On the northeastern side of the Caribbean Sea is a group of islands, which on the world map is designated as the Virgin Islands. The famous navigator Christopher Columbus became their pioneer. The beauty and climate of the local area attracts people here from all over the country and the world.
General information about the islands of America
The Virginia Archipelago consists of 60 small islets: one of them is under British control and forms the British Virgin Islands, and the other is under US jurisdiction and is known as the American Virgin Islands.
The capital of the American part of the archipelago is the city of Charlotte Amalie, which is located on one of the largest American islands with an area 347 km2, and a population of about 106 thousand.
The official language here is English, but not everyone uses it.
Worth knowing! Here you can meet people who speak Spanish, Danish, French and even African.
The bulk of the population is Christian, but there are also Catholics and Protestants.
The Virginia Archipelago is a politically stable territory with a high standard of living and is considered the most reputable offshore company. To date, about 41 % offshore companies.
US Virgin Islands cities
The entire territory of the islands is divided into 3 districts:
- Saint Thomas (administrative center - Charlotte Amalie);
- Saint John (adm. Center - Cruz Bay);
- Santa Cruz (adm. Center - Christiansted).
St. Thomas County is the most popular tourist destination.
How to get to the Virgin Islands
Unfortunately, there is no direct flight from Russia, and in order to get to them, you will have to fly with two transfers. The first is carried out in the United States, the second in Puerto Rico. But there is one more way. Since ferries and boats regularly go to the islands, you can make one change by plane, and then continue your journey by water.
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Difference in time
With Moscow, it is 7 hours. At a time when morning has just begun on the islands, it is already lunchtime in the capital of the Russian Federation and nearby cities.
Climate
Throughout the year, the archipelago is very warm, because the tropical climate reigns here. In summer, the temperature is about + 29 ° C, and in winter it does not drop below + 24 ° C. In the autumn and spring, the rainy season begins on the islands, but drought sets in in summer and winter.
Important!Most precipitation falls in September-November, and strong gusts of wind are possible in July.
Hotels
A large number of hotels are located on a huge territory, designed for tourists with an average and high income. Prices for accommodation in a resort area start at $ 250 per night, but you can also stay in economy class for $ 150 or rent a room in a small guesthouse for just $ 80 per day.
In addition, on some of the islets there are tent camps where young people often like to stay. But if you want to relax to the fullest, then you can rent a villa on the coast itself, the rental price for which starts at $ 5,000 per week.
Beaches
The most beautiful beaches are on the north side and the first of them, which is definitely worth a visit, is Trunk Bay. It is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, entrance fee is $ 4 *.
If you want some privacy, then you should go to Hawknest Bay Beach. It has many shaded trees and crystal clear water with a gentle entrance.
The Cinnamon Bay beach is no less popular. It is equipped with everything you need. This is a great snorkeling spot. There is a camping in the forest.
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Interesting to know!Other not less famous beaches include Caneel Bay, Gibney Beach, Maho Bay, Francis Bay, Denis Bay, Jumbie Bay, Salomon Beach.
Banks, money, exchange offices
US dollars are the main currency of the islands. Here you can exchange foreign money in almost every bank and exchange office.
In large settlements, ATMs have been installed that work with non-cash funds. But on the peripheral islands, it is not always possible to use a credit card.
Tourist safety
As for safety, there is almost no threat to the tourist. Petty thefts are very rare, but there are no violent crimes. The only precaution is to try not to display your jewelry and money in public, and in the dark, try to avoid walking alone.
Transport
The Virgin Islands has well-developed transport, water and air connections. But since the cities on them are small, tourists most often prefer to walk or rent a bicycle or scooter. Taxis are no less popular.
Entertainment and excursions
The islands have all the conditions for a comfortable vacation and diving. During the dive, divers will discover a wonderful underwater world with reefs, caves that beckon to learn about their secret.
The most colorful entertainment is considered to be the carnival held in St. Thomas in April. During this show, you can see fancy dress, interesting musical performances, competitions and much more. But on Sant'Cruz, the whole family should visit the Crucian Carp Festival.
You should definitely go on an excursion by helicopter. From a bird's eye view, the tourist will most fully see the amazing beauty of all the Virgin Islands.
As for the bars and clubs, there are practically none. Lovers of nightlife should go to Charlotte Amalie.
Sights
There are many natural and man-made attractions in the local area, and most of them are concentrated in St. Thomas. Among them, it is worth highlighting:
- Fort Christian. Works today as a museum.
- Blackbeard's Castle. According to legend, it once belonged to the pirate Edward Teach.
- Cable car. It is located at an altitude of 200 m and delivers a lot of impressions and emotions.
Going to St. John, you can visit the National Park, which covers a huge area. Also, you should definitely go to the amazing peaks of Mami and Kemelberg and get acquainted with the history of the ruins of the sugar factory.
Souvenirs
The export of souvenirs from the islands is allowed for an amount not exceeding 1200 dollars... They often carry watches, perfumes, jewelry, leather goods, porcelain and so on. But at the local bazaars, where sellers like to bargain, you can buy various spices, tea and handicrafts of local artisans.
Holidays and events
Most of all, the islands are famous for their frequent holding of festivals and carnivals. St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm. On this day, colorful processions and blues are played.
The longest holiday is considered to be the Christmas Festival, which starts from Christmas and lasts throughout the first decade of January.
Interesting to know! A striking sight on the islands is the hermit crabs race.
Cuisine and restaurants
Local cuisine consists mainly of seafood and fruits, while everything else is imported. You should definitely try charcoal-fried fish, lobster, shark soup and, of course, mussel pie. And for dessert, you should eat local fruits: passion fruit, Indian dates, mangoes, pineapples.
The Virgin Islands has a large number of restaurants where you can taste dishes according to the recipes of the best culinary experts in Asia, Europe and Africa. They all blend organically here, creating a unique menu.
Shopping and shops
Local souvenir shops offer tourists a huge number of gifts to choose from: hats, knitwear, bright clothes, fruits, liquor, rum, and more.
You can buy jewelry at Little Switzerland, ceramics at Bamboushay, gifts at House of Luxury. Also popular are Aragon Studio, Allamanda Gallery and Sunny Caribbee.
Connectivity and Wi-Fi
On the territory of the country, the cellular communication of both Russian mobile operators and local ones works perfectly. There is also available wi-fi in internet cafes, hotels and other public places.
Visa issue
In order to visit the Virgin Islands, Russians need a visa, the cost of which is 150 dollars... You can open it at the US Embassy in Moscow.
Tours and vacations in the Virgin Islands are not the cheapest, but every tourist will leave in his memory vivid impressions and unforgettable emotions from the trip. Both single people and married couples with children will have a good rest here, due to the wonderful climate and many attractions.
* Prices are valid for March 2020
