St. Thomas
Saint Thomas is part of the American Virgin Islands. Located in the Caribbean Sea, the island is the first and northernmost island of the Lesser Antilles, which form an arc outline in the Atlantic Ocean. And, although St. Thomas has an area of only 80.91 km², it is home to the capital of the American Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie.
General Information
There are over 51,000 people living on the island, which can be walked around. St. Thomas enjoys a prime location in the path of the busiest maritime trade routes, so it is no surprise that it has become the most developed of the American portion of the islands. The island annually attracts adventurers who dream of being transported to a special atmosphere, to feel like “pirates of the Caribbean”. St. Thomas is known for its exuberant pirate past, even the names of stores – “Pirate’s booty”, “Pirates in Paradise”, “Shipwreck Treasure”, “Pirate’s Chest” – speak about it. This is where the sea robbers hid their treasure!
.Climate
St. Thomas has a humid, tropical climate. The average temperature in summer fluctuates at +25-30 ° C, and in winter it can reach +35 ° C. In January resort season begins on the island, till April there is a big influx of tourists. The sea is very calm in the beginning of summer months, there are no storms and waves, so it is an ideal time for diving. By the way, at the same time you can save on accommodation. Hotels offer discounts on accommodation in the most expensive and medium rooms.
.Tourists
The island of St. Thomas is sure to appeal to those who prefer to spend their vacations quiet and secluded, admiring the beautiful scenery, sunbathing on the beach, and those for whom the vacation is a luxury hotels, restaurants and shopping. Since the island has implemented duty-free shopping, St. Thomas is filled with stores and boutiques.
.Nature
The island has a unique, breathtaking nature. Most of St. Thomas is covered with dense tropical forests and impenetrable forests, along the coast there are small bays and coves where the water is particularly clear and suitable for snorkeling. We recommend visiting the dazzlingly beautiful Magens Bay with a gentle beach shore and clear azure sea water. By the way, according to National Geographic it is one of the top ten best beaches in the world. Entrance to Magens Bay is paid – 4$ per person.
.Admire the beautiful exotic vegetation can be seen in the botanical garden, which is located on the mountain slopes of St. Peter Greathouse. In all, there are over two hundred species of plants that grow on St. Thomas and the surrounding islands.
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Attractions
Top 10 places to visit on St. Thomas:
.1. Fort ChristianBuilt in 1680, it has served as either a seat of government, a temple, or even a police station. It is now home to the Virgin Islands Museum.
.2. Wendors PlazaThis is the main square of the island, its heart. Its surroundings are also interesting. There are several churches surrounding Wendors Plaza, and the top of the ancient Beracha Veshalom-Vegimilat Hasidim Synagogue can be seen at the west end of the island. There is a Danish museum, the Seven Arches, in the square area.
.3. Blackbeard’s CastleAccording to legend, this castle belonged to the English pirate Edward Teach.
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4. Bluebeard’s CastleBuilt in 1689, it was formerly called Fort Frederick and served as a watchtower.
.5. St. Thomas SynagogueThis is one of the oldest synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. It was built in 1769.
.6. Camille Pissarro HouseThe famous French impressionist spent his childhood here. Now the house houses an art gallery.
.7. Coral World OceanariumAt Coral World you can swim with marine animals, learn about the flora and fauna of the ocean and visit the Undersea Observatory Tower.
.8. Skyride Cable CarIn search of thrills, take a ride on the cable car located at an altitude of 200 meters.
.9. 99 Steps.Climb the steps, of which there are actually 103, and you won’t regret it! From here you have one of the most magnificent views of the Caribbean Sea. The steps were laid out by the Danes in the mid-1700s to make it easy to get around the hilly terrain of the city.
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10. Drake’s Seat observation deckIt offers a view of the famous Magens Bay and nearby islands.
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On St. Thomas, you can also play golf at the legendary 18-hole Mahogany Run Golf Course. The course is known for the “Bermuda Triangle” of holes. They are said to be unrealistic to get through without a penalty stroke.
.The island also has facilities for diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, parasailing, kayaking, sport fishing and yachting.
.Interesting events
If you’ll be on St. Thomas, don’t miss out
- February – Classical Music Festival;
- March – Rolex Regatta sailboat race;
- August – International Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament; November – Boat Show.
