12 facts about the stunning United States Virgin Islands
To the east of Puerto Rico, this group of islands and islets extends into the Caribbean Sea. The three main islands are St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix, and wherever you go, you will enjoy an earthly paradise.
WHEN TO GO
Like the Canary Islands in Spain, they are affected by the trade winds, so temperatures are pleasant all year round.
The strongest rainy season is between August and November, but these are low for the Caribbean average.
December through April are the driest months, which is definitely the best time to travel if you don't mind tourists.
WHAT TO SEE
On St. John's Island, in Solomon's Bay, you will find one of the most magical places on earth, Honeymoon Beach. This romantic name suits it perfectly, because this natural beach enters the island, and is hidden between a natural barrier and a forest, a delight!
One of the most historic sites in the area is the 99 Steps. Its exuberant foliage and the spectacular view from the mountain will make the little walk worthwhile. These steps are formed with the stones where the ships used to place the ballasts to unload. The inhabitants of Charlotte Amalie decided to create this historical representation so as not to forget the roots of colonialism.
The Christiansvaern fort was built between 1738 and 1749, to defend the port from pirates and deter slave insurrections. It is now under the protection of the Natural Park Service and is restored as it was in 1830. You can explore this fort on your own or hire a guided tour.
HISTORY AND CULTURE
These islands were inhabited by indigenous groups such as the Siboney and the Caribs, and in 1493 they were discovered by Christopher Columbus. After this and for the next three centuries, the islands have been administered by many European colonizers.
In 1733 the islands became a colony of the Danish Kingdom, and in 1917 the United States bought the Danish territory.
These islands that due to their strategic location have been coveted by the colonists throughout history now gather a rich cultural variety, undoubtedly caused by the various sales and colonizations. Today the culture of these islands continues to suffer from criollo due to migration within the Caribbean and contact with the United States.
WHAT TO EAT
The seafood asopao is a typical Dominican Republic meal that has come to these islands to stay. It is a seafood rice that is made with various vegetables, yams!
Crab omelet. You'll love this delicious variety of tortilla, prepared with crab meat, white fish, mayonnaise, chives and lemon. It's a simple recipe, but it's delicious.
I can't leave without recommending that you visit Havey's in St. Croix, because far from tourist dishes, here you will find the typical food of the island cooked in a super homemade way.