTEL MEMBERS, ST. JOHN Caneel Bay Resort Coconut Coast Villas Gallows Point Resort The Hills Island Getaways St. John Signature Condos & Villas The Westin St. John Resort Villas

HOTEL MEMBERS, ST. THOMAS At Home in the Tropics Bolongo Bay Beach Resort Bellavista Scott Hotel Bluebeard’s Beach Club Bluebeard’s Castle Bunker Hill Hotel Calypso Realty, PC Elysian Beach Resort Emerald Beach Resort Flamboyan on the Bay Resort and Villas Frenchman’s Reef Marriott & Morning Star Beach Resort The Green Iguana Hotel Lindbergh Bay Hotel & Villas Mafolie Hotel Magens Hideaway Margaritaville Vacation Club by Wyndham Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove Point Pleasant Resort The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas The Ritz-Carlton Club, St. Thomas Secret Harbour Beach Resort Sugar Bay Resort & Spa Villa Fratelli Cresta

HOTEL MEMBERS, ST. CROIX Arawak Bay The Buccaneer Caravelle Hotel & Casino Caribbean Breeze Club Comanche Hotel St. Croix Company House Cottages by the Sea Divi Carina Bay Resort The Fred Hotel on the Cay The Inn on Strand Street Kings Alley Hotel The Palms at Pelican Cove Renaissance St. Croix Carambola Beach Resort & Spa Sand Castle on the Beach Sugar Apple Bed and Breakfast

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Tamarind Reef Resort, Spa & Marina Villa Dawn

ALLIED MEMBERS, ST. THOMAS/ST. JOHN #1 Steam Carpet Alpha Jewelers Alpha Submarine Adventures American Airlines/US Airways Antilles Gas Corporation AT Construction Solutions Baker Magras & Associates Banco Popular Black Sheep Charters Bluewater Construction BoltNagi PC Boolchand’s Budget Rent A Car Cape Air Cardow Jewelers Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association Caribbean Saloon Chalet D’Or Cimmaron St. John COBEX International, Inc. Color Max Copy & Graphic Center Comprehensive Ortho Group Concessions International Coral World Ocean Park Crown Bay Marina Cruz Bay Watersports CSI Virgin Islands Delly Deck Restaurant deSigns Diamonds International Drive Green VI Drunken Clam Dynasty/Dazzlers Eden Jewelers Flavors of St. Thomas Food Tours French Quarter Bistro Frenchtown Brewing Fun Water Tours - VI CAT Glazer’s Premier Distributors Graphic Design Greathouse Hospitality Havensight Merchants Association Host - U - Training Services Hunter Food & Spirits Island Business Graphics Island Design Landscape & Stormwater Solutions Island Empire

VISIT U.S. VIRGIN ISL A NDS 2020

Island Meetings and Incentives Island Treasure Map JetBlue Airways JJ Divers KLR Services & Restaurant Supply Leatherback Brewing Company Leeward Islands Management Lemartec Little Switzerland Local Color Mango Tango Marjorie Rawls Roberts, PC MarryCaribbean.com Media Marketing MIMS MLB Creative Morris Caribbean Publications Natural Food Grocery & Deli Inc. Nauti Nymph Ocean Surfari Charters Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, LLC Over the Line Charter Palm Charters - Sail meow Paradise Point Tramway Parasail Virgin Islands Pirates and Treasure Museum Pistarckle Theater Pulse Technology Solutions of the VI Red Hook Family Practice Rooftops Royal Caribbean Rum Shandy Sail with Liberty Save on Islands, LLC Seaborne Airlines Sharp Properties Shop with Jane Sib’s on the Mountain Bar & Restaurant Smith Travel Research Southland Gaming of the Virgin Islands Spenceley Office Equipment St. John Brewers St. Thomas Cycle Boats St. Thomas Dive Club St. Thomas & St. Croix Road Maps St. Thomas/St. John Chamber of Commerce St. Thomas Historical Trust St. Thomas Yacht Club Stormy Pirates Boat Charters The Strategy Group

Stratustalk Inc. STRG St. Thomas Restaurant Group Take It Easy Boat Charters Theodore Tunick & Company Topa Properties Tree Limin’ Extreme Tropic Tours/Caribbean Travel Agency The Tropical Treasure Hunt Company TV2 University of the Virgin Islands VAL EVENTS VI Professional Charter Association Virgin Islands Ecotours Viya West Indian Company Limited Win Mill 2.0 Worldwide Flight Services WTJX Channel 12 Yacht Haven Grande

ALLIED MEMBERS, ST. CROIX Big Beards Adventure Tours Cane Bay Dive Shop Cape Air Centerline Car Rentals Coral Fire Entertainment Diageo USVI Dive Experience Divi Carina Bay Casino Eat @ Cane Bay Events by Nicole GoToStCroix.com ib designs Leatherback Brewing Company Lyric Sails Margi Levy Marshall & Sterling Insurance Olympic Rent-A-Car Paradise Freight The Reef Golf Shop Seaborne Airlines Sonya Ltd St. Croix Safari Tours St. Croix This Week StCroixTourism.com Visitthevi.com

ALLIED MEMBERS, WATER ISLAND Dinghy’s Beach Bar Grill Love City Excursions