THE PERFECT PARADISE OF ST. CROIX

THE PERFECT PARADISE OF ST. CROIX

By:  Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger

Photographer:  George Whylie

Videographer:  Maxine Nolan

 

Wouldn’t it be a dream come true if you could put the winter behind you for just a week or even longer if you dare?

If the temptation has seized you, it is time to pack your bags, book your tickets and head for St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.  It can be said that St. Croix is THE American Paradise of the Caribbean and holds the key to a world of relaxation and beckoning diversion.

What gives this island such everlasting charm and historic significance is the way that it has retained its custom, character and architecture over the years while other islands have sought to quickly commercialize.  St. Croix is 1700 miles south of New York, 1100 miles southeast of Miami and the majority of the year, visitors are welcomed by pleasant tropical breezes and temperatures that almost never go below 80 degrees year round.  It is just a short plane ride away depending on your location.

No need for U.S. citizens to frantically search for their passports because all that you need is any kind of photo I.D.  Clothing stays simple with shorts and tees, bathing suits, sundresses, khaki pants and the sort.  Anything more formal goes out the window.

The beaches draw in outdoor-oriented travelers whether the beaches be fully encased in sunshine or partially shaded by towering coconut palms. There are a variety of beaches calling your name to come and enjoy if not for the day that at least for a few hours at best.  Visit Reef Beach, Buck Island, Southgate, Divi Divi and a handful more.

Some of the world’s most talked about dive sites reside right here such as famous Cane Bay.  Divers listen up.  St. Croix has fascinated for years because it is the only Caribbean island where a diver can dive a wall that drops over 13,000 feet, dive a reef that is the largest living reef of any Caribbean island, dive five wrecks that sit within 100 yards of each other and even dive a pier.  Night diving holds its own surprises as during nesting and hatching seasons, it is not uncommon to be part of a late turtle watch sponsored by the St. Croix Environmental Association.

Buck Island has gained fame and popularity for the Jolly Roger with Captain Mike Klein.  Kick off your shoes and board this sleek sailing catamaran which will take you to see unbelievable reefs, beaches with sand as white and as soft as sugar and tour an underwater snorkeling trail that has been named a U.S. National Monument back in 1962.  If romance is in the air, sunset sails can be accommodated.

Fish are plentiful and eager to greet intrigued visitors to the deep.  Angelfish, jacks, barracuda, dolphin, flounder, puffer fish, snapper, reef sharks and colorful cucumbers are just some of the sea life that need to be photographed depths below.  In addition, there are other water activities such as boating, fishing or jumping on the jet ski for a fast ride.

After a tough day of sand and surf, it is nice to know that the nightlife awaits you.  Food is out of this world with some of the most succulent seafood you have ever dared to devour.  Fresh mahi mahi, meaty lobster with drawn butter, black angus steaks, conch chowder, key lime pie of the islands all will cure your appetite woes.  The atmosphere is just as special as the dinners themselves.  Courtyard dining, dining as you overlook the marina or the ocean with the breezes kicking up or intimately tucked away spots that give you privacy are all choices that you can make during your stay.  The island has become known for West Indian pig roasts seasoned with the herbs and spices that give tantalizing flavor to the meat and buffets are plentiful.

If eating is your specialty, the best time to visit St. Croix is in April as the island hosts the most unique and exciting culinary and entertainment event in the Caribbean.  It is called ‘The Taste of St. Croix’ and the event gives its attendees a chance to sample culinary delights from over 40 top chefs competing for top honors in seven food categories.

Take an evening to dance to the sounds of reggae bands, jazz music or even sit back and listen to folk singers.  Divi Carina Bay Resort on the island’s southeast shore, will bet you will be back as you visit their gaming casino, the first of its kind on the island.  There you will be drawn in by slots, video gambling, craps and blackjack tables.

Shopping is duty free so you don’t want to forget to bring back a gift for loved ones and friends.  Art enthusiasts will be amazed as they view some of the original artwork that was born from the artist’s brush strokes with water colors and oils.

There are a variety of accommodations to fit your stay according to your needs and desires.  One of the recommended resorts nestled high in the hills of St. Croix is known as The Buccaneer.  It was built on the grounds of a sugar plantation from eras ago.  Each guest room has their own private patio or balcony.  You are treated like royalty and you will be spoiled by your view as you rise in the mornings or retire at night, a spa complete with services such as the aromatherapy massage, athletic tennis courts, exclusive fitness center, deep blue waters calling your name from the pool to the private Mermaid Beach, an 18-hole expansive and scenic golf course, complimentary kayaking and floating mats and even WiFi if you feel the urge to check email or see what is happening at the office.

So what are you waiting for?  There should be no hesitation, only eager anticipation of an enlightening vacation of tropical treasures filled with magnificent memories for all.

PHOTO CREDITS:  TripAdvisor and www.jetsetter.com