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Island Life

St Croix’s New Season Brings New Changes

October 28, 2022 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

St Croix is seeing a renaissance after the past several years of recovering from Hurricanes Irma and Maria, followed by the global pandemic. Quietly during this time, some businesses have closed, new ones have opened, and many have expanded. It’s certainly an exciting time to be here! Whether you are new to St Croix or have been traveling here for years, I’m sure you are going to be as excited as I am for some of the things you’ll find here. Below is a rundown of some things old, some things new, some things expanded, and a new hotel renovation in the ocean blue.

St Croix Restaurant Updates

Christiansted

El Leon Restaurant is now officially open! It is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located on the boardwalk at the King Christian Hotel. And as with all of the other projects taken on by Chris Pardo of “The Neighborhood Establishment” the décor is divine. Right now they are just taking walk-ins, but they will start taking online reservations via Open Table on November 2nd. Discover More

el leon interior
el leon food
el leon tiradito
el leon tacos
El Leon Mexican Restaurant

Jump Up Deli & Dem Tings– Opening Nov 2022! An authentic deli and unique island gift boutique in the heart of Christiansted. I’m really excited about this new spot in the neighborhood. Sadly, the iconic Café Christine has closed for good, but my friends Ellen and Todd have been working hard to bring something new and fresh to town while honoring some of the Cafe Christine vibe (and recipes!). I’ve gotten a sneak peek and can’t wait for them to open. The gifts are, as Ellen says, “Tings you didn’t even know you needed!” and I’ve already put quite a few of them on my wish list! Discover More

jump up deli and dem tings soon come

Breakers Roar Tiki Bar Has reopened after some renovations and updates. They will announce a new menu in the next few weeks, so stay tuned! Discover More

Rum and Wine Bar – Word on the street is that the new chef at this downtown seafood restaurant below the Comanche Hotel is the bomb and a skilled sushi chef. As someone who has to live gluten-free, I was excited when another “gf” friend informed me that the chef uses tamari (gluten-free) in her kitchen in lieu of soy sauce to make her recipes more accessible. They had a nice selection of sushi rolls and other menu items and I’ve been told that the food is really excellent. I can’t wait to get in and sample some for myself.

Alfio’s Pizza – Speaking of gluten-free friendly restaurants, Alfio’s is a newer business in Christiansted that’s not to be missed. Located in the former Paradise Café (if you’re old school), BES Craft Cocktails (if you’re newer) on the corner of Company and Queen Cross streets, Alfio is well-known island-wide for his pizzas and sauces that can be purchased in local grocery stores. He started out with pop-up tents and now opened his own restaurant serving up pizza, pasta, and daily specials. As a chef who is also gluten-free himself, he offers special gf pizzas too! You just have to call in your special order before 3:30 pm as it takes extra preparation time. Discover more

Café Fresco is closing their location on King Street in the courtyard of the Penthany building and moving to Gallows Bay with an expanded location and menu. Look for them to reopen in December 2022 in their new spot. Stay tuned.

Nauti Bar & Grille has closed on Hospital Street (just past Fort Christianvaern heading East) but it’s being reopened as Jubilee BBQ & Seafood brought to you by the same group that now runs Rum and Wine Bar (see above), ParrotFish, The Galleon, Deep End Bar & Grille, and the Castle St Croix event venue.

Frederiksted

Six Nine Restaurant & Bar has reopened after some downtime this summer and renovations. They’ve renovated the bar and it looks fabulous! You’ll also find a new bar menu available nightly in addition to their lunch and dinner menus. Their sister businesses Tap Deck Bar & Billiards and Lyric Sails are also back in action. You’ll find their entertainment schedules up on STXCalendar.com so you won’t miss a thing!

Flyers Bar & Grill has sadly closed at the Salt River Marina location. However, they are reopening in December at their new location in Victoria House in downtown Frederiksted. They’ll be bringing their well-established menu and, of course, Scottie’s delicious homemade ice cream recipes along with them.

World Ocean School Update

First, the bad news. Schooner Roseway will not be here in Christiansted harbor this season. She is currently hauled out in dry dock for some necessary maintenance and repairs. Now, the good and exciting news, the World Ocean School is still coming to St Croix for the season with a different vessel. Along with Roseway, they have added another exciting vessel to their fleet, the Denis Sullivan.  The Denis Sullivan is a three-masted, gaff-rigged schooner, a Great Lakes tall ship built by  Milwaukee community volunteers 20 years ago. I was excited to have participated in a Zoom call where the captain, Christa Miller-Shelley, discussed the new ship, the challenges of getting the ship from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and the plans for an inland transit down the Mississippi River.

Denis Sullivan

You can keep track of the Denis Sullivan‘s trip down the Mississippi River, through locks and making its way to the open sea via the World Ocean School Ship’s Log – I can’t wait to see this amazing tall ship as it sails into Christiansted Harbor! The ship is expected to make it to St Croix in mid-December and sunset sails start up from Gallows Bay on December 22nd. I hope to see you aboard. Discover more about World Ocean School

2023 St Croix Calendars - Now on Sale!
2023 St Croix Calendars – Now on Sale!

St Croix Places to Stay – Resorts & Hotels

Hotel on the Cay – I’m really excited about this project, I think the entire island is! Located in Christiansted Harbor on Protestant Cay, this property has been in need of some love for a long time, and now it’s going to get it! The Neighborhood Establishment was awarded the RFP back in 2020. Since then, they have been negotiating the lease with the USVI Government. They finally signed that last week. The next step is for the lease to be approved by the Legislature of the US Virgin Islands at which point they will have a fully executed lease. And then, the fun begins! The project is multi-phased due to the existing conditions, permitting challenges, etc. The first phase will focus on improving the public beach, amenities, and the existing hotel rooms and event spaces. This will include food and beverage outlets, water sports, the pool area, and other amenities. The second phase includes the building of the new rooms, a marina/dock expansion, and various infrastructure improvements.

Renderings of the proposed new resort renovation on Hotel on the Cay

Hibiscus Beach Hotel – Once a popular spot on St Croix along the Pelican Cove beach in Princess, the Hibiscus Beach Hotel fell into disrepair and foreclosure many years ago. Just yesterday, the new owners announced a plan to revamp the hotel, located next to the Palms Hotel, with 80 rooms, a swimming pool, convenient parking, a gift shop, a meeting center, a fitness center, a spa, a restaurant, and other recreational facilities. Owned by several local brothers, including those that own The Market (formerly known as Plaza West), the project is expected to be accomplished in three phases with a target start date of 2023.

Chenay Bay Beach Resort -Chenay Bay recently announced that they are under new ownership and are undergoing much-needed renovations to the ocean-front property on the East End. Plans are to re-open the existing restaurant in a few weeks. They announced that they will be completely rebranding the property, renovating all cottages, building two new pools and a new restaurant. They have begun the cottage renovations while awaiting approval and permits for the additional plans for the pools and new restaurant. Their goal is to break ground near April 2023 (permits pending) and be complete by November 2023. Stay tuned!

Filed Under: Current Feature, Featured, Island Life, St Croix Food and Wine, Vacation Tips

My Serendipitous St Croix-Ireland Connections

September 16, 2022 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Charlene & I at the Van Morrison concert in the heart of Belfast

In August 2022, I took an epic trip to Ireland full of adventure. The global pandemic had put a pause on my European adventure that I had planned for 2020, and so when I was ready to travel abroad again – I thought of my friend who had extended the invitation to visit Ireland.

The Emerald Isle has always been on my “to do” travel list. And it just so happens that a dear friend of mine who previously lived on St Croix had moved to Belfast as a teacher over a decade ago. Charlene and I met while performing many moons ago in various Caribbean Community Theatre productions and became fast friends sharing not only a love for musical theatre but our Irish Catholic heritage and Boston area roots.

If you ask anyone who really knows me, St Patrick’s Day has always been my favorite holiday (next to Christmas, of course) and my favorite band of all time is hands-down, U2. And, like millions of others across the globe, my family is part of the vast Irish diaspora. So, after a chat with my friend via Facebook Messenger it was settled. I was heading to Ireland!

How are the St Croix Seaplane and Ireland connected?

Over the years, many have asked me why St Croix has such a big St Patrick’s Day parade celebration and I’ve written about the complicated historical past here – St Croix’s Irish Connection. But, St Croix also has another more modern connection to Ireland – one of Éire’s favorite daughters, the famed fiery red-head and Hollywood starlet, Maureen O’Hara (1920-2015).

Maureen O’Hara

Maureen lived here on St Croix for many years with her third husband, United States Air Force Brigadier General Charles F. (Charlie) Blair, Jr. Charlie was an aviation pioneer and the founder of “Antilles Air Boats”, the predecessor of today’s seaplane operation in Christiansted & Charlotte Amalie Harbors. With $10,000 he bought a Gruman Goose (an amphibious plane), hired five employees and started what would become the largest seaplane airline in the world with a fleet of 27 planes. And he did it all right here on St Croix!

Charles Blair with his Goose – from AntillesAirboats.com

Maureen owned and edited the Virgin Islander travel magazine from 1976 to 1980 when she sold it to USA Today. Maureen and Charlie would often fly from St Croix to Ireland with multiple stop overs for fuel, including in Nova Scotia where they are remembered fondly. Though a highly honored and experienced pilot, Blair was killed when the  Goose he was piloting crashed en route to St Thomas on September 2, 1978, killing him and three others aboard. You can still see Maureen and Charlie Blair’s home sitting high atop the hill above Christiansted. Over the years its fallen into some disrepair, but local rumor has it that it’s being renovated right now and will become a rental villa in the future.

St Croix was a Celebrity Hotspot

One of Maureen’s frequent leading men and one of her best friends was John Wayne. He visited her and Charlie on St Croix several times over the years. She entertained other Hollywood celebrities like Ginger Rogers, Jason Robards, Victor Borge, and Lauren Bacall. Maureen was well known for her hospitality and deep love of St Croix, referring to it often as her favorite island.

Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne in The Quiet Man (1952)

My personal favorite Maureen O’Hara story comes from my time as a wedding planner. About a decade or so ago, I planned the wedding of a truly lovely couple. The bride, Jenny, had been born on St Croix when her father worked for the Hess Oil Refinery. She only lived on the island for the first few years of her life, but it was still very special to her. During the wedding reception, her father got up and shared a touching story. When Jenny was a toddler, the family attended the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade and Maureen O’Hara was on one of the floats (this may have been the year that she was the Grand Marshall). Maureen saw little Jenny and handed her a lucky Irish penny. Over the years and several moves, unfortunately, the penny was misplaced by her parents. So, before the wedding, Jenny’s father wrote a letter to Maureen O’Hara sharing the story of the lost penny. Well, don’t you know that Maureen not only sent back a lovely letter, but a shiny new lucky Irish penny to gift Jenny at her wedding. (yep, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house and I’m a little teary now retelling it, lol)

My St Croix-Ireland Connections Begin

So that’s the back story. Fast forward to my 2022 Irish Adventure. I spent the first four days of my trip with my friend, Charlene, in Belfast (which I absolutely LOVED). My very first night included an outdoor Van Morrison concert in Belfast Square. Epic! For the first part of my trip, we visited many of the filming locations from Game of Thrones up along the breathtaking NorthEast coast of Ireland, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour on the outskirts of Belfast, and St Patricks Cathedrals in Armagh (more on all of at my new Travel website Exploranista.com )

Belfast

Following my stay in Belfast, I rented a car and took off on my own adventure. I had plotted on my Google map the places in Ireland that my family emigrated from about 200 years ago. So, leaving Belfast, I headed out on my heritage trail. One of those was Sligo on the North West Coast of the Republic of Ireland. There, I spent some time exploring the Neolithic burial ground at Carrowmore and then drove down through the breathtaking Connemara mountains with a plan to head to Galway.

The megalithic tombs at Carrowmore are older than the Egyptian Pyramids!

I have an Addiction to Photography

Driving through the beautiful Connemara Mountains

Well, my incessant need to stop every mile to take pictures of the insanely gorgeous landscape across Ireland got the best of me and I was just exhausted. But, I was still a couple hours out of Galway where I’d booked a hostel for the night. It was only $25/night so it wasn’t a big deal to be charged but not make it. I checked out a few hotels and bed and breakfasts along my way but everything was booked solid. I really wanted my own room that night so that I could get a good night’s sleep, but things weren’t looking promising.

So, I cranked up my U2 playlist, left the windows open to the cool air and sang my heart out as I drove through the valley and the misting rain. And then I saw the most vibrant rainbow that I’d EVER seen in my life! I thought it must be a sign. It was the golden hour and I also saw a couple more photo opportunities that I just couldn’t pass up. Because, when would I be right there again, ya know?!

I got back on the road and saw, I kid you not, three more incredibly vibrant rainbows. The last rainbow was in a town called Oughterard (pronounced OOK-ter-ard in Gaelic) and right there was the sign for a Bed & Breakfast. It was now around 8:30pm and I thought they would probably just laugh me out the door at that hour. But, instead they were the most warm and welcoming folks of my entire trip (besides my friends in Belfast, of course!).

A Warm Irish Welcome

They had just gotten a cancelation which worked out for us both. I had a wonderful, relaxing night of sleep after a hot bath and some tea and an incredible home-cooked breakfast the next morning. Over breakfast, I plotted my navigation plan for the day.

If you’re traveling through Ireland, I highly recommend a stay at the Carrowntober House B&B!

You see, I had plans later that afternoon to meet up with the sister of my St. Croix friend, Christine, who lived just North of Galway. Christine had suggested that if I was headed out her sister’s way , I should stop by so she could show me around some of the countryside that many visitors to Ireland miss. Prior to my trip, Cait and I connected on Facebook and made a plan to meet up. Ironically, it turned out that she was right across the lake from the Carrowntober House B&B where I was. I decided at breakfast to take a look at my Google Map to see if there was anything of interest nearby the area for me to explore quickly before I hit the open road. And I found a place right around the corner that I’d seen several signs for the day prior – “The Quiet Man Bridge” – so I figured I may as well check it out. And bonus, it was on my way!

The Quiet Man

That, my friends, is where the magical St Croix connection day started to occur. I’m sure that Irish fairies from behind the rainbows I saw were involved. Because, unbeknownst to me, “The Quiet Man” (1952) was an Academy Award winning film starring – wait for it – Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne! And it was just the beginning of the adventurous day ahead.

I drove over to the Bridge and pulled out my trusty Canon EOS 6D Mark II to capture this beautiful and iconic spot in the middle of the idyllic Irish countryside. There’s a wonderful sign on the bridge marking the point in the film where John Wayne sits on it and looks across the land during one of the opening scenes. (I watched the film after I returned and recognized the bridge, but the growth around the stream has changed quite a bit!)

Looking back at the Connemara Moutains from the Bridge
The Quiet Man Bridge

After exploring the bridge, I headed on my merry way to drive down the Wild Atlantic Way and over to Headford to meet Cait. The plan was to meet her after lunchtime and I thought “what a fun coincidence to find that little bit of a St Croix connection along my way”. It really made me smile!

My trusty travel companion – driving on the left-side of the care wasn’t bad at all!

Of course, the trip took me a bit longer than planned due to the multiple photo stops I made along the way. Thankfully, Cait, was very understanding of my snails pace! Eventually, I made the decision to skip a brief stop in Galway (next trip for sure!) and headed directly to Headford. I had to drive South and then back North to get around Lough Corrib (one of the largest lakes in Ireland).

Kismet in the Irish Countryside

I finally made it around 3pm with a bit of that infamous Irish drizzle following me. Cait was delightful and showed me around her family’s country home complete with dwarf goats, chickens, and a couple of adorable pups (I felt right at home!).

Then we headed out to explore the historic and entirely cool ruins of the medieval Franciscan Ross Errilly Friary that was founded in 1351. I was thrilled to experience the drizzling rain of Ireland and was thankful I’d bought the perfect rain slicker in Belfast that kept me warm and dry.

Ross Errilly Friary ruins

Finishing up the tour of the Friary, Cait suggested we head up to the village of Cong, where she works. We had a little more time and there were a few of the sights and a pretty village square. We made our way, parked, and walked through the ruins of the medieval 12th-Century Cúnga Fheichín (Cong Abbey) that anchors the little hamlet.

If you’ve never had it, Irish chocolate is insanely good!!

Then, we popped over to the shop she works in as it was closing and headed back to the car park. (that’s a parking lot for you yanks) Right before it, we had to stop to snap a picture of the “famous statue”… of Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne! Don’t you just love coincidences like this?! This unplanned excursion was pure kismet. It was those fairies again, I tell ya!

Sculpture of John Wayne & Maureen O’Hara from The Quiet Man

It turns out that Cong was one of the main towns for filming where many building exteriors and pubs were featured. There’s even the local Quiet Man Museum with tours and a replica of the cottage from the film. I was so excited that this was the end of a day of exploration that started serendipitously with the Quiet Man Bridge! And Cait was thrilled to hear about the connection with St Croix where her sister now lives. The day was perfectly capped off with a scrumptious, locally caught salmon dinner at one of the nearby inns. (It was so delicious and I was so hungry that I actually forgot to take a picture!)

Everything about Ireland captured my heart. From the North Eastern shore near Murlough Bay that reminds me so much of St Croix’s South Shore to all of the St Croix connections along the way. It’s just another of the many things that I love about island life. No matter where you go in the world, you’re certain to find St Croix connections along the way, whether history or friends you’ve met on the island. Travel is a truly gift!

If you’re interested in following more of my travels abroad, pop over to Exploranista.com 

Epilogue

Upon my return to St Croix, I decided I had to watch “The Quiet Man” so I did a quick search on my Amazon Prime. Wouldn’t you know it, the movie was showing the very next morning on one of my Sling TV channels. I recorded it and watched it the next night. I love classic old films and was surprised I’d never seen it before.

It was really fun to watch, but I will remind – especially the young ladies who may be reading this – it was released in 1952 and depicts the 20’s era in the Irish countryside. The Irish were (and to an extent still are) very conservative Catholics. So, there’s no need to find a marriage broker and ask your parents or your older brother where your dowry is. We’ve come a long way from those days baby!

2023 Limited Edition St Croix Wall Calendar

Filed Under: Current Feature, Featured, Island Life, Photography, St Croix History, Travel Tips

Travel in the Time of COVID-19

November 20, 2020 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 15 Comments

Covid Travel Restrictions Virgin Islands

Updated: May 31, 2022

As one of the few locations that have remained open to travelers during the pandemic, there are some things that you should know about visiting St Croix and the Covid travel restrictions to the Virgin Islands in 2021. So, we’ve put together (and continued to update) St Croix COVID-19 travel restrictions and travel tips.

The Mask Mandate in the USVI has been lifted as of March 14, 2022.
Masks are no longer required to be worn inside all commercial and government indoor spaces. At this time, masks continue to be required to be worn in schools, hospitals, healthcare facilities, ports of entry, and airports.
We recommend you carry one with you just in case.

Covid Travel Restrictions Virgin Islands – DISCONTINUED!

The US Virgin Islands has transitioned to the “Open Doors” phase in responsed to COVID-19 and as of June 1, 2022 travelers arriving in the US Virgin Island from locations within the US no longer are required to provide a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccine. The USVI Travel Portal and QR code system will shut down as of June 1st!

‼️ Travel From A Foreign Country ‼️

Federal guidelines and restrictions continue to apply for all international travel, including travel from the British Virgin Islands. The Federal government continues to require travelers coming from a foreign country (regardless of whether you are a US citizen or permanent resident alien) to present a negative test result within 1 day of commencement of travel to the Territory. (This means travel from any country that is NOT a US state, territory, or possession of the United States).

You do not need to be tested when you leave the US Virgin Islands and travel (back) to the mainland states. (The United States Virgin islands is NOT a foreign country.)

  • CDC International Travel COVID-testing Information

USVI SunScreen Law 🌞🏖️

Help us protect our fragile coral reef ecosystem. It’s the law. Avoid sunscreens that contain the “Toxic 3 Os” of oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene – they are prohibited in the United States Virgin Islands. Learn more about Sunscreen and our Coral Reefs, as well as reef-safe sunscreen options.


If needed while you are on island, COVID-19 testing is readily available on a walk-in basis at places like Plessen Urgent Care in Sunny Isles.

Covid Travel Restrictions Virgin Islands - same day testing

Even better news is that all businesses in the US Virgin Islands continue to be open. You’ll find St Croix restaurants and bars open – including some new ones! – with live entertainment. Be sure to follow our St Croix Calendar to see what’s happening on the island while you’re here. Reservations are always recommended though most are now running at 100% capacity. With many of the island’s restaurants open-air establishments – dining out isn’t a lot different these days.

No Mask, No Service. As of March 14, 2022 masks are no longer required to be worn inside all public indoor spaces including stores, restaurants, hotel lobbies, taxis, government office etc. At this time, masks continue to be required to be worn in schools, hospitals, healthcare facilities, ports of entry, and airports. So, we recommend you carry one with you just in case.

Almost 2 dozen privately owned, professionally managed homes await you.
View the Vacation St Croix Collection of Villas from 2-6 bedrooms.

One of the perks of the islands is, of course, that we have summer year-round, and outdoor activities abound. There are plenty of places and spaces for you to practice social distancing while enjoying your vacation. Vacation villas, like the collection at Vacation St Croix, are also a great way to enjoy your vacation while maintaining some distance from others. You have your own private pool and fully equipped house to relax and enjoy for the duration of your stay.

Want to know what’s happening while you will be here? Be sure to follow the St Croix Calendar for live music, events, and more.

Do a little exploring and you can often find a beach all to yourself!

And of course, there are plenty of tours and things to do on St Croix that are operating with plenty of open air. Ride horses on the beach with Cruzan Cowgirls or head out to Buck Island for a snorkeling trip with Caribbean Sea Adventures or one of the many other boats headed that way. If staying underwater is more your style – there’s plenty to see! Check out our favorite Scuba operators and they’ll get you out to the best spots.

St Croix COVID-19 Travel Tips

Bring a Mask. Although it is no longer required by the airlines, you may find places that you wish to wear it or local businesses that may require it based on positivity rates. It never hurts to have one on-hand just in case.

Sanitize Sanitize Sanitize! When I travel, I carry a baggy full of Clorox Wipes handy so that I can wipe down the armrests and tray table as soon as I sit down. I also use them to open bathroom doors in airports when I have layovers. And, of course, I use PLENTY of hand sanitizer throughout my trip.

Consider purchasing travel insurance. Check with your credit card, often they offer automatic travel insurance but you need to be aware of the restrictions. Otherwise, check out travel insurance to see what may be available in the case of a delay or cancellation due to illness or even weather. Most accommodations here in the islands will happily credit you for a stay at a later date if you need to cancel for reasons due to COVID-19. But, it’s always wise to ask about cancellation policies at the time you are booking your stay.

Ready to pack your bags? Check out our packing recommendations for your Caribbean vacation and be sure to learn about Reef Safe sunscreen before you hit the beach.

We can’t wait to welcome you back to St Croix and the US Virgin Islands. Just please be respectful while you are here and help to protect our community from the virus in the same way you would protect your family.

Filed Under: Island Life, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses on St Croix

June 19, 2020 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 6 Comments

I have lived on St Croix for over 20 years now. I’m proud to live on such a racially diverse island that weaves a tapestry of various people and cultures into our foods, celebrations, and daily way of life. I am also blessed to have a wonderful community of friends, many of whom are business owners and entrepreneurs adding to the richness of our island experience.

I’d like to introduce you to some of those friends who are Black business owners. Why is it so important to support Black businesses you may ask? It’s a great question! Awhile back I watched Season 1, Episode 1 of “Trigger Warning with Killer Mike” on Netflix. It’s a really entertaining, but thought-provoking and relevant series that explores a lot of really important issues within the Black community. In this episode, Killer Mike, a Grammy-winning rapper/activist/business owner, and a jovial, big guy tries to see if he can live exclusively using black-owned businesses for 3-days in Athens, Georgia. For example, one aspect is that he can’t eat anything that wasn’t grown, produced, or created by a Black-owned business. Spoiler alert, he gets REALLY hungry, sleeps on a bench, and rides a bicycle. I highly recommend this episode and series, it’s full of laughs but some really deep insight as well. It opened my mind to the need to actively support Black-owned businesses – especially those owned by my friends here on St Croix.

And that being said – let me introduce you to some of them …

q studio logo

Quiana Adams, Q Studio/ The Qui Ingredient – Originally a work colleague back in my wedding planning days who expertly photographed many lucky couples, Quiana became a dear friend. Her wedding photography is exquisite and her commercial work perfectly promotes any brand she works with. Nowadays, this busy Mommy of two has transitioned to food photography with her Qui Ingredient brand. Her Instagram feed will make you drool and her recipes will make you the star of your own kitchen.


Tanisha Bailey-Roka, The Crucian Contessa – While technically not a “business” my friend Tanisha pens the Crucian Contessa blog and is the Queen of Cocoa Tea! She shares not only her incredible recipes and beautiful food photography but shares so much more about the history and culture that is Crucian food. I have been blessed to enjoy meals from her kitchen on a couple of occasions and can tell you firsthand that she is masterful. If you want to hone your Crucian cooking skills or learn more about island life and Crucian culture, spend some time perusing the recipes that are filled with love or follow her on Facebook for more recent musings.


nicole canegata self portrait

Nicole Canegata, Nicole Canegata Photography – born and raised on St Croix, Nicole comes from a prominent island family that has been here for many, many generations. Her father, Lt. Colonel, David C. Canegata III, was tragically killed in combat in 2007 while serving his country in Iraq. His untimely death inspired her to live her life to the fullest and pursue a career that inspired her. I’ve worked with Nicole on several projects from weddings to architecture to fashion shoots. Her quiet, soulful, and reflective demeanor is beautifully translated into her gorgeous work. Her commercial work and travel photography have been printed in numerous publications. Her recent fine art series “Daughters of Ay-Ay” is divinely inspired. I’m truly blessed to call her a friend.


Virgin Islands Food Tours

Anquanette Gaspard, Virgin Islands Food Tours – Anquanette has a mission to turn “Tourists into Locals” through food. She has taken Anthony Bourdain’s concept of learning about culture through breaking bread with locals and created a business around that. Anquanette aka “Q” is a Crucian-born entrepreneur, content writer & foodie whose European adventures led her back to her island roots. She guides visitors through some of her favorite local eateries while explaining the cultural history and significance of the different foods along the way. This is a “must-do” tour for your next visit to the island!


itiba beauty

Yoki Hanley, itiba Beauty – I’ve been using Yoki’s all-natural, vegetable and fruit-based products since I moved to the island in 2001. I first met her at a Starving Artists Fair at the Whim Plantation when she sold her brand as “Selah’s” after her daughter who had severe skin allergies. Since then, she rebranded her line to itiba Beauty and has had her products in the swag bags at the Academy Awards among other prestigious places. In the native Caribbean Taino religion, itiba is Mother Earth and all life sprang forth from her. I used to feature her soaps in my wedding gift bags. The aromatherapy alone made me smile, but the quality of her products keeps me coming back. After a hiatus following Hurricanes Irma and Maria, I’m thrilled that she’s back in business sharing itiba beauty in full force. My top picks: Carib Lime Body Spray – smells amazing and naturally keeps the mozzies away and the Mango body soap – luxurious and will make your entire bathroom smell amazing.


Willard John, Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies – If you’ve visited St Croix, attended a local celebration or Jump Up, you’ve likely encountered Willard’s troupe of Moko Jumbies. Willard is a public school professional who has dedicated his life’s work to promoting and preserving the culture of the Virgin Islands. The Moko Jumbie tradition stems from West African roots. These talented stilt dancers with their masked faces guard the village and its people by scaring away evil spirits. If you are able, be sure to attend one of their performances where Willard explains the history and significance of these iconic figures. His program teaches local St Croix youth not only the skill but the culture while promoting education and a strong work ethic. Willard can often be found emceeing local cultural and performing arts celebrations. He’s a true gift to our island!


ib designs logo

Whealan Massicott, ib designs – Whealan is the heart and founder of the little jewelry shop that’s big on love. Originally from the island of Dominica, he has made St Croix his home for decades along with his family. If you know me, you know that my wrist is permanently graced with hand-crafted Crucian bracelets including three very special to my heart – the Karma, the Wave, and the Infinity Knot. I’ve been a huge fan of his and his team’s work for two decades and own or have gifted countless pieces. I’m not the only celebrity (ha ha, jokes!) who wears one, Kenny Chesney can often be found sporting a silver “SJ” hook bracelet hand-crafted by Whealon. Fun fact: ib stands for “island boy”.


Ralph Motta, Motta Cuisine – Another born and raised, generational Crucian, Ralph headed off to the big city – NYC – where he honed his skills as a top-notch chef. St Croix is blessed to have him back on island sharing his catering craft since 2017 with his boutique catering business that he describes as “Modern Crucian”. His mouth-watering food celebrates local flavors of the many cultures that have resulted in the many flavors of our island. Ralph is as enthusiastic and fun as he is talented. He sources many of his ingredients from local farmers celebrating the farm-to-table style. If you’re looking for a caterer on St Croix, Ralph is the bomb. He is also the current Culinary Ambassador for the Virgin Islands and a friend who is quick to make everyone around him smile!


Burton Peterson, Cast Iron Pot – Some of my favorite local meals have been had at Chef Burton’s Cast Iron Pot restaurant. He serves classic Crucian dishes that fill you up and taste amazing. Burton and his wife, Deborah, treat everyone who walks through the door like family! Prior to opening his bright yellow restaurant in the Princesse area, Chef Burton worked in the kitchens of the top resorts on the island, as well as catering Government and private events. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting the island around the Christmas season, you have to stop by to taste some of his guavaberry liqueur!


Wave Philip, Tan Tan Tours – another long-time friend on the island is my buddy Wave whose Tan Tan tours are one of the most thrilling adventures you’ll find in the Caribbean! Their motto is “We go where the Tan Tan grows” and that means off-roading in top-down Jeep Wranglers through some crazy terrain to reach places like remote Sugar Mills, the Annaly Bay Tidepools, and the top of Goat Hill. Often seen riding across the island in a caravan of jeeps, it’s a high-octane adventure and one of the best ways to see St Croix. The jeep guides are FUN and really informed about the history, culture, and ecology of the island. Wave also makes some of the best bush tea and ginger beer that I’ve tasted in the islands. Grab some before your excursion from the juice bar at their Christiansted headquarters.


bes craft cocktail lounge

Frank Robinson, BES Craft Cocktail Lounge – I’ve known and worked with Frank for many years here on St Croix. Back when I planned weddings, he was my go-to bartender for our events. I’ve loved watching him grow and not only develop his skills and open his business, but share his thoughts on politics and community here in the USVI. Frank always has a smile and a positive attitude. His funky, cool neighborhood bar is full of warm, welcoming vibes and fabulous house-made elixirs and, of course, craft cocktails. He’s also a fantastic chef who promotes and supports our local farmers by producing a menu that features farm-to-table style. [ Feb 2021 update: Bes is now closed, but Frank is working on something new and exciting … and I’ll be sure to update those details when he’s ready to announce.]


Lornette Rogers, Envii Boutique – Lornette is one of those girls that always makes the “best dressed” list no matter where she goes or what she is doing. She’s a fashionista and a fabulous girlfriend who knows how to throw a party! Whenever I have an event that I need something special for, Envii Boutique is my first stop! She’s great at finding something that will make you look and feel like a million bucks. Lornette’s shop specializes in chic, fashion-forward, and on-trend clothing, bags, shoes, and more. She’s also a dedicated dog-momma like me and always supportive of a good cause.


my girlfriends closet

Khnuma Simmonds, My Girlfriends Closet – I first met Khnuma aka “Kimmie” back in 2002 (I think?!) when she was in High School and we performed together in a Caribbean Community Theatre production of The Pajama Game. This always-on-the-go, dynamic woman is an entrepreneur, Women’s advocate, activist, dance and exercise guru, mother of two adorable young boys, and now she has added Doctor to her titles. Phew! With her shop she promotes the concept of #girlfriendism by “Empowering Women through Fashion, Faith, and Friendship”. Some of my go-to pieces in my closet come from her store. Visit her while you are here or shop online. You can even take one of her trademarked Sokh dance/exercise classes that feature great music and Caribbean dance moves by purchasing a virtual class on the website. Khnuma’s positive attitude towards life and community is absolutely infectious and shines through in her work and workouts!


This is by no means a comprehensive list of black-owned businesses here on St Croix, these are just some of my friends whose businesses I frequent on the island.

Do you have a St Croix black-owned business that you love? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Featured, Island Life

50 things you can do on St Croix to celebrate Earth Day every day of the year!

April 22, 2020 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

50 Earth friendly things to do on St Croix
  1. Snorkel the only fuel it requires is kicking your feet a little! And it’s a great way to explore and get excited about preserving our underwater world.
  2. Grab a fish identification chart from one of the dive shops or snorkel tour operators and go on your own scavenger hunt around the island. 
  3. Use Reef Safe Sunscreen!
  4. Learn to hunt lionfish! You can even earn a PADI certification at one of our local Dive Shops.
  5. Go sailing aboard the Schooner Roseway with the World Ocean School when they are here with us for the winter season
  6. Get certified to Scuba dive and witness coral spawning on a night dive!
  7. Watch Chasing Coral. You can view the full feature Netflix Documentary for free. Click here.
  8. Did you know that St Croix is surrounded by one of the longest contiguous barrier reefs in the Caribbean? Learn about the endangered corals that surround St Croix.
  9. Take a trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument and learn about the ocean creatures in our backyard and ways you can help to protect them.
  10. Go horseback riding on the beach! Our friends at Cruzan Cowgirls use rescued horses on their exciting trail rides. Proceeds help to pay for the rescued herd and provide education to local horse owners.
  11. Go on a scavenger hunt for all the St Croix Sea Walls murals painted in 2019. These gorgeous murals represent ocean
  12. BYOB bring your own bag bring for groceries and your own reusable box for leftovers. Grab one of our organic cotton bags here.
  13. Just Say No to disposable plastic straws. There are so many other options nowadays and many of our restaurants and bars now offer metal, silicone, and even bamboo replacements.
  14. Just Say No to plastic flatware – if you are getting takeout, tell the restaurant you have your own and ask them not to pack plastic.
  15. Just Say No to Styrofoam and encourage restaurants to use reusable packaging instead.
  16. Just say Yes! to sustainable/reusable utensils and straws that you can make your own. Check out Café Christine for some great options for purchase.
  17. BYOC bring your own cup to the bar. You’ll find plenty for sale in our local shops.
  18. Get out There! Hike up Goat hill on the East End. The view of the entire island makes it worth the sweat.
  19. Fill ‘er Up! Opt out of one-time use water bottles and carry your own refillable bottle. Remember to stay hydrated while you’re in the islands.
  20. Try fresh coconut water! You’ll find roadside stands selling freshly harvested coconuts that they will machete open for you. Coconut water is full of electrolytes and one of the best ways to stay hydrated while you are here.
  21. Explore the St George Village Botanical Garden (SGVBG) and learn about the many tropical species growing there.
  22. Learn about the SGVBG Reforestation program at the Garden!
  23. Eat Responsible! at one of our Reef Responsible Restaurants who are committed to serving sustainably sourced, caught in-season fish from our waters.
  24. Shop Local and Eat Local! year-round at one of our many St Croix farmers markets.
  25. Try some locally grown tropical fruit – my favorite is Mango season in the summer time! Don’t miss the Botanical Garden’s annual Mango Melee festival each July.
  26. Shop Organic! produce at Art Farm and Ridge2Reef Farm.
  27. Drink Local! Visit the Sion Farm Distillery to learn more about breadfruit vodka and taste some too! Breadfruit is one of the most sustainable crops in the world and is on the rise on St Croix. Learn more here.
  28. Drink Local! Leatherback Brewing Company is a microbrewery that brews and cans all of its beer right here on St Croix. It tastes sweeter at the source.
  29. Drink Local! BrewSTX has been producing and serving their special small batch brews on tap for over 20 years. Sip a draft with a view of the Christiansted Harbor.
  30. Turn out the lights! Living on an island like St Croix you learn quickly about the high cost of energy. Turn off lights that you don’t need.
  31. Volunteer your time! There are so many local nonprofits that are always looking for helping hands. Reach out to one that is near and dear to your heart.
  32. Recycle! While St Croix is still behind on recycling overall, there is a great group of volunteers who have been working with Plaza Extra West for the past year or two. They typically accept plastic for recycling on Saturdays (operations have been halted for the time being due to the COVID-19 crisis, but they will be back). For updates go to: Plastic Drop off and Recycling Project
  33. Reuse! Bottles Reimagined takes discarded rum, wine and other glass bottles and turns them into glassware, candles and more! You can find them in many local shops like Mollys & at The Fred or shop Made on St Croix online.
  34. Visit the Fred! The newest hotel on St Croix is located beachside in downtown Frederiksted. During the renovation and new construction they have incorporated many green practices and innovations. The hotel uses LED lights and turtle safe lighting on the exterior to prevent nesting mothers and hatchlings from being turned away from returning to the ocean. Eat at Fred, the new restaurant uses environmentally friendly to-go containers and if you simply must use a straw, they provide bioplastic drinking straws. In room, you will be given the option to opt out of daily laundering of sheets and towels to reduce energy. The sheets are made of a microfiber that eliminates the need for bleach and the towels are bamboo. And everything is washed with rainwater caught in large cisterns.
  35. Go vegan! Even if you don’t plan to eat vegan every day, you can explore some fantastic vegan food options here on the island. Places like Tap Deck in Frederiksted, Ital in Paradise in Christiansted, and more offer delicious meals that won’t have you missing a thing.
  36. Grab your camera and go on a photo safari. St Croix has so many beautiful vistas. Be sure to capture as many as you can to make your memories permanent.
  37. Visit Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge – one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. But it’s only open from Sept 1 through March 30 and only on weekends. Why? Because it is a critical nesting habitat for the Leatherback sea turtle and other endangered species that make St Croix their birthplace.
  38. Hike the Nature Conservancy trail to Jack & Isaac’s Bay and snorkel at Isaac’s along the pristine coral reef.
  39. Learn about sea turtles and ways you can help keep them safe.
  40. Learn about humpback whale migration through St Croix’s waters.
  41. Shop local! You’ll find artisans throughout Frederiksted and Christiansted who produce their own jewelry right here on the island.
  42. Hike to the Annaly Bay Tide Pools.
  43. Go paddle boarding!
  44. Kayak Salt River or anywhere offshore.
  45. Carry In, Carry Out.  be sure that you carry out any and ALL trash and items that you bring to the beach. Don’t leave behind your cigarette butts, beer cans or plastic cups. They end up in our oceans or littering our beaches. Pick up your trash and any other that you find on the beach. PLEASE do your part to protect our oceans!
  46. Spend a weekend or a week at Northside Valley eco-villas. This family-owned Caribbean estate is on the west end of St. Croix and hosts lush landscaping, ocean views, and eight eco-friendly vacation villas.  Stargaze at night, pick organic fruit by day, and stroll to nearby beaches whenever the mood strikes you.
  47. Explore the organic Ridge2Reef Farm out in the rainforest with a self-guided hike. You can even sign up for one their courses including the popular Bush Skills
  48. Reserve your spot at a Ridge to Reef Slow Down Dinner! These magical evenings feature local chefs preparing multi-course extravaganzas utilizing locally sourced and grown produce, seafood and meats. There is nothing quite like a delicious night under the stars!
  49. Sign up for one of the many Caribbean Earth Skills classes offered at Mount Victory Eco-camp. Mount Victory is a great place to stay too!
  50. Take a hike out by Great Pond. You can find the trailheads by the East End Marine Park Headquarters on the South Shore. You can find out about their various projects Click Here
  51. Bonus: Oh yes, we almost forgot – just kick back, relax and lime on any one of our incredible beaches!!
isaac bay beach

Filed Under: coral reef, Family Fun, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Scuba, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips

Sunscreen and Coral Reefs in the VI

May 23, 2019 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

Call me an optimist, but I’ve always believed that people are inherently good and want to do the right thing when they are informed and educated.

In today’s world we are bombarded with information, much of it conflicting and that can lead to confusion and complacency.

Having lived through the catastrophic Hurricane season of 2017 that brought the US and its Territories storms named Harvey, Irma and Maria, I have no doubt that our Earth is changing and that average temperatures are rising. And these subtle temperature changes are having a devastating effect on coral reefs across the globe.

But the other day, I read something that made me proud to be a Virgin Islander and gave me some hope. Our local Government has introduced legislation to ban the retail sale, distribution, and importation of topical sunscreen products containing oxybenzone and octinoxate with Bill 33-0043.

If signed into law, this will go into effect as of January 2021. The bill follows the lead of the state of Hawaii who passed similar legislation in May 2018. To date, Hawaii is the first and only state to pass this kind of ban. If signed into law, The US Virgin Islands would be the second out of the 50 states and Insular Territories to ban sunscreens containing these harmful chemicals.

If the coral reef isn’t the primary focus, then human health absolutely should be. The FDA just recently announced that only titanium and zinc oxide are generally recognized as safe. These other ingredients [oxybenzone and octinoxate] are known endocrine disruptors, which means they affect our hormonal development. Unborn children are being affected by this.

Cosmetic Chemist, Autumn Blum during testimony to the 33rd Legislature
as reported by The St Croix Source
Sunscreen Chemicals and Marine Life Infographic

Coral Reefs and Climate Change

Why is this such a big deal? Because coral reefs are dying at an alarming rate and anything we can do to slow or reverse that decline is imperative.

Elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata , is one of the most abundant species of coral around St Croix and is the backbone of our local barrier reefs.

Coral reefs provide a source of food and income to over 500 million people worldwide.

Here in the Caribbean, reefs provide food for people and marine life, a source of income from tourism and barrier reefs protect our islands’ shores from larger waves and storm surge. If you think of the Earth like your body, our waterways (both fresh and salt) are like the blood circulating through your body. The oceans and tides pump water across the globe and into the atmosphere. Coral reefs are like the tiny capillaries that feed your muscles and tissues to sustain life. A critical piece of the circulatory system.

Facts About Coral Reef Bleaching

A rise of only 2°C or 3.6°F in ocean temperature can cause a catastrophic coral bleaching event in just a matter of weeks. When you get a fever, it causes a stress response in your body. You sweat, get the chills and can become delirious. If your fever is high enough, brain cells can start to die. For coral reefs, their stress response to a high fever is called “bleaching”.

The corals themselves are the backbone of the reef ecosystem. One coral organism is made up of hundreds of thousands of tiny coral polyps. The coral polyps live in a symbiotic relationship with tiny plant cells (algae) called zooxanthellae. During the day, the zooxanthellae feed the coral through photosynthesis. These tiny algae are what gives the coral its color.

Corals provide food and shelter in the dynamic Reef Ecosystem.

At night, the coral polyps come out of their shell, reach out their tiny tentacles and catch microscopic animals in the water known as zooplankton.

When a coral is stressed by an increase in water temperature, they expel the tiny plant cells. When the zooxanthellae are gone, what we see is the calcium skeleton of the coral because the polyps are clear. The coral appears bright white. This is known as bleaching. It also means that the coral is slowly starving to death.

It is estimated that 80-90% of the coral reefs in Florida have died off. In the past 30 years alone the world has lost about 50% of its coral reefs through bleaching events.

Coral reefs are known as the rainforests of the sea. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth and is visible from space. In 2016, 29% of the Great Barrier Reef died in a bleaching event. That is the equivalent of losing all the trees from Washington, DC to Maine.

Let that sink in for a moment.

… can you even visualize that? ?

Addressing things like Climate Change saves lives. It is within our power to make changes in our personal lives that incrementally make a difference. Make informed choices. Reduce waste. Buy locally sourced food and products when you can. Be an informed consumer and support products and businesses in your community and globally that are making a difference. Together we CAN change the world.

Coral Reef Safe Sunscreens

So what does this all have to do with sunscreen? Studies have shown that when corals absorb oxybenzone and octinoxate, they react in a similar way to a bleaching event. The chemicals cause added stress to the coral animal that makes them susceptible to disease and less likely to survive minimal rises in temperature. These same chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption, neurologic and behavioral changes, and embryonic deformities in fish. Yuck! Imagine what that does to you when you absorb these chemicals through your own skin.

Of course, protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun – particularly when you are in the Caribbean and out on the water – is important. No one wants to ruin their vacation with a painful sunburn.

No matter where you are, but especially when in the Virgin Islands or near coral reefs, be sure to use coral reef safe sunscreens. By choosing Reef Safe sunscreens, you can avoid adding additional stressors to the reef ecosystem and our oceans.

  • Look for sunscreens that DO NOT contain oxybenzone and octinoxate.
  • Choose mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These ingredients stay on top of your skin and block harmful UV rays. They are not associated with coral bleaching.
  • Make sure that the minerals are “non-nano” this means that the particles are larger than 100 nanometers and cannot be absorbed by corals. (or you!)
  • Scrutinize the labels. Many sunscreens will say “Reef Safe”, read the ingredients to be sure.
  • Wear UV filtering clothing and hats. Check out our 38-40 UPF Rashguards (UPF = Ultraviolet Protection Factor)

Here are some recommended Reef Safe Sunscreen brands:

See what’s in My Beach Bag!

Find more Reef Safe Sunscreen

I’ve tried to include links to Reef Safe Sunscreens that are less than 3oz and can fit in your TSA 311 approved carry-on liquids. Larger bottles can be packed in your checked luggage. You can also look for Reef Safe sunscreens at local scuba and snorkel charter shops on St Croix.

There is Hope for Coral Reefs Worldwide

It’s not all bad news! There are some great organizations here locally and across the globe, researching ways to grow and restore corals at a more rapid rate.

Right here on St Croix, The Nature Conservancy has been part of a revolutionary project that uses cutting edge technology and some fairly straight forward techniques to grow and restore corals. Cane Bay on our North Shore is home to a successful coral nursery growing coral embryos.

The 50 Reefs project was created during the filming of the Netflix documentary, Chasing Corals. The goal is to identify and protect 50 coral reefs globally that have the best chance of surviving the impacts of climate change. The Bloomberg Foundation has pledged 86 million dollars to the conservation project.

Chasing Coral on Netflix examines coral reefs dying on a massive scale across the globe.

Love the oceans and coral reefs?

Three-quarters of St Croix is surrounded by one of the longest contiguous island barrier reefs in the Caribbean, which means there’s lots of amazing snorkeling right offshore. Its the perfect way to appreciate and enjoy our coral reef ecosystem. Learn more about snorkeling on St Croix.

Google Earth St Croix

Be sure to include a snorkeling trip to Buck Island on your next St Croix adventure. Part of the National Park System, most of Buck Island Reef National Monument is underwater. The NPS requires new visitors to the underwater trail to explore the reef with a licensed guide.

Want to go deeper and see more reefs? Book a dive with one of our local PADI certified scuba tour operators or learn to scuba while you’re here.

Filed Under: coral reef, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Vacation Tips

Earth Day on St Croix: 5 Ways to Make a Difference

April 22, 2019 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 3 Comments

Every Day is Earth Day on St Croix

Born in 1970 (like me!) Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22nd. Things have come a long way since I was a child, but with the effects of climate change becoming more and more evident, there is still a long way to go in helping Mother Earth. Here on St Croix where its summer year-round, we enjoy outdoor living and spend a lot more time in nature whether it’s out on the ocean or in our own backyards. So, every day it’s important that we take the time to monitor and minimize our own personal impact on this beautiful island. Here are 5 ways that you can help whether you live here or are just visiting our island home:

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle St Croix!

Volunteers Making a Difference!

While we don’t have a formal government recycling effort here on the US Virgin Islands, yet (note I said “yet” as I am always hopeful they will come around) … over the past year or so there has been a widely successful Volunteer Plastic Recycling program headed up by Plaza West Grocery store.

Each Saturday you’ll find volunteers in the Plaza Extra West parking lot from 7:00am to noon collecting CLEAN plastic for recycling. There are also several other island locations, schools and organizations that are participating.

To find a list of current St Croix drop-off spots click here to go to the Volunteer Recycling Project FaceBook page.   Plaza Extra West takes care of crushing, preparing and shipping the plastic to an off island facility. Kudos to Plaza West for being such excellent community members!

Click to View Full Size

Accepted:

  • Clear and LIGHT colored plastic containers with the covers removed (they can also be recycled but should be removed and then thrown in the bag)
    • Water, Soda & Sports Drink bottles
    • Gallon Water, Milk, Juice, Tea jugs
    • Butter, Yogurt, Icecream, grated cheese containers
    • Condiment bottles
    • Jelly & Nut butter containers
    • Detergent, Bleach & Cleanser bottles
    • Cooking Oil Bottles
    • Loose plastic and plastic bags

NOT Accepted:

  • Dark Colored plastics
  • Laundry Baskets
  • Hangers
  • Motor Oil Containers

Keep it Cool

Corksicle Tumbler on Amazon

On St Croix and throughout the Caribbean islands, fresh water is a precious commodity. Most of us use cisterns (big holding tanks instead of basements) to catch and use rainwater at our homes. For that reason, unfortunately, many local restaurants and beach bars serve up your favorite Cruzan cocktails in plastic or styrofoam (boo!!!).

Thankfully, due to local campaigns many restaurants have stopped using disposable straws (or only serve them upon request). But, many still use disposable plastic and styrofoam cups and containers ?. Nowadays there are great sustainable options for single use cups, flatware and straws like corn-based plastic (still not ideal) or bamboo. So, please help us to encourage local restaurants to switch to non-plastic, sustainable single-use cups, takeout boxes, straws and flatware to reduce the amount of trash headed to our landfills.

Better yet, bring your own reusable insulated cup and takeout containers! I LOVE my Corksicle tumbler for keeping my Cruzan Rum and soda ice cold and my steel straw for sipping beachside. There’s even a great Corksicle Canteen that holds a full bottle of wine chilled. I bring mine most everywhere I go and throw it in the dishwasher when I get home.

Carry In, Carry Out

There’s a frequently used phrase heard in many National Parks and wild spaces … Leave only Footprints, Take only Pictures. Do the same here on our island please. It should be a no brainer, but be sure if you are visiting one of our beaches to bring along an extra trash bag. All beaches in the United States Virgin Islands are public. However, they do not have regular trash pickup (or really any). So, be sure that you carry out any and ALL trash and items that you bring to the beach. Don’t leave behind your cigarette butts, beer cans or plastic cups. They end up in our oceans or littering our beaches. Pick up your trash and any other that you find on the beach. PLEASE do your part to protect our oceans!

Show Your Love for our Coral Reefs

Part of the draw of St Croix is our incredible barrier coral reef. Three quarters of St Croix is surrounded by the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean! And of course there’s the coral reef out at Buck Island National Monument. The coral reef is home to a plethora of brightly colored fishes and other marine life that make for some of the best snorkeling in the Caribbean. However, worldwide coral reefs face many challenges, including warming ocean temperatures. But, one of the great threats to our reefs are the chemicals that you bring with you on your skin when you wear sunscreen. Oxybenzone, commonly found in many sunscreens, has been shown to not only kill the coral polyps that grow the reef, but its also a known carcinogen. Be sure that when you are on St Croix you are using Coral Reef Safe Sunscreens to protect yourself AND our precious coral reef system. Learn more: Sunscreens a Threat to Coral Reefs

Jack and Isaac Bay St Croix USVI

BYOB Bring Your Own Bag

The US Virgin Islands has also recently banned single-use plastic bags. So be sure you bring a reusable shopping bag when you head to the market or shopping for souvenirs. Our washable Canvas tote bags are a great option and hold a ton of produce. They also make great beach bags!

By taking a little time and personal responsibility, we can all leave the Earth better for the next generation. What are some of your best eco-friendly tips? Share them for us in the comments below!

Filed Under: coral reef, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation

Life After Two Category 5 Hurricanes in the US Virgin Islands

September 29, 2017 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

My Story and Our New Normal

It’s hard to know even where to begin. The past month has been a blur and I often truly don’t know what day it is. So, I guess I’ll start from the very beginning.

I spent 3 weeks from mid-July to the beginning of August in Massachusetts helping my mother as she recovered from double knee replacement surgery. Though it was a wonderful trip spending quality time with my Mom and enjoying the comforts of my childhood home, I was really happy to get back to my island life.  I’d gotten home and was ready to dive into fully immersing myself in working on My-StCroix.com and getting it ready for a busy season. I got a couple new lenses for my camera and was excited to explore my island home more to share it with all of you. Then we got news that Irma was on her way. I actually spent an entire week running around getting supplies, preparing my rented apartment in a home that was in no way ready to weather the storms (boy did we get lucky though) and helping out friends where I could. I weathered Irma with close island family and we all breathed a huge sigh of relief that we had largely been spared. But pretty immediately, we got word that St John and St Thomas were entirely devastated.

Living in the islands, many residents bounce around from island to island and though we are 40 nautical miles away on St Croix, we all have close ties to people on our sister islands and the BVIs. So it was time to mobilize to help our sister islands of St John and St Thomas in any way that we could. On my way home from Irma curfew lift on St Croix, I was contacted by a friend who no longer lives on St Croix, but like many who leave for various reasons, her heart is still in the islands. She told me about a group of St Johnians living or caught on vacation stateside that were instantly working on relief and asked me if I could use my local connections and logistic skills to help. How could I say no? Honestly, I thought they would need a few phone calls and some advice but it quickly turned into 12 days of very long hours and more than full time work helping to provide logistics support for medical personnel, critical medical supplies, satellite phones, boats full of critical supplies: food, water & medicines for Coral Bay, St John that was largely cut off from the rest of the island supplies due to blocked roads. I was helping to organize volunteers and providing assistance to the Global DIRT team – an elite squad of disaster response specialists that were conducting critical search and rescue efforts in remote areas of St John. And I was connecting local government contacts that I had worked with in the past during my stint as a Communications Director for former St Croix Senator Judi Buckley with the various private entities working hard to get aide to St John and St Thomas. I was on the phone non-stop, texting, emailing and helping those heroic folks on the ground get things done. Our group, now officially Virgin Islands Relief www.virginislandsrelief.org was the first group that got any food or water into Coral Bay. A week before they may have gotten access food or water otherwise. We worked as a well-oiled team with Cane Bay Partners founder Dave Johnson’s privately owned Turn & Burn sport fishing boat that did multiple trips a day when possible – 40 miles over open ocean each way – to bring generators, medical supplies, Rescue Nurses, food & water. We also worked with Big Beard’s Adventure Tours to get their boat “Adventure” in to evacuate residents from Coral Bay to St Croix where our island had volunteer homes with hot meals waiting with open arms to take them in. The response of the St Croix community was nothing short of incredible in every sense of the word. Every. Single. Person I know was helping in some way. I have never been more proud to call myself “Crucian”. Of note, Big Beard’s was also a part of a flotilla – affectionately now known as the Crucian Navy – of private boats led by Caribbean Sea Adventures who began running supplies to St John and St Thomas and bringing evacuees back to St Croix. These were snorkeling tour operators who became HEROES in every sense of the word. The 40 mile crossings weren’t always easy but these guys did it with utmost safety and literally saved hundreds of lives. When St Croix is back open for business, please show them your appreciation by booking one of their tours!

Wall Street Journal, 9/13/17: After Hurricane Irma, Virgin Islands Recovery Picks Up With Federal Help

“On Wednesday, private boats from St. Croix continued to ferry supplies including food, water, generators and chainsaws, as well as nurses to provide medical help, said Cindy Clearwater, a tourism promoter who has helped coordinate the relief efforts on that neighboring island.”

I had just unloaded a plane full of supplies to put on Turn & Burn for distribution on St John (destined for a contact staying on St John at Kenny Chesney’s house) when I got word from her sister to hold the supplies. Maria was coming and they were likely evacuating St John. I took a deep breath and looked at the weather. Maria was just forming and was estimated to be a Category 1 storm headed straight for St Croix. My only thought at that time was “We need to get all the people evacuated to St Croix out of here. They have been through enough.” Thankfully, I wasn’t alone and things were being mobilized to do just that. At around 11pm that night, I tagged in a Facebook message that there was a group of people that need to get onto a Coast Guard Cutter evacuating them to Puerto Rico for a “mercy flight” (free evacuation flight) and they needed rides for the group which included several dogs. We needed to meet them at 4am. Again, how could I say no. I was in. I was up at 3:30am and met a few other volunteers. We loaded up the group and had them at the Frederiksted Pier for 5am. With some waiting and lots of hugs and well wishes, we waived as they departed at 7:30am. My heart was so full and it was an absolutely gorgeous morning. Then we looked at the weather reports. Maria was strengthening and her path hadn’t deviated a bit. She was headed straight for St Croix and Puerto Rico and now predicted to hit as a Category 5 Major Hurricane. The two islands that had been a lifeline for our sister US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. How could this be happening?

With little time to think, I started gathering my hurricane supplies from Irma and packing my house back up (I had just started to take things out of plastic in my closets). I went shopping for a few more things, but our stores were largely out of supplies. Batteries were nowhere to be found. We had bought all we could for Irma and then shopped and sent much of our local supplies to St John and St Thomas to help them after Irma. Because that’s what islanders do. We help each other no matter what. I put together an email with a list of all my Hurricane Irma contacts and updates, in case I lost communications, and sent it to the team stateside. And then, the morning of Hurricane Maria’s arrival as the winds started to pick up – I packed my car, my 2 dogs and 2 cats (one took off and braved the storm outside – she is fine thank goodness) and headed to another friend’s house that was safer than my place. There a group of us: 6 adults, 7 dogs and 3 cats pooled our resources and kept each other company for what would be one of the scariest nights of our lives and an aftermath we couldn’t have imagined.

I settled in to the nice cement “bunker” room with attached bathroom at my lovely host’s house. The main house where I stayed is made of thick cement walls and so I felt very safe. The windows were all sealed with metal hurricane shutters, we had plenty of food and water between us all and my friend Casey had a delicious stew on the stove that made me think of my Mom cooking for us during blizzards. Comfort food was the perfect touch. I braved the ever increasing winds on more than one occasion to get out Facebook Live weather reports and was in touch with a CNN producer who was checking in. One part of our incredible Virgin Islands Relief team was focused on making sure that the National News Media didn’t forget about the United States Virgin Islands and they have been doing a fantastic job at it. The winds and rain continued to increase and we settled in to play games, have a nice dinner and try to relax as much as possible. Around 11:30pm I decided that it was now or never to go back down to the room I was staying in. I didn’t want my dogs and cats to be scared and alone. And, I needed their comfort too. I had to go outside to get to that room and though my friends protested, I made it safely. It was getting really bad outside. CNN called me just before midnite and had me live on the air for a few minutes. That alone was pretty surreal. And I was actually starting to get a little scared while I was on the phone. The winds were howling, door was rattling and the metal Hurricane shutters were banging. After I got off the phone, I dead-bolted the heavy wooden door hoping that would keep it from blowing open. Thankfully, it did. Then I sat on the bed and stared at the metal hurricane shutters and listened to the eerie squeal of wind getting through them. At one point, I felt the bed start to shake. I put my hand on the cement wall to see if the house was actually shaking. It wasn’t. But the bed was. I was scared. I continued to watch the Hurricane Shutters thinking that if they blew off, I would jump into the tiled shower with the mattress over me – that would be my only option. They didn’t blow off and that’s the last thing I remember. At some point in the night, I quite literally passed out from the exhaustion and non-stop adrenaline of the past 12 days since Irma.

At 7am, there was a bang on the door – the storm was still blowing pretty hard. It was my friend Casey and he was frantically asking if I was OK. The roof had blown off the guest house where one of my hosts had been riding out the storm. In the main house where everyone else was, they had to use ropes to tie together the huge wooden front doors from blowing open. They used sheets to tie the doors in the master bedroom where the hurricane shutters had blown open. I made my way upstairs and saw the devastation outside on my way up. What had been a beautiful hilltop home with large royal palm trees, landscaping, orchids and old growth mahogany trees was desolate and strewn with gutters and pieces of roofing and other debris that had blown off. The beautiful iron rail work along the upper landing had blown right off. Trees  and coconuts were down across the driveway miraculously missing every one of our vehicles.

It wasn’t until later that afternoon that the storm finally subsided enough for us to really get out and explore. The damage was overwhelming. My dear friends and hosts had been living in their guest house while renovating the main house and most of their home was destroyed from losing the roof and the flooding that ensued. My friend Casey lost the roof off his cottage completely and most everything he owned was destroyed. My other friends who lived down the hill had a lot of damage too. We were able to find this out by hiking down the hill that was strewn with large trees every 30 or so feet. It took 5-6 of us and 2 chainsaws two full days of moving trees, branches and inches of leaves along 3/4 of a mile to be able to get out a car. We are all covered in scrapes and bruises to prove it. The entire island was in the same situation. We had plenty of supplies to get us through and a generator providing power – a luxury many on the island didn’t have – and we were all safe and sound. We also had positioned one of the cars at the very bottom of the hill, so once curfew was listed for the first 4 hours two days after the storm, a few of the group were able to get out and get a more supplies. I was finally able to get to check on my apartment, that had largely flooded 4 days after the storm. Thankfully, I sustained minimal damage to my personal belongings carefully packed in my closets.
[soliloquy id=”8060″]
Today, a little over a week after Hurricane Maria, I’m home at my apartment, still cleaning up, and life has become much different for all of us. The vast majority of the island is without power. Telephone poles, wires and transformers are down across the entire island of St Croix (St John and St Thomas were hit even worse by Irma) and power restoration for the island is estimated at 6-7 months. The sounds in the air are of generators (think of non-stop lawn mowers right outside your window) most of the day. All three islands are under mandatory curfew and here on St Croix we are allowed out of our homes from 11am to 6pm. Once out, we wait. Typically, I work from a home office. But since my home runs the generator only about an hour per day for showers, I have to bring my laptop and devices to our Sunshine Foundation Headquarters at Sugar Mill Veterinary Center to charge. I get wifi by hot-spotting off my cell phone which can be fickle but has mostly been working. And then we wait. Yesterday I waited in line for an hour and a half for the 1 bag of ice I was rationed along with hundreds of others. I ran home and put it in my cooler and then went back out to wait in line 45 minutes at one of the few working ATMs. Internet is largely out on the island, so most places will only accept cash. I also waited a half hour to drop off my household trash and then another half hour to get gas. Typically gas lines are longer because many are filling 5-gallon containers to fill chainsaws and generators daily in addition to their vehicles. Today the post office opens and I’ve never been so excited to check my mail box for signs of normalcy. I don’t even care if it’s a bill. Slowly restaurants and other businesses are opening and it’s a welcome chance to just get out and bump into friends. There’s a lot of hugging and sharing of stories and well wishes when waiting in lines. Everyone is largely patient and kind and helpful everywhere you go. Our community is stronger than ever and there’s no place else in this world that I would rather be than here. Home. On St Croix.

There is a large military and FEMA presence and will be for some time. They are doing great work getting us needed supplies and helping to reconstruct our infrastructure. St Croix and the US Virgin Islands are just temporarily undergoing a redesign and we will be back up and ready for you to visit really soon! Better than ever! Commercial flights should resume next week as our airport gets back to business, but most of our hotels are filled right now with first responders and relief workers. Restaurants who are not allowed to be open past 6pm are catering for the first responders meals which is helping them stay afloat. Please keep us in your prayers and don’t let people forget we are here. United States citizens who live in a United States Territory, next to Puerto Rico another US Territory of US Citizens. Not just “Americans living on the islands” If you are born here you are a US Citizen. Period. Our islanders have served in the US Military at higher per capita rates than anywhere in the country. And they proudly serve. There are over 3.5 million of us currently devastated by not only two Category 5 Hurricanes in 12 days, but we also sustained flooding and damage from both Harvey and Jose. Many of my friends have lost everything they worked so hard for and are busy rebuilding. I will keep you informed as we all rebuild and share some of their stories.

Below are some ways that you can help. These are grassroots organizations that I can personally tell you are doing good work, helping people and animals on the ground and getting things DONE. Right now donating CASH is the best way to help for a few reasons. Choose one that speaks to your heart and your interests and support them.

  1. The organizations below know exactly what is needed and can utilize donated funds to source those needs.
  2. Sending boat and plane loads of goods is amazing and makes us all smile, but it takes huge amounts of volunteer labor to get the job done. And shipping can be costly. Please know, however, we are forever grateful for all those donated goods we have received so far!!
  3. Our local economy desperately needs a cash infusion. When organizations purchase locally, it helps us rebuild and grow.

www.virginislandsrelief.org The organization that I have been working with directly since Hurricane Irma. They started with relief supplies and plans for rebuilding St John and St Thomas and have now expanded after Maria to include St Croix and Puerto Rico.  I am currently working with them on logistics for containers coming to St Croix full of relief supplies to distribute to our community.

www.canebaycares.org Cane Bay Partners LLC founder David Johnson and his Turn & Burn team were working alongside our team at VI Relief before Maria hit. He and company co-founder, Kirk Chewning, have made it their mission to raise $1 million dollars in relief funds for St Croix. This is in addition to their already chartering 2 flights that evacuated employees, women and children, seniors, terminally ill and disabled individuals from St Croix. Each has committed to matching the first $100,000 raised by Cane Bay Cares. That means that the first $200,000 raised will automatically become $400,000. Their drive is affiliated with the Community Foundation of The Virgin Islands meaning that 100% of those monies (zero administrative fees) will be used for relief efforts.

www.sunshinefoundationstx.org I have been working with Sunshine Foundation since 2009 and am currently the Development Director for the 501c3 Non-profit whose mission has been to end pet over-population on St Croix and support special cases of animal neglect and abuse on our island. We are currently shifting our mission to provide shelter to homeless animals following Hurricane Maria. The boarding facility at Sugar Mill Veterinary Center was already pretty full of boarding pets whose families haven’t yet been able to get back to St Croix. The St Croix Animal Welfare Center was able to evacuate almost all of their homeless cats and dogs to foster homes in the states in an incredibly heroic volunteer effort just before Maria that also included evacuating animals from St Thomas and St John. However, their facility was pretty much destroyed in the hurricane. So the boarding facility at SMVC is one of the only places available to house homeless and displaced pets on St Croix right now. We already have many people evacuating the island who cannot bring their beloved pets for a variety of reasons. We want to be able to offer them shelter and care. We are also seeing a volume of animals with no identification injured in the storm and dropped off by good Samaritans. Dr. Stacia Jung is providing care and we plan to coordinate with some other volunteer veterinary organizations to mobilize and offer professional veterinary care services to all three islands to include vaccines, medical procedures and medications, spay/neuters (we already had a terrible over-population and stray issue throughout the USVI, it’s going to get worse now), tetanus vaccines for horses and goats and more.  WE NEED FUNDING to provide these services and order critical medical supplies ASAP.

www.cruzancowgirls.com Another group that I have worked with that has made a huge difference in our community and is near and dear to my heart. The Cruzan Cowgirls Horse Rescue currently has a herd of over 30 horses in their care in various stages of rehabilitation. Their horseback riding tours were the main source of funds to feed this very large herd and provide them medical care. Their trails have been largely destroyed and require a lot of trail blazing to get back and the beautiful beach they rode on will take some time to become sandy again. So, right now they are relying soley on donations to provide feed for their horses. Please consider a donation to them.

If you have been to St Croix and made friends or have friends and family currently living here or on any of the islands – “adopt” them. Get their mailing address and ask them what their current needs are. Many of us have businesses fueled by tourism or work directly in the tourist industry. Our incomes have been dramatically affected and that is scary right now. Things like Amazon Gift Cards or VISA gift cards that they can shop with are wonderful ways to help (some stores and restaurants are able to take credit cards already, more will come online daily). Pop one in a card of encouragement and mail it to them. It will make their day. There are lots of items that we can all use to make life without regular power a little more bearable. And bug spray for these darn mosquitoes! LOL. So ask them and consider sending an early Christmas gift. I’ve dropped in a couple suggested items below that can make living long-term without power a little easier.



You can continue to support my efforts to bring you updated news and information about St Croix by shopping in our online store!! All the designs are mine – made on and inspired by St Croix. However, they are printed in the USA by a fulfillment company and so our goods haven’t skipped a beat. And right now, it’s my main source of income. Show your love for St Croix by purchasing a t-shirt, hat, mug, bag or more and tell our story to everyone you meet. Help us spread the word about our island and it’s incredible people.

Shop @MyStCroix

Life here will return to normal before we know it. Right now we are adjusting to the new normal and I am inspired daily by the smiles and good work that every person on this island is doing to help one another. We cannot wait to share our warm and welcoming Crucian hospitality with all of you real soon!

 

 

Filed Under: Featured, Island Life

Hurricane Preparedness in the USVI

September 3, 2017 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

Note: Updated August 25, 2019

Well, here we go again. Watching and waiting to see if Hurricane Irma will skirt us or make a direct hit on the Virgin Islands. Keeping a storm watch and weathering them is simply part of life in the tropics. Currently, Irma is still too far out to really tell if she is going to come knocking and she’s thankfully, a small storm so far. However, she’s expected to expand from the current 25-mile radius from the eye and she may get uncomfortably close to St John and St Thomas. If she continues just a little more South on her current track before turning North again, she could make a direct hit on St Croix. So – now is the time for hurricane preparedness!

Update 2019 – Irma did hit and she wasn’t small ? — Irma devastated St Thomas & St John as a Category 5 Hurricane on September 6, 2019; 2 weeks later on September 20th Maria hit St Croix as a Category 5 causing widespread destruction before hitting Puerto Rico. You can read more about the Irma & Maria aftermath here … After “glamping” at home for 4+ months with no power – I can tell you that I stand by the list below. I’ve added a few additions at the bottom as well.
All 3 islands are doing well now, lush and green, and are mostly recovered.

Rule of thumb: Prepare for the worst; Hope for the best

Here in the islands, the beginning of September marks the beginning of prime hurricane season. September through Mid-October are when we’ve been hit with the worst. So, whether or not there was an impending storm, it was time for me to take a good look at my hurricane kit – and it was lacking! So, I stocked up last Thursday. From the current NOAA Hurricane Center models, it was smart. Thankfully a lot of my fellow islanders have heeded the warnings as well and are shopping and preparing their homes to weather the storm. For those who are newer to the island or planning to visit, I thought I’d expand on a previous article I wrote a few years ago while waiting for another storm. You can read that here: Keep Calm and Drink Rum

Hurricane Irma as shown on Windy.com Sunday Sept 3, 2017

Watch the Weather Closely during prime season

Starting at the end of August, I start monitoring the NOAA Hurricane Center on a daily basis. The folks at NOAA are the source for a lot of the forecasts you see on the Weather Channel and in local forecasts. So, I not only look at the maps, but I read the Discussion section for each storm in the Atlantic. The site is updated on the 5s and 11s (5am; 11am; 5pm; 11pm) and as a storm is imminent they usually add 8am and 8pm forecasts. At each of these hours, a NOAA forecaster looks at the maps and reads through the data and gives a more understandable reading of them. I’ve found for several storms that their discussion has more accurately predicted the way the maps and models change. So right now, they are the driving factor for me being uber prepared for what may be the hit of a Major Hurricane. (Irma is predicted to be a Major Category 4 on the Saffir Simpson Scale as she approaches the USVI).

Additionally, I follow some helpful Facebook pages that are focused on Tropical Weather. Check out:

  • US Virgin Islands Tropical Weather Station
  • NOAA Hurricane Hunters These men and women who literally fly into the eye of the storm are Ah-mazing! They typically fly out of St Croix at this time of year, I love seeing them on the island and am quick to thank them. If you see them out in their flight suits – be sure you do too!
  • NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center
  • American Red Cross the Virgin Islands 

Downloadable Weather Apps

A few of the apps that I’ve found useful and have seen friends recommend to not only follow the weather but be prepared in the event that we are hit (which is thankfully not often in my 16 years here!) are as follows:

  • Wunderground App – I use this app daily and find it to have the best forecasts and maps for the US Virgin Islands weather. There’s even a handy hourly rainfall predictor that I’ve found to be pretty darn accurate (which is really handy when I’m planning outdoor destination weddings!)
  • Windy.com – A cool app that shows wind direction, clouds, radar, etc. Gives you a really great visual of how the storm may move based on airflow. The website also has great interactive maps! www.windy.com
  • American Red Cross Emergency Alerts and Notifications –  This is an app that I think everyone, everywhere should have! It will send you notifications based on your location (you have to turn location services on).
  • You should also download and save this handy guide Tropical Cyclones: A Preparedness Guide by NOAA, FEMA, and the Red Cross. It’s chock full of really excellent info no matter where you live.

What to do if you are flying into or out of the islands

Of course, St Croix and the US Virgin Islands are gorgeous places to visit year-round. And like anywhere else in the world, we can’t predict when a storm will hit more than a few days out. If you are concerned about travel plans – contact your airline directly. You may be able to change your flights just before a major storm hits. However, keep in mind that airlines are not responsible for weather-related delays or cancellations. Otherwise, they would go out of business! Often you can get re-routed just before a storm if the change is storm-related. I ALWAYS recommend travelers insurance. Particularly when you are traveling during Hurricane Season or during winter months when snowstorms can affect you. I recommend purchasing the add-on insurance when you purchase your airline tickets. You should also check your credit card terms to see if they offer weather delay or cancellation reimbursement.

Be sure to contact your destination hotel or villa to find out what their Hurricane and weather policies are. You may be able to change your dates without a penalty, but you need to check with them in advance.

A handy tip to know when flying worldwide any time of the year is that even if a delay is weather-related, airlines often have deals with local hotels for “Distressed Traveler Rates“. I’ve used this myself more times than I care to count when I’ve been delayed by weather. I’ve gotten $75/night rates at Marriot Hotels in Miami and San Juan. If you experience a weather delay – go to the nearest gate and ask for a list of Distressed Traveler Rates. Often the rate will be listed and the contact numbers and you can quickly start calling to find availability near the airport. You can also call local hotels directly and ask if they offer these rates. Be sure to call the local hotel reservation desk directly, don’t call the 800 numbers. Sometimes you can even find cheaper rates online – so if you are price conscious and feel ambitious, check those out too.

If you are delayed en route for mechanical reasons, calmly and kindly approach the desk and ask if the airline will put you up in a hotel until you can fly out. Patience and a kind smile go a long way. Remember that airline employees are often stressed during these delays too.

Back to Preparing for the Hurricane

My Hurricane Stock Closet

I can’t stress enough how important hurricane preparedness is. As soon as I heard that there was potentially a big, bad storm on the way, I stocked my hurricane kit.

Here are some of the things that I make sure to have:

  • A good, water-proof flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
  • A battery-operated lantern. You don’t want to use candles during the storm. Wind can blow them out, or worse, blow them over!
  • Battery chargers for my iPhone and iPad
  • A battery-powered radio to keep informed before, during and after the storm if cell towers go down. I’m also planning to order this solar/hand-cranked NOAA radio/flashlight but it clearly won’t arrive on time for this storm 🙁
  • A gas grill! I picked up a great little tabletop propane stove that will work perfectly if I need to cook outside after the storm (it will be HOT inside) and it can double duty for a fun trip to the beach (where I’d much rather use it thank you)
  • Canned goods and non-perishable food. Things you can literally eat out of the can without cooking if needed. Beans provide plenty of protein and will last me through the winter if I don’t need them now. (I make a lot of chili!).
  • Stock up on boxed almond and coconut milk (or cows milk if you drink that too) as it lasts without refrigeration.
  • Packages of nuts, dried fruit, etc. for energy and something sweet.
  • Chips and comfort food to keep me happy calmer during the storm!
  • Extra pet food to last for a couple of weeks – you’ll go through it eventually anyway!
  • Wine, Cruzan Rum, Mixers, whatever it takes to get you through it in good spirits!!
  • Water, Water, Water. Here in the islands most of us have cisterns instead of basements. Cisterns collect rainwater for household use. In a bad storm, they will get contaminated with saltwater – so you need to be sure that you have plenty of fresh, drinkable water for each member of your household for several days. And don’t forget it gets hot after the storm, so have extra. I buy gallon jugs and stock my freezer full. This keeps the freezer cold longer if the power goes out. And, once it melts, it’s still drinkable. I take used jugs and fill them with tap water and stack them in my shower to use to flush the toilet, for my dogs and for washing.
  • I also buy additional bags of ice and stuff them into any leftover space in my freezer. This way, when the power inevitably goes out, any food I have in there has a chance. If I have any frozen food, I’ll cook that first and move anything perishable from the fridge into the freezer to act as a super cooler. Anything I know I want to access, I put into a cooler in the kitchen with a couple of frozen water jugs. This will extend the life of any perishables I have.
  • Trash bags. You’re going to want heavy-duty trash bags to secure your computers and electronics, important pictures and mementos, etc.
  • Plenty of bug spray, citronella candles, and torches, etc. After the wind and rain die down, the mosquitoes come out. In droves. ‘Nuff said.

2019 Hurricane Preparedness Additions after living through Maria

  • CASH MONEY! Following Maria, the island was without power. While banks did their best to get back online as soon as possible, with the curfews and few working ATMs, the lines were over an hour-long at ATMs. With limited power and even more limited internet and phone – stores were only taking cash for a week or two.
  • Bottles of Bleach and Rubber Gloves. Cleaning up in the aftermath of a large storm, you’ll want plenty of bleach to combat the inevitable mold that occurs from the damp tropical air. I recommend having several large bottles. Though if it’s a bad storm and there is lots of damage – you’ll likely need more.
  • More bug spray. I simply can’t stress that one enough!
  • A good first aid kit. Make sure you have plenty of alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and antibacterial ointment for all of the inevitable cuts and scrapes that result from digging out of fallen trees, limbs and other debris. And make sure you are up-to-date on your Tetanus shot. There will be a huge shortage after a bad storm.
  • A really good, sturdy cooler. For extended periods without a working refrigerator. (I didn’t have one for 4 months since I didn’t have power)
  • Healthy, just-add-water, prepared meals. Especially if you have dietary restrictions like me (I’m gluten-free) or you are vegan, be sure you have lots of meal options to carry you through. It was really hard for several weeks to stay gluten-free (read IMPOSSIBLE) The MRE’s we were issued were full of sugar, carbs, and gluten. When you are already tired, stressed and hungry – you’ll eat anything. But the resulting health issues make things worse, not better. Following a storm and during recovery you NEED to be at your best health.
    I really like the Good to Go camping meals! They are healthy, gluten-free and many are vegan. And they are tasty too!
  • Grab some good books you’ve been waiting to read. You’ll need something to distract you when the power goes out.
  • Download as many Netflix movies and shows onto your devices as you can. As long as your devices are powered, you’ll have some entertainment. It makes a world of difference when it’s pitch dark at 7 pm.

When a Hurricane Watch has been Issued

  • A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours. Hurricane preparedness is crucial.
  • This is the time to make sure that your hurricane shutters are up (or if they are easy to install, that they are ready to go). Don’t wait to find you are missing pieces or something is broken. Give yourself plenty of time and get help if you need it!
  • Clean up any debris in your yard and trim back trees that could affect power lines.
  • Secure lighter outdoor furniture and plants – bring them inside if needed. Sink outdoor furniture in your pool if you have one. It can’t fly away.
  • Fill up your vehicle gas tanks
  • Wash all your laundry – it may be while before the power comes back on.
  • If the power is out and you need something, card machines and ATMs may be down. Have extra cash on hand!
  • Check on your neighbors. Storms bring communities together. Make sure your neighbors, particularly seniors, are prepared. Once you’ve got your prep done, lend a hand where needed.

When a Hurricane Warning has been Issued

  • A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours. This is the time to make sure that all of your final preparation is completed
  • Make sure that all outdoor furniture and other items are properly secured or brought inside.
  • Put computers and electronics in heavy-duty trash bags and secure them off the floor in an interior room or closet least likely to get wet.
  • Plug in all of your battery backups, your phone, tablets, etc to make sure they are fully charged BEFORE the power goes out.
  • Put together a backpack or go-bag with the following:
    • Make sure you have cash and your car keys.
    • Important papers (IDs, passports, etc) in sealed ziplock bags.
    • A dry set of underwear and socks into a ziplock along with a change of clothes if it will fit.
    • Nuts, Trail mix, Snack bars and a bottle of water
    • Medications for you and/or your pets
    • Leashes for your dogs
  • If you have cats, make sure you have carriers handy if you need to evacuate.
  • Take a long shower! Again, the power could be out for an extended time. This will help you to relax a bit and you’ll be glad you did.
  • Be sure you have a safe place to ride out the storm and that your pets are safe and secure too!

After the Storm

  • Check your immediate area for storm damage and be sure to listen to the radio for updates
  • Check on your neighbors to see if they are ok and/or need help
  • If you have damage to power lines be sure to report it to WAPA (if you are in the USVI)
    • WAPA Emergency or After Hours: St. Thomas/St. John 340-774-1424 | St. Croix 340-773-0150
    • Report outage online: https://www.viwapa.vi/Customers/ReportAProblem.aspx 

I hope this list helps you prepare for any storm no matter where you are. Be prepared and hope for the best. The most important thing is not to panic – you’ll be fine. Just be ready to camp out at home for a while. If you’re prepared, it’s just like glamping at home 😉

I know many of my fellow sur-VI-vors have other tips as well. Drop yours in the comments below!! #vistrong

Filed Under: Featured, Island Life, Rum

Last Minute Tips for Watching the Solar Eclipse on St Croix

August 21, 2017 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

If you are lucky enough to be with us here on St Croix in the US Virgin Islands for the Total Solar Eclipse of 2017, I’ve compiled some handy information for safely viewing the eclipse from the island. #1 Tip: Remember to NEVER look directly at the sun.

What is a Solar Eclipse?

Solar Eclipse Diagram
Source: NASA

A Solar Eclipse happens when the Moon’s orbit causes it to move directly between the Earth and the Sun casting a shadow onto Earth. Where the Total Eclipse is visible at the maximum coverage, only the Corona (sun’s atmosphere) will be visible as a ring around the dark circle. The Total Eclipse is only visible to a portion of the Earth in a path about 70 feet wide. Here on St Croix, we’ll witness a Partial Solar Eclipse covering about 75% of the sun.

 

What’s the Big Deal?

This is the first time since 1979 that the total eclipse will be visible in the United States. And that last time that it traversed across the entire United States was 99 years ago! Here on St Croix, we won’t see a Total Eclipse, but we are in the 75% zone, so will see a crescent of the sun remaining. Still pretty cool if you ask me!

Map of Total Solar Eclipse 2017
Path of August 2017 Total Solar Eclipse. St Croix is the little blue dot. See CNN’s interactive map here

When Will it Happen on St Croix

On Monday August 21, 2017 the Partial Eclipse will begin on St Croix at 2:15pm. The Maximum Eclipse will happen at 3:37pm and last about 2 minutes. The Eclipse will be fully completed at 4:48pm.  For a cool video diagram of exactly what we can expect on St Croix go here: https://www.timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/us-virgin/christiansted

How to Safely View the Eclipse

Unless you really know what you are doing and have the proper solar filters, don’t risk your expensive cameras. Use your smart phone in Selfie mode to save your eyes and your equipment.

If you have an iPhone, Apple has confirmed that taking images with your phone will not hurt your phone’s camera sensor. However, they do not recommend continually focusing your camera at the sun for a long period of time.

“You could point your iPhone at the sun right now to take photos and the camera’s sensor and the lens would not be damaged. and the same is the case for the solar eclipse, according to Apple.” – USA Today

And make sure that you are shooting in “selfie mode” with your back to the sun.  Here’s a test image I did this morning taking a photo of the sun (the sky was overcast but gave a pretty cool effect!)

Tips for getting a great shot with your iPhone

  • Use a Tripod or set your camera down to rest on something (safely of course).
  • Use “Selfie Mode” so that the camera is facing you with the sun to your back to protect your eyes.
  • Use the timer on Selfie Mode so that your finger doesn’t cause shake to occur even on your tripod.
  • You can place polarized sunglasses or a UV camera filter in front of your iphone lens for added effect, but it is not necessary.
  • Again, DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN! EVER.

Want to Just Safely Observe the Eclipse? Here are some handy ideas for Pinholes and just using shadows from your hands or the trees from NASA: https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/2d3d-printable-pinhole-projectors



Filed Under: Family Fun, Featured, Island Life, Photography, Vacation Tips

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