Showing posts with label St. John. Show all posts
Showing posts with label St. John. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 18

Top 10 Cruise Destinations

Cruising is no longer simply a mode of transportation, it's a vacation unto itself. Here, we've highlighted the top ten most popular places to cruise to so get comfortable, grab your umbrella drink, & get ready to relax!

10. Panama Canal
The world's greatest shortcut & one of the most fabulous engineering feats, this Central American retreat is a natural beauty. Not only is sailing through the numerous locks something to marvel at but the surrounding scenery and vibrant local culture will have you swooning.
9. Aruba
Whether you're looking to party or put your feet up, this sun drenched island is perfection. As a top tourist destination, there are a plethora of resorts to choose from. Due to its location, Aruba is blessed with breathtaking beaches, balmy weather, and lovely breezes.
8. Hong Kong
A unique destination due to its mix of cultures, this Asian destination accommodates every traveller. Cruising through the waterways is a popular past time and many tour providers offer the opportunity to experience this small but bustling city.
7. Norway
A favorite Scandinavian retreat, Norway has a plethora of natural attractions well-worth travelling to see. Enjoy astounding views of the Norwegian Fjords, northern lights, whale watching, and midnight sun just to name a few. It also doesn't hurt that the locals are absolutely wonderful.
6. Cayman Islands
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, this dreamy island delivers. While business men call it a tax haven, cruisers love it for the azure waters, sugar soft sand, and Kodak moment dive sites. Enjoy a nights stay in chic hotel or rustic villa.
5. New Zealand/Australia
Enjoy some of the most beautiful natural vistas down under with Aussies or Kiwis. It's hard to just highlight one reason to travel down under, but the combo of beaches, forests, & history is a good start. Revel in the natural beauty, great food and wine, and a fabulous blend of modern and historic culture.4. Alaska
Between the wildlife, glaciers, and natural parks, what's not to love? Enjoy whale watching while you cruise through the icy waters and order some of the best salmon dinners around. If after cruising through the gorgeous waters, you'd like to see more plan a stay at one of the numerous & vast state parks.







3. French Riviera
Famous for the glitz & glam of Cannes, St. Tropez, and Monaco, this lovely Mediterranean escape also boasts more laid back towns such as Gourdon, Biot, Grasse, Eze, & Vallauris. The nearly tropical climate coupled with azure waters, crisp colored villas, and indigo skies against the Alps has been an inspiration to many artists, including Picasso, and will surely inspire you.

If you're looking for a beachy escape closer to home, you've found your haven. These islands are smaller in size but certainly rate high on the satisfaction scale. These islands are mostly all natural providing a plethora of private inlets and beaches to enjoy.
1. Barbados
Close your eyes & imagine your dream beach. The characteristics you're thinking of are all offered here-- unspoiled, crisp, clean beaches disturbed only by the lapping of crystal waves, tropical flora & fauna, warm rays of sun accompanied by a balmy breeze, topped off with a charming atmosphere & lovely culture. You won't be disappointed and you won't want to leave.

Monday, August 2

US Virgin Islands (USVI)

About USVI
*The United States Virgin Islands are a group of three main islands, one much smaller Water Island, and surrounding minor islands. They are located in the Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles with a total population of just over 100,000. Discovered and named by Christopher Columbus, the islands were held by various European powers until 1672 when they came under Danish rule as the Danish-Westindian islands. It wasn't until 1917 that they were sold to the US became the US Virgin Islands.

*These islands are volcanic in origin, hilly, have strategic harbors including Charlotte Amalie and Christiansted, and white sand beaches for which they've become very well known (think Magens Bay and Trunk Bay). The currency is USD and the official language is English although Virgin Island Creole is spoken informally.

*These islands make for the perfect family vacation or romantic getaway with the laid-back feel, charming culture, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy near deserted beaches, excellent diving, inland nature adventures, duty-free shopping, delectable dining, and an exciting nightlife.
St. Thomas Nicknamed "Rock City" by the locals, this island has one of the most beautiful harbors. Charlotte Amalie boasts many attractions such as elegant dining, thrilling nightlife, duty-free shopping, and even submarine rides. You can enjoy the areas natural beauty anywhere around the island, be it sea level or 1500ft higher up. A few attractions worth visiting are Fort Christian, Frederick Lutheran Church, St. Peter Greathouse Estate and Gardens, 99 Steps, and Haagensen House.


St. John Also known by locals as "Love City". Most of this beautiful island is a national park and as such provides the perfect opportunity for hiking, camping, and stunning views. This island lays claim to some of the most beautiful and well-known beaches such as Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Salt Pond Bay.


St. Croix "Twin City", as it is referred to by locals, this is the largest of the islands and also has a flatter terrain. The Danish culture is still very much so present around the island, especially in its two historic towns Christainsted and Frederiksted. You'll see this expressed through its laid back charm, quaint shops, brightly colored buildings, and refreshing diversity. The older buildings are made of cut coral, molasses mortar, and Danish bricks brought over in the 1700 & 1800s! You can enjoy golf, beaches, exploring inland, or horseback riding near 18th century sugar mills. A few top dive spots are a wall that drops over 13,000ft, the largest living reef of any Caribbean island, 5 wrecks within 100 yards of each other, and a pier.


Christiansted Harbor circa 1959