2016-17 PC St Thomas Guide by Onboard Media

ST. THOMAS 2017 guide

duty-free shopping Where to get the goods

Island adventures Beaches and historic sites

PLEASE RETURN MAGAZINE TO STATEROOM AT VOYAGE END

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GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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Welcome to St. Thomas

Information at Your Fingertips

Island Highlights

Island History

Pirates’ Haven

Wish You Were Here

An Artist’s Journey

Charlotte Amalie Walkabout

Sacred and Celebrated

A View from the Top

Memorable Meals

Beach Briefing

St. John: A True Tropical Paradise

Shimmering Shores

Shopping and Island Maps

Have a Perfect Day

Shopping List!

Shopping Guide

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contents

GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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Pioneering since 1906. For the pioneer in you. Montblanc celebrates 110 years of constant innovation with a new edition of its earliest safety fountain pen: the Montblanc Heritage Rouge et Noir, decorated with the iconic serpent clip from the 1920s.

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1691 Michigan Avenue, Suite 600, Miami Beach, FL 33139 Tel: (305) 673-.0400, Fax: (305) 674.9396 www.onboardmedia.com

Robin Rosenbaum-Andras Senior Vice President, Marketing Carrie Julier Vice President and General Manager Editorial & Design Virginia C. Valls Publishing Director Kate McClare Managing Editor Beth Wood Senior Art Director Dayana Ramirez Art Director Christian Rosario Associate Art Director Raquel Figueroa Associate Art Director Jose Cuevas Graphic Designer Kat Williams Graphic Designer James Perdomo Production Coordinator Gail Abrams Ad Services Director Violeta Manco-Rojas Ad Services Manager Contributing Writers/Editors Michael De Freitas, Brandon Hardin, Lynn Seldon, Jonathan Siskin, Haley Struthers, Richard Varr, Deborah Williams Advertising Sales Anna Riekstins Director of International Sales & Brand Marketing Rod Musum Executive Director of Sales Tyler Condon Sales Manager Stephanie Yonskie International Sales Coordinator Video/Film Production Todd Hedge Executive Producer Dan Shaw Director, Operations Kevin Maschke Senior Editor Juan Carlos Peña Director of Photography Enrico Caschetta Assistant Editor Alexa Caravia Videographer/Editor Port Shopping Revenue Robert Yonskie Manager of Cruise Revenue Vince Mikulus Regional Marketing Manager Andrew Vrzal Regional Marketing Manager Jimmy Marks Retail Program Manager Port Shopping Jennifer Szewczyk Director of Operations Rina Alvarado Operations Coordinator Anaias Gonzalez Operations Sales Coordinator Nadine Winter Customer Relations Manager

©2016 ONBOARD MEDIA. NO CLAIM TO ORIGINAL WORKS OF PRINCESS CRUISES OR ADVERTISERS. SHIPS OF BERMUDAN REGISTRY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THIS PUBLICATION ARE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED IN A RETRIEVAL SYSTEM OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC, MECHANICAL, PHOTOCOPYING, RECORDING OR OTHERWISE, WITHOUT THE PRIOR PERMISSION OF THE COPYRIGHT OWNER. PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. ALL ARTICLES, DESCRIPTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS CONCERNING ACTIVITIES, TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND OTHER VACATION OPPORTUNITIES DESCRIBED IN THIS PUBLICATION ARE MERELY EXPRESSIONS OF OPINIONS BY CONTRIBUTING WRITERS, DO NOT CONSTITUTE THE OPINIONS OF ONBOARD MEDIA INC. OR PRINCESS CRUISES AND UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES CONSTITUTE ASSURANCES OR GUARANTEES CONCERNING THE QUALITY OR SAFETY OF ANY SUCH ATTRACTION OR ACTIVITY. ONBOARD MEDIA INC. AND PRINCESS CRUISES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM ANY LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES INCURRED DUE TO THE ATTENDANCE OR PARTICIPATION BY READERS OF THIS PUBLICATION IN ANY SUCH ACTIVITY OR ATTRACTION, AND THE ATTENDANCE OR PARTICIPATION IN ANY SUCH ACTIVITY OR ATTRACTION SHALL BE MADE SOLELY AT THE READER’S OWN RISK. WE AND OUR CONTENT PROVIDERS (“WE”) HAVE TRIED TO MAKE THE INFORMATION IN THIS PUBLICATION AS ACCURATE AS POSSIBLE, BUT IT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND WE ACCEPT NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY LOSS, INJURY OR INCONVENIENCE SUSTAINED BY ANYONE RESULTING FROM THIS INFORMATION.

GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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welcome

View of the harbor in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

With a matchless combination of near-perfect weather, spectacular beaches and lush mountainsides, as well as world-class shopping, interesting attractions and delectable cuisine, St. Thomas is a vacation destination you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget. The history of St. Thomas rests upon pirates and privateers, sugar plantations and the dark days of slavery. The island even played a role in the American Civil War. St. Thomasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; beaches are legendary; Magens Bay is unquestionably one of the most sensational anywhere. All along this beautiful island are shores just right for lazing and others perfect for every watersport imaginable. 10

SEAN PAVONE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, a destination offering fascinating history and idyllic beauty.

GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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SEAN PAVONE/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E AT

31 Main Street St. Thomas VI, 00802 340.774.3672

Havensight Mall Bldg. 2 Suite B St. Thomas VI, 00802 340.776.8550

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GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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Information at your fingertips Location

St. Thomas is 40 miles east of Puerto Rico. Its northern coast borders the Atlantic Ocean, while the Caribbean Sea washes the beaches to the south.

Land Area

St. Thomas is the second largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, after St. Croix. Shaped like an elongated hourglass, it measures about 28 square miles.

Climate

The island enjoys warm, dry weather practically all year, with pleasant breezes that temper the humidity.

Population

About 52,000.

ABC

Language

English is the common language of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Money

The U.S. dollar is the legal tender. Traveler’s checks and major international credit cards are accepted throughout the island.

Store Hours

Shops and businesses are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Some stay open later when a cruise ship is in port.

Customs and Duties

Merchandise purchased on your cruise is subject to duty, a tax that is payable upon return to the U.S. A portion of the goods’ value is exempt from duty — and because St. Thomas is a U.S. port, the duty-free allowance is greater than at other ports.

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Island

highlights Handmade Brooms Artists make decorative brooms from date palm and thatch palm fronds applied to birchwood. They’re used in local wedding ceremonies that follow the African custom of “jumping the broom.”

Banana Daiquiri Where else to indulge in this sweet concoction of rum, bananas, lime juice and sugar than on the island where the flavorful cocktail was invented? The tropical classic was created 60 years ago by bartender Sonny Bernier, who left a legacy worth toasting. Ginger-Thomas As the official flower of the U.S. Virgin Islands, ginger-thomas grows abundantly on St. Thomas. Not only do the lovely yellow blooms offer up the scent of champagne, but its leaves are also said to cure a host of ailments.

PHOTOS BY: (BROOM) ENTERPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BIRD) STUBBLEFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY /SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (FLOWERS) BAKUSOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (DAIQUIRI) PINKCANDY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Bananaquit The official bird of the U.S. Virgin Islands, this yellow-breasted chirper is 4 inches long and loves gardens. Like a hummingbird, the bananaquit, or sugarbird, can use its small, curved beak to extract nectar from certain flowers without having to bother pollinating them. Because of its sweet tooth, it’s called a sugar thief in some languages.

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PHOTOS BY: (BROOM) ENTERPHOTO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (BIRD) STUBBLEFIELD PHOTOGRAPHY /SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (FLOWERS) BAKUSOVA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM; (DAIQUIRI) PINKCANDY/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Ginger-thomas flowers; a bananaquit extracting nectar; a refreshing banana daiquiri; detail of broom.

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island history

The story of St. Thomas is a mix of native folklore, Spanish conquistadors and marauding pirates who brought treasure and left behind a legacy of enchanting tales and superstitions for the generations that followed. Native tribes had inhabited the island for 3,000 years before Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493. The explorer and his crew stayed only long enough to replenish their drinking-water supply after a somewhat unfriendly reception by the islanders. Spain immediately claimed the Virgin Islands but did little to colonize them. This left the islands’ shores and natural harbors unguarded, and struggles for domination ensued among the Dutch, English and French. It wasn’t until 1671, nearly two centuries after Christopher Columbus first set foot here, that Danish colonization began. The Danish West India Company sent two ships to the island; others followed over the next several years. Lore and Legend At the turn of the 18th century, St. Thomas had become the base for the Caribbean’s legendary pirates and privateers, such as Blackbeard and Sir Francis Drake. The island was eventually declared a free port, and 20

Purchasing Paradise The United States realized the strategic importance of the Virgin Islands during the Civil War when seeking to establish a naval base in the Caribbean. But no deal was struck until World War I. Fearing Germany would attempt to capture the islands and then the Panama Canal, the United States bought the Virgin Islands for $25 million in 1917. Throughout the second half of the 20th century, immigrants flooded St. Thomas and tourism helped revive the economy. Today these idyllic islands remain a United States territory and draw tourists and travelers from all over the world.

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Pirate ship recreation

with plantations prospering, the slave trade flourished. At the same time, the streets along the shoreline of what is now Charlotte Amalie became home to taverns, which attracted many a seafarer; by the early 1700s, the population had grown to more than 3,000. The Danish West India Company established plantations on neighboring St. John in 1717 and bought St. Croix from the French in 1733. With a booming slave trade, tensions and uprisings in the area increased. In 1792, Denmark proclaimed it would end the slave trade on its islands — a promise that didn’t become a reality until 1848. By the mid-1800s, St. Thomas had become a refueling port for coal-fired steamships that journeyed between North and South America. But low demand for the staple sugar-beet crop thwarted the economic boom created just a few decades earlier.

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GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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PIRATES’ HAVEN By Deborah Williams

St. Thomas’ chief port and capital, Charlotte Amalie, has been a haven for seafarers since the 1600s — particularly the swashbuckling kind.

A bronze statue of the notorious Capt. Bartholomew Roberts, known as ‘‘Black Bart,’’ gazes over Charlotte Amalie from Blackbeard’s Castle on Government Hill.

The Danes, who moved quietly into St. Thomas in the 17th century amid the colonial squabbles of England, Spain and France, built this town and named it after the consort of King Christian V. Charlotte Amalie, already famous as a free port and a protected harbor, welcomed all comers: New England sea captains, Civil War blockade-runners, religious refugees from Europe, even pirates who came ashore to buy supplies and sell their loot in this busy trading post. The old warehouses that once stored pirates’ booty today contain many of Charlotte Amalie’s boutiques and shopping arcades.

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The town’s white and pastel buildings line the waterfront and spread across three steep hills: Denmark Hill, Synagogue Hill and Government Hill. In days of yore, sailors looked up from the water and called the three hills Foretop, Maintop and Mizzenmast. The harbor is unmatched for its beauty and superb location. It was the nearest thing to home port for cutthroats such as Capt. William Kidd and Edward Teach, otherwise known as Blackbeard. From this lair, Sir Francis Drake launched his attacks on Spanish galleons laden with New World gold that were sailing through Anegada Passage on their way home to Spain.

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wish you were here . . . then Vintage postcards and other island artifacts make the past come alive at St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum By Kate McClare Snapshots of life in St. Thomas: Ladies in long dresses and men in broad-brimmed hats. Horse-drawn carts making their way through town. Familiar landmarks like Fort Christian and Bluebeard’s Castle. The homes of Charlotte Amalie, nestled amid palm trees under a pastelblue sky. This is island life at the turn of the 20th century and before, captured on vintage postcards displayed at the St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum. The postcards, many of them hand-painted in classic Caribbean pastels, are one of many ways the museum and its volunteers keep St. Thomas history alive and well for residents and visitors alike. From exhibits inside the museum to preservation projects around the island, the Historical Trust has been devoted to preserving and protecting St. Thomas history since its founding in November 1965. Its mission is both simple and far-reaching: “to identify, protect and preserve the history, sites and culture of St. Thomas.” The organization began a new chapter in its own history in October 2016, when the museum moved to Raadets Gade from its longtime home in Roosevelt Park.

The new location, courtesy of the generosity of Topa Properties, will allow the Trust to reach out to a much larger public with the wonderful history of the island. The space encompasses nearly 1,900 square feet. It contains furnishings and artifacts illustrating the history of St. Thomas, from the original Caribbean Indian inhabitants through the years as a Danish colony and then as a territory of the United States. The postcards alone offer a fascinating peek into life on the island at a time of rebirth as a commercial center. Their mission takes members of the Historical Trust far beyond the museum itself, with several ongoing projects: promotion and interpretation of Hassel Island, a 135-acre historic site on the western edge of the harbor; restoring and preserving the 45 “step streets” throughout Charlotte Amalie; conducting walking tours of Charlotte Amalia; and offering lecture series and exhibits of historical art. “We’re eager to welcome visitors to our new home and to show what a rich and fascinating history St. Thomas has,” says Malcolm Schweizer, president of the Trust.

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The St. Thomas Historical Trust Museum is now located on Raadets Gade between Main Street and the Waterfront. Contact your onboard shore excursion specialist for tickets and information on visiting the museum.

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MUSÉE D’ORSAY

Camille Pissarro’s The Road of Louveciennes, painted in 1872.

an artist’s journey By Michael De Freitas

Camille Pissarro, one of the most influential artists of 19th-century French impressionism, was born in a small Spanish Sephardic Jewish community in Charlotte Amalie. At the age of 12, Pissarro left the Caribbean for boarding school in Paris. Later, he returned to St. Thomas to help his merchant father run the family store on Main Street. But his heart was not in the business, and he spent every minute of his spare time painting. Pissarro returned to Paris in 1855 to study under a variety of masters. Four years later, the young artist held his first exhibition at the prestigious Paris Salon.

Pissarro died at the age of 73 at his home in Éragny, just north of Paris, and his paintings still grace the walls of many of Europe’s major museums. Today, his boyhood home at 14 Main Street houses the Pissarro gallery, which contains numerous artworks. A teacher as well as a painter, Pissarro taught several future masters of the art world. He was described as godlike by many of his students, including Paul Gauguin, Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne.

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charlotte amalie Walkabout

Perhaps no other city in the Caribbean is as well-known as Charlotte Amalie. Thousands of cruise-ship guests and other seagoing visitors have made the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands the virtual capital of the Caribbean, at least when it comes to shopping. A walking tour that includes some shopping and a refreshment stop is the ideal way to experience the city. The best place to start is Emancipation Park. Walking from the harbor and heading up Fort Pladsen, you will hit Emancipation Park, the site of a historic episode that took place on July 3, 1848. G o v e r n o r - G e n e r a l P e t e r Vo n Scholten freed the slaves of the Virgin Islands 14 years before emancipation in the United States. A replica of the American Liberty Bell and a sculpture of King Christian V of Denmark are on display. Nearby is the two-story, mint-green House of Legislature of the Virgin Islands. This 118-year-old Italian Renaissance structure was once used as barracks for Danish police. From 1917, when the United States acquired the Virgin Islands, to 1930, it was similarly used by the U.S. Marines. Now, the outside staircase leads up to the Senate chambers. Right across the street, you’ll encounter Fort Christian, the oldest building on the island and a landmark dating 32

from 1671. Named after Danish King Christian V, the fort has served over the years as the governor’s house, a church, the police station and the local prison. Today, Fort Christian is a National Historic Site currently under renovation. Walk up Tolbod Gade to the intersection of Norre Gade, where the busy Central Post Office stands. While waiting to purchase your stamps, peruse the pretty murals painted by Stevan Dohanos, a former Saturday Evening Post artist. From the post office, walk east along Norre Gade and you will come upon the 18th-century Frederick Lutheran Church. The original Georgian-style structure was rebuilt in 1825 after a fire and reconstructed once again in 1870 after it was damaged in a hurricane. Today, the historic church is in active use. Continue east along Norre Gade to Lille Taarne Gade and turn left. As you climb to Kongens Gade, you’ll pass a handful of law firms before reaching Government House, the official residence and administrative offices of the island’s governor. This three-story building with wrought-iron balconies was built in 1867 for the Danish colonial council. The reception rooms on the first and second floors are open to the public.

STEVE HEAP/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

By Lynn Seldon

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The 99 Steps.

Several small paintings by former St. Thomas resident and French impressionist painter Camille Pissarro are on display in the second-floor ballroom. As you climb the famed 99 Steps to the top of the hill, do not be surprised if it feels like you are tackling more. Despite the name, there are at least 125 steps in all, comprising one of the city’s oldest “streets.” St. Thomas’ Haagensen House sits atop Government Hill. The restored 1820s town house is now a museum featuring authentic West

Indian period furnishings and accessories. Adjacent to the museum is a landmark building — Hotel 1829. The original town house has been extended to enhance this hotel, which has accommodated many of the island’s most famous guests over the years. You’ll want to go back down the hill to Main Street for shopping. The old warehouses that were once used to store pirates’ booty now house many of Charlotte Amalie’s trendy boutiques and shopping arcades. GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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sacred and celebrated By Lynn Seldon

The historic St. Thomas Synagogue is one of the most respected parts of the island community.

benches; the bima, or pulpit; the ark housing ancient Torah scrolls; and brass chandeliers with hurricane shades of Baccarat crystal, the central ones still lit by candles. In 18 43 , t he present str uct ure was the site of the first Jewish youth confirmation ceremony in the Western Hemisphere. The French painter Camille Pissarro was a member of the synagogue, and author Herman Wouk often visited it while living in St. Thomas. Located at 16 A & B Crystal Gade, also called Synagogue Hill, the synagogue is a steep climb up from Main Street. The adjacent Weibel Museum contains exhibitions depicting the more than 300 years of history of the Jewish people in St. Thomas. A gift shop sells synagogue souvenirs and fine, handcrafted Judaica. THE HEBREW CONGREGATION OF ST. THOMAS

This beautif u l , histor ic house of worship, the only synagogue in St. Thomas, is still used today, with about 120 individuals and families making up the active congregation. The synagogue was officially designated a National Historic Landmark in 1997. Opened in 1833 by Sephardic Jews on the site of an earlier synagogue dating to the 18th centur y, the St. Thomas Sy nagog ue is the oldest synagogue in continuous use under the American flag and is the second-oldest continuously used synagogue in the Western Hemisphere (Curaçao’s is the oldest). The congregation was founded in 1796. The synagogue itself conforms to Sephardic design and has seats facing inward with a floor of sand, a noteworthy feature among the Sephardic synagogues in the Caribbean region. The practice of covering the floor with sand may have originated during the Spanish Inquisition, when Spanish and Portuguese Jews worshiping in secret synagogues needed to muffle the sounds of their gatherings. The four pillars supporting the synagogue’s outside awning were handmade in Denmark from rounded bricks. The interior pillars symbolize the four matriarchs in Judaism. Also inside: mahogany

Inside the synagogue, design follows Sephardic tradition.

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THE HEBREW CONGREGATION OF ST. THOMAS

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a view from the top By Haley Struthers

People come to the Mountain Top attraction for two things: its view from a spacious observation deck and its banana daiquiris. The view comes at a height of 1,555 feet. The picturesque landing looks out on Charlotte Amalie, St. John and much of the British Virgin Islands. From the north, rainforest wildlife can be heard through the canopy. Perched atop Crown Mountain, the attraction has long been a popular spot for weddings and receptions. It also has a restaurant, a bar and duty-free shops. Mountain Top is the birthplace of the banana daiquiri, invented by bartender Sonny Bernier in the 1950s. He mixed

rum, sugarcane extract, bananas, fresh lime and banana liqueur to make this delicious concoction. “Back then, Mountain Top was a little tiki bar surrounded by dirt roads and banana trees,” said David Harrold, Mountain Top’s manager. “Sonny kept experimenting using the fresh bananas in his drinks and it kept evolving into what is now the banana daiquiri.” Legend has it that in 1953, Capt. George Soule was hunting for the perfect Caribbean cocktail when he discovered the daiquiri at Mountain Top and introduced it outside of St. Thomas. Since then, Mountain Top has sold more than 6 million banana daiquiris, Harrold said.

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Visitors to Mountain Top take in the spectacular view.

GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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A ST. THOMAS TRADITION

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memorable meals

By Jonathan Siskin

St. Thomasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; chefs create a mouthwatering assortment of culinary concoctions that add to the islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tropical flair. Many of their recipes have been passed down for generations. Favorite local dishes include tangy stuffed crab, freshwater crawfish, conch fritters, plantains and johnnycakes. The ubiquitous conch, which thrives in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, is often served as a curry. Fresh fish is a mainstay of most menus and is typically poached or broiled with a light butter-and-onion sauce or panfried in a spicy Creole sauce. Creole cooking uses a potpourri of ingredients ranging from curry powder, cumin and allspice to coconut, tamarind, lime, cinnamon bark and vanilla bean. Among these tasty treats is callaloo soup, a hearty and nourishing mix of callaloo or other leafy greens with okra and ham or crabmeat.

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Shopping Made Easy Become a Savvy Traveler. For only $25, this value package includes over $2,000 in deals from our guaranteed shops ashore. You’ll also find hundreds of dollars in free gifts — even diamond jewelry! Whether you’re looking for luxury items or souvenirs for family and friends, the Savvy Traveler is your must-have for shopping in our

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ports of call.

See your Princess Shopping Host to purchase your very own Savvy Traveler.

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beach briefing

Most beaches on St. Thomas lie 2 to 5 miles from Charlotte Amalie and are open to the public. The preferred stretches are generally along the eastern and southern coasts of the island, with the notable exception of the most famous one of all: Magens Bay. Here are four popular beaches, listed in geographical order beginning on the south shore, just east of Charlotte Amalie, and moving counterclockwise. Morningstar Beach Just 10 minutes southeast of Charlotte Amalie, below Marriott Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Beach Resort, is the particularly lovely shore of Morningstar. Here you can wear your most daring bathing suit. Waters ports equipment is available for rent for active types, while beach umbrellas, lounge chairs and floats are offered for those who opt to take it easy. With a tennis shop, a snack store and service bars there’s plenty of opportunity to mingle with other beachgoers while sipping a cool drink.

Hull Bay This palm-tree-laden north-side beach is where local surfers flock when the waves are right. Fishermen anchor their boats here and congregate at the Hull Bay Hideaway bar, which has the island’s only horseshoe lanes.

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Magens Bay Lauded by National Geographic magazine as one of the 10 most beautiful beaches on earth, Magens Bay is a half-mile-long strip of sugar-white sand situated between two mountains and bordered by coconut palms and calm, protected waters. This public park has a snack bar, picnic tables, showers and changing facilities.

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Bolongo Beach On the south shore along Route 30 (Frenchman Bay Road), Bolongo Beach has a resplendent underwater environment, a treat for snorkelers who can explore grassy areas and coral reefs. The beach hotel has a restaurant and water sports equipment rental.

st. john:

a true tropical paradise By Deborah Williams On a sailing trip in the early 1950s, the American millionaire Laurance Rockefeller was so bewitched by the lovely, undeveloped isle of St. John that he bought thousands of acres, which he donated to the United States.

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Because of Rockefeller’s foresight, nearly two-thirds of St. John’s almost 20 square miles officially became the Virgin Islands National Park in 1956. Its tasteful, restrained development is owed to Rockefeller’s influence. The park also includes more than 5,000 acres offshore. Birds are abundant in and around the park; as many as 160 species have been recorded in the area. The hawksbill turtle nests on St. John’s beaches, and the green turtle inhabits the island’s waters, particularly at Francis Bay. The park is crisscrossed with clearly mapped hiking trails, some of which were old Danish roads.

One of St. John’s glorious beaches.

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shimmering shores The island of St. John is edged by numerous accessible white-sand beaches, pristine coves and spectacular emerald waters. Below the water’s surface is a tropical wonderland of fish and coral. Some areas have marked rails and signs to guide you through this underwater garden. St. John’s natural beauty is a delight to behold. Cinnamon Bay This bay has an expansive beach with a lovely view and fascinating snorkeling sites. Changing rooms, showers, a shop and a restaurant are available. Haulover Bay This favored spot is filled with colorful, exotic sea life and intriguing beach formations. Maho Bay A picture-perfect beach, Maho Bay boasts an ecologically sound environment. Canvas-walled cottages are built on raised walkways in order not to disturb the local flora, while the very “green” Harmony Studios stands as both a research center and an ecotourism hotel. Trunk Bay On the bay’s famous 225-yard-long snorkeling trail, you can swim along colorful lanes, above branching corals and amid schools of brilliantly colored fish. National Geographic magazine rates this as one of the world’s most beautiful bays. It is exquisite both above — and below — the water. 48

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Shopping and Island Maps of St. Thomas

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TO SYNAGOGUE

BACK STREET (WIMMELSKAFTS GADE)

MAIN STREET (DRONNINGENS GADE) 2

RAADETS GADE

DRAKE’S PASSAGE

TROMPETER GADE

CREQUES ALLEY EAST

CREQUES ALLEY WEST

ROYAL DANE MALL

PALM PASSAGE

STORE TVAER GADE

INTERNATIONAL PLAZA

WATERFRONT (VETERAN’S DRIVE)

1 1/2 miles to Crown Bay Center

1 Diamonds International

7 Eden Living

2 Body Glove

8 Rado Boutique / Tissot-Swatch Store

3 Kay’s Fine Jewelry

9 Del Sol

4 Crocs Store

10 Waterfront Trading Co.

5 Boolchand’s

11 Diamonds International

6 Eden Jewelers

Watch and Design Center

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HAAGENSEN HOUSE

GARDEN STREET

99 STEPS

19 GOVERNMENT HOUSE

KONGENS GADE

LUTHERAN CHURCH

NORRE GADE

ICE ALLEY

TOLBOD GADE

POST OFF

POST OFFICE

POLICE STATION

9 FORT STRADE

FORT PLADSEN

16 A.H. RIISE GIFT & LIQUOR MALL

HIBISCUS ALLEY

RAADETS GADE

TO BLACKBEARD’S CASTLE

EMANCIPATION PARK

VENDORS

PLAZA

1 mile to Havensight Mall and Yacht Haven Grande

VISITORS CENTER

FORT CHRISTIAN

12 LEGISLATURE BUILDING

12 Yacht Haven Grande

18 The Belgian Chocolate Factory

13 Tanzanite International

19 Get Charmed Factory Outlet

14 Mr. Tablecloth

20 Boolchand Pandora Store

15 Cariloha

21 Tissot Boutique

16 Royal Caribbean 17 Lladró Boutique Map not drawn to scale and should only be used as a reference guide.

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BOTANY BAY

FORTUNA BAY

STUMPY BAY

SANTA MARIA BAY

St.Thomas

BREWERS BAY BEACH

CARET BAY

LINDBERGH BAY

AIRPORT

MOUNTAIN TOP

WATER ISLAND

CROWN BAY

PIER AREA

HULL BAY

INNER BRASS ISLAND

OUTER BRASS ISLAND

CHARLOTTE AMALIE

MORNINGSTAR BEACH

HASSEL ISLAND

ST. THOMAS HARBOUR

MAGENS BAY

BUCK ISLAND

BOLONGO BEACH

LITTLE ST. JAMES

GREAT ST. JAMES

COWPET BAY

GREAT BAY

RED HOOK BAY

Map not drawn to scale and should only be used as a reference guide.

JERSEY BAY

SECRET HARBOR

GRASS CAY

FERRY TO ST. JOHN

SMITH BAY

WATER BAY

COKI POINT CORAL WORLD

THATCH CAY

MINGO CAY

GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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have a per fec t day Bring your Shopping Spotlight newsletter into port. Tuck it into your purse or pocket and put the port at your fingertips.

CAN BALCIOGLU/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

Your Shopping Spotlight newsletter will be delivered to your stateroom each night. Make sure to take it with you into port. You can also see your Princess Shopping Host for more specific information. The hostâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s desk hours are listed in your Princess Patter.

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OF THE

Where to find local mementos in port

Body Glove Body Glove is Main Street's No. 1 spot for the largest selection of men's and women's swimwear at the lowest prices! We also have a large selection of beach gear, including rash guards and snorkel gear. Stop by today! Open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 5563 Dronningens Gade 340-774-BODY (2639) bodyglove.com

Eden Living At Eden Living youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a wide variety of local art and other goods, all handcrafted in the U.S.A.: pottery; prints; soaps and hot sauces; ceramics and glass; hand-painted silk and cotton clothing for men and women; and unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry. We carry home accessories such as clocks, wind chimes, mirrors, glassware and flatware; and wearable art including silk sarongs and shawls, a flax linen collection and Anushka hand-painted leather. Our resident artist on site is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University who holds a bachelor of fine arts in ceramics and textiles. Worldwide shipping is available. 5135 Dronningens Gade / 340-775-3366

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Waterfront Trading Company Take Home a Taste of the Tropics We offer Caribbean hot sauces, spices, tropical candies, teas, coffees and rum cake. We specialize in hand-painted ornaments, local art, maps, children's books and unique gifts from St. Thomas, Down Island and around the world. 5190 Dronningens Gade, Suite 2 340-244-4164

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shopping list!

The best bargains in the Caribbean

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to make your list and visit the merchants in St. Thomas. A phenomenal selection is one advantage to shopping in the Caribbean. Another plus: incredible savings compared with prices back home. Fabulous treasures await you inside each and every store.

Hearts On Fire

Crown of Light

Day 2 Night

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Korite

Fendi

You’ll be impressed by the selection and quality that you’ll find in St. Thomas when seeking a fine watch, beautiful jewelry or other accessory. Traditional or trendsetting, it’s just what you need to complete your look — and always at great prices.

Philip Stein

Safi Kilima

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shopping guide Almost anything you’re shopping for, you’ll find in St. Thomas. Not only will the selection amaze you, but the quality of the merchandise is second to none. The stores featured on these pages carry the finest in every product category. You’ll see the famous brand names you know from around the world and many others that you’ve only heard about. Just remember: If you see something you like, buy it!

1 4

2 5

1. Halo pendant by Forevermark; Diamonds International 2. Classique Bangle Collection by Alor; Diamonds International 3. Crown of Creation earrings by Crown of Light; Diamonds International, Diamonds International Watch & Design 4. Bulova watch; Diamonds International, Diamonds International Watch & Design 5. His and hers bamboo T-shirts; Cariloha 6. Hearts on Fire Aerial ring; Royal Caribbean 7. David Yurman Pure Form Cable Bracelet in 18K gold; Diamonds International 8. Flora filigree necklace by Marahlago; Diamonds International.

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ALEX AND ANI We are all connected. This unity enriches our lives. It shows us what can be achieved beyond anything we’d imagine alone. This tribal effect amplifies energy. It amplifies dreams. When we’re connected, we’re more powerful. Alex and Ani is designed to connect you. ALEX AND ANI creates meaningful, eco-conscious jewelry and accessories to positively empower and connect humanity. What Makes Alex and Ani Unique (+) ENERGY is our company philosophy and our promise. What we emanate, we create. We generate (+) ENERGY through ancient symbols, sustainable materials and conscious practices. We arm individuals with knowledge to support personal exploration. We empower them to recognize their gifts and celebrate their unique journey. Our (+) ENERGY ignites the fire within them, and that fuels the fire within us. Positivity is in our roots. It inspires us to carry the light of possibility and to recognize it within one another. Alex and Ani was founded to empower individuals every day. Our company exists to create a higher energy and a better world. Expandable Concept The signature expandable concept is the cornerstone of Alex and Ani. This original concept replaces the traditional clasps with a sliding mechanism, making each piece adjustable. Commemorate your Time in America’s Paradise with our St. Thomas Bangle America’s Paradise pulses with energ y. A par t of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea, St. Thomas holds a wide var iet y of treasures , from magnificent beaches to a marketplace buzzing with business. With a world-renowned golf course, the 99 Steps and the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, it truly is a sophisticated paradise. Bask in all its cultural, beautiful glory. Alex and Ani is located at 5124 Dronningens Gade, Suite 3. Call 340-774-3636. BOOLCHAND PANDOR A An unforgettable moment is something different to every woman, but it’s always special. That’s why an unforgettable moment is a story worth sharing. At Pandora, we believe that every woman in the world has her own unique style, with her own stories to be celebrated and shared. Pandora offers an exciting collection of jewelry with countless possibilities. Every piece in the collection is meticulously designed and crafted using the highestquality gold, sterling silver and gemstones. Combining centuries-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design,

Pandora offers a robust collection that is beyond compare. Pandora Boutique has three locations: 15A Main Street, 340-774-3672 , pandora. stt@boolchand.com; 9002 Havensight Mall (Building 2), 340-776-8550, pandora.hs@boolchand.com; and Boolchand’s, 31 Main Street, 340-776-0794, jewelry.stt@boolchand.com. For more information about Pandora jewelry, visit Pandora.net. CARILOHA Come feel the difference of the softest fabric in the world, Cariloha Bamboo™. Cariloha is the premier retailer of products made from bamboo viscose, including apparel, bedding, active wear, bath towels and more, all made from irresistibly soft bamboo. When you think of bamboo, tall green shoots likely come to mind. But did you know that bamboo can actually be made into the world’s most comfortable fabric? Cariloha’s viscose-from-bamboo fabric is luxuriously soft! It’s also 3 degrees cooler than cotton and naturally wicks moisture away from your body. Bamboo itself contains naturally occurring properties that are odor and allergy resistant. It also provides full UVA/UVB protection, saves more trees, regenerates naturally and is among the most eco-friendly, renewable resources on the planet. Visit any Cariloha store today to pick up a free bamboo lei and to feel the incredible softness of bamboo clothing for yourself. Cariloha — Stay Cool, Wear Bamboo™. Cariloha is located in the Grand Galleria shops at the end of Main Street. DEL SOL ST. THOMAS When you’re looking for unique gifts — exclusive to St. Thomas — the place you shop makes a big difference. You’ll definitely want to experience the exclusive Island Collection of Del Sol St. Thomas, where all clothing and accessories are not only custom to St. Thomas, but they also change colors when exposed to sunlight and then return to their original colors without sunlight. You’ll be reminded of your sunny vacation on the beach every time you step into sunlight and see the colors appear. Make this your one-stop destination for everything St. Thomas. With more than 100 unique-to-St. Thomas clothing options, along with sunglasses, nail polish, hair accessories, jewelry, hats, tote bags and beach toys, there’s something for every age, gender and interest in your family. If you’ve visited another Del Sol store along the cruise route, you’re going to be pleasantly surprised to find an entirely new island-specific collection when you visit St. Thomas. You can get a T-shirt anywhere, but only Del Sol St. Thomas’ T-shirts perfectly capture your GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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vacation memoires every time they change color outside in the sun. All Del Sol St. Thomas products are guaranteed to change colors for life. Visit today for a free demonstration and a free color-changing gift (no purchase necessary). Del Sol — Just Add Sun! Del Sol St. Thomas is located at the Grand Galleria shops at the end of Main Street. DIAMONDS INTERNATIONAL Diamonds International, the most recommended jeweler in the Caribbean, has more than a quarter century of expertise in acquiring luxury goods and jewelry for its discerning clientele. The retailer is celebrated for providing the finest jewels and exceptional variety. Shoppers in the Caribbean have come to appreciate the great value for the latest designer goods from around the world, with a vaster selection than they can find at home. Diamonds International exceeds expectations time after time. The exclusive luxury brands carried are also some of the reasons why this retailer is the must-stop-shop for world-class jewelry collectors. Visit any Diamonds International showroom and experi-ence the sparkle of the exclusive, U.S.-patented Crown of Light™ diamond. To best appreciate how each Crown of Light diamond is crafted and measured to perfection, you can compare the Crown of Light to any diamond using the Diamond Light Performance scope. Experience Forevermark, a premium diamond brand from The De Beers Group of Companies. Every Forevermark diamond is inscribed with a unique number and a threefold promise: that it is beautiful, rare and responsibly sourced. Less than one percent of the world´s diamonds are eligible to become a Forevermark diamond. In St. Thomas, it is available exclusively at Diamonds International, at the A.H. Riise Mall on Main Street and throughout the Eastern and Western Caribbean at many Diamonds International locations. These are just a few of the irresistible draws that create customer loyalty at Diamonds International! Visit Tanzanite International at the Grand Galleria, one of the largest tanzanite retailers for more than 20 years and home to the exclusive Safi Kilima™ tanzanite. With rich purple and blue hues, Safi Kilima has masterfully designed collections featuring tanzanite from the heart of Tanzania. You can find other exquisite collections available only at Diamonds International such as Vena d´Amore diamond solitaires, Gift Collection, Sara G diamond jewelry, Day2Night convertible jewelry and the amazing WonderStud diamond earrings. There is something for everyone!

Who doesn’t love blue diamonds? Blue Heaven’s breathtaking ocean-blue diamonds will keep the memory of your Caribbean holiday alive for years to come. Diamonds International has many elegant showrooms on the island to serve their devoted shoppers. Find locations at A.H. Riise Mall on Main Street, Havensight Mall, Crown Bay Marina and Marriott Frenchman’s Reef. Call 1-800-444-4025 or 1-340-776-5570 or shop www.DiamondsInternational.com. EDEN JEWELERS A little store with a lot of treasures! Brimming with colored and white diamonds, natural gemstones and custom design jewelry, this little jewelry store has a lot more to offer than the large chain stores. Located in the quieter part of historic Main Street, Eden Jewelers specializes in loose diamonds and bridal sets. There’s a wide selection of stunning and very desirable colored diamond jewelry ranging from canary, pink and café to stunning blue, black and green diamonds. For those who prefer classic white diamonds and colored gemstones, Eden carries superb choices from the current market as well as custom designed jewelry crafted with rubies, emeralds, sapphires, morganites and even rare tanzanite and alexandrite. All gemstone jewelry is crafted with natural stones and comes with a certificate of authenticity. With over 150 jewelry stores to compete against, Eden offers aggressive pricing, great value and, most importantly, the personalized attention of the husband and wife owners. Sunil is a Gemological Institute of America graduate gemologist and his wife Kanchan both work hard to achieve their motto: to satisfy each customer’s jewelry want or need and be there for service beyond the sale. All purchases come with a G.I.A. Graduate Gemologist Graded Appraisal and a lifetime warranty. In addition, there are convenient US service centers for customers. While visiting Eden, bring home the Destination St. Thomas Sterling Silver Larimar beads, and make certain to see the one-of-a-kind Caribbean Sun necklace with blue and white diamonds. Remember to redeem your free pearl earrings just for trying on a piece of jewelry! Enjoy the sun, the sand, the island piña coladas and the amazing jewelry that the pristine Virgin Islands offer you. Take a detour and visit Eden… it will be a decision you will be glad to have made! Visit Eden Jewelers at 5134 Dronningens Gade, Suite 1. Call 340-7773366 or 877-610-6866. Shop online at www. eden-jewelers.com. GET CHARMED! Charm Factor y Outlet Explore the beauty of a unique and original selection of fashion and semiprecious jewelry, featuring the genuine Sandals For Your Neck

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brand of sandal pendants, charms, bracelets and earrings — hand-enameled and accented with beautiful Swarovski crystals, with 14k yellow or white gold overlay. Try on handmade bracelets and necklaces of pure silk, which can be paired with the store’s exclusive Swarovski-crystal-studded Virgin Islands beads. Hundreds of sterling-silver pendants feature island-inspired themes, such as turtles, palm trees, stingrays, starfish, mermaids and so many more. Stop by and Get Charmed! It’s a must-find treasure — all the bling-bling without the cha-ching! Get Charmed! is at 2329 Commandant Gade (Garden Street, up the road from the Main Street Post Office), at Crown Bay Dock and in the St. Thomas Airport Lounge. Call 340-775-6381, email info@sandalsforyourneck.com or follow on Facebook at Sandals For Your Neck. KAY’S FINE JEWELRY As a family-owned business, Kay’s is proud to have instilled a strong culture of excellence in customer service and care in each and every one of its jewelry and watch boutiques across the Caribbean. We also place a strong emphasis on innovation in jewelry design, producing our own unique collections encompassing the most cutting-edge trends in gemstones and diamonds in the industry. The purchase of a fine timepiece or jewelry is a significant event in our customers’ lives and a highlight of their Caribbean vacation. We personally see to it that each of our guests is taken care of by our knowledgeable staff in a comfortable and relaxed shopping atmosphere. In each of our boutiques across the Caribbean, we have a large selection of diamonds, colored diamonds, rubies, sapphires, tanzanite, ammolite and emeralds. We also carry many exotic gemstones, such as alexandrite, paraiba, tourmaline and imperial topaz. We have bench jewelers in each of our locations to better serve our clientele. Like a stone, but don’t like its setting? No problem! We can customize each and every piece to your specifications. Be sure to stop in to experience “Luxury with a Family Touch.” LLADRÓ BOUTIQUE Lladró is a Spanish brand dedicated since 1953 to the creation of art porcelain figurines at the brand’s only factory in the world, in Valencia. All of the beautiful high-porcelain figurines are handmade to perfection and brought to life. Located inside the A.H. Riise mall at the center of town, the boutique enables visitors to enjoy the world-famous art of exquisite Lladró creations, including local Caribbean collections that are especially made for the Caribbean islands and not available anywhere else.

Every Lladró piece of work is the result of a laborious artistic process. Every piece begins with a unique artistic inspiration. Our boutique includes special editions and limited-edition figurines that will take your breath away. Our Lladró Boutique is tax and duty free and we offer free shipping to anywhere in the United States, along with a special gift of 20 percent off the retail price. We have many different types of figurines that make a great gift for any occasion or to cherish in your home for the rest of your life! The Lladró Boutique is located at 37 Dronningens Gade. Call 340-776-3503 or email lladrostt@gmail.com. MR. TABLECLOTH Nearly 40 years after opening its doors, Mr. Tablecloth is still providing customers with legendary personal ser v ice and an amazing ar ray of tablecloths in modern designs. Don’t be misled — the original Mr. Tablecloth has only one location in downtown St. Thomas. Most of the tablecloths are available in microfiber — an easy-care fabric that is stainresistant and requires no ironing. For the discriminating buyer, the store also sells exquisite Irish linen and organdy patterns. Also available are the hard-to-find sizes — including tablecloths up to 252 inches long and 90 inches wide, and many patterns in squares and ovals. Mr. Tablecloth in St. Thomas also has a large assortment of accessories for your home: runners, placemats, aprons, bed sheets and shams, to name just a few items. In the store’s clothing section, you will find beautiful handmade infant wear and children’s clothing, day-to-night maxi dresses and super-soft pima cotton nightgowns. The store is also well-known for its beautiful selection of ladies evening jackets, available in a variety of colors. You can find all of these items at a tremendous savings compared to stateside prices. MON T B L A NC B OU T IQU E AT ROYA L CARIBBEAN In 1906, three visionaries came together in Hamburg, Germany, to perfect the revolutionary invention of a fountain pen with an internal ink reservoir. Their vision: handmade writing instruments, produced in accordance with the highest demands of technology, design and finish. Today, this uncompromising quality and traditional European craftsmanship still form the unshakable foundation of Montblanc. The white Montblanc star named after the highest mountain in the Europe has long adorned not only fountain pens but also elegant leather goods, precious jewelry, fine accessories and fashionable eyewear. All belong to the Montblanc lifestyle world, as do exclusive watches produced in the Swiss factory of Manufacture Montblanc. The crowning GUIDE TO ST. THOMAS

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white star marks world-famous luxury goods that represent culture and a special way of life. Montblanc products are contemporary style icons, and as limited editions are coveted collectors’ pieces. Mont Blanc is exclusively available at Royal Caribbean. Main Street and Crown Bay. 340-776-4110 www.royalcaribbeanvi.com RADO BOUTIQUE & TISSOT/SWATCH STORE Experience unsurpassed customer satisfaction, selection and service. The Rado, Tissot and Swatch boutique is a branch of Joe’s Jewelry International. We are one of St. Maarten’s first family-owned jewelers and have grown into a duty free jewelry and watch destination for luxury brands. Discover the first Rado boutique in the Americas. You will find the largest collection of ceramic watches. These watches are known to be scratch-proof, harder than nails and elegant. Find your style at the world’s most fashionable Swatch boutique. Swatch is a global brand known for creativity and fun. Pick up your new cutting-edge Tissot watch at the recently opened Tissot Corner. Tissot, established in 1853, Is one of the longestestablished Swiss watch companies, known for great value. It is also the official timekeeper of the NBA. Visit Rado and Tissot in St. Thomas at 36A-2 and 37A Dronningens Gade or online at www.joesjewelry.com. Call 340-774-5699 ROYAL CARIBBEAN Discover the best shopping St. Thomas has to offer. With over 45 years in business, Royal Caribbean is known for luxury brand-name watches and jewelry. Royal Caribbean offers an extensive collection of Swiss, German and American handcrafted timepieces from world-famous manufactures such as A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier, Bomberg, Breguet, Bulova, Bulgari, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Giuliano Mazzuoli, Glashütte Original, Gucci, IWC, Michele, Montblanc, Panerai, Philip Stein, Piaget, Rado, Raymond Weil, Roger Dubuis, SevenFriday, Shinola, TW Steel and Vacheron Constantin. For fashionconscious and trend-savvy shoppers, Royal Caribbean carries Anne Klein, Bering, Fruitz by Philip Stein, Fossil, Guess, Ice, Invicta, Luminox, Seiko, and the highly sought after Michael Kors watch line. Royal Caribbean also has the two largest camera and electronic stores in the Virgin Islands. Come in and get the latest in digital SLR cameras, point and shoot cameras, portable audio and binoculars. An authorized dealer for top brands such as Canon, GoPro, Fuji, Nikon, Leica, Olympus, Ricoh and Sony, Royal Caribbean also carries Beats, Skullcandy, JBL and Harmon Kardon wifi 62

and bluetooth compatible speakers. Royal Caribbean now carries sunglasses! Get the latest styles from Bolle, Bottega Veneta, Carrera, Cartier, Calvin Klein, Chopard, Costa Del Mar, Etnia Barcelona, Etro, Fossil, Gucci, Kate Spade, Nike, Puma, Revo, Roberto Cavalli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Serengeti, Tom Ford and Vuarnet. At Royal Caribbean, you will be captivated by the most exquisite collection of Hearts on Fire, the world’s most perfectly cut diamond. Come in and see our superb collection of fancy yellow, pink, blue, chocolate and white diamonds. Royal Caribbean has the finest Platinum, 14kt and 18kt gold set jewelry, the largest selection of Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire and Tanzanite jewelry and a vast selection of semi-precious pieces. Perfect for that special someone are the world-renowned Mikimoto cultured pearls. Pamper yourself with designer jewelry brands like True Love Blue Diamonds, Breuning and Rebecca. Also available is a wide assortment of everything Montblanc and pens by A.T. Cross. Royal Caribbean offers huge savings in all categories and our knowledgeable sales associates will assist making your selection more enjoyable. Mention this ad and receive a free gemstone with the possibility to upgrade to a ring, earring and pendant. In St. Thomas, Royal Caribbean has two locations on Main Street open Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. We also have multiple locations at the Crown Bay Center and open as per ship calls. 340-776-4110 www.royalcaribbeanvi.com THE SHOPS AT YACHT HAVEN GRANDE Voted Best Shopping in the USVI five years in a row by the Virgin Islands Daily News readership poll and home to St. Thomas’ only Louis Vuitton and Gucci boutiques, The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande is home to BCBGMaxAzria, Everything But Water, Orogold Cosmetics, Sunglass Hut, Perfumania and many more. Set in lush tropical grounds with views of our neighboring mega-yacht marina and adjacent cruise ship dock, The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande provides an escape from the bustling downtown scene. Here you can unwind and take your time browsing our exceptional retail offerings, grab a coffee or relax over a sumptuous meal. Quench your thirst and whet your appetite at The Shops’ waterfront restaurants. Fat Turtle serves up casual fare and fresh island drinks in a fun atmosphere, while the casually elegant Grande Cru delivers innovative cuisine and hand crafted cocktails. Enjoy Mediterranean dishes with an island twist at Fresh Bistro or grab something to go from Urban Eats. Relax and pamper yourself at Prana Spa or treat yourself to a new look at

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Sugar and Spice Artistry Salon. Discover locally made jewelry, art, crafts and gifts to remember your stay — you can even bring something home for your pets! The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande has an ever-changing calendar of entertainment, events and free activities for your healthy lifestyle. Enjoy live music at one of our restaurants or at a concert event. Sample locally grown produce at the Farmers’ Market. Play games on the lawn or change up your vacation workout routine with a free Zumba, yoga or Tai Chi class. Don’t miss our family-friendly Halloween, Christmas and Easter festivities! Check our calendar posted on our website and throughout the property. The Shops at Yacht Haven Grande — your island experience starts here. Call 340-7758200; visit www.shopsatyhg.com; like us on Facebook.com/YHGSt.Thomas. THE BELGIAN CHOCOLATE FACTORY Come experience delightful chocolates in America’s paradise, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands! Chocolate is a perfect way to bring a taste of paradise home to your friends and family. Our Belgian chocolates are made with the finest ingredients, free of preservatives or additives. They are filled with a variety of eight flavored buttercreams, such as banana, mango, passion fruit and raspberry, and eight flavored ganaches, such as coffee, Baileys and Cruzan Rum raisin. We have five different caramels, creamy whipped pralines, peanut butter, truffles, nut clusters and simply more chocolate. Over 50 varieties are available, including sweet, salty and spicy flavors. Each chocolate is handmade using traditional methods! Our chocolates are not the same as the sugary treats offered in American chocolate shops. We also have frozen treats like ice cream, chocolate-covered bananas, Key lime pie and cheesecake on a stick. Other items include ice-cold beverages, marshmallow sticks, chocolate bars, lollipops, s’mores, turtles and chocolate-dipped Oreos and pretzels, as well as spa products, coffee, tea, coolers, T-shirts, tanks and other souvenirs. Why Belgian chocolate? When it comes to chocolates, there are the everyday candy bars we consume and the more exotic chocolates found in coffee houses and specialty stores. Then there is Belgian chocolate. Belgian chocolate is considered to be the gourmet standard by which all other chocolate confections are measured. What makes Belgian chocolate unique is the quality of ingredients and an almost fanatical adherence to Old World manufacturing techniques.

Do you crave only the finest-qualit y chocolate? We present some of the most exquisite top-quality chocolate you can hope to enjoy. You may choose from over 50 varieties of dark, white or milk chocolate and fill a box with whatever assortment you desire! Lollipops, hand-rolled truffles, sugar-free chocolate and other treats are also available. Indulge your senses with the rich decadent aroma of chocolate as you watch through the glass wall while the chocolatier prepares authentic homemade Belgian chocolates fresh each day. Chocolate is the perfect way to bring a “taste” of paradise home to your friends and family! A well-presented box of chocolates always makes a great gift. Expertly styled, well-presented boxes and hampers will never fail to impress. Also available are “peace, love & chocolate” T-shirts and seasonal specialties. D i s c o v e r for y ou r s e l f w hy c u s tomers keep coming back for our best-selling chocolates. Visit us at 5093 Dronningens Gade, Suite 3, call us at 340-777-5247 or visit www.thebelgianchocolatefactory.com. TISSOT BOUTIQUE The Tissot Boutique is located in the heart of St. Thomas, directly on Main Street in downtown Charlotte Amalie. If you want to SHOP! that’s where you want to be. You will find the best selection and prices in the Caribbean. At the Tissot Boutique, you will find several appealing brands of watches at tax and duty free prices. Starting with Swatch, a fun watch with a great starting price point of only US $50. Some of the other quality Swiss watch brands found in our store are Calvin Klein, Mido, Frederique Constant and a wide selection of Hamilton, the American spirit timekeeper. Tissot, the Swiss watchmaking company, was founded in LeLocle, Switzerland, in 1853 and Tissot still operates there today. All the movements found in Tissot watches are highquality Swiss ETA’s supplied by their parent company. Tissot has an increasing popularity and now is sold in 160 countries. Tissot has been partners with several sporting groups like MotoGP, Rugby (RBS), Ice Hockey (IIHF) and the Tour de France, and is now the official timekeeper of the NBA. Why shop at our store? Being the only official Tissot Boutique in St. Thomas, we are going to have the largest selection including limited editions, NBA and solid 18k gold timepieces. We are official retailers for all the brands we carry. Being a family owned business we care about our customers. Come visit us and get the personalized service you deserve. Call 340-776-3504 or email tissotstt@gmail.com.

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