Past and Present: 10 Days of History and Culture

Historical tourism has long been overshadowed by the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands. And the islands’ history—heavy as it is on slavery and oppression—makes for difficult beach conversation. But more and more travelers are finding stories of hope and redemption within the islands’ rich history. St. Croix is the best base for historical and cultural exploration. It has more to see, more resources for learning, and more people who are interested in preserving heritage. Historical tourists on the other islands will need a little persistence and ingenuity to tap into all the resources, but if you do, you will be rewarded.

Cultural attractions mix readily with historical ones. Fungi, or quelbe, music is one of the best manifestations of Virgin Islands culture still in existence. Island carnivals are also an excellent time to see the present-day manifestations of African, South American, and European cultures.

DAY 1
Fly to Henry Rolsten Airport on St. Croix. Check into a hotel in or around Christiansted for five nights. Walk along the waterfront at sunset.

DAY 2
Explore Christiansted National Historic Site on foot. Stop at Fort Christiansvearn and the Steeple Building.

DAY 3
Rent a car and follow the Heritage Trail around the island, stopping at Whim Greathouse and the Lawaetz Museum.

DAY 4
Explore Frederiksted. Go to Fort Frederik Museum and Sprat Hall. Eat ital food at one of the Rastafarian restaurants. Seek out some live music in the evening.

DAY 5
Hike at Salt River Bay, the Columbus landing site. Spend the afternoon at a pig roast and traditional music concert at Mount Victory Camps in the Caldonia forest.

DAY 6
Travel to Tortola. Check into a hotel on the west end for the next four nights, and then take a drive along the Ridge Road, stopping at the Fahie Hill Mural. Drive along the north coast, stopping at the Callwood Rum Distillery in Cane Garden Bay and the North Shore Shell Museum in Carrot Bay. Eat fresh local fish at one of Carrot Bay’s local restaurants.

DAY 7
Rent a powerboat and sail out to Salt Island. Hike around the salt pond and tend the graves of those who perished in the Wreck of the RMS Rhone.

DAY 8
Catch a ferry from West End to St. John for a day trip. Take an island tour, stopping at the Annaberg Sugar Mill and Ione Sprauve Museum. Watch the sun set as you sail back to Tortola.

DAY 9
Explore Main Street in Road Town, and visit Old Government House Museum. Head to the Trellis Bay, Beef Island Full Moon Party with local fungi musicians.

DAY 10
Return to St. Thomas. Spend the morning exploring historic Charlotte Amalie before catching an afternoon flight home.