Page 46 - DreamScapes Magazine | Spring/Summer 2023

GREAT ESCAPES
FOR YOUR NEXT ECOTOURISM ADVENTURE TRIP
USVI is on the radar
BY GRACE TOBY
Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea lie the U.S. Virgin Islands, a stretch of three main islands—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—dotted with a group of smaller islands and islets. Collectively, they’re renowned for their world-class powdery white beaches and clear turquoise water, all set against a back- drop of lush verdant hilltops seemingly draped in greenery. This archipelago’s natural wonders beckon to be explored—by land and sea.
Opt to island hop, or dig your toes into one sandy outpost to fully discover its offerings.
COLOURS OF ST. CROIX
The largest of the three islands, St. Croix is a veri- table goldmine of natural treasures. Head to Buck Island Reef National Monument for seafaring colourful adventures. Find out why this under- water park is reputed as one of the finest marine gardens in the Caribbean Sea. An unspoiled wonder, it’s a must-visit for snorkellers, scuba divers and sailors. At Salt River Bay National His- torical Park and Ecological Preserve, you’ll witness one of two breathtaking bioluminescent bays on the island. Each year, this body of water comes aglow at night, emitting a spectacular living lights nature show.
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ELEVATED ECOTOURISM
As your boat approaches Lovango—a new and exclusive private island resort—you’ll instantly feel the world melt away. After a quick 10-minute ferry ride from St. John or St. Thomas, you’ll be greeted at this area’s first new-built property in 30 years, which comes from a team of seasoned hoteliers. Guided by its sustainable mission, this contemporary resort is powered by wind and solar energy and kitted with every luxe necessity.
MUST TRY Perched up in the hilltops and tucked in the leafy canopy, book a stay in the luxury treehouse suite or glamping tent, fitted with indoor-outdoor space, linens and mosquito netting.
DEAR ST. JOHN
The most remote and smallest island, St. John boasts an expansive national park preserve, which protects more than half its footprint, plus a coral reef monument to safeguard the sea below. Wrapped in white sandy beaches, you’ll want to tuck away at the extensive list of pristine, secluded beaches.
UNDER THE ST. THOMAS SUN
This buzzy island offers a mix of rich history and culture, outdoor adventure and countless beaches, satisfying a variety of visitors. Take the Skyride gondola for a bird’s-eye view or climb the 99 steps, a staircase that leads to an elevated look at the island. Stroll through the old streets of Charlotte Amalie where colonial-era architecture and historical buildings and the Market Square are preserved. Make sure to experience market day. Rated one of the best beaches in the world, Magens Bay with its sprawling sandy stretch makes this enclave ideal for swimming and snorkelling. DS
TRAVEL PLANNER
For more travel information visit visitusvi.com
46 DREAMSCAPES SPRING/SUMMER 2023
PHOTOS: LOVANGO | VISIT USVI