The U.S Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands were named by Christopher Columbus in 1493 while on his second voyage. The islands were named in honor of Saint Ursula and her virgin followers. Today the U.S Virgin Islands are the most popular Caribbean destination for tourists. The islands consist of St. Thomas, St.Croix, St. John, and the Water Islands. They are most known for their crystal clear beaches, tropical climate and sun-kissed people. The people of the Virgin Islands are diverse in culture and can compete culturally with people from around the world.

Places to visit:

Water Island

The Virgin Island, Water Island is the most recent addition. If you’re looking to truly relax and get away from life’s hustle and bustle, then Water Island would be the place. To get to this island you would have to take a flight into St. Thomas and take a ferry to the island. There are no taxis, or rental car companies on this island, so transportation includes golf carts, cars, or walking. Hitchhiking is accepted here on Water Island and is generally a safe mode of transportation.

While on the island you can check out a bit of its rich history by visiting Carolina Point Plantation. You can also visit the island’s famous Honeymoon Beach which often has gentle waters; no surf and gentle slope and soft white sand.

Night life on Water Island is quite laid back; the island has no night clubs but has a few open air bars that allow you to truly enjoy the islands laid back feel.

When coming to Water Island please leave your fancy clothes at home, you’ll become one of the locals in your T-Shirts, shorts, and flip-flops.

If your looking for shopping Water Island is not the island for you. If shopping is a must St. Thomas would be the island to return to.

St.Thomas

The 31 mile island of St.Thomas is the U.S Virgin Island Capital and one of the most popular cruise ship destinations in the Caribbean-Charlotte Amalie. Unlike Water Island; St.Thomas boasts of many fine restaurants, hotels and villas alike. It also has a 18-hole golf course, a marine park, several tennis facilities and boats of characters.

Some fun ways to view the island are;
• By air, for a memorable tour why not jump aboard a twin-engine plane and take a bird eye's view of St.Thomas; St. John, and the British Virgin Islands. Or you could take a more scenic ride in a helicopter. The helicopter could also desert you on a island for a romantic after filled with food, discovery and laughter.
• By car; unlike Water Island, St Thomas has rental car companies, to rent a vecihle you must have a valid drivers license, but no local permit is required. Generally the speed limit is 20 MPH in crowded areas and 35 MPH in the country areas. PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRIVE ON THE LEFT.
• By Safari Bus; once in town your bound to see lots of drivers at Emancpication Park and along Main Street offering island tours.
• By Taxis; you can arrange what the islanders would condiser a taxis tour. Hiring a taxi to charter you about is a great way to view the island. You can give your driver a list of the places you want to see or you can leave everything in the hand of your driver.
• By Foot; This is the most inexpensive way of viewing St.Thomas. Grab your comfortable walking shoes, sun screen, sunglasses, and dont forget your local map. Have fun. Remeber your camera.

St. Croix

St. Croix is one of the largest Islands. If your into lush gardens beauitful and traquil landscapes then this is the place for you. This particular island has a lot of European history, lovely architeruct, ruins, and musems. Once in St. Croix these lovely sites would be a must on your vacation's interary.

Estate of George Botonical Garden.

Contains ruins of 19th century sugarcane village and rum factory.

Buck Island Reef

The only United States National Monument that is underwater.

Cramer Park

Beauitful beach, pinic area on weekends they have what we would call a 'block party' filled with music, food, and drink.

Cruzan Rum Distillery

View the locals making good ole island rum.

Rain Forest

Even though this spot is privately owned the owners gracioulsy allow vistiors, so please bring your camera's an enjoy the view.

St.Croix Leap

A group of talented wood cravers, you can order wood scuplutures chairs and tables made of local mahogamy, and arrange to have them shipped to your home.

St. John

Like Water Island, St. John is known for its laid back feel. There are only two major resorts on this island, due to this there beaches remain untouched by human hands. Snorkeling is one of the islands main activites to do. Several of the islands boast of lovely reefs, colorful fish and beautiful underwater life. Hiking should also be on your to do list while visiting the lovely St.John.

Day Time Fun and Night Life:

You can enjoy these Caribbean islands with such activities as duty free shopping, kayaking, hiking, ecological tours, sailing, and sunbathing. All in the comfort and safety of the United States.