I recently traveled to St. Thomas, U.S.Virgin Islands(September 15-22) and had the most beautiful trip… so many wonderful memories created in one week!

Interesting Facts:

*”Pirates of the Caribbean” hot spots in the 1600’s. The Virgin Islands were home to real life pirates.

*Most people know about three U.S. Virgin Islands, but the fourth is Water Island- a tiny island located off the coast of St. Thomas.

*The U.S. Virgin Island (USVI) is the only place in the United States where you drive on the left side of the road… Pay attention and make sure to stay on the left side (as told by a driver). The people drive aggressive on the narrow, steep roads. Driving in St. Thomas was quite the Adventure!

*U.S. citizens do Not need a passport to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Best time to go is between April and June- mild weather and to avoid cruise ship madness.

Things To Do:

There are many things to do in St. Thomas. It is a lively island with lots of sightseeing, shopping, white sand beaches(lined with swaying palm trees and Azure waters), cultural landmarks and historic sites… Beautiful views, incredible local cuisine and Island vibes awaits you!

*Walk around Downtown Charlotte Amalie (Capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands) for duty-free shopping, dining or just to wander around the cobblestone paths along the Historic District. I appreciated the Old World(Danish Colonial) architecture and cobbled streets.

*Main Street- Also known as Dronningens Gade is a famous Street known for souvenir shops, restaurants and many jewelry stores. Do yourself a favor and detour onto the alleyways/side streets where you will discover hidden gems- restaurants, bars and malls.

*Market Square- Formerly a slave-trading market in the early 1670’s-1800’s; it’s now an open air market with vendors that sell fresh produce. I saw a few people gathered at the Square and ladies selling cooked food, but not much happening there. No other vendors were in sight.

*Yacht Haven Grande- Marina located alongside the Charlotte Amalie Harbor with colorful murals, amazing views of Mega yachts, waterfront dining, shopping and entertainment. Once considered a shopper’s paradise with luxury brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari(to name a few)… the designer stores are now gone! The high-end boutiques appeared to have packed up following the recent natural disasters in the USVI.

*Island Hopping- Take a Day trip to a nearby island. There are 8 main islands in the Virgin Islands to explore- St.Thomas, St.John, St. Croix and Water Island in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands (BVI). I took a 10 minute ferry ride from Crown Bay Marina on St. Thomas to Water Island for $15.00 USD round trip. This was a day of relaxing on Honeymoon Beach— clear, calm waters and enjoying cocktails at Dinghy’s Bar & Grill. I kept it simple with Bubbles and wine; although, the signature drink on the Virgin Islands is the Pusser’s Painkiller(tropical rum-based drink with roots to the British Virgin Islands). Golf carts are available to rent on Water Island to get around and explore a little bit- panoramic views of the Island, winding hills, Limestone Beach, Fort Segarra(WW2fort) and Heidi’s Hilltop Grill.

*Magens Bay Beach- One of the most beautiful beaches in St.Thomas and ranked among the top 10 best beaches in the Caribbean. I strolled along the shoreline enjoying the Ah-mazing views of the calm, turquoise waters while feeling the soft, white sand between my toes. I also sat on the beach rocks; dipped my feet in the warm water and watched as the pelicans plummeted into the water to dive after fish… it’s just the little things. I enjoyed the beauty of the beach!! Snapping shots at the beach helped create summer memories that will last forever.

Restaurants

Where to Eat… Eat like the locals! Can’t forget about incredible Caribbean cuisine. No trip is complete without experiencing local flavor.

Some of my faves:

*My Brother’s Workshop(MBW)Cafe & Bakery is a non-profit organization that offers education, mentoring, job training and placement to at risk young people. We stumbled across this restaurant off the beaten path and it did not disappoint- this is a must try for Savory Eats! I popped in one morning for breakfast and enjoyed the perfect Latte and a bacon, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich on coconut Dumb bread; it was delish and filling, I could only eat half. We sampled pastries and baked goods and had great conversation with the amazing staff!

*Northside Grind- Super cute cafe with great views, fresh coffee and great specialty sandwiches. We stopped by before a day at Magens Beach. I ordered the bacon, fried egg and cheese on sour dough with locally grown sprouts and the CCC(Coconut Milk Caramel Cold Brew); it did not disappoint. Great choice for Breakfast/Brunch and very friendly staff.

*Shama’s Specialties- Caribbean, Seafood, Bakery

Enjoyed the Rasta Pasta dish, oxtails, baked mac and cheese, jerk salmon and conch fritters. The manager was very hospitable and ensured that we had a great dining experience.

*Glady’s Cafe- Caribbean and American dishes. Great service and food. I ordered Grouper for breakfast one day; it was fresh and well seasoned. Also tried curry goat, oxtails, peas and rice, cabbage and plantains… perfect lunch spot!

*Parrot Fish- American, Peruvian, Contemporary & Bar

Nice, relaxed spot with delicious food, amazing Martinis and great customer service. The menu is limited, but a collection of Chef’s creations. The Ceviche was excellent with plantain chips.

*De’Coal Pot- Caribbean, Vegetarian/Vegan options. Hidden gem located in a strip mall. This white table cloth restaurant had very good authentic local food; my favorite was the chicken roti, peas and rice, plantains and oxtails. I couldn’t get enough oxtails in St. Thomas.

*T Restaurant and Chicken Fry- Cafeteria style local spot with Caribbean dishes reasonably priced. My first meal in St. Thomas; it hit the spot!

I didn’t do everything and see everything, but this will give me a reason to go Back to the USVI!! From St. Thomas, I ventured to Puerto Rico to continue my Caribbean Destination Vacation- flight time less than 45 minutes.

I hope this guide will provide valuable information for anyone planning to visit the USVI soon! XO,

Rochelle M.