Car Hire St Croix and the US Virgin Islands - Mini guide to St Croix and the US Virgin Islands
St Croix (widely pronounced 'St Croy') is the quieter side of the US Virgin Islands, yet has a good tourist infrastructure. Covered in forested hills and fertile lowlands with sugar plantations, the island is surrounded by a coral reef and displays plenty of influences from its Danish colonial past.
Christiansted, the main town, is one of the Caribbean’s prettiest. It is colourful and has some delightful old European architecture, and the best views of the town are had from Fort Christiansted (c1749), at the eastern end of town. Frederiksted, by contrast, is a frenzied duty-free experience for the massive cruise ships that stop by daily simply to satisfy shoppers!
St Croix's is known for its excellent diving, most of which is concentrated on the Northern shore. Lovely beaches are dotted all over the island and are best explored with a hired car. Some are fronted by resorts while others you can have all to yourself. Alternatively the inland villages offer a curious insight into the sleepy lifestyle of the West Indians, though somewhat watered down by American influence. Being a Leeward Island, the island lacks any real lush vegetation.
St Thomas is the party island of the USVIs, much more heavily developed and commercial, with plenty of shopping, wining and dining and places to relax in luxury. However, it is also remarkably pretty with its numerous bays, forested hills, turquoise water and dozens of excellent beaches.
Charlotte Amalie is the main town and has long been a busy port. It is here you can discover the legend of the pirate Blackbeard whose legend is well linked to the island. It also has a distinctly Danish character, with colourful buildings, Fort Christian (c 1670), Blackbeard's Castle and a pretty bay adding to the town’s appeal. Many find it lively but crowded and head for the quieter resorts.
Around the island you can explore and discover other historic or popular places such as Drake's Seat (good views), Magens Bay (a popular beach), Mountain Top (nature area), and the quiet islets of Hassel Island and Great St James.
St Johns is much less developed and dominated by the national park, which has helped preserve its beauty. It has a strong legacy of rum production and apart from the development at Cruz bay, has retained its peaceful character.
All across the islands there is the irresistible Carribbean charm, which is typified by ‘jump up’ parties, rum punch sundowners, relaxation, good food and plenty of entertainment to suit all energy levels.
