As I walk through the bustling streets of Frederiksted on this July 2nd evening, I can’t help but feel the energy in the air. Today, the islanders are busy preparing for the momentous celebrations marking Emancipation Day, a significant date that holds deep historical importance for St. Croix. While the mainland United States gears up for Independence Day on July 4th, it is crucial to recognize the unique significance of July 3rd for this Caribbean island.
St Croix
Fading into Obscurity: One of The Last Kmart’s Battle Against Retail Extinction
When I first arrived on St. Croix, I was taken aback by the presence of a couple of Kmarts on the island, the only “big-box” stores in sight. It seemed like Kmarts had long faded away on the US mainland. Intrigued by their survival, I embarked on a quest to uncover the dwindling number of Kmarts still standing worldwide.
Protestant Cay: The Charming Island That Captivated My Curiosity
On one of my first strolls along the boardwalk in downtown Christiansted, I couldn’t help but notice a picturesque little island on the horizon amidst the many moored boats in Christiansted Harbor. It was none other than the charming Protestant Cay, with a stunning hotel aptly named “Hotel on the Cay” perched on its shores. My curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to go check out firsthand.
A Sweet Spot in STX
As a person with a chronic sweet tooth, I knew that I couldn’t go without some ice cream during my time at St. Croix. I will forever be grateful to my taxi driver, Iron, for recommending Armstrong’s Homemade Deli and Ice Cream. I haven’t had ice cream this good in a long time.
Sand Castle on the Beach: A Dream Opportunity Awaits for this Caribbean Gem
Nestled on the captivating western shores of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Sand Castle on the Beach has become a beloved tropical haven for travelers seeking solace and serenity. A dream opportunity is calling, as it has recently been announced that this cherished resort is up for sale. This news presents a unique chance for someone to acquire a slice of paradise and continue the legacy of this remarkable destination.
The East to Our West: Christiansted Boardwalk
Zane and I have stayed on the West of St. Croix for most of our time, but we realized it was time to venture past Frederiksted. The other side of the island was calling our name. After some deliberation, we chose our first destination: the Christiansted Boardwalk.
Snorkel the Frederiksted Pier!
Everything Melanie and I had seen and done our past week in St. Croix had been more amazing than we could have imagined. Even with all our fun, there was still one thing on my bucket list we hadn’t accomplished: seeing a sea turtle. Knowing I love to snorkel, our friends on the island always said one of the most popular places to snorkel in Frederiksted was the Frederiksted Pier. With a free afternoon, we grabbed our masks, snorkels, and towels and went to cross off a lifelong goal of mine.
Rainbow Beach: Our Late Start Champion!
Even on vacation, everyone has a day of slow rising and sleeping in. Ours was today. Taking our time to get up, we had no clue what the day had in store for us. We may not have had a plan, but sometimes, planless days become the best days. Looking for inspiration on late start activities, we remembered that a friend had recommended Rainbow Beach for a day of relaxation and recovery. With our bags packed, we took off down the road to see what the day had in store for us.
St. George Botanical Gardens: Preserving History and Nature
My partner, Melanie, and I have a goal to experience as much of St. Croix as we can. After taking a morning swim, we wanted to find another activity to walk around and explore. We’re so glad we found the St. George Botanical Gardens. We were expecting just some pretty plants to photograph. However, we were pleasantly surprised when the gardens were not only blossoming with wildlife, but also filled with fascinating history of St. Croix.
Golfing on St. Croix is Always a Par-ty!
Recently, I have become obsessed with the glorious sport of golfing. When my partner, Melanie, and I found out we were heading to St. Croix for a couple weeks, my instant reaction was to find the closest golf course to where we were staying. My heart leapt for joy when I saw that St. Croix has not one, but THREE main golf courses that visitors can play at. After weeks of bugging Melanie with my excitement (and asking her to be my caddy), I booked a tee time at Carambola Golf Club and got ready for one of the most beautiful rounds of my life.