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THE UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
Post Office Box 6400, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands 00804
Telephone: (340) 774-8784     Facsimile: (340) 774-4390

Welcome to the United States Virgin Islands — America's Caribbean! St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas are each distinguished by unique and appealing personalities. I invite you to discover the distinct and varied offerings of each of our islands.

Experience a mix of rich heritage and culture combined with exciting land and sea activities on St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Pastel buildings, historic fortresses and majestic churches can be seen in the charming towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted, while offshore some of the best scuba diving sites in the world await your exploration. Buck Island National Monument, one of only two underwater monuments in the United States, is an exceptional experience for divers and snorkelers alike.

If it is unspoiled beaches and a tranquil atmosphere you are seeking, then look no further than St. John. Enjoy snorkeling in the crystal blue water, or just relax on one of the world-renowned pristine beaches. Two-thirds of the island is a National Park, established in the 1950s with land donated by American financier Laurance Rockefeller. Hike the trails or camp out under the stars in St. John's lush, untainted environment.

Home to superb dining, an exciting nightlife and duty-free shopping, St. Thomas is the most cosmopolitan of our three islands. Our capital, Charlotte Amalie, is the most visited port in the Caribbean and boasts one of the most magnificent harbors in the world. Whether soaking up the sun on one of St. Thomas' many beautiful beaches, shopping along the downtown waterfront or visiting island attractions, you will find plenty to fill your days and nights on the island.

While each of the islands has its own personality, their proximity makes island hopping quick and easy. Whatever way you choose to spend your vacation on the U.S. Virgin Islands, it is sure to be memorable. Enjoy your stay!

Sincerely,

Beverly Nicholson-Doty
United States Virgin Islands
Commissioner of Tourism

Dear Distinguished Guest,

An enthusiastic welcome to the shores of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Whether you've chosen to vacation on St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, or Water Island, you're sure to have a delightful stay. Traveling between the islands is such a breeze that a multi-island vacation should be a part of your itinerary. The personality of each island is a reflection of a European population that once called it home.

Charting a course for your daily activities depends on whether you choose to relax or be more adventurous. If tranquility is your preference, plant an umbrella on one of our amazing white-sand beaches, pull up a chair and enjoy a good read. The lulling sounds of waves touching the shoreline will have you saying "Ah.... Now this is heaven." Check out one of our award-winning spas for an alternative stress reliever.

For a more active experience, consider yacht racing in Charlotte Amalie's harbor, swimming with sea lions, diving a spectacular wreck teeming with aquatic wildlife, or parasailing for an aerial view of the lush landscape. Kayaking in pristine mangroves, riding the Caribbean's only tram, or exploring the historic towns by open air taxi or by bike tour are also great choices.

No visit to our beautiful destination would be complete without a shopping excursion. With no sales tax and a duty-free allowance of $1,600, it will be hard to leave all the bargains behind. Deep discounts, as much as 40 percent off, can be found on electronics, semi-precious stones, crystal, watches, spirits and much more. Make sure you take home some of our locally produced, award-winning Cruzan Rum, available in aged and flavored varieties.

After all of this excitement, you've got to be craving an amazing meal. Our large selection of restaurants offer a tempting array of international cuisines and feature fresh seafood dishes and decadent desserts. Make sure to try some of local fare including fungi (similar to polenta), pates (fried dough stuffed with beef, chicken, or seafood) or the popular shellfish conch.

Before you travel, check out our calendar of events for happenings while on island. International artists and groups perform throughout the year, and our local productions are always entertaining.

Thank you choosing to vacation in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is our pleasure to make sure you have the best experience.

Sincerely,

Lisa Hamilton
President
U.S. Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association

Dear Visitor,

Welcome to this island paradise!

It's my pleasure to partner with the USVI Hotel & Tourism Association and the St. Croix Hotel & Tourism Association as the publisher of Discover. Together with our USVI partner Media Marketing, Inc., HCP/Aboard Publishing is dedicated to providing you the most up-to-date information to help you plan a wonderful stay on St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix. In this guide, we have included sections on sightseeing, dining, entertainment, accommodations, sports and shopping for these enchanting sister islands — everything you need for the perfect travel experience.

Need some ideas on places to explore? Play a round of golf while marveling at the views. Enjoy the thrill of kiteboarding. Go sportfishing for mackerel, bonefish, tarpon, grouper and snapper any time of the year. Savor a delicious meal of locally caught fresh fish with an island twist. Lie on a world-famous beach while sipping a cocktail and forgetting about the world. Or browse the duty-free shops for unique jewelry, handicrafts, liquor and apparel.

Visit www.DiscoverUSVIMagazine.com to make your travel arrangements in advance and plan all the details of an amazing vacation. We know that you'll find Discover both entertaining and helpful. Thank you for choosing the U.S. Virgin Islands as your travel destination. We're sure that you'll want to return over and over again!

Have a great time!

Garry Duell Jr.
Publisher
HCP/Aboard Publishing