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The U.S. Virgin Islands
Since the arrival of the first Europeans in 1493, the Virgin Islands have had a varied and colorful history. The English, Dutch, Spanish, French and Danish have all had their influence. In 1917, Denmark sold the Virgin Islands to the United States for $25 million as part of a plan to protect the Panama Canal. Today, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a self-governing territory protected under the constitution of the United States.
The islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John lie in the vast crescent chain of the Caribbean Islands, with the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea hugging their shores. The islands are renowned for their glimmering bays, crystal clear waters, white powdery sand beaches, towering green hills, fabulous climate and relaxed life-style.
St. Thomas is the second largest and most developed of the three islands, measuring 13 miles by 3 miles. The island boasts a stunningly beautiful natural deep-water harbor. There are many well-known resorts on the island and the main town of Charlotte Amalie is one of the busiest cruise ship ports in the world. The island is known for its many sightseeing opportunities and the excellent duty free shopping.
The smallest and most quiet of the three Virgin Islands is St. John. The island measures 9 miles by 4 miles and is just a 20 minute boat ride from St. Thomas. There is no airport on the island but there is abundant inter-island ferry service, both public and private. Two thirds of the island belongs to the National Park and the coastline is dotted with extremely beautiful beaches and breathtaking scenery. There are two major hotels on the islands and several small inns and guest houses.
Thirty-five miles to the south of St. Thomas and St. John lies the largest of the Virgins Islands. St. Croix measures 23 miles by 7 miles and the terrain is more gentle than its mountainous sister islands. Soft rolling hills provide lovely vistas and the two towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted are rich in history. There are several resorts on the island and a variety of smaller hotels.
Here are only a few of the advantages for choosing any one of the U.S. Virgin Islands for the perfect group destination and experience:
- Fabulous weather year round
- Excellent hotels and facilities
- Friendly people
- Great watersports opportunities
- Beautiful beaches
- Easy accessibility
- IRS tax deductible site under U.S. flag
- Large duty-free allowance per person on purchases
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