The Pearl of the Caribbean Sea
A chain of large and small islands in the Caribbean Sea (also known as the U.S. Virgin Islands) is a sought-after vacation spot for tourists from around the world. Among them is the northernmost island, Saint Thomas, which opens the chain.
Although it’s not one of the smallest islands, it is still relatively small. The area is about 81 square kilometers, with a length of around 20 kilometers and a width five times smaller. Away from the coast, Saint Thomas is rich in rocks, and the roads wind between them, sometimes climbing passes, sometimes descending. This gives travelers the impression that the island is vast.
Interesting Facts About Saint Thomas Island
The typical weather conditions on Saint Thomas are a comfortable 27 degrees Celsius without droughts or heavy rains, with a refreshing breeze from the sea—all year round. There are no sharp atmospheric changes, with temperatures rising by 3-4 degrees in summer and dropping by the same amount in winter.
August is considered the hottest month, but the best time to visit the island is during the first four months of the year. January through April is the busiest tourist season. During this period, the island attracts eco-tourists, diving enthusiasts, and cruisers who enjoy peaceful beach vacations.
Home of Native Tribes and Pirates
The first inhabitants of the island were the Ciboney Indians, who settled the area long before the Common Era. Soon, the tribe had to give way to the Arawak, and they, in turn, were displaced by the fierce Carib tribe.
Christopher Columbus introduced the island to Europeans at the dawn of the 16th century. With access to the island, Europeans initiated the decline of the native population. Local healers were powerless against the diseases brought by foreigners, and successive epidemics claimed the lives of thousands of indigenous people.
However, Europeans were slow to settle on the island. Its deserted shores became a favorite haunt for pirates, who raided ships and hid treasures here. The pirate theme is still the island’s number one brand, successfully used by locals to attract tourists.
In 1657, the island became a Dutch colony, but it was conquered by Danish forces nine years later. Even Russia showed interest in Saint Thomas in the 19th century but eventually abandoned the idea of purchasing the island. In the early 20th century, it was bought by the United States from Denmark along with other Caribbean islands.
In Honor of a Danish King and His Queen
Although Saint Thomas has been under American control for over a century, the Danish influence remains strong. The capital of the island is called Charlotte Amalie, named after the Danish queen, wife of King Christian V. The king’s name is also commemorated in the fort located within the city, now home to the Virgin Islands Museum. Even the streets bear Danish names, which still grace plaques on the facades of buildings, serving as reminders of the island’s Danish past.
The houses on these streets are arranged in semi-circles due to the hilly terrain, giving the impression of an amphitheater. Even more notable are the narrow alleys, called “passages.” Framed by stone buildings and cobbled pathways, decorated with potted plants, they are always bustling with tourists, who enjoy the charming cityscape and the coolness of fountains.
In these passages and the streets of the capital, you will find uniquely shaped doors. Their upper parts are always arched, a design dictated by historical necessity.
Two or three centuries ago, the island was home to port warehouses. After docking their ships, pirates would rush to hide their loot. Horses laden with goods would be led directly inside the buildings, away from prying eyes. This is why the doors were built this way.
Festivals on Saint Thomas
In February, the island hosts a classical music festival, drawing virtuosos and world-famous opera singers. March is the time for the Rolex Regatta sailing races.
In August, the island heats up with the International Blue Marlin Fishing Tournament. Catching this fish is no easy task. A giant with a spear-like snout can grow up to 4-5 meters long and weigh 700-800 kilograms, yet it is swift, reaching speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour or more.
A stunning and breathtaking event is the yacht show, held on the island every November. The Caribbean Sea becomes a colorful display of bright yachts with white sails, delighting spectators on the shore.
After experiencing any of these festivals, tourists will say that their vacation was a success, and that exotic Saint Thomas is both enchanting and full of surprises.