Blog | Page 12 of 62 | Rum Therapy

September 8, 2017June 6, 2019

Where to Donate (Hurricane Irma)

Here are links to organizations we have heard of that are providing support in the way of humanitarian assistance to those in need on the islands so drastically affected by Hurricane Irma. Please do a little research and make sure you feel comfortable – wherever you donate. You want your donation money to get to the people who REALLY need it! We are not including “Go Fund Me” accounts at this time as we have no way of checking their validity, although I’m sure there are some that are very honorable.

Apparently what is needed right now are the basics, food, clothing, personal hygiene items, generators, communication systems, housing, transportation, medical, etc. Please contact us to let us know of other reputable organizations that we should add to the list.

As time goes on, we’ll add links to any organizations that might assist in rebuilding. Right now it’s essential to help with what they need to get through the next few weeks and months. Thank you!

British Virgin Islands:
Richard Branson Hurricane Fund – no fees, all monies go to helping those in the BVI
BVI Recovery Fund British Virgin Islands Government
VISAR Organized by Tania Paine
Convoy of Hope (Irma BVI) Recommended by Nancy Richardson, Tortola

Virgin Gorda:
Virgin Gorda Relief Supply Fund Organizer: Casey McNutt

St. John, USVI:
The St. John Foundation Recommended by Russ Ballou
Love for Love City Kenny Chesney

St. Thomas, USVI:
US Virgin Island Relief Fund organized by Tim Duncan who grew up on St. Thomas (he is matching funds up to 1,000,000)
Adopt a Family, USVI send a care package to hurricane victims

Anguilla:
Help Anguilla Recommended by Nori Evoy, Anguilla Beaches

Barbuda:
The Coco Point Fund; Barbuda’s Recovery from Irma Recommended by Barbudaful

All Islands Affected:
Global Giving
Red Cross
The Salvation Army

August 8, 2017June 6, 2019

5 Reasons to Book a Virgin Islands Sailing Vacation

Have you been dreaming of exploring the gorgeous Virgin Islands? Have you ever thought of a sailing vacation on a beautiful catamaran in the Virgin Islands? Well, here are 5 great reasons to book a sailing vacation in the Virgin Islands now!

1. You can experience a sailing vacation without knowing a thing about sailing!

The internet is full of gorgeous photos of sailboats and catamarans skimming the beautiful blue water of the Caribbean… Have you ever wished you could experience that but don’t know a thing about sailing? Well you can! There are several options available when chartering a sailing vacation, including a full charter with a captain and cook, a half-board, which includes a captain and cook and half of your meals (for those that want to enjoy more of the local cuisine) or a captain only charter, in which the guests provision the boat and do their own cooking. Your charter broker can discuss the options and help you decide what is best for your group!

2. You get to experience multiple islands

There are literally hundreds of locations to visit in the Virgin Islands. Exploring this area on a sailing vacation means that everyday you will get to see something new, beautiful and exciting!

You will probably visit at least one new island a day which gives you the chance to see more than a land only vacation.

3. You can go where bigger ships can’t go

On a chartered sailing vacation, you can get to places you won’t be able to reach by a much larger vessel, which means you can see many of the best attractions minus the cruise ship crowds.

You can enjoy your own private beach or cove for the day, snorkel an isolated reef – or, start your own party at a secluded beach bar!

4. Flexibility

A sailing vacation offers a lot in terms of flexibility. Need a catamaran that sleeps 4 or 20? Do you want to snorkel everyday? Do you like to sleep in or get up early? Do you want to check out as many beautiful beaches as possible? Do you have special dietary needs? Do you really want to try a Roti, or a Painkiller?

Are there certain locations you’ve been reading about (perhaps on the Rum Therapy website!) that you’d really like to experience? Are you looking for a quiet family vacation or do you have a group of close friends that likes to find a party? Your charter broker will help to match you with the perfect crew and vessel to maximize your sailing vacation experience.

5. It’s a good vacation value

Regardless of which charter option you choose, a sailing vacation offers a lot in terms of vacation value.

Many things are covered in the price of a charter, including mooring fees, fuel, and cruising permits, as well as meals & beverages (depending on your charter choice), water toys and a crew with extensive knowledge of the area so that you will get to sample the best of the islands!

Ready to go sailing?

This article was sponsored by Certified Charter Broker Laura Jagielski of Denison Yacht Charters. There are many advantages to using Laura as your charter broker. Because Laura lives in St.Thomas, she can provide an extra level of concierge service. She knows all the must see spots throughout the Virgin Islands and will arrange your transportation to and from your yacht. She will be there to personally greet you at the dock when you begin your charter, ensuring a great send-off. In addition, she will meet you at the end of your charter to answer any questions and assist you with your departure. NO detail is too small. She is dedicated to ensuring that your trip exceeds your expectations.

Contact Laura to help you set up your Virgin Islands Sailing Vacation!
Email: laura@denisonyachtsales.com Office Phone: 340-473-0073

The Denison family has been trusted in the yachting community since 1948 when Frank Denison founded Broward Marine in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Mr. Denison landed a United States Navy contract, with the first flight of four, 144′ wooden minesweepers, for the Royal Dutch Navy under a NATO contract. Since then the Denison family has manufactured and sold more yachts over 70 feet than any family in the industry. The Denison company is not only a powerhouse when it comes to yacht brokerage but also a trusted name in the charter yacht world. With offices all over the world from Hong Kong to California to Florida to the Virgin Islands, the crew at Denison would be honored to show you how three generations of yachting expertise can be an asset to your yachting experience.

This is a sponsored post. Although we were compensated by the company who sponsored it, the views are solely our own and we only recommend products or services we believe our readers will enjoy.

July 13, 2017June 6, 2019

10 Ultra-Luxurious Caribbean Resorts

Talk about palm tree paradise… The following is a list of 10 Ultra-Luxurious Caribbean Resorts that will pamper you in luxury, offer world class amenities, stunning beaches and over-the-top service. Sound great? All are on our list of places we’d love to experience, but we may have to save up for…um, a little while. Click on the name of the resort to see photos and find out more about these incredible resorts.

Turks and Caicos

COMO Parrot Cay
Parrot Cay is an award-winning Turks and Caicos luxury resort set on its own private, beautiful island. Popular with celebrities, this toes-in-the-sand ultra-luxurious resort sits on 1,000 acres with a mile-long white sand beach. All rooms, suites and beach villas have soothing interiors along with COMO’s outstanding service, holistic therapies, yoga, diving and world-class cuisine.

Jumby Bay, a Rosewood Resort, Antigua
Set in one of the most beautiful, undisturbed places in the world, Jumby Bay, this Rosewood Resort is an island of simple pleasures. A couple of miles off of Antigua and reachable only by boat, this island paradise has no cars in sight, white-powdered beaches and winding bicycle paths and is a one-of-a-kind hideaway known, quite simply, as one of the finest resorts in the Caribbean.

Antigua

Amanyara, Turks and Caicos
Amanyara is a secluded sanctuary that embraces the best of the Caribbean. Managed by Aman, the world’s most exclusive hotel brand, this super luxurious resort on the island of Providenciales in Turks & Caicos offers 40 timber-shingled guest pavilions and is blessed with a stunning sugar-white beach. Enjoy some of the world’s best wall and reef diving in the crystal clear water. The resort enjoys a contemporary layout and design and is open to the sights and sounds of the crystal clear turquoise sea.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
A 74 acre private island north of Virgin Gorda owned by Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Records. Did you know you could stay here? On selected weeks of the year, you can book an individual room – or you can rent the entire island paradise for 33 of your closest family and friends! Necker Island is unquestionably one of the most idyllic places in the Caribbean.

British Virgin Islands

Jade Mountain, St. Lucia
Built in harmony with Caribbean nature by owner and architect Nick Troubetzkoy, the bold architectural design – individual bridges leading to exceptional infinity pool sanctuaries and rugged stoned-faced columns reaching towards the sky – makes Jade Mountain St. Lucia one of the Caribbean’s most mesmerizing resort experiences. With the fourth wall entirely absent, Jade Mountain’s rooms are stage-like settings from which to embrace the full glory of St. Lucia’s Pitons and the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

Eden Rock Resort & Spa, St. Barthelemy
With its breathtaking setting, the iconic Eden Rock exudes elegance in the heart of the Caribbean. This luxurious retreat built on a rocky promontory is surrounded by white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and a lovely coral reef full of wild sea life. The hotel offers 34 highly individual accommodations and world class dining at ‘The Sand Bar’ and ‘On the Rocks’ restaurants, both masterminded by the world famous Master Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten.Rosewood Mayakoba, Quintana Roo, Mexico
A serene oasis surrounded by emerald jungle and pristine white beaches, Rosewood Mayakoba is a Riviera Maya resort that defines a private world of rare luxury and refined beauty. Enjoy a place where there is never any rush to get anywhere and upon entering the property, guests instantly enter relaxation mode. Ahhh…

Paradise Island, Bahamas

One & Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island
Located on a beautiful beach on Paradise Island, Bahamas, the One & Only Ocean Club received a multi-million dollar reno which updated one wing and added a new 125 ft infinity edge pool on the stunning beach. Love to golf? No problem. Tee it up on the resorts 18 hole, par 72 golf course with gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Bellmond Cap Juluca
Belmond Cap Juluca, is an idyllic luxury beachfront retreat on the exquisite island of Anguilla. Set on Maundays Bay, a mile-long white-sand beach and lapped by crystal clear waters, Belmond Cap Juluca is an island escape brimming with Caribbean magic.

Bellmond Cap Juluca, Anguilla

Pink Sands Club Canouan
The Pink Sands Club Canouan is an exclusive island retreat on the island of Canouan in the Grenadines, with luxurious suites and villas offering high-end dining, non-motorized water sports, infinity pool with a 3-tier tanning deck, Jim Fazio-designed golf course, tennis center, and spa with overwater glass-bottomed treatment palapas. An exquisite and ultra-luxurious island escape.

Have you vacationed at any of these luxurious Caribbean resorts or have them on your “list” of places to visit? Tell us about it!

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

July 5, 2017June 6, 2019

4 Reasons to Travel to the Caribbean During the Summer

Summer vacation in the Caribbean? Once the weather gets warm in our neck of the woods, our thoughts don’t drift quite as much to the Caribbean – but should they? Summertime can be a terrific time to take a break in the Caribbean and here are 4 reasons why!

Less crowded – high season in the Caribbean is generally mid December to mid April. By traveling to the Caribbean during off season, you are far more likely to enjoy quieter beaches, restaurants and resorts. Enjoy your piña colada in peace!
Clearer, warmer water – during the summer months, there is a slight chance you can encounter a tropical storm or hurricane (see Should You Travel to the Caribbean During Hurricane Season), but most people experience warm, calm weather, which translates into warm, calm and clear water – perfect for snorkeling and diving!
Temps may actually be cooler than some places back home – yes, the tropics can be warm during summer (especially inland), but the temps may actually be cooler than some of the southern states during the summer! And if you get really hot, just jump back into the ocean!
DEALS! – many hotels, condos and resorts slash their prices 20-50% in the summer over their high season rates. Have you been longing to stay at a beautiful resort but find the price too costly during the winter? Check out the prices during the summer months!

Are you ready to head to the islands? Do you like to vacation in the Caribbean during the summer? Tell us about it!

Find more Tropical Tips at our Tropical Tips & More directory

To see more island posts, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

July 2, 2017June 24, 2021

Watermelon Rum Punch

What’s best about this recipe? You can use the watermelon itself to serve the punch! Easy peasy, and it looks great! Chill the ingredients before pouring into the watermelon for a refreshing, summery cocktail!

*We love bringing you amazing rum recipes! Our recipes may contain affiliate links to products that we use. If you click the link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for your support in helping us to continue providing rumlicious, tropical recipes!

For more delicious Watermelon and Rum Recipes, check out the links below the recipe.

Print Recipe

Watermelon Rum Punch

Ingredients

1 Large Watermelon
1 750 ml White or Silver Rum (we used Bacardi Superior White)
1/4 c Rosie's Lime Juice
Drill, Spigot (we took a spigot off of a water dispenser)

Equipment

Drill, Spigot and Pedestal (we took a spigot off of a water dispenser and also used the water dispenser pedestal)

Instructions

Scoop the fruit out of the watermelon. Blend until smooth. Pour through a strainer with small holes or a cheese cloth to remove large particles and seeds. Add the entire bottle of rum (or less if you want a less potent drink) and the lime juice and stir. If needed, add a little sugar to taste. Pour into a large bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Use a drill to make a hole about the size of the spigot in the watermelon. Insert spigot in the watermelon, tightening the attachment on the inside of the watermelon.
When you’re ready to serve, put the watermelon on a pedestal (we used the one our water dispenser sits on), fill it with the chilled Watermelon Rum Punch and pour into glasses through the spigot!

You might also enjoy these other Watermelon and Rum Drinks!

Watermelon Daiquiri

Watermelon Rum Freeze

And for more delicious rum recipes, visit our Rum Recipe Picture Directory

copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

June 22, 2017July 2, 2019

10 Great Bars You May Not Have Heard of in the BVI

The British Virgin Islands are a sailors paradise and well, face it, sailors are a thirsty bunch. The main islands in the BVI chain are dotted with great bars, some that have become incredibly well known, such as the Soggy Dollar Bar, Bomba Shack, Foxy’s and Willie T’s, but there are dozens of bars that are perhaps not on everyone’s radar, but definitely worth a visit. We don’t know about you, but we’ve made it our mission to check out as many bars in the BVI as possible and here are 10 great bars you may not have heard of in the BVI, but are probably worth putting on your “list”!

Cooper Island Rum Bar, Cooper Island
With over 100 rums to choose from, the Cooper Island Rum Bar boasts the largest selection of rum in the Virgin Island. Order a sampler board and enjoy the variety while learning the origin and history of each rum.

Hog Heaven, Virgin Gorda
Far from one of the beautiful Virgin Gorda beaches, but with a view that will take your breath away, Hog Heaven sits high on a hill over looking the magnificent North Sound. The BBQ is terrific and you should wash it down with a Blondie Special (named after the owner) or a tasty Rum Punch.

CocoMaya, Virgin Gorda
CocoMaya, a newer restaurant/bar on Virgin Gorda is not far from Spanish Town. On a pretty beach with fantastic sunset views, enjoy your favorite cocktail on a comfortable lounge bed in the glow of a fire pit in the sand. (BTW – the sushi is excellent as well!)

The Sandbox Bar & Grill, Prickly Pear Island
Prickly Pear Island, located close to Saba Rock in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, is a smaller island that was declared a BVI National Park in 1988 – so no additional development will be permitted. Sandbox Bar & Grill sits on pretty Vixen Beach, on the islands southwestern point. The small bar is nothing fancy, but it’s good place to enjoy a beer or a Rum Punch while enjoying the sun and activity in North Sound. If you’re feeling energetic, take the hiking path over the hill to explore the salt ponds and several other pretty beaches.

B-Line Beach Bar, Little Jost Van Dyke
If you’re heading to the east end of Jost Van Dyke (Bubbly Pool, Foxy’s Taboo) from Sandy Cay or Sandy Spit, you may catch a glimpse of a secluded little bar on Little Jost called, the B-Line Beach Bar. You won’t find large crowds and loud music here, but you’ll find a place to unwind and relax amidst the palms. Be sure to try their signature drink, the Passion Confusion.

Hendo’s Hideout, Jost Van Dyke
The new bar on the block, this really pretty bar/restaurant has a prime location right next to the Soggy Dollar. Sip on a Delirious Donkey while gazing out at spectacular White Bay, or lounge in the sun in one of their oversized hammocks.

Pirates Bight, Norman Island
If you’ve been to the Willie T, chances are you’ve at least seen Pirates Bight sitting on the pretty beach at Norman Island. The original Pirate’s Bight burned to the ground in a fire in 2013, but has been re-built and is nicer than ever. Order a delicious Day at the Beach (cocktail) and a Chicken Roti. Prices aren’t cheap, but the taste is amazing!

Anegada Reef Hotel, Anegada
You may be familiar with Cow Weck Beach Bar & Grill and the Big Bamboo at Loblolly, but be sure to stop at the bar on the beach at Anegada Reef Hotel in Setting Point, Anegada. Try a Rum Smoothie with your toes in the sand and a spectacular sunset at one of the prettiest islands in the Caribbean.

Harris’ Place, Jost Van Dyke
Probably known more as a restaurant than a bar, we had to add Harris’ Place to the list as we enjoyed one of the best Bushwacker’s we’ve had, crafted by the owner herself, Cynthia Harris. Sit at the edge of the water and enjoy a beverage and conversation with other sailors and if you’re there long enough, you might as well stay to enjoy a succulent lobster dinner in season.

Jumbie’s, Virgin Gorda
Belly up to the bar to enjoy a $4 Rum Punch at Happy Hour or try to catch a Michael Beans Pirate Show (in season). Fun atmosphere, good drinks and, if you’re hungry, some delicious food served at the water’s edge.

Who’s ready to go back to the BVI? Have you been to any of these BVI Bars? Tell us about it!

Other BVI Posts that you may enjoy:

Barhopping on Jost Van Dyke

What to See and Do in Cane Garden Bay

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

June 12, 2017April 20, 2021

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, a chain of islands well known as a premiere sailing destination, seem to have more than its fair share of stunning beaches as well. We’ve been asked by many to recommend our favorite BVI beach and well, it’s hard to even narrow it down to our favorite 5 – and I’m quite sure there are still more to discover. All of the beaches listed below are beautiful in their own way and we’ve enjoyed the time we’ve been able to spend on each one. Really though, if you’re on any beach in the BVI, you are one lucky beach bum.

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

Deadman’s Beach/Little Deadman’s Beach, Peter Island

The Baths, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Spring Bay, Virgin Gorda

Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda

Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Cow Wreck Beach, Anegada
(see more here)

Loblolly Bay, Anegada
(see more here)

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
(see more here)

Sandy Cay, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Cane Garden Bay
(see more here)

Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola
(see more here)

Long Bay , Tortola
(see more here)

How many of these beautiful BVI beaches have you had a chance to visit? Tell us about it!

To see more posts on Tortola and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

June 5, 2017July 8, 2021

Cruzin Scooters – Scooter Rental & Bar, St Croix

Before flying over to St. Croix from St. Thomas recently, a friend told us, “Be sure to check out the Scooter rental shop that’s also a bar in Christiansted”. Hmmm. Quite the combination. Sounded just strange enough that we wanted to check it out.

(Update: 6/2021. A recent search for contact information for Cruzin Scooters indicated that they may be permanently closed. If this is not correct, please let us know so that we can update this information.)

We caught a quick glimpse of Cruzin Scooters & Full Bar as we walked out of our hotel in Christiansted on our way to the boardwalk. It was right across the street, just off the boardwalk, and during the day, looked like a normal shop. Later that night, after returning from a relaxing evening at BES Craft Cocktail Lounge, the quiet shop had transformed into a rowdy little bar. All of the scooters and bikes were parked out front, making room for a small dance floor, and the musician was really rockin’ on the keyboard.

We walked in to see what was happening and were greeted by owner Philip who asked if he could get us a drink. We tried to chat a bit over the music and asked how he’d come up with the idea to put a bar in a scooter rental place. He said it just seemed like a good idea, after all, people tended to congregate in the area, so he applied for a liquor license and got it. Of course, the liquor is available only after rentals shut down for the day- scooter rentals by day, bar by night!

The musician, Zenith Apollo, was just killing it on the keyboard. Originally from the states, he had music in his blood; learning from his musician mom who’d performed at the Grand Ole Opry. He’d been friends with Philip in the States, and had come down to visit Philip and ended up staying.

Zenith Apollo would sing and play for a while and then he’d accompany a friend or a friends child as they sang a tune or two.

The vibe was super casual, biker-bar(esque) and we had such a good time that we stopped in once again the next evening to enjoy an ice cold beer at a most unique Caribbean bar.

Have you stopped by Cruzin Scooters to rent a scooter or enjoy a cold beer while on St. Croix? Tell us about it!

May 25, 2017June 5, 2019

5 Excuses Not to Travel and 2 Reasons Why You Really Should

Whether you dream of exploring the Alps, finding the prettiest, most secluded beach in the world or just taking a weekend away with the family, it often feels like there are more reasons NOT to go than TO go.

Have you found yourself weighing the reasons to go or not to go on vacation, or have you ever felt that because of your life circumstances that you will NEVER get to experience some of the wonderful locations you read about or see on the web? Have you ever heard the saying that if you wait for just the right time to get married or just the right time to have a baby or just the right time to see the world that it may never happen?

Yes, there are certainly good reasons to consider. Being a single parent, not having a stable job, health reasons, taking care of a parent or other family member, etc., are all very valid (and responsible!) reasons to consider putting off a vacation – but should you let it hold you back forever?

Here are 5 of the excuses we hear the most when someone talks to us about wishing they could take a well deserved getaway:

1. It’s too expensive.

Yes, it can be – especially if you have champagne tastes and a beer budget, but if you really would like to experience something you’ve always dreamed about, here are a few tips.
a. Look for vacations closer to home. Do you long for time in the sun on a beautiful beach? Check out coastal regions close to home. It may not be Bora Bora, but just walking in the warm sand while enjoying the sunshine and a cool beverage may be just what the doctor ordered.
b. Take a long weekend instead of a week or longer.
c. Search the web (or talk to a travel agent) about destinations that are not as popular, but still beautiful. The more popular a location, the more likely it will be pricey.
d. Start saving your pennies now. It may take a while to save up for that time away, but if it’s important to you – start now!

2. Flying has become too complicated.

Flying has become a bit more difficult with baggage fees, overbooking and crowded flights – but, if you want to vacation in a destination that you can’t drive, or take a bus or train to, you may have to board that plane. A few tips:

a. If you like to fly with a specific airline, look into getting a credit card with that airline that not only builds points when you use the card to book your travel on that airline, but will offer you a free baggage allowance on flights billed on the card.
b. Book your flights for days and times that are usually less busy. Although there’s no doubt that flights we’ve been on lately have been more full, we usually find mid-week flights not only less busy, but sometimes a bit cheaper. Busiest days to fly (besides the holidays)? Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
c. If you haven’t already spent every last dollar, consider upgrading to a priority seat that offers more legroom. We struggled with this for a long time, but now make sure to leave room in the budget for this little luxury – especially on longer flights.

3. It’s too short.

We’ve been there. You work hard and save all year for that well deserved vacation and suddenly it’s there – and then it’s gone. Tip:

a. Instead of one long vacation, take a few shorter trips per year. Even if they’re not all at a 5 star resort, just getting away can be exciting.

4. I’m too scared to go to a foreign country.

You’re not alone. Even seasoned travelers may feel some angst about language barriers, customs and food when considering travel to a foreign country. Tips?

a. Look into locations that are more like the country you’re familiar with. If you’re a US citizen and you want to go to a beautiful tropical location without too many surprises, there are many to choose from. Puerto Rico, St Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Hawaii are either part of the US or US territories and, for now at least, don’t require a passport!
b. Research a location that is part of a different country. You can glean so much information on different travel destinations today that can help you decide to go, or not to go to a particular location. Find out what other travelers have reported about their travel there to decide if it’s right for you.

5. I’m to young or to old or to single to travel.

Although understandable concerns, age, marital status or physical disabilities should not preclude you from experiencing travel! Tips?

a. Find a travel agent that can find a vacation to suit your needs. In recent years, there are resorts and locations that absolutely cater to senior travel, solo travel and accessible travel – so you can find the vacation and location that really appeals to you. If you have a special need or request – don’t be afraid to ask!

Now that we’ve discussed the 5 top Excuses Not to Travel and given you a few tips on how to overcome those hurdles, here are a 2 Reasons Why You Absolutely Should:

1. Life Is Short.
If you want to see some of the world, start making plans to do it now. Even if you start small by taking a day to go hiking or a weekend to check out a National Park near you – do it soon! Don’t wait until the “time is right”.

2. Experiencing Something Outside of Your Daily Life Can Be Enriching, Invigorating and Life Changing.
We all get stuck in a rut from time-to-time, but taking time away from the grind of daily life makes us grow as people. We may learn more about others, learn to appreciate the beauty around us, and learn to appreciate what we have.

Do you have other travel tips to share? Tell us about them!

May 9, 2017June 6, 2019

21 Places to Explore on the Island of St. Thomas

Staying on St. Thomas and looking for some ideas of what to do while there? Although it’s hard to list all of the attractions on this pretty, but busy island, here is a list of 21 Places to Explore on the Island of St. Thomas to help you start your planning!

Starting from the airport and traveling west, the list takes you clockwise around the island.

1. Brewer’s Bay. A pretty beach close to Cyril E. King airport and just across from the University of the Virgin Islands. Go for smaller crowds, spectacular sunset, local food trucks and to see occasional airplanes landing.

2. Overlook of airport from 30. From Brewer’s Bay, head up the hill on 30 to a small overlook of the airport. On a clear day you can see all the way to St. Croix!

3. Hike to Mermaid’s Chair. A somewhat strenuous hike brings you to a beautiful strip of beach that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Be sure to time your visit to arrive at low tide – otherwise the strip of beach may be underwater!

4. Stumpy Bay. Not easy to get to (Four-wheel drive needed for a very bumpy road), but those that have made the journey have reported that the deserted beach at Stumpy Bay is lovely, quiet and serene…ahhh…

5. Neltjeberg Bay. Accessed only by sea or by a long hike from Dorthea Beach, Neltjeberg is considered by some as one of the islands most beautiful and secluded spots. Explore the nearby Neltjeberg Ruins, an 18th century sugar cane plantation that was devastated by a powerful hurricane in 1867 (the same hurricane that sunk the HMS Rhone at Salt Island).

6. Hull Bay. A quiet little beach fringed with seagrape trees. Hull Bay Hideway, a bar & grill just off the beach, is a great place to get fish tacos and a cold beer.

7. Mountain Top. Can be extremely busy when a lot of cruise ships are in port, but we thought Mountain Top was worth a visit due to it’s great view of Magens Bay and a plethora of Cruzan Rums for purchase. Sip on a Banana Daiquiri while enjoying the view.

8. Tree Limin’ Extreme. Zipline through lush foliage with spectacular views of Magens Bay and other islands at Tree Limin’ Extreme. A little adrenaline and a lot of fun!

9. Drake’s Seat. Yet another phenomenal view of Megans Bay and beyond. The bench is named after Sir Francis Drake who is said to have climbed to this point to identify potential ships to plunder.

10. Magens Bay. Frequently listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this one mile stretch of white sand is fringed with verdant hills and palm trees. Megans Bay is a very popular beach and can get very crowded. Go early or later in the afternoon to enjoy the beauty with less people.

11. Skyline Overlook. Offers a panoramic view of Charlotte Amalie, Water Island and Hassel Island.

12. Mahogany Run Golf Course. (Permanently closed) Scenic and challenging, this Tom Fazio designed course is nestled between the green hills and beautiful shoreline on the North side. Test your skills on the Devil’s Triangle – a challenging 3 hole stretch that includes a par 3 hole situated 200 feet over a rocky inlet of the Atlantic Ocean. Didn’t bring your clubs? No problem, they can provide complete rental sets and hopefully lots of extra golf balls.

13. Coki Point & Coral World. Experience sea turtles, sharks and stingrays and more in this 5 acre marine park. Afterwards, spend time swimming and snorkeling on Coki Beach.

14. Lindquist Beach at Smith Bay. Recently renovated with restrooms and showers. Although it’s gotten busier, this, in my opinion is still one of the prettiest beaches on the island.

15. Duffy’s Love Shack. The best parking lot bar in the world! Order one of their specialties like a Lime in Dee Coconut or Shark Tank (served in a fish bowl!)

16. Iggie’s Beach Bar & Grill. Go for live entertainment, Wednesday night Carnival Night, Full Moon Parties and Voodoo Juice…

17. Skyride at Paradise Point. Great view and Bushwackers!

18. Yacht Haven Grande. Check out the little boats (wink, wink) and pick up a trinket or two at the high end shops.

19. Blackbeard’s Castle. Take a guided walking tour of this historic 5 acre site to learn about the different buildings dating back to the 1600’s and the islands pirate legacy.

20. Rum Island Pub. Great little bar in Drake’s Passage, home of Husband Day Care, try their RIP (Rum Island Punch).

21. Bones Rum. Stop by for a pour-your-own rum drink and be sure to take some Bones Rum home with you – it’s not available outside of St. Thomas yet!

Ready for a day excursion or tour while on St Thomas? Check out some great ideas here!

What’s your favorite thing to do on St. Thomas? Tell us about it!