St. Croix's history spans the
rule of seven nations, each influencing the customs, character, language and
architecture of the island. Even today, with modern conveniences, St. Croix
retains the old world charm that has vanished on many other islands. The pace is
slower, the charm of the people intact.
The island is 1700 miles south of
New York, 1100 miles south east of Miami, near the eastern tip of the Caribbean
and surrounded entirely by the Caribbean sea. On the same latitude as Acapulco
and Hawaii, it is eternal summer caressed by cooling tradewinds. The average
temperature is in the mid-80's and there's just enough rain to keep the tropical
foliage in bloom. The island is 22.7 miles long and at its widest only 8 miles,
but features varying characteristics. The eastern end is dryer, with giant
cactus and yucca clusters. The middle is flat fertile ground once the site of
sugar cane plantations, the western end rises to a height of 1,069 feet on Blue
Mountain., culminating in a rain forest.
The beaches are unique. some with
quiet cove natural beaches, others with coastline beaches and some like, Cane
Bay, known as a renowned dive site. Snorkeling is prevalent for abundant sea
life and corral reefs are close to shore. Buck Island is a designated Natural
Park Underwater Museum for snorkeling.
Helpful Hints
Clothing ... Casual
"chic" for dining. Swimwear or abbreviated attire within the city
limits is against the law as is nudity at the beach.
Currency ... The
currency is the U.S. Dollar. Travelers checks and credit cards are widely
accepted.
Dining & Entertainment
... Everything from fast food, to alfresco dining, to top of the line
- take your pick. West Indian specialties, gourmet dining, cheeseburgers
under the stars, fresh fish, it's all there. Entertainment ranges from bars
with sing-along to soothing piano music while dining. The casino also
provides non-stop action and entertainment at at the bar.
Driving ... Traffic
keeps to the left. To drive, you need to be at least 25 yrs. old, have a
valid drivers license and a major credit card.
Electric current ...
Standard North American, 120 volt/60 cycle.
Language ... English,
with the local lilt known as "calypso"
Shopping ... No custom
duties on tourism related items (such as watches, cameras, fine jewelry,
china, etc.) St. Croix is truly a free port for the visitor. There's no
luxury or sales tax. And being part of the U.S., all U.S. citizens are
allowed a duty free shopping quota of $1200. The shopping is world class
with Columbia Emeralds, Cartier, Gucci, and more.
Sports ... Known for
its 47 world class dive sites, St. Croix also offers snorkeling, sailing,
deep sea fishing, golfing, tennis, horseback riding, many watersports
activities.
Time ... St. Croix is
in the Atlantic Standard Time which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard
Time during fall/winter.
A
Caribbean Escape Caribbean Rental villa
St. Croix Vacation villas rentals - St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Vacation Villas...on the beach - Beachfront -
Oceanfront - Ocean view
