When thinking of a seaside destination far from the chaos of big cities, the collective imagination fills with white beaches, blazing sun, fun, relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and comfort. All these qualities seem to come alive in the Virgin Islands, an archipelago in the Caribbean Sea divided into American Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands.
What better time than spring holidays to treat yourself to a Caribbean beach vacation, perhaps to the Virgin Islands that already tempt travelers with their name evoking an unspoiled place. Although this was not the inspiration behind the islands’ name, these places boast truly breathtaking landscapes.
The Virgin Islands are mostly volcanic in origin, having formed following an eruption twenty-five million years ago. The climate is dry, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. They were discovered by Christopher Columbus during his second voyage to America and over time have been under the dominion of various states. They were named the Virgin Islands by Columbus in honor of the followers of Saint Ursula the Virgin. At the beginning of the 20th century, the United States purchased some islands from Denmark. Other islands remain under British crown control so that, although from a naturalistic point of view the islands are quite similar, administratively they are divided into American and British. The Virgin Islands lie southeast of Florida and form the first ring of the Leeward Islands.
The American Virgin Islands consist of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. St. Thomas, where some cruises dock, has an international airport. St. John is the most luxurious island, home to duty-free shopping and vibrant day and nightlife. It hosts the legendary Magens Bay beach, renowned for its incredible beauty. On St. John, the National Park further protects the naturally pristine environment. Finally, St. Croix is the largest and equally beautiful island of the American Virgin Islands.
Tortola is the largest island of the British Virgin Islands, followed by the smaller Beef Island, which has an airport serving numerous charter flights. Virgin Gorda is considered one of the most beautiful of the British Virgin Islands. It is composed solely of beaches and hills. Anegada stands out for its coral nature, unlike the volcanic others. Its seabeds host numerous shipwrecks plundered by buccaneers. Jost Van Dyke, named after the pirate from Holland, features enchanting beaches and extraordinary nature. There are other small islands, all beautiful, perfect for a dream vacation. All the Virgin Islands, whether British or American, are chosen by those seeking a few days of perfect relaxation away from monotony and everyday worries.
