Now that my daughters are older, I wanted to plan a trip for just us, a getaway that combined the things that all of us enjoy. After some research, I settled on the U.S. Virgin Islands — St. Thomas and St. John, to be specific. As I have noted in previous posts, we travel when others don’t typically – so travels not too expensive and we can enjoy more. We traveled over the 4th of July holiday, flying when others were barbecuing and watching fireworks. The resort I chose had an all-inclusive option, however, I did not opt in to that part. While I enjoy all-inclusive for some trips, I don’t on all, as it forces you to get out and explore; to find dining options and to take tips from locals.
On day one, we just relaxed and decompressed from our hectic lives. The resort offered a relaxing atmosphere in the pool and beach area, perfect for soaking in the sun. We had lunch at the pool while the iguana seemingly begged for food like our dog. This is also the day that my 19-year-old daughter realized she could drink adult beverages on her own and it was legal! It was an amusing sight and surprisingly, there was no over-indulgence. We also enjoyed the bar with a DJ and karaoke at night, along with a great poolside show. The weather cooperated and could not have been better.
Day two we ventured to St. John on the ferry, a very simple and economical way to get there. We went on the first morning ferry and had breakfast on the beach by the dock. After breakfast we set off on a hike that provided breathtaking views of the outlying islands. Our hike left us off at Honeymoon Beach. I don’t have any words to adequately describe this place; no pictures can do it justice, it’s just a must see. The heat and tired legs from hiking were all forgotten and so worth it to enjoy this little slice of amazing. After a few hours there, we hopped on a truck with open seats in the back and headed to Trunk Bay. Trunk Bay is one of the most photographed locations in the world but nothing compared to seeing it with your own eyes. We had lunch, but our french fries were attacked and gobbled up by birds, which provided hearty laughter. Later that evening we took the ferry back to St. Thomas.
Day three we went parasailing and really did not do much more. We tried to shop some in Charlotte Amerlie however, just a note, if cruise ships are not in port, most stores do not open. We explored, ate and found a great place for inexpensive, cute bathing suits. We seem to always be able to find something to buy.
Day four started early with a sailing trip to Buck Island, where we swam with and visited sea turtles; It was a full day of snorkeling and sailing. I highly recommend this if you find yourself in U.S.V.I.
Day five was our last day and we just spent it relaxing at the resort.
I look back on this trip and realize we did quite a bit, but not too much, so that we could not take the time to soak it all in and really enjoy ourselves. The amount of time we spent there was long enough, just right. The best thing about the entire trip was just spending time with my priceless girls.
With the recent devastation from the storms, they need tourism even more. It was well worth the trip.
Safe travels…
Author: Julie Torres
Email: [email protected]
Author Bio: The journey of Julie is an all-encompassing collection of my thoughts and experiences over the years. I have opinions on most everything and I am not an expert at anything other than being Julie, that I do very well. I am a mom to beautiful daughters and I am also a dog mom. I have the most supportive partner to share my life. I believe everyone is inherently good and most need just a small push to realize their potential. In all aspects of my life slow, relentless pressure is how I achieve goals and how I influence those around me to achieve theirs.
Link to social media or website: https://thejourneyofjulie.com/
