United States Virgin Islands

Overview

Comprised of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, the USVI marries American ease with Caribbean vibrancy—boasting national parks, colonial towns, and crystal clear bays.

Geography & Nature

Emerald hills tumble into turquoise seas. Two thirds of St. John is protected as Virgin Islands National Park. Buck Island Reef off St. Croix is a U.S. National Monument with an underwater snorkel trail.

Economy & Resources

Tourism reigns, powered by cruise arrivals and luxury resorts. Rum production (Cruzan & Captain Morgan), tech services, and an Economic Development Commission offering 90 % tax breaks entice investors.

Culture & People

Danish colonial architecture, Afro-Caribbean traditions, and American influences intertwine. Quadrille dancing, steel pan music, and Carnival parades animate island life.

Cuisine

• Pates (savory turnovers)
• Kallaloo soup
• Red Grout (Guava tapioca dessert)
• Roti stuffed with curried goat
• Bush tea with lemongrass & ginger

Events & Highlights

• St. Thomas Carnival (April)
• St. John Festival (June/July)
• Crucian Christmas Festival (Dec/Jan)

10 Fascinating Facts About the USVI

1. Purchased from Denmark in 1917 for US$25 million.
2. Drives on the left, unique among U.S. territories.
3. Hosts the Caribbean’s oldest synagogue (1796) in continuous use.
4. Reef Bay Trail petroglyphs date back 1 000 years.
5. Buck Island’s reef is one of few U.S. underwater monuments.
6. No passport needed for U.S. citizens.
7. Mocko jumbie stilt dancers trace West African roots.
8. WICO cruise port welcomes 1.7 M passengers annually.
9. Dog & Butterfly tree is endemic to St. John.
10. VI “cover over” program rebated US$200 M rum taxes in 2024.

Conclusion

With lush parks, storied towns, and lively festivals, the USVI deliver Caribbean bliss backed by U.S. convenience—perfect for explorers, families, and investors alike.