The US Virgin Islands, or USVI, are a group of islands in the Caribbean. The islands are geographically part of the Islands archipelago and are located in the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles. The USVI includes the main islands of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas, and several smaller surrounding islands. St. Thomas is an exotic island set in a modern wilderness, popular for its diving and amazing restaurants. In America, the local people are diverse and one can find one-of-a-kind delicacies here.
The capital of that region is Charlotte Amalie on the island of St. Thomas. The US Islands are in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 60 km east of Puerto Rico and just west of the British Islands. The combined land area of the islands is Washington, D.C. twice the size of . Most of the islands, including St. Thomas, are volcanic in origin and mountainous. The highest point is Crown Mountain, St. Thomas at 2100 feet above sea level. The place is perfect for a hike and at the same time, the mountain top provides the best views of the islands to the visitors.
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History of US Virgin Islands
USVI is located in the eastern Caribbean or Lesser Antilles between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The USVI is actually about 50 islands and sedges. The largest of which are St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John. The earliest inhabitants of the Islands included Siboni, Arawak, and the island Caribe. Danish trading posts were established on the islands, sugar, slaves and other goods were traded. Sugarcane cultivation was a major economic activity for many years. Slaves were used in it. The islands were purchased from the Danish by the US in 1917 under the Treaty of the Danish West Indies.
Best Time To Visit US Virgin Islands
The months of April to June with very little rainfall give tourists a pleasant, humid weather to visit the beautiful city. But the city’s peak months, December-March, are slightly humid in the evenings. The worst months to visit the city are from July-October when the city is prone to storms.
US Virgin Islands Customs
The population in the USVI is largely made up of Caribbean people. Whose ancestors were African and European. There are people from all over the Caribbean living in the Virgin Islands, as well as mainland Americans, Europeans and Hispanics. One can take their time to appreciate the local art, events and music while visiting the islands. Enjoy some local food, deserts and drinks. You can also enjoy historical tours, culinary encounters, artisan fairs, parades, storytelling and other special productions by immersing yourself in an intense cultural experience.
Language & Religion of US Virgin Islands
Let us tell you that only 7% of the USVI population is non-Christian. Along with Christianity, people who follow such religions as Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism and Rastafarianism live here. And those are followed by the people at USVI. The official language of the Islands is English. But Spanish and French are two other languages heard besides English.
Currency & Exchanging Money in US Virgin Islands
Tourists are advised to exchange currency before visiting the city and consult about the exchange rate in some shops/banks as they fluctuate. The rate of exchange in the city is very high. This is to give an estimate of the amount a passenger should carry. There are different ranges for a luxurious budget trip, casual travel and luxury travel.
Nightlife in US Virgin Islands
There are not many nightclubs/discos in the Virgin Islands. But there are bars. The men of VI show up at the bar to comfort themselves. And don’t enjoy dancing much. Some bars are on the beaches while others are found around the corner of the streets. Duffy’s Love Shack, Woody’s Seafood Saloon, Epernay are few of the bars.
Places To Visit In US Virgin Islands
Cinnamon Bay
Cinnamon Bay is a water body and a beach on St. John’s Island within the Virgin Islands National Park in the United States Islands. A mile to the west of a famous eco-tourism destination called Maho Bay Camp. Camping in Virgin Islands National Park is only permitted at Cinnamon Bay Campground. You can go to the romantic beach with loved ones.
Best Time To Visit Cinnamon Bay – Summer
Kayaking and Canoeing
Virgin Islands Ecotours, Virgin Kayak Tours, Caneel Bay Kayak, Hike & Snorkel Adventure – Islands Ecotours are few centers that provide the water sports. Love water or water sports? This is the best place to visit as it offers Kayaking and canoeing.
Best Time To Visit Kayaking and Canoeing – Summer
Scuba and Snorkeling
Being an island the USVI has a lot of beaches and also offers scuba diving and snorkeling options. Those who have experience of the underwater world. Morningstar Sailing & Power Charters, Aqua Marine Dive Centre, Palm Tree Charters, Cruz Bay Watersports are some of the centers that take Scada tours. This is a must do when in USVI.
Best time to go Scuba and Snorkeling – Summer
Zipline and Aerial Adventure Park
Zipline is one of the best adventure sport in US Virgin Islands. Tree Limin’ Extreme Zipline St. Thomas is one of many that gives you a place to do and experience the world famous adventure sport.
Best Time To Visit Zipline and Aerial Adventure Park – Summer
Buck Island Reef National Monument
Buck Island Reef National Monument, St. Croix, US There is a small, uninhabited north north-east coast of the Islands. This monument area, administered by the National Park Service, has a lot to explore, both in and under water. Two-thirds of the island is surrounded by the Elkhorn Coral Barrier Reef, providing habitat for 250 fish species and marine life.
Best Time To Visit Buck Island Reef National Monument – all year round
How To Reach US Virgin Islands from India
There are no direct flights from Delhi or Mumbai, but there are flights with two stops. British Airlines, AirIndia are few. Travelling through plane is the most convenient mode of transport. The U.S. Islands has two major airports – the Henry E. Rohlson Airport on St. Croix and the Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas. There are non-stop and connecting flight available from the U.S. Mainland to St. Croix and St. Thomas.
US Virgin Islands Map
Video of US Virgin Islands
Interesting Facts
- The US Islands is a group of islands that is one of the top places to visit in the Caribbean.
- The Virgin Islands US territory comprises about 50 islands and cays.
- Each island evokes its own character.
- The largest of which are St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John’s.
- St. Thomas is the most visited of the islands and the gateway to the archipelago.
- Its main city, Charlotte Amalie, is located in the U.S. It is the capital of the Islands.
- Hiking, diving, snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking are popular things to do here.
FAQ
The territory is composed of three large islands – St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—and about 50 small islets and cays.
US Passport is necessary for everyone except citizens.
The islands are administered in two groups The British Virgin Islands and United States Virgin Islands.
The months from April to June offer a pleasant, humid weather for visiting the city.
Dumpling, Fungi, Roti, fish and meat, are the famous dishes served in the USVI.
Conclusion
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