The first of a brand new series of posts where I give you something more than just a write up on somewhere I’ve been. On these, you’ll find an actual downloadable ticklist for various places I’ve been to. See them as a travel bucket list if you will. They are in no way exhaustive lists and based completely on my personal experiences, so if something’s not on there that is worthy of a place on the ticklist, then please share it in the comments!
First up is St Thomas in the Caribbean. It may not be the most accessible spot for most people, particularly those in Europe. It may involve a couple of flights to get there (or as was my case, a cruise from Florida) but when you get there it will be worth the trip.
If you just want to download the ticklist to start planning your trip, feel free to take it and be on your way. No hard feelings here! If you want a bit more detail on each of the points then carry on reading.
Eat Local in Charlotte Amelie
I’m a big advocate of tasting the local cuisine to really immerse yourself in the culture of a place. St Thomas is no exception.
Being in the heart of the Caribbean, part of the US Virgin Islands and descending from Danish and Dutch ownership over its history, you can imagine how much of a melting pot of flavours St Thomas really is.
Charlotte Amelie is the island’s capital and if you can avoid being dragged into every jewellery shop for ‘free gifts’ then you may make it to an eatery. We went to Gladys’ Café which was recommended by a taxi driver. Where better to try than somewhere recommended by a local?!
Gladys’ offers a range of fish and poultry based jerk foods with a great cocktail selection. I’ve never had a fresh banana daiquiri before and wow it was great! Other food places are available, but certainly get in somewhere for a taste of the Caribbean!
Take a Taxi
Depending on how you get to the island this may be a given. Many places can be within walking distance (if hills are in your repertoire) and there are your usual taxi if you want. But you can take a normal taxi anywhere.
Look out for one of these and you won’t regret the experience. Prices usually depend on how many of you are onboard and how far (obviously). They’re set before you travel but in comparison elsewhere are good value. These are a great way to get about the island, give you a rush of fresh air and have some amazing views.
Walk to Magens Bay
Now for this one I’m not necessarily recommending what we did on our visit… We hiked the 4 miles from Charlotte Amelie on one coast to Magens Bay on the other. This was just shy of 2 hours up and over the hills (which were mostly unpathed, main roads) and rather warm! If you’ve got that in the bank, do it. Seriously. The views are great and you can get a taxi back after to tick off another St Thomas must.
If hiking uphill isn’t your bag, then I still implore you to take the walking route down to Magens Bay.
If you can get a taxi to drop you off here then you can take a walk through the forest down to the beach. The ground is uneven and not suitable for everyone – there are some slight uphill segments, tree roots and rocks, but the end of the trail when you emerge out onto the beach is the best ‘reveal’ I have ever experienced. If that isn’t enough for you, the trail bypasses the main entry point to the beach where visitors have to pay…
Jump into the Sea at Magens Bay
If you’ve walked down, epic. You’re there anyway so might as well take a dip. I’d suggest taking some swimwear, or do as I did and strip down to your underwear as you forgot to pack any…
If walking isn’t your thing and you just want to hop in a taxi over to Magens Bay, then get yourself over!
The beach costs $5 per person and is ranked among the top 10 beaches globally! Not only is the beach lovely and sea beautiful, but the scenery is something different. You can relax in the sea and spin 360 degrees, taking in sea, private boats and jungle. It’s unlike any place I’ve been before a truly stunning site.
Head up the 99 Steps
I will now apologise for the final ticklist item being yet another activity-based escapade. That’s why we’re Frontpacking Adventures! Despite their name, there are actually 103 steps that lead up through the heart of Charlotte Amelie to the foot of Blackbeard’s Tower. They were built in the mid-1700s and have seriously stood the test of time! They’re in the most unsuspecting place in the city, so even finding them feels somewhat rewarding. Then of course there’s the challenge of getting yourself up them, but it’s worth it for the views! Certainly a little hidden gem on the island!
So there you have it. 5 things to do in St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands in the form of a handy little ticklist. As I said at the top, these are just 5 of the things I’ve personally experienced and would recommend, but feel free to comment anything I may have missed! Head back up to the top to download the ticklist as a PDF, or grab the photo below!
