This Caribbean U.S. territory offers white- sand beaches, reefs and turquoise waters. Each of the three main islands boasts its own unique character. St. Thomas and capital city Charlotte Amalie are known for luxury shopping, nightlife, festivals and a major cruise port. Virgin Islands National Park takes up most of St. John, a nature lover’s paradise; and St. Croix offers a multicultural history in the remains of forts, sugar and cattle estates, and the charming towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas connects directly to several East Coast U.S. cities as well as locations throughout the Caribbean. St. Croix is also served by Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. Travel between islands may be accomplished via passenger ferries and a car barge between St. Thomas and St. John. Although there are no rideshare services available, taxis and car rentals are plentiful, but remember to drive on the left!
LODGING
Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort & Casino
This all-inclusive, adults-only resort features newly renovated hillside suites and beach- front rooms, plus several dining options; two pools; a fitness center; and tennis, pickleball and shuffleboard. Take advantage of the on-site water sports center or enjoy the casino and game room.
5025 Turner Hole Road, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 773 9700
diviresorts.com
Gallows Point Resort
Located on its own lush 5-acre peninsula but just a five-minute walk from Cruz Bay, Gallows Point offers freshly refurbished one-bedroom oceanfront villas, concierge services, shuttle service to the ferry terminal, a fitness center and classes, free WiFi and parking. Enjoy fine dining at the on-site restaurant.
3 AAA Gallows Point Road, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6424
gallowspointresort.com
Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove
This family-friendly property’s two- and three-bedroom villas offer all the comforts and conveniences of home along with access to an infinity pool with waterslide, fitness center, poolside dining and lots of activities for all ages. Free parking and WiFi and no resort fees add value.
7338 Estate Bakkeroe, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 693 4800
marriott.com
DINING
13 Restaurant
Offering Southern cuisine with an island flair made from fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers, 13 serves brunch and dinner and a host of inventive craft cocktails.
5304 Yacht Haven Grande, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 774 6800
13restaurant.com
Duggan’s Reef
This beachfront island institution, open since 1983, specializes in local seafood but offers beautifully presented diverse menu options. Choose a table on the porch to savor the sunset along with the food.
5A Teague Bay, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 773 9800
duggansreefstx.com
The Lime Inn
Enjoy the fun atmosphere here alongside quality dining on Caribbean fare with a Puerto Rican twist at this family-owned restaurant and bar. The four-course dinner tasting menu includes two small plates, a “large plate” entrée and a dessert. Wine pairings also available.
Kongens Gade, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6425
thelimeinn.com
ATTRACTIONS
Main Street, Charlotte Amalie
Known for its duty-free shopping, St. Thomas’ capital concentrates the deals on Dronningens Gade — its Main Street — with retailers selling everything from fine jewelry, watches and perfumes to designer fashion and electronics. Visit quaint shops in 18th-century buildings or visit historical attractions and enjoy a vibrant nightlife.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
visitstthomas.com
St. George Village Botanical Gardens
Located among the ruins of an 18th-century sugar cane plantation, the garden is home to more than 1,500 varieties of plants, with collections including palms, ferns, orchids and rare plants. Exhibits identify plants of historical importance as sources of food, medicine, fibers, dyes and building materials.
127 George Road, Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 692 2874
sgvbg.org
Virgin Islands National Park
This 5,500-acre park protects two-thirds of the island’s mass and is said to have some of the most unspoiled underwater and land habitats in the Caribbean. Hike the trails to experience diverse flora and fauna, snorkel its coral reefs and crystal-clear waters, explore the ruins of a sugar mill and plantation, view ancient petroglyphs, and choose from among numerous white-sand beaches.
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
tel 340 776 6201
nps.gov
Read This Next
Global City Guidebook: Tahiti
GCGB 2023
Aug 1, 2023All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Dec 4, 2024Les Bateaux Belmond, France Introduces First Culinary Curator
Les Bateaux Belmond offers a fleet of seven luxury floating villas used for curated, personalized excursions. And now, the company announces the appointment of Chef Dominque Crenn as its first culinary curator, in time for the 2025 season. Crenn has three Michelin stars and has been recognized as one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in the world; she is also a champion of innovation, sustainability and equality, and draws inspiration from her French upbringing.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
eFlyer Reviews
Dec 4, 2024Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Review
Ghent’s Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof is designated a 4-star property, yet reads as a 5-star experience in all the ways that matter.
eFlyer News
Dec 4, 2024Etihad Airways Launches 10 New Routes in 2025
Etihad Airways announced the launch of 10 new destinations slated to debut in 2025, including four weekly flights from Abu Dhabi (AUH) to Atlanta (ATL). This service begins July 2.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
eFlyer News
Dec 4, 2024Jumeirah to Introduce 2 New Properties in Africa
Jumeirah recently announced a partnership with Thanda Group, a collection of privately owned hospitality experiences, to introduce two new destinations in Africa: Jumeirah Thanda Island in Tanzania and Jumeirah Thanda Safari in South Africa.
Railbookers’ Unbeatable Deals
eFlyer Deals
Dec 4, 2024Kessler Black Friday Deals
eFlyer Deals
Dec 4, 2024December 2024
Dec 4, 2024Global Traveler Recognizes Winners Achieving Milestone Awards
The 21st annual GT Tested Reader Survey not only celebrates the best in the travel industry but also highlights winning brands who consistently received accolades for years of committed service. From top-notch frequent-flyer programs to favorite cities to credit cards with promising rewards, these winners go above and beyond time and time again.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Relaunches Direct Casablanca–Beijing Route, Debuts Toronto Flight
As part of its international network expansion, Royal Air Maroc will reinstate the direct Casablanca–Beijing route initially launched in January 2020 and suspended just a few weeks later due to the health crisis.
Daily
Dec 4, 2024Mar Del Cabo Launches Full Moon Wellness Experiences for Couples
Grab your nearest and dearest, leave the chill behind and warm up in Los Cabos, Mexico, at boutique Mar del Cabo by Velas Resorts — but check your calendar first. The new Romantic Full Moon Experience will only be offered on nights when the moon is full (Dec. 15 of this year, and Jan. 13 and Feb. 12 of 2025). Full Moon Experiences will be led by a wellness coach, and begin with a full moon sound healing therapy held at sunrise on the beach along the Sea of Cortez.
ShareThis