Recently I just returned from a wonderful week of rest and relaxation on the great island of St Thomas. My plans previously had been to take a 7 day cruise, but a few things popped up and I was only able to fly into St Thomas to see my friend renew her wedding vows. I wanted to document my trip and let our readers know they must add St Thomas to their travel plans soon. It really is a unique place to visit. 

Flying into St Thomas you will arrive at their airport Cyril E. King (STT). When you land in St. Thomas, don’t be surprised to find that you will exit your plane via a set of stairs. This was a first for me personally, so pack a smaller carry on so you are not dragging huge luggage down the stairs. As you go inside the airport you start to feel the island vibe immediately with a free shot of Cruzan Rum and loud reggae music blasting from the speakers. Vacation mode has begun. When you arrive out front of the airport, there is only one taxi company that provides service so you can be rest assured the taxi is regulated and safe. Be prepared to wait for a little while because they are shared service taxis which means you have to wait until the taxi fills up with other passengers. It may take some time to get to your destination because they do multiple drop offs and your hotel or drop off may be last on the route.  There are car rental companies but be prepared to get a map because I was told normal GPS doesn’t work very well on the island. Also, they drive on the left hand side of the road and believe me, it looked challenging. I am not sure I would be able to navigate myself. 

So an important point I want to make is make sure you ask for references before booking your hotel room. I ended up at a hotel damaged from the hurricane and in an area that has been run down over the years. When I looked at their website, I had no clue what was in store for me so I ended up having to switch hotels. I was lucky I didn’t get charged twice but Expedia was a huge help in finding me another place.  I checked in to a great place located right on the beach called Emerald Beach Resort. It was like night and day from the first hotel. The hotel did have some hurricane damage but nothing like the previous hotel. Their restaurant and pool were both functional which really is all I need to be happy. The Tiki beach bar was a great place to sit out on the patio amidst the palm trees and tropical flowers located on Lindbergh Bay beach. The food at the restaurant was a little pricey but so good. Also, there are wild cats that hang out on the patio that guest feed. They are very friendly and love getting attention from the hotel guest. Of course I fell in love with them and wanted to bring all of them home with me. 

Emerald Beach Resort

There are roosters and chickens every place you go on the island

Take a powerboat ride

Before you end your trip, you need to check out some of the local areas like Magen’s Bay. It is hailed as one of the worlds most beautiful places along St Thomas’ northern coast that offers swimming, equipment rental, freshwater showers, bars and restaurants for the whole family to enjoy. Rent an umbrella or mat to float out on the water. This is the place my friend had her wedding renewal which ended up being a perfect backdrop for a wedding. 

For shopping check out Main Street in Charlotte Amalie or Vendors Plaza for handmade crafts and artwork. Let us know your experience with visiting St Thomas and places our readers should check out. Xoxo 

Blog by Krista