Page 11 - AAA Hudson Valley – AAA Every Day – March/April 2019

Find Bliss in the
Virgin Islands
TRAVELER’S GUIDE
When the chill of winter arrives in North America, many travelers’ hearts and minds turn to the Caribbean, where clusters of islands beckon with warm, lazy days and azure seas.
The U.S. Virgin Islands, located in the vast crescent chain of the Eastern Caribbean, are made up of many small cays and islets, but it is St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix that are most often visited.
St. Thomas boasts one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, and visitors can enjoy stunning views from 1,500 feet above sea level. Charlotte Amalie, the island capital, bustles with activity, with duty-free shoppers looking for bargains and dining opportunities. The U.S. Virgin Islands have some of the most famous white- sand beaches in the West Indies, so naturally Magens Bay is a perfect escape for beach lovers.
Southwest of St. Thomas is the charming Danish- influenced island of St. Croix. The historic towns of Frederiksted and Christiansted offer quaint shops, lovely pastel buildings and refreshing cultural diversity. Pristine St. John has been referred to as “the Virgin Islands’ most virgin” isle. Two-thirds of the island
is a national park. Romantic and quiet, there are
few distractions from its natural allure, and the laid- back pace is perfect for enjoying the island’s world- renowned beaches such as Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Salt Pond Bay.
Northeast of the U.S. Virgin Islands lie the 50 plus British Virgin Islands, 16 of which are inhabited. Because these islands are somewhat remote, one can still find an empty beach, undiscovered reef and bountiful fishing.
Tortola, the hub of the BVI, has mountain peaks covered with tropical green plant life dotted with wildflowers of every striking color. Virgin Gorda, the second most popular island in the BVI, is famous for the Baths, a massive tumble of boulders and amazing caves, which provide an exceptional place to swim and snorkel.
With its proximity to the United States, the Virgin Islands offer a delightful paradise escape in the cold winter months. Visit your AAA Hudson Valley travel agent today to plan your getaway.
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