Table of Contents

Route: Arrival in St. Thomas, explore for 2 days, ferry to St. John for 2 days, and return to St. Thomas
Theme: Island Adventure and Tropical Relaxation
Highlights: Magens Bay, Coral World Ocean Park, Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay

Welcome, we're William and Hui Cha Stanek, passionate explorers with a love for discovering new places and immersing ourselves in different cultures. Over the years, we've been fortunate to travel to some of the most beautiful and intriguing destinations around the globe. Each journey has enriched our lives in countless ways, and we cherish the experiences and memories we've gathered along the way.

This time, we invite you to join us on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning U.S. Virgin Islands, specifically St. Thomas and St. John. These two gems of the Caribbean offer a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first big trip, we believe this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

We've meticulously planned this itinerary to ensure you experience the very best of these islands, from the iconic beaches and lush national parks to the charming towns and historical landmarks. Along the way, we'll share our personal insights, practical tips, and favorite spots to help you navigate and enjoy your journey to the fullest.

So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a tropical adventure that promises relaxation, exploration, and a deep connection to the natural beauty and culture of St. Thomas and St. John. We can't wait to share this incredible experience with you.

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Travel and Financial Tips for St. Thomas and St. John

Driving Tips:

1. Drive on the Left: In the U.S. Virgin Islands, cars drive on the left side of the road, while the steering wheel is on the left side of the car. It can be tricky, so stay alert.
2. Speed Limits: The speed limits are generally lower than in the continental U.S., typically around 20-35 mph (32-56 kph).
3. Road Conditions: Roads can be narrow, winding, and steep, especially on St. John. Drive carefully and be prepared for sudden stops and turns.
4. Parking: Parking can be limited in popular areas. Look for designated parking spots and avoid parking in restricted areas to avoid fines.
5. Gas Stations: Gas stations are available on both islands but may not be as frequent in remote areas. Fill up your tank when you have the chance.

Financial Tips:

1. Currency: The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
2. ATMs: ATMs are available in major towns and tourist areas. However, there may be fees for withdrawing cash, especially if your bank is not based in the U.S.
3. Tipping: Tipping practices are similar to the mainland U.S. A standard tip of 15-20% is expected in restaurants, and it's customary to tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.
4. Sales Tax: There is no sales tax in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but some establishments may charge a service fee or resort fee.
5. Budgeting: While the U.S. Virgin Islands can be more expensive than some Caribbean destinations, you can save money by eating at local restaurants, shopping at markets, and taking advantage of free activities like beach days and hiking.

Additional Tips:

1. Weather: The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. Expect warm temperatures and occasional rain showers. Hurricane season runs from June to November.
2. Health and Safety: The islands are generally safe, but take standard precautions like not leaving valuables unattended and staying aware of your surroundings.
3. Language: English is the official language, making communication easy for American travelers.
4. Water Safety: The tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is readily available if you prefer.
5. Electricity: The electrical outlets are the same as in the mainland U.S. (110V, 60Hz).

Optimal Times of Year and Weather

St. Thomas and St. John

1. Best Time to Visit:

   • December to April: This is the dry season, offering the most pleasant weather with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall. It's also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
   • May to June: Can be a good time to visit as the weather is still pleasant, and the islands are less crowded. Prices for accommodations and activities may be lower than during peak season.
   • July to November: This period is the hurricane season, which brings a higher chance of storms and rain. We don't recommend traveling during this period. However, travel during this time can be more affordable, and the islands are less crowded.

2. Temperature:

   • Daytime Highs: Generally range from 77 ° F to 88 ° F (25 ° C to 31 ° C) year-round.
   • Nighttime Lows: Typically between 70 ° F and 80 ° F (21 ° C to 27 ° C).

3. Rainfall:

   • Dry Season (December to April): Lower rainfall, averaging about 2-3 inches per month.
   • Wet Season (May to November): Higher rainfall, with September and October being the wettest months, averaging around 4-5 inches per month.

4. Humidity:

   • Humidity levels are moderate to high year-round, but the breeze from the sea helps to keep it comfortable.

5. Water Temperature:

   • The sea temperature remains warm and inviting throughout the year, averaging between 78 ° F and 84 ° F (26 ° C to 29 ° C).

Day 1: Arrival in St. Thomas

Morning: Arrival at Cyril E. King Airport, St. Thomas

Overview: Arrive at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, the main gateway to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Tips from William: "Ensure you have your passport and any necessary travel documents ready for a smooth entry. Pack light but bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat."

Immersive Experience: After landing, soak in the tropical atmosphere and enjoy a welcome drink at the airport cafe before picking up your rental car.

Car Rental in St. Thomas

Rental Companies: Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Dollar.

Pick-Up Location: Rental car counters are located at Cyril E. King Airport.

Booking Tips: Book your rental car in advance to secure availability and the best rates. Opt for a vehicle with good fuel efficiency.

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Mid-Morning: Exploring St. Thomas

Recommended Spots:

• Magens Bay: One of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Charlotte Amalie: The capital city, known for its historic sites, shopping, and dining options.

Photography Tips: "Magens Bay is best photographed in the morning light. Capture the turquoise waters and lush green hills with a wide-angle lens."

Immersive Experience: Spend the morning at Magens Bay, enjoying the sun and sea. Stroll through Charlotte Amalie, exploring its historic architecture and vibrant markets.

Lunch: St. Thomas

Dining Recommendations:

• Gladys' cafe: Known for its Caribbean cuisine and lively atmosphere.
• The Greenhouse Restaurant & Bar: Offers a variety of American and Caribbean dishes with waterfront views.
• Cuzzin's Caribbean Restaurant & Bar: A local favorite for traditional Caribbean food.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Gladys' cafe, savoring delicious Caribbean dishes in a welcoming setting.

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Afternoon: More St. Thomas Exploration

Must-See Spots:

• Coral World Ocean Park: An interactive marine park with underwater observatories and sea life exhibits.
• Mountain Top: Offers panoramic views of St. Thomas and neighboring islands. Known for its world-famous banana daiquiris.
• Drake's Seat: A scenic overlook with stunning views of Magens Bay and the surrounding area.

Photography Tips: "Mountain Top provides breathtaking panoramic views - use a telephoto lens for detailed shots of the distant islands."

Immersive Experience: Visit Coral World Ocean Park to learn about marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. Head to Mountain Top for incredible views and a refreshing banana daiquiri.

Evening: Overnight in St. Thomas

Accommodation Options:

• The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: Offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views.
• Margaritaville Vacation Club: A relaxed, fun atmosphere with beautiful beach access.
• Emerald Beach Resort: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient beachfront location.

Immersive Experience: Stay at The Ritz-Carlton for a luxurious experience. Enjoy an evening walk along the beach and a gourmet dinner at the hotel's restaurant.

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Day 2: Exploring St. Thomas

Morning: More Exploration in St. Thomas

Overview: Continue exploring the highlights of St. Thomas.

Tips from William: "Start your day early to avoid the heat and crowds at popular attractions."

Immersive Experience: Have breakfast at your hotel before heading out for a day of adventure.

Recommended Spots:

• Blackbeard's Castle: A historic watchtower offering panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie.
• 99 Steps: A historic stairway built by the Danes in the 1700s, leading to great views of the city.
• Skyride to Paradise Point: A cable car ride offering spectacular views of the harbor and downtown.

Photography Tips: "Blackbeard's Castle is best photographed in the morning light. Capture the historic charm of 99 Steps with a wide-angle lens."

Immersive Experience: Explore Blackbeard's Castle and climb the 99 Steps, learning about the island's history. Enjoy a ride on the Skyride to Paradise Point for stunning views.

Lunch: St. Thomas

Dining Recommendations:

• Oceana Restaurant & Bistro: Offers seafood dishes with waterfront dining.
• Island Time Pub: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious pizza.
• Hook, Line & Sinker: A popular spot for fresh seafood and American cuisine.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy a seafood lunch at Oceana Restaurant & Bistro, taking in the beautiful waterfront views.

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Afternoon: Beach Time and Relaxation

Must-See Spots:

• Sapphire Beach: Known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling.
• Coki Beach: A lively beach with great snorkeling opportunities and local food vendors.
• Secret Harbour Beach Resort: A tranquil beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Photography Tips: "Sapphire Beach is perfect for capturing underwater life - bring a waterproof camera for snorkeling shots."

Immersive Experience: Spend the afternoon at Sapphire Beach, snorkeling and relaxing in the sun. Visit Coki Beach for a vibrant atmosphere and delicious local snacks.

Evening: Overnight in St. Thomas

Accommodation Options:

• The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: Offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views.
• Margaritaville Vacation Club: A relaxed, fun atmosphere with beautiful beach access.
• Emerald Beach Resort: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient beachfront location.

Immersive Experience: Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.

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Day 3: Ferry to St. John

Morning: Departure from St. Thomas

Overview: Head to the Red Hook Ferry Terminal for your ferry to St. John. The ferry ride takes about 20-25 minutes.

Tips from William: "Arrive at the ferry terminal early to ensure you get a spot on the ferry. The ride offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands."

Ferry Information:

• Ferry Service: Red Hook to Cruz Bay, St. John
• Ferry Schedule: Ferries run frequently throughout the day.
• Ticket Prices: Approximately $8 per adult (one way). Additional fees for luggage.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy the short ferry ride, taking in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding islands.

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Mid-Morning: Arrival in St. John

Car Rental in St. John:

• Rental Companies: Courtesy Car Rental, L&L Jeep Rental, St. John Car Rental.
• Pick-Up Location: Rental car agencies are located near the Cruz Bay Ferry Terminal.

Booking Tips: Reserve your car rental in advance to ensure availability. Consider renting a Jeep or 4x4 for easier navigation on the island's hilly terrain.

Exploring Cruz Bay

Recommended Spots:

• Cruz Bay: The main town, known for its shops, restaurants, and vibrant atmosphere.
• Mongoose Junction: A charming shopping and dining complex with unique boutiques and art galleries.

Photography Tips: "Cruz Bay is best captured in the morning light. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the colorful buildings and lively atmosphere."

Immersive Experience: Explore Cruz Bay and Mongoose Junction, browsing the shops and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Lunch: St. John

Dining Recommendations:

• The Longboard: Offers fresh island cuisine and creative cocktails.
• High Tide Bar & Seafood Grill: A beachfront restaurant known for its seafood and stunning views.
• Sun Dog cafe: A casual spot with a variety of delicious dishes and a relaxed atmosphere.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at The Longboard, savoring fresh, flavorful dishes in a vibrant setting.

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Afternoon: Exploring St. John

Must-See Spots:

• Virgin Islands National Park: Covers about 60% of the island, offering pristine beaches, hiking trails, and historical ruins.
• Trunk Bay: Famous for its underwater snorkeling trail and stunning beach.
• Hawksnest Beach: A beautiful beach known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling.

Photography Tips: "Trunk Bay is perfect for underwater photography. Capture the vibrant coral reefs and marine life with a waterproof camera."

Immersive Experience: Spend the afternoon at Virgin Islands National Park, hiking and exploring the natural beauty. Snorkel at Trunk Bay and relax on the stunning beach.

Evening: Overnight in St. John

Accommodation Options:

• Caneel Bay Resort: Offers luxurious accommodations within Virgin Islands National Park.
• Gallows Point Resort: A charming resort with stunning ocean views and modern amenities.
• Estate Lindholm: A boutique bed and breakfast with beautiful views and a cozy atmosphere.

Immersive Experience: Stay at Caneel Bay Resort for a luxurious and serene experience. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the resort's restaurant, surrounded by natural beauty.

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Day 4: Exploring St. John

Morning: More Exploration in St. John

Overview: Continue exploring the highlights of St. John.

Tips from William: "Start your day early to avoid the heat and make the most of your time on the island."

Immersive Experience: Have breakfast at your hotel before heading out for a day of adventure.

Recommended Spots:

• Annaberg Plantation: Historical ruins of a sugar plantation with beautiful views of the island and the sea.
• Salt Pond Bay: A tranquil bay with great snorkeling and hiking opportunities.
• Reef Bay Trail: A scenic hiking trail leading to petroglyphs and a beautiful beach.

Photography Tips: "Annaberg Plantation is best photographed in the morning light. Reef Bay Trail offers great opportunities for capturing historical ruins and natural beauty."

Immersive Experience: Explore the Annaberg Plantation, learning about the island's history. Hike the Reef Bay Trail, discovering petroglyphs and ending at a beautiful beach.

Lunch: St. John

Dining Recommendations:

• Morgan's Mango: Known for its Caribbean cuisine and lively atmosphere.
• The Beach Bar: A popular spot for casual dining with beachfront views.
• La Tapa: Offers a variety of delicious dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy lunch at Morgan's Mango, savoring Caribbean flavors and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

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Afternoon: Beach Time and Relaxation

Must-See Spots:

• Cinnamon Bay: A beautiful beach with clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Maho Bay: Known for its calm waters and sea turtle sightings.
• Francis Bay: A peaceful beach with excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Photography Tips: "Cinnamon Bay is perfect for capturing underwater life. Maho Bay offers great opportunities for photographing sea turtles."

Immersive Experience: Spend the afternoon at Cinnamon Bay, snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. Visit Maho Bay for a chance to see sea turtles and enjoy the calm waters.

Evening: Overnight in St. John

Accommodation Options:

• Caneel Bay Resort: Offers luxurious accommodations within Virgin Islands National Park.
• Gallows Point Resort: A charming resort with stunning ocean views and modern amenities.
• Estate Lindholm: A boutique bed and breakfast with beautiful views and a cozy atmosphere.

Immersive Experience: Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a sunset dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants, reflecting on your adventure.

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Day 5: Return to St. Thomas

Morning: Departure from St. John

Overview: Head to Cruz Bay Ferry Terminal for your ferry back to St. Thomas. The ferry ride takes about 20-25 minutes.

Tips from William: "Arrive at the ferry terminal early to ensure you get a spot on the ferry. The ride offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands."

Ferry Information:

• Ferry Service: Cruz Bay to Red Hook, St. Thomas
• Ferry Schedule: Ferries run frequently throughout the day.
• Ticket Prices: Approximately $8 per adult (one way). Additional fees for luggage.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy the short ferry ride, taking in the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding islands.

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Mid-Morning: Arrival in St. Thomas

Overview: Arrive at the Red Hook Ferry Terminal in St. Thomas. Head to your accommodation and check-in or pick up your rental car if needed.

Tips from William: "Take some time to relax and acclimate back to St. Thomas. Enjoy the beautiful views and vibrant atmosphere."

Immersive Experience: Have breakfast at a local cafe in St. Thomas before heading out for a day of exploration.

Exploring St. Thomas

Must-See Spots:

• Coral World Ocean Park: An interactive marine park with underwater observatories and sea life exhibits.
• Mountain Top: Offers panoramic views of St. Thomas and neighboring islands. Known for its world-famous banana daiquiris.
• Drake's Seat: A scenic overlook with stunning views of Magens Bay and the surrounding area.

Photography Tips: "Coral World Ocean Park offers great opportunities for underwater photography. Capture the vibrant marine life with a waterproof camera."

Immersive Experience: Visit Coral World Ocean Park to learn about marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. Head to Mountain Top for incredible views and a refreshing banana daiquiri.

Lunch: St. Thomas

Dining Recommendations:

• Oceana Restaurant & Bistro: Offers seafood dishes with waterfront dining.
• Hook, Line & Sinker: A popular spot for fresh seafood and American cuisine.
• cafe Amici: Known for its Italian cuisine and charming atmosphere.

Immersive Experience: Enjoy a seafood lunch at Oceana Restaurant & Bistro, taking in the beautiful waterfront views.

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Afternoon: Final Exploration and Departure

Must-See Spots:

• Blackbeard's Castle: A historic watchtower offering panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie.
• 99 Steps: A historic stairway built by the Danes in the 1700s, leading to great views of the city.
• Skyride to Paradise Point: A cable car ride offering spectacular views of the harbor and downtown.

Photography Tips: "Blackbeard's Castle is best photographed in the afternoon light. Capture the historic charm of 99 Steps with a wide-angle lens."

Immersive Experience: Explore Blackbeard's Castle and climb the 99 Steps, learning about the island's history. Enjoy a ride on the Skyride to Paradise Point for stunning views.

Evening: Conclusion of Road Trip in St. Thomas

Accommodation Options in St. Thomas:

• The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas: Offers luxurious accommodations with stunning ocean views.
• Margaritaville Vacation Club: A relaxed, fun atmosphere with beautiful beach access.
• Emerald Beach Resort: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient beachfront location.

Immersive Experience: Stay at The Ritz-Carlton for a luxurious end to your road trip. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of St. Thomas' top restaurants, reflecting on your unforgettable journey.

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Conclusion - Personal Reflections from William Stanek

"Our journey through St. Thomas and St. John has been an incredible adventure, showcasing the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of these Caribbean islands. From the vibrant beaches of St. Thomas to the serene landscapes of St. John, each stop offered something unique and unforgettable. Hui Cha and I have been fortunate to explore these beautiful areas, and we hope our insights inspire you to embark on your own adventure. Travel responsibly, embrace the tropical beauty, and let the spirit of the islands elevate your journey. Safe travels!"