Page 34 - iwna2017no1
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Located in the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, the
,
,
, and several smaller islands — are the only
U.S. territory bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and
Caribbean Sea. And where there’s water, there are water
activities. Snorkel among vibrant corals, and swim with
parrotfish, blue tangs (kids will likely identify this species as
Dory from
Finding Nemo
), and the occasional barracuda,
or sunbathe the day away on soft, white sands while taking
in the breathtaking ocean views.
Venture off the beach, and the islands are no less
alluring. On St. Thomas, travel back in time to the days
when pirates raided the island in search of booty, explore
National Historic Landmarks, and experience adrenaline-
pumping sports. On St. John, hike your way through one of
two U.S. National Parks located outside of the 50 states,
or wander off the beaten path on St. Croix to witness the
island’s natural wonders.
Bonus: You won’t even need your U.S. passport to
travel here. And because of their proximity to one another,
it’s easy to hop among the islands via boat charter, ferry,
water taxi, or plane, and experience it all.
And you
will
want to do it all. Turn the page for a sam-
pling of the islands’ best offerings. (If you decide to rent
a car, keep in mind Virgin Islanders drive on the left side.)
WITH AN AVERAGE YEAR-ROUND
TEMPERATURE OF 80°F, CRYSTALLINE
WATERS, AND GORGEOUS STRANDS
OF SAND, THE
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
ARE NOTHING SHORT OF A BEACH
PARADISE. BUT THESE CARIBBEAN
GEMS DESERVE CLOSER INSPECTION
BEYOND THE COASTLINE.
By Laurie Charles and Samantha Monahan
Huber/Sime/eStock Photo
The sunrise over
St. John’s Caneel Bay
paints a pretty picture.
Virgin
Territory
.
