St. John
The gem of the Virgin Islands
City Guides, Travel Planning and Dream Vacations
It is a cliche to refer to a place where ‘time stands still’. Our changing climate and the effects of over-tourism have affected travel destinations the world over.
But St. John, USVI has an advantage. The 20 square mile island, accessible by ferry from neighboring St Thomas is home to the Virgin Islands National Park. The park protects 90% of the island (both under and over water) from development. After visiting nearly 30 years ago we found the rugged volcanic hills, pristine beaches and local charm to be as magical as we remember it, all those years ago.
Plan on your trip being super casual, super chill. Take out 2/3 of what you plan to pack. And if you are a snorkeler, this is the time to invest in your own gear. You’ll use it every day, if you want.
An easy ferry ride from the Red Hook dock in St. Thomas will have you in Cruz Bay within 30 minutes.
From there, you’ll navigate a few logistics (jeep rental, food provisioning, etc.). And be prepared for some of the most mountainous driving you’ll ever encounter…a roller coaster complete with hairpin turns. As far as accommodations, don’t expect the usual lineup of hi-rise mega-resorts along the beach (Westin is the only major development on the Island) so many opt for a private villa rental.
St. John is also a great launching point for an adventure in the British Virgin Islands. Click here for our guide to a Perfect day in the BVIs.
A sailor’s paradise, the British Virgin Islands consists of 4 main islands and countless smaller ones. Reef lined beaches backed by volcanic mountains rising from the sea are a tropical dream come true. This post is all about taking a day trip from St. John (for a full itinerary: The best of St. John, click here). Here, we’ll offer an array of choices that will add an unforgettable journey to your Virgin Islands experience.
It was on a vacation in Cancun 20 years ago that we took our family on the ferry across to Isla Mujeres. That day we rented a golf cart and explored the laidback, charming tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of Cancun, making a promise to come back and spend more time in the relaxed, chill atmosphere.
Escape with us to one of the world’s most romantic, magical cities. Lisbon is 400 years older than Rome and Paris and rivals both in beauty. The spirit of exploration still lives here, inspired by those who set sail from its shores to discover the world. Come with us and explore its countless charms.
Lisbon is a magical and romantic destination, highly recommended for every traveler’s bucket list. Within the city’s unique and charming neighborhoods – Baixa, Alfama, Chiado, and Bairro Alto there’s enough to fill weeks of exploration. Click here for our city guide: Exploring Lisbon where we provide an itinerary that covers the major sights and experiences, while leaving enough time to take it all in at an unhurried pace.
But beyond the city limits, Lisbon is also the perfect jumping off point for spectacular day trips – within an hour of the major city you can escape to castles, gardens and medieval villages. Each tour we took was expertly guided by Lisbon by Locals, who we highly recommend!
Come with us as we share our experiences from days 3,4 and 5 of our 8-day adventure. Now, let’s embark on three unique day trips, covering 6 towns not to be missed. Enjoy!
Escape to a place where time stands still, experiencing world-renowned destinations where nature, heritage, culture and cuisine exceed your imagination. The wonders to be explored in Croatia are seemingly endless, and promise to be among the most treasured memories you will carry with you for a lifetime.
Updated for 2022 – Christmas City is as festive as ever, full of Holiday magic. This has become a tradition for our family, and puts us in the spirit of the season like no place else. Merry Christmas to you and yours!
‘Tis the Season for a visit to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, a.k.a. ‘Christmas City’, and a wonderful way to banish any and all ‘Humbugs’!
Founded in 1741 and named on Christmas Eve by Moravian missionaries, it received it’s name from the beloved Christmas carol we all grew up with. And the citizens of this charming town are committed to preserving their rich heritage and providing a most welcoming and magical experience to all who visit.
Here are the top things we enjoy at the most wonderful time of the year…
Escape to a place where time stands still, experiencing world-renowned destinations where nature, heritage, culture and cuisine exceed your imagination. The wonders to be explored in Croatia are seemingly endless, and promise to be among the most treasured memories you will carry with you for a lifetime.
Between the mainland and hundreds of spectacular islands, there are over 2500 miles of coastline beckoning to be explored. Planning the perfect itinerary can be quite daunting, as you won’t want to miss captivating old town city walks, swims in the sea and the unique Croatian cuisine. The ultimate way to take it all in is a private charter, sailing in luxury as we did on the Adriatic King. With much gratitude we were graciously hosted by Michael Gelber and IWORLD of TRAVEL for a unique leaning experience designed for travel agents.
Escape to a place where time stands still, experiencing world-renowned destinations where nature, heritage, culture and cuisine exceed your imagination. The wonders to be explored in Croatia are seemingly endless, and promise to be among the most treasured memories you will carry with you for a lifetime.
Between the mainland and hundreds of spectacular islands, there are over 2500 miles of coastline beckoning to be explored. Planning the perfect itinerary can be quite daunting, as you won’t want to miss captivating old town city walks, swims in the sea and the unique Croatian cuisine. The ultimate way to take it all in is a private charter, sailing in luxury as we did on the Adriatic King. With much gratitude we were graciously hosted by Michael Gelber and IWORLD of TRAVEL for a unique leaning experience designed for travel agents.
This world-class cruise ship explores the gems of the Adriatic, featuring every amenity you could ever want. We were hosted by a crew made up od family and friends who made us feel like one of their own from our first day spent with them. The balance of organized tours, swim stops, 5 star meals and exceptional service makes yachting the perfect way to experience it all.
From the moment you touch down at Jackson Hole Airport (click here for a complete guide to Jackson Hole) you know you’re somewhere amazing. The only airport situated in a National Park, you are instantly in awe of the Teton Mountain Range, towering over sagebrush flats. Just ahead, adventure beckons you to explore the majesty of nature and the best of the West.
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the United States first National Park. And today you can experience this wild ecosystem much as you would more than a century ago.
This Summer we had the incredible good fortune to see, hear and feel what generations before us have marveled at. The supervolcano that last erupted thousands of years ago left behind a 30-45 mile basin, the heat from which still fuels an incredible array of activity. At Yellowstone, nature puts on a show…starring geysers, hot springs, towering peaks, deeply carved canyons and the furry and feathered inhabitants that call this majestic wonderland home.
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