DK Travel : Virgin Islands

Mere specks in the Caribbean, the US and British Virgin Islands sit within eyesight of each other. The Stars and Stripes flutters over St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas and the Union Jack over Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and the outer islands, but all offer tropical sun, soft sand beaches, and turquoise sea. In both territories motorists drive on the left, a decidedly British practice, while the US dollar serves as legal tender. However, each island has its own ambience, from the bustle in St. Thomas to downright sleepiness in the outer BVIs.

1. Historic St. Croix

First settled in 1625 by Holland and England, with other European countries following, this former Danish colony reveals its history at every turn of the road. The Danish influence is especially obvious in the island’s two main towns, Christiansted and Frederiksted (seeHistoric St. Croix).
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2. Virgin Islands National Park, St. John

Established in 1956, this park occupies about two-thirds of this 20-sq mile (52-sq km) island. Besides a range of plants and animals, it features gorgeous beaches, hiking trails on its lush hillsides, interesting ruins along the hills and coasts, and water-sports galore (seeVirgin Islands National Park, St. John).
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3. Stroll Through Cruz Bay, St. John

Tucked next to a pretty harbor, this cozy town stretches inland for several blocks. It offers eclectic shops, bars, restaurants, and people-watching within walking distance (seeStroll Through Cruz Bay, St. John).
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4. Duty-Free Shopping in St. Thomas

Good prices, thanks to a duty-free deal from the US government, and the variety of merchandise make this a shopping mecca (seeDuty-Free Shopping in St. Thomas).
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5. Historic Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Settled by Denmark in 1666, this town is the island’s historical hub. Streets carry Danish names and many buildings date back several centuries (seeHistoric Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas).
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6. Coral World, St. Thomas

This marine park connects visitors with the undersea life around the islands. Watch colorful fish in tanks or up close on underwater adventures such as Sea Trekkin’ or Snuba (seeCoral World, St. Thomas).
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7. BVI National Parks & Scenic Spots

History, hiking, diving, and lovely sea views greet visitors who seek out these special places. Some are off the beaten path, but all are worth the effort (seeBVI National Parks & Scenic Spots).
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8. Sailing in the British Virgin Islands

Year-round balmy weather, gorgeous scenery, and pristine anchorages just a day’s sail from each other make this one of the top sailing destinations in the world (seeSailing in the British Virgin Islands).
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9. Dive & Snorkel Trips

Reefs teeming with colorful fish and coral provide interesting diving no matter where you go, but the best diving is found offshore on a boat trip (seeDive & Snorkel Trips).
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10. Beach Resorts

Total calm and laziness by the sea or an abundance of activities – Virgin Islands’ top resorts offer everything to make your holiday a dream come true (seeBeach Resorts).
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