US Virgin Islands

Caribbean tips you can trust

Why the
US Virgin Islands
are special

The three islands - St Thomas, St John and St Croix - offer visitors three different Caribbean experiences.

Comparison

Alike but different

They have much in common, including lush tropical landscapes. However, they also differ in marked ways. See my critiques below.

St Thomas

Most developed
and touristed

St Thomas' main city, Charlotte Amalie, is one of the best duty-free shopping towns in the Caribbean.

However, when several big cruise ships arrive and unload their passengers, Charlotte Amalie loses its Caribbean look and feel. The waterfront becomes overrun with tourists and cruise ships dominate the seaward view.

St John

A beautiful and
back-to-nature retreat

St John especially appeals to nature lovers and adventure travelers who like to hike and snorkel in pristine environments.

The Virgin Islands National Park occupies two-thirds of the island, protecting the land from commercial development. Its Trunk Bay has a fine-looking white-sand beach and an exciting snorkeling trail (with underwater signs).

St John has no airport or cruise ship docking facilities. This keeps the visitor count low.