The U.S. Virgin Islands, like any tourism-based area holds as many adventures and experiences as the mind can conceive. The topography is exceptional with lush foliage, hilly terrain, hairpin turns, free roaming animals, and gentle (for the most part) people. The beaches are just breathtaking and the water is warm and clear. The food was outstanding. I love conch fritters and the fruit was plentiful and as fresh as could be.
A rainbow was in the sky during our brief stopover in San Juan--wow! And here we were joined by our Canadian companion who greeted us each with a long-stemmed red rose . . . another wow! Eighteen minutes later we arrived in St. Thomas.
Here it got a bit sticky. En route to our first domain via taxi there was shooting. What a spook! It seemed there was some gang disorder over the weekend which provoked this unusual activity. Thank goodness it was shortlived and quickly put aside. The rest of our stay was packed with beauty and wholesomeness, great food, and great companionship. The islands comprising the USVI are lavish and a bit kooky. The lifestyle is basically relaxed and ever-so-pleasant. I sent my daughter and son-in-law there for their honeymoon and can hardly wait to go back to this treasure. I loved it so much I invested in a timeshare on St. Thomas.
Quick Tips:
My best suggestion is to relax with this low-keyed tempo and go with the flow. Yoo, mon. My son-in-law so enjoyed his venture and I adored sharing it. Let these islands enter your spirit and engulf you. Eat well, shop well, and go about with an open mind. Enjoy the sun, the water, the lovely land, and the people with such a rich heritage. Bargains are found off the beaten path and life is certainly good.
Asking questions will reward you as the natives are eager to please and share. "Chatting them up", as our Canadian companion refers to it, brings great rewards while learning the culture and heritage of the area brings history to life.
Best Way To Get Around:
I'm certainly not the best advocate for driving in major unfamiliar territories, and this area was no way an exception. The taxi drivers were knowledgable, comfortable, and made excellent tour guides, being proud of their homeland and handling the terrain and traffic with skill and grace. Shuttles to Charlotte Amalie and other popular destinations led to fruitful walks in marvellous abundant parks. Some of our fellows witnessed detaining accidents and this added emphasis to my choice of being pampered and leaving the driving to those better equipped . . . a way better way to relax. Isn't that what it's all about anyway?