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Island Life

How 1 guy drove 1100 Miles on St Croix

November 8, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Google Maps Street View Comes to St Croix

When Kirk Thompson first tried to map his business on Google Maps, he realized he had a problem. The tiny Frederiksted side street that had existed for centuries on the island of St Croix didn’t exist according to Google’s business mapping tool. Always up for a good challenge, Kirk decided to take things into his own hands.

Kirk Thompson N2 the Blue Google Street View
Kirk Thompson, former owner of N2 the Blue Dive Shop on St Croix

In a former life, Kirk was an analyst in Silicon Valley, so he was no stranger to hi-tech. Trading in his suit and tie for a wet suit and dive gear, he followed his bliss to early “retirement” on the island of St Croix and bought a SCUBA Dive Shop in Frederiksted several years ago. In classic island style, he encountered problems while trying to get his business listed on Google Maps – an important marketing tool that allows visitors to explore and discover local businesses. After multiple attempts at fixing the issue, Kirk reached out to Google directly and eventually became the first ever private citizen to be in possession of the Google Street View equipment.

Kirk’s extraordinary volunteer effort has culminated in over 1100 miles driven crisscrossing St Croix – an island that is a mere 26 miles long and 6 miles wide at its widest point. With his Google supplied rig, Kirk spent over 28 days traveling at an average speed of 8.5mph to provide users with a street view of the island – including some super cool, remote spots like the Anally Bay Tide Pools and hiking down to Jacks & Isaac’s Bay. Because of Kirk’s volunteer work, you can now explore these spots from the comfort of your own home prior to arriving on St Croix!

I had the pleasure of spending a weekend morning with Kirk mapping some of the hills nearby my home – hills I’d never explored myself before. Some of the views from up above Christiansted were absolutely breathtaking! Check them out …

Altona Lagoon St Croix
Looking down over Altona Lagoon on St Croix. Find more images of St Croix at CindyLeighPhoto.com
Long Reef St Croix
Beautiful view of Long Reef out to Judith’s Fancy

Now that Kirk is wrapping up St Croix, the local VI Government and Google are helping him branch out to St Thomas and St John. The street view mapping data will help not only visitors to the United States Virgin Islands, but also the Government of the VI in creating more a more manageable addressing system for first responders like police, fire and ambulance.

To checkout Google Street View on your computer:

  1. Go to https://maps.google.com or if you want to go straight to the VI check out https://www.google.co.vi/maps/ 
  2. Click on the little yellow “Pegman” in the bottom right and drag it over the map location you want to view. A key will pop up, the blue lines are street view!
  3. Drop Pegman on the street or location you want to explore.
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The blue areas show the current Street Views uploaded to Google Maps as of Nov 2016 … the entire island has been mapped so stay tuned for more! (Click on the yellow Pegman and drag him over the map to see the key)
Take a Virtual Hike to Jacks & Isaac’s Bay
Explore the links at the Buccaneer Golf Course
Take a Virtual Horseback Ride with Cruzan Cowgirls
Take a walk on the Frederiksted Pier
Visiting by Cruise Ship? Check out the view as you disembark the ship!

On an iphone or iPad:

  1. Download the Google Maps app (free)
  2. Open to the map you want to explore
  3. Press on the map to drop a pin or tap on a pin that already exists
  4. Tap on any images with the circular white arrow to navigate Street View
  5. Hint: tap on the white arrows to explore streets and more!
Google Street View St Croix on iPad
Google Street View of Frederiksted in Google Maps app on iPad. On iPad you would tap on the  image on the left with the round white arrow for Street View.

Next time you’re on St Croix, be sure to map out N2 the Blue in Frederiksted so that you can drop by and say THANKS to Kirk for this incredibly useful volunteer project!

Filed Under: Island Life

10 Reasons to Retire on St Croix

May 10, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 2 Comments

10-Reasons-to-Retire-on-St-Croix-USVI

by Kim Lucas, RetireintheVI.com

1 My St Croix CountdownGet into the “DON’T HURRY” groove…

You want to slow down, but you don’t want to STOP. In St Croix, a small town, you’ll have lots of friends who enjoy the same things you do, and lots of things to do. You’ll be physically active, but never pressured. You’re never more than about half an hour from anything here…so what’s the rush? If you’re 30 minutes late here, you’re 30 minutes early!

2 My-StCroix.com countdownPress the “EASY” button….

Going places and doing things here is EASY. No traffic. No problem parking. No “fees” or charges for most fun things. You don’t have to dress up for anything, don’t have to wear make up, can trim your wardrobe down to a couple pair of (good) flip-flops, a few T-shirts, and some shorts…and your’e ready for anything! (oh, and a few bathing suits!!).

Cruise Ship Day Frederiksted

3 My St Croix CountdownGet in SHAPE and be active…

Exercising here is just part of life. You’ll be swimming, walking, paddleboarding, hiking, and moving your BODY 365 days a YEAR because the weather is PERFECT! If you want more “structured” exercise activities, there are PLENTY!

4Have lots of like-minded friends…

Your friends here will no doubt be a very DIVERSE group of people…who all happen to share a love of the sea and the “island way” of life! You’ll never meet a stranger here …it’s the friendliest place on earth! I absolutely love that I have friends here of all ages, races, ethnicities, and walks of life. We all have a lot in common, but yet a lot of differences, too, which makes them oh so fun and interesting! I LOVE my big ‘ol diverse, crazy, loving and fun island family! You will too!

Team on dock
The Island Life Real Estate Gang

5Enjoy the CONSISTENCY of the weather and rhythms…

The sun comes up and goes down at approximately the same time every day here (varies by about an hour from summer to winter)…so your “internal clock” will become regular, which makes having a consistent sleeping routine pretty easy (important for your overall health). You can enjoy nature and the outdoors every day here …. important for physical AND psychological well-being! Living this close to nature…you “attune” and the overall benefits are amazing!

6Explore NEW and DIFFERENT activities…

Ever considered painting? Join the “palleteers” – a group of folks who meet every Friday morning to enjoy the beauty of St Croix and enjoy the challenge of painting Plein Air. Yoga? Try doing yoga on the beach with a group of friends (plenty of classes!). Try some Salsa dancing lessons! None of these activities cost very much (if anything), and all will be within a 30 minute (max) drive for you. No excuse NOT to try new things here.

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7Contribute to a needy community…

St Croix is a wonderful place, but there are many needs here. There will be so many opportunities for you to get involved and make a difference here. Like animals? There are several shelters and organizations that would welcome some help. Like children? Volunteer to tutor or just read to children. Want to help the less fortunate? Volunteer at the women’s coalition or one of the missions that serve the homeless. Want to make the island a cleaner place? Join in on organized clean ups! You can really make a difference here by volunteering even just a few hours a week.

8Redefine yourself…among people who will embrace YOU.

As we get to the top of the mountain called “middle age” and now see the landscape before us…realizing it is not so far a distance to the end….it is critically important to really “FIND YOURSELF” and become who you are. Most of us loose ourselves in our work, tending to our family, making the almighty dollar. Retirement is time to find YOU and redefine your life, choose the lifestyle that you WANT, and do so in an environment that is accepting and will embrace you. St Croix is THAT KIND of community. No expectations here…just acceptance.

9Be an example for your children!

You want them to be happy and to follow their dreams, right? Well then, what are you waiting for? They will visit, they will be emboldened and impressed by your willingness to take a risk, and they will marvel as the REAL YOU starts to blossom and grow in this Caribbean climate!

10Why not?? 

If there’s a mermaid, pirate, or beach bum lurking inside you….time to EXPLORE that side of you!! And here, doesn’t matter WHAT you did before, as long as you are YOU now, and, like the rest of us, are nice, warm, helpful and accepting, you are going to have the time of your life here! And if you don’t? Well, you can always go back to the rat race! Remember, people on their deathbeds don’t regret things they have DONE. They regret the things they did NOT do. Come on, live a little, and let the Caribbean sun and warm, friendly people of St Croix nurture you in your golden years!


Kim Lucas Island Life Real EstateThe Team at Retire in the VI and St Croix Island Life Real Estate  is comprised of a bright and fun group of folks who share a love of St Croix and a desire to help others realize their dream of establishing a home here. Led by Kim Lucas, who pioneered the concept of Buyer Agency on the island, the agents at Island Life, by design, embody the spirit of helpfulness, honesty and integrity, and excel at listening, problem solving, negotiating, and helping people. You will find them to be professional, yet laid-back and friendly. Let one of their agents introduce YOU to Island Life and help you find your piece of paradise!

Filed Under: Featured, Island Life, Retire in the Caribbean

Luck of the Irie: St Croix’s Irish Connection

March 17, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 3 Comments

St Croix's Irish Heritage Connection

Each year on the Saturday closest to St Patrick’s Day, Christiansted goes green as revelers flood the streets clad in t-shirts and costumes while cheering on the Annual St Croix St Patrick’s Parade. With the Irish diaspora representing over 100 million people, the raucous holiday is celebrated more outside of Ireland than within. And here on St Croix, it’s done with true Crucian gusto, though many don’t realize the strong Irish heritage that St Croix has.

Planning to attend? Visit the St Croix Calendar for parade dates.

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The St Croix St Patrick’s Day Parade got it’s official start in 1969 when a group of local businessmen got together on March 17th and started to talk about local celebrations. They wondered why an island that celebrates with any excuse, didn’t have an official St Paddy’s celebration. So, they took matters into their own hands, got a flatbed and a piano, and drove through the streets of Christiansted singing Irish and local songs. Today, that tradition has grown into the annual parade and after-party featuring bands on floating stages and throughout the town. During the parade, local majorette troupes, high school bands and carnival troupes tramp through the streets celebrating their Irish Caribbean Heritage on an island full of Armstrongs, O’Bryans, O’Neales, O’Reillys, and more.

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St Croix is proud of its diverse heritage that comes as a result of having flown the 7 flags of 6 different nations and the Knights of Malta since Columbus first landed in 1493. Though the Irish flag was not one of those, the island’s strong Irish connection is clear. It began alongside the Caribbean’s dark past and history with the rise of the sugar trade in the 1700s. Along with other European nations in the eighteenth century, Ireland’s wealthy merchants got even wealthier with the trans-Atlantic slave trade. While not as successful in colonizing as the English, French, Spanish, and Dutch, they were the vast majority on the island of Montserrat with a strong presence on neighboring Antigua and Nevis that began in the 1600s. There, merchants established plantations worked by both African slave labor and indentured farmers from Ireland.

www.mystcroix.vi
St Croix’s importance to the sugar trade can be seen by the many Sugar Mills that dot her landscape to this day.

In 1733, the Danish West India Company purchased the island of St Croix and began to develop their colony. The Danes had the money and mercantile expertise but lacked the experience and manpower needed to develop sugar plantations on the fertile island. So, they recruited Irish Montserratians and laborers directly from Ireland to move to the new Danish colony on St Croix. One of those Irish Montserratians was Nicholas Tuite who eventually owned 7 Crucian plantations and was part owner of 7 more. At the height of the sugar craze in the West Indies, St Croix was dotted with over 150 Sugar Plantations and was booming. “In 1760 [Tuite] journeyed to Copenhagen, where Fredrick V appointed him chamberlain and paid tribute to his role as founder of Denmark’s Caribbean empire. … slave-trading and plantation-owning had made him the friend of kings.” – History Ireland: The Irish and the Atlantic slave trade.

While there were a few wealthy Irish plantation owners like Tuite, most of the Irish who initially populated the Danish colony on St Croix were laborers. And while many of the West Indians today bear the Irish surnames of the former slave owners, many also have shared heritage from the Irish laborers who became a part of the eclectic cultural fabric of the island and intermarried with those of African descent. And that brings us to the beautiful diversity of the St Patrick’s Day parade on St Croix.

If you haven’t yet been, be sure to make plans for next year. Slainte!

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  • Irie St Croix Ball Cap
    Irie St Croix Ball Cap
    $26.50
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  • Irie St Croix Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt
    Irie St Croix Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt
    $28.00 – $34.50
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  • Crucian Bahn Yah Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt
    Crucian Bahn Yah Short-Sleeve Unisex T-Shirt
    $25.00 – $34.00
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Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Featured, Holidays on St Croix, Island Life, Photography, St Croix Events, St Croix History, Travel Tips

Humpback Whale Migration in the US Virgin Islands

March 11, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Humpback Whales of the Caribbean

Having moved to the Virgin Islands myself in order to avoid chilly New England winters, I completely understand the draw for snowbirds (winter island residents). There’s a strong connection between St Croix and the New England area. Enjoy a meal at Duggan’s Reef Restaurant with all of the Massachusetts college and university pennants lining the ceiling and listen to owner Frank Duggan’s Boston accent and you’ll feel just like you’re on Cape Cod. Take a sunset sail aboard the Schooner Roseway anchored in St Croix during the winter. If you miss her, you can jump aboard in Boston Harbor where she spends her summers. Bottom line, St Croix is a great place to escape the erratic cold and snow of a New England winter.

However, these aren’t the only New Englanders who enjoy St Croix’s shores. From about February through mid-April you may also catch a glimpse of some of my favorite “snowbirds”. The migrating Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) whose Latin name translates to “Big winged New Englander”.

Due to the financial and cultural significance of the Humpback to the whaling industry (and it’s subsequent population crash), it is one of the most researched species of whales. Thankfully, due to that research and conservation efforts – including the Endangered Species act of 1973, the population has rebounded in recent decades and the West Indies population is now listed as “Least Threatened” by the IUCN Redlist.

So, other than the balmy weather and swaying palm trees, why do Humpbacks migrate to our waters in the winter months?

Humpback Whale by Steve Simonsen

These huge marine mammals can measure 52 ft (16 m) long and weigh up to 40 tons with the females being slightly larger than the males. The humpback lifespan is approximately 50 years. Adult humpback whales have about 10 inches of blubber that protects them and keeps them warm in the cold waters of the North Atlantic. Some even do stay during the winter. However, newborn whale calves don’t yet have that protection. So, most of the populations migrates to the tropics in the winter to mate and give birth.

NOAA’s Distinct Population Segments. The blue areas are where the populations mate and give birth (we are #1). The connected green areas represent their summer feeding areas. Source: NOAA Fisheries

However, the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean Sea don’t have the abundance of nutrients that are found in the North Atlantic. Humpback whales are filter feeders who open their huge mouths gulping schools of small crustaceans (mainly krill), small fish and sand eels and then pushing the water out through their baleen. Because of their enormous size, they require tons of those little critters (Literally. They can eat up to 3,000 lbs per day!). The crystal clear waters of the Caribbean, by nature, don’t have that abundance of bite-sized food.  So, for their 5-month winter vacation, they eat very little and lose up to 25% of their body mass. The calves are born in the warm waters of the West Indies and once the babies are ready, the families migrate North in the Spring to spend their first summer season eating and growing and eating and growing in order to withstand colder ocean temps. One of their popular feeding grounds is Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary off of the coast of Massachusetts & Maine. Stellwagen Bank is an offshore drop off that creates and upwelling where cold water meets warmer water. These upwellings are rich in nutrients that attract little fish and crustaceans, which attract bigger fish… and marine mammals!

Humpback whale breaching off of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary during the summer months. These very same whales are seen in the waters of the Virgin Islands each winter.

Humpback families in the North Atlantic range in summer from Stellwagen Bank off of the coast of Massachusetts and the Gulf of Maine in the west to Ireland in the east, and up to but not into the pack ice in the north; the northern extent of the humpback’s range includes the Barents Sea, the Greenland Sea, and the Davis Strait, below the Canadian Arctic. Each humpback family always goes back to the same summer feeding grounds – for example, the Stellwagen Bank humpbacks always return home to Stellwagen for the summer; The Greenland families always go back to Greenland. But, they all come down to the West Indies in the winter. This mixing of families during the mating months helps them to maintain genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding.

Here in the Virgin Islands, scuba divers infrequently see them (it does happen for some super lucky folks), but often hear the males singing their intricate songs to attract females for mating. These beautiful songs have been studied extensively and are an incredible form of communication. And because of the low frequency they are sung at underwater, the sound can travel for up to 20 miles. It was Dr. Roger Payne who has studied whales since 1967 that discovered that these songs have a syntax and complex patterns. If you have any interest in learning more about whales, their songs or animal behavior – I highly recommend reading his book “Among Whales” or watch his documentary “A Life Among Whales
“.

Though we don’t have commercial whale watching excursions here on St Croix, they are often seen by boats sailing offshore and can even be seen breaching from land since much of our shelf drops right offshore. One year, boaters off of Buck Island were lucky enough to encounter a female humpback with her baby as they sailed back from a day at the beach. Often in the midst of these once-in-a-lifetime thrills, we forget that these wild animals can be vulnerable too. So, it’s is very important for boaters to note that Humpbacks and other cetaceans (whales and dolphins) are Federally protected from “take” [ Defined by Section 3(18) of the Federal Endangered Species Act: “The term ‘take’ means to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.” ]. Humpback whales can be stressed (harrassed) by extended interaction and there are very clear guidelines that have been established to avoid this.

If you are on a boat that encounters a humpback whale or other cetacean, the captain should observe the following Whale Wise Guidelines:

  • SLOW DOWN: reduce speed to less than 7 knots when within 400 metres/yards of the nearest whale. Avoid abrupt course changes.
  • DO NOT APPROACH whales from the front or from behind. Always approach and depart whales from the side, moving in a direction parallel to the direction of the whales.
  • DO NOT APPROACH or position your vessel closer than 100 metres/yards to any whale.
  • If your vessel is not in compliance with the 100 metres/yards approach guideline, place engine in neutral and allow whales to pass.
  • LIMIT your viewing time to a recommended maximum of 30 minutes. This will minimize the cumulative impact of many vessels and give consideration to other viewers.

(the above are just a few of the Whale Wise Guidelines. Boaters should review the full list. Another great resource is NOAA’s Stellwagen Whale Watching Guidelines )

Though I’ve been fortunate enough to grow up in New England in a family that is slightly whale watching obsessed, I still haven’t seen one myself here on St Croix. But, when I finally have that incredible experience, I will definitely share it with you!

Many thanks to Dr. Lisamarie Carrubba, NOAA Fisheries & Lia A. Hibbert, Earth Resources Technology, INC. In support of  NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program for their input on the Humpbacks of the West Indies!

Have you been whale watching or seen humpbacks in the Caribbean? Let us know about your experience in the comments below!

Filed Under: Current Feature, Featured, humpback whales, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Vacation Tips

Agrifest: A Caribbean Country Fair

February 15, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Each year President’s weekend brings a celebration of Caribbean agriculture to the Big Island. Agrifest is the largest country fair in the Caribbean showcasing local produce, livestock, food, music and more.

St Croix Agrifest

Once known as the bread basket of the Caribbean, St Croix’s rolling green hills and fertile lowlands have recently rebounded with an agricultural renaissance. Nowadays, farm stands can be visited 365 days of the year offering locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables. Many also offer fresh, free-range eggs and meat. Growers like Sejah Farm and Ridge to Reef Farm have led the charge to meet the demands of local restaurants and consumers. In the main building you’ll find farmers from across the island and throughout the Caribbean selling plants, fresh produce, jams and jellies, hot sauces and seasoning, fresh local honey and more.

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Vendors also offer handmade items made locally in the Virgin Islands and across the Caribbean.

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Like any country fair, it’s a chance for 4-H, farms and others to showcase their livestock.
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But my favorite part is, of course, the local food!

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Agrifest happens each year over President’s weekend from Friday through Monday. It’s a terrific event to plan your trip around!

Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Featured, Island Life, St Croix Events, St Croix Food and Wine, St Croix History

Singin’ Da Blues in Frederiksted

January 21, 2016 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Last night the Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise, aboard the sold out Holland America MS Nieuw Amsterdam, hit St Croix’s shores and turned the town of Frederiksted Blue. Not only a thrill for passengers aboard the rockin’ ship, but residents and visitors to the island were treated to a day filled with fun, food and great music with the community event on the Frederiksted waterfront. From 10am to 9pm the street was lined with vendors selling locally made crafts and delicious homemade West Indian treats. And of course, there was plenty of Cruzan rum flowing.

The Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise is no stranger to St Croix and has made many stops here over the years, becoming an anticipated event. Cruise passengers enjoy stellar lineups – this cruise included Taj Mahal, Kenny Wayne Shepard, Latimore, Colin James and more (check out the lineup here) – and a weeklong music fest that takes place both onboard the ship and in each port. Musicians hold jam sessions on board often into the morning. It’s one big ole party ship!

Freedom City St Croix

Welcome to Freedom City | Frederiksted, St Croix

Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise St Croix 2016

The Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise aboard the Holland America MS MS Nieuw Amsterdam

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When cruise ships are in port, the main waterfront road is closed and local food and craft vendors line the way.

You just never know who you are going to bump into here!

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There’s no better way to enjoy the Blues than with the Caribbean Sea and a beautiful sunset as the backdrop!

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St Croix’s own Eddie Russell Band opened the festivities and Stanley & the Ten Sleepless Nights closed out the show.
The Blues Cruise lineup featured Ruthie Foster Band, North Mississippi Allstars, and Latimore.

Some of the sights and sounds! Check out more on our Periscope Katch.Me Channel

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The crowd on the waterfront cheered as the sun dipped below the horizon.

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There was no shortage of good eats to be had with the terrific array of local vendors!

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The Blue Moon Cafe, long known for their New Orleans influence and love of the blues, was hopping all night long.

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Thanks for a great time Legendary Rhythm and Blues Cruise. Hope to see you back in 2017!

You can enjoy a smaller version of this event on the last Friday of each month with Frederiksted Sunset Jazz. Just bring a chair or a blanket and relax as you watch the spectacular West End Caribbean Sunset while listening to local and visiting jazz bands.

Did you attend the show? Let us know in the comments below! Click here to browse more St Croix inspired photography

Filed Under: Family Fun, Featured, Island Life, Photography, St Croix Events

7 of My Favorite Christmas Island St Croix Holiday Gifts

December 11, 2015 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 1 Comment

If you’ve been to St Croix around the holidays, you know why we call it Christmas Island! There are so many festive holiday events like the St Croix Christmas Boat Parade and it’s the time of year that we celebrate Carnival with mini-events, the fair grounds and the big Three Kings Day Parade. It’s really the most wonderful time of the year.

In celebration of this magical time of giving, here is my annual list of my favorite gifts – all created right here on St Croix – that you can share whether you are on St Croix or not. #shoplocalstx

1 My St Croix CountdownCustom My-StCroix.com T-Shirts

mystx-ts-fbadOur line of T-shirts and apparel are made for the entire family and can exclusively be purchased online. Each design is custom made and helps us to keep sharing our love for the Big Island. If you love St Croix and what we do, share the love with one of our designs. Be sure to check back often as more designs become available!  Shop My-StCroix.com

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Bottles Reimagined

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cruzanconfusionBottles Reimagined is one of my favorite new St Croix businesses! Judi & Jeff collect discarded bottles that would otherwise end up in our landfill (there is sadly no commerical recycling on our island). After collecting the bottles, they hand-craft them into drinking glasses, carafes, hurricane lanterns and now… candles! The candles are to-die-for soy candles with delicious scents that include many of the Cruzan Rum flavors. Check out their newest flavor “Cruzan Confusion” inspired by that infamous rum cocktail that tastes delish but will knock you on your keister!

Be sure to visit their website www.bottlesreimagined.com to look through all their beautiful creations that include more than just rum bottles (you’ll find limited edition products from Vodka, Whiskey bottles and more!)

 

3 My St Croix CountdownDanielle Kerns-Robinson 300MF

300mf-bagsLocal artist Danielle Kerns-Robinson creates the most beautiful bags, passport holders, backpacks and more out of vibrantly colored African wax print fabric. Her bags are incredibly well crafted and unique – each one is a piece of art! She also makes jewelry and other artwork. You can find her hand-crafted pieces in her Etsy Shop www.etsy.com/shop/300mf or catch her at Art Thursday or other local craft fairs.

Make 300MF bags a part of your travel ensemble!

4Turtle Girl Designs

turtle-girls-designsI absolutely adore the whimsical sea creature inspired designs by local marine biologist and “Turtle Girl” Jeanne Garner, PhD. Jeanne has worked on St Croix studying and promoting conservation of the endangered sea turtles that find their way to our shores to nest. Needing a creative outlet, she started to share her love for the sea with custom-painted glassware. And it was a hit! Being produced by hand, each glass is unique. Be sure to check out all of her FUNctional aquatic inspired designs in her Etsy Shop www.etsy.com/shop/STXTurtleGirlDesigns

5Itiba Body & Spa Products

itibaThis isn’t the first time that Itiba products have made my Holiday Favorites list! And that’s because I’m a HUGE fan. You can shop for Itiba at their Frederiksted shop where all the magic happens, find their full product line on their website www.itibabeauty.com … and now you can even add products while shopping on Amazon! Your skin is the largest organ in your body and absorbs everything you put on it. Personally, I prefer to “feed” my skin with all-natural, high-quality and decadently scented soaps, body butters and oils. I love that when I put a bar of Itiba Soap in my shower – my entire bathroom smells incredible. Scents are inspired by the natural world here on St Croix … one of my favorites is the Carib Lime which is a great unisex-scent and pick me up for the morning. The Carib Lime body spray not only makes your skin feel smooth but doubles as an all natural bug spray to keep way the no-see-ums and mosquitoes.

6Tags & Treats for Your Pets that support a great cause!

tags-for-hope

Don’t forget your furry kids! This holiday season give your pets the gift of a voice in case they get lost. These adorable ID tags are small enough to fit on your pet’s collar (they come with a clip for attaching) and have a fun design that is reminiscent of your state (or territory)’s driver’s license! And by using this link www.tagsforhope.com/?cause=217 25% of the proceeds will go directly to Sunshine Foundation a local 501(c)3 non-profit that provides low cost spay/neuter services for feral cats in our community and provides rescue and rehabilitation services for special cases of neglect and abuse.

If you happen to be on St Croix – pop into the Blue Mutt on Company Street in Christiansted where you’ll find locally made art along with pet toys and treats! Profits from this incredible, volunteer operated shop benefit the various animal welfare organizations on St Croix. You can also sign up for a variety of art classes offered in their gallery!

7Deck the Walls with Local Photography

cindyleigh-photogAnd lastly, if you like the images you see here on our website or on our popular My St Croix Facebook Page – you can find some of them here to order for prints or other items. I’ve always been drawn to landscape and architecture photography and using them to graphically share a story. You’ll find a selection of my favorite images from St Croix and other places I’ve visited in my online gallery cindyleigh.smugmug.com Check back often as I’m just getting a lot of these uploaded in time for the holidays!

Filed Under: Featured, Holidays on St Croix, Island Life

Sunscreens a Threat to Coral Reefs

October 21, 2015 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI Leave a Comment

Three-quarters of St Croix is surrounded by the largest living barrier reef in the Caribbean. And then we have the incredible reefs just off shore surrounding Buck Reef National Monument. These reefs provide homes for a myriad of plants and animals, including the colorful fish we love to see snorkeling and endangered sea turtles. Our community relies on the beauty of the reefs, the fish that live on the reef and the commerce that comes from diving and snorkeling these gorgeous coral reefs. So, we have a vested interest in preserving and protecting them. One of the ways that you can help us, is by using coral reef safe sunscreen for sun protection while on our island and in our waters.

Jack and Isaac Bay St Croix USVI

Coral reefs worldwide have been struggling with rising water temperature, boat anchors, pollution and runoff among other factors. To put it mildly, our oceans’ reefs are in peril. Oxybenzone has been shown to deform and reduce the mobility of coral planulae (the larval stage). It also causes mutations in the DNA of the planulae and affects its endocrine system. And this has a debilitating effect on the corals’ ability to survive rises in ocean temperature due to climate change.

A recent study conducted in the US Virgin Islands and Hawaii has  shown that coral reefs with the highest concentrations of oxybenzone, commonly used in sunscreens, are those most frequented by tourists. But, it’s not just the snorkelers in the water. Wearing sunscreen while touring around the island and then coming home and taking a shower eventually creates runoff that ends up in our waters and affecting the coral reef as well. “Oxybenzone is mixed in more than 3,500 sunscreen products worldwide, including popular brands such as Coppertone, Baby Blanket Faces, L’Oreal Paris, Hawaiian Tropic and Banana Boat” according to a Washington Post article addressing the issue.

Here’s how you can help!

We all know that protecting your skin from damaging UV rays is important, especially for the young ones. Make sure that when you are out in the Caribbean sun, particularly when you are out in the water, you are applying coral reef safe sunscreen and protecting yourself from UV rays. Here are some smart and coral-safe ways to protect yourself in the Caribbean Sun.

 

  • Surfer Style. Wear clothing with UV Protection like a Rash Guard while in the water. You can be cute and stylish while protecting your skin.
  • Au Natural. Use oxybenzone free sunscreens. Though controversial, some studies imply oxybenzone is harmful to humans as well. Did you know your skin is the largest organ you have… and what you put on it, absorbs into your body. Let’s face it, it may be safer for us too.
  • Shade Lovin’. Trust me, here in the islands you’ll get a nice glow simply walking from your car to lunch. Learn to love the shade like an islander and avoid basking in the harmful rays when possible.
  • Now that you’re in the know about avoiding sunburn and being kind to our coral reefs, check out our St Croix Snorkeling Guide!

Looking for Sunscreens that are not only guaranteed to be kind to the environment, but also safe for you and your family? Check out some of the options below!

Filed Under: Buck Island Reef, coral reef, Family Fun, Featured, Island Life, Marine Conservation, Nature Conservation, Travel Tips

Columbus Landing 1493 St Croix

October 12, 2015 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 4 Comments

Updated October 11, 2021

In 1493 Christopher Columbus landed on what would later become St Croix, US Virgin Islands at Salt River Bay changing the course of the island’s history and setting the stage for 7 European Flags to fly over the island. This is the only spot in the United States where Columbus actually landed and was the first violent altercation between the Old World and the New. Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve marks an area of incredible history not only for the island but for the world in general.

The prehistoric site at Salt River is one of the most significant in the whole of the Virgin Islands and tells an important story of the past.

For thousands of years, Arawak (Igneri and Taino) and Carib Indians inhabited the area now known as Salt River Bay/Columbus Landing. Archaeological research starting from 1880 shows that the land here was a major religious and cultural area and had long-term permanent settlements. Archeological evidence found dates back at least 4,500 years.

Arawak is a broad term that refers to the indigenous peoples of South America and the Caribbean who spoke a common language and had a shared culture. Taino is more commonly used for the “Island Arawaks” who stretched from the Greater Antilles up through the Lesser Antilles (where St Croix can be found) as opposed to the mainland Arawaks. These first inhabitants of the Caribbean Islands had a rich culture and history and previous excavations at Salt River revealed the only ceremonial Ball Court found in the Caribbean here on St Croix, lending to its historical significance. The area was thriving with indigenous peoples cultivating manioc, soursop, papaya, guava, sapote, yellow sapote, guava, sapodilla, and avocado and fishing in the locally rich waters. They were skilled artisans with a pottery-making culture that was used for practical purposes and to represent their views of the three realms of the cosmos: the celestial, Earth, and subterranean land and water. Today, we continue to use their words in our everyday lives. These include hammock, hurricane, tobacco, barbecue, and canoe.

In 1992, Congress declared the area Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve as part of the National Park System. The designation works to protect the rich cultural story and the delicate mangrove ecosystem and its threatened and endangered species.

Read more detail about the indigenous peoples of Salt River: Archeological Investigations at Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve

Learn more about Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve and view the NPS map.

Columbus Landing St Croix My-StCroix
Enjoy this incredible view from Clairmont Overlook and several other villas by www.vacationstcroix.com
1491 Americas before columbus

On November 14, 1493, Columbus with his fleet of 17 ships landed on St Croix in search of freshwater and local guides to “help” them along the rest of their journey. A small party ventured onto the island and found a sparsely inhabited village. According to historic records, they found Taino Indians who said they’d been captured by Caribs taking over the island. (note: there is still debate as to who these peoples actually were – Taino vs. Carib) Columbus and his crew were en route taking the villagers back to their ship when they encountered a canoe with several Carib men and women. A skirmish ensued with Columbus’ men firing on the Indians and the Indians retaliating with arrows. The area where it took place, just outside the bay to the Eastern Point is known as “Cape of the Arrows” to this day. Each side lost a man to the fight. At the time of this encounter, it is estimated that there were 20 Indian villages on St Croix with a total population of approximately 1,200. Columbus “claimed” the island for Spain calling it Santa Cruz.

For the next 100 years, the Spanish battled the local Taino and Carib Indians close to annihilation. By the early 1600s, the island of Santa Cruz was deserted.

Nowadays, the Virgin Islands celebrate Virgin Islands/Puerto Rico Friendship Day in lieu of Columbus Day owing to the historic connections between the peoples of St Croix and Puerto Rico that date back to long before European contact.

Salt River National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve is now a part of the US National Park system and is a wonderfully serene spot to explore the natural wonders of our island.

kayak salt river bay
Kayaking across Salt River Bay

History and nature buffs can book a kayak tour with Virgin Kayak Company to explore the mangrove coves and learn about the history of Columbus Cove. You can also visit Virgin Kayak original founder Bryan Updyke’s Facebook page: Caribbean Indigenous Arts & Crafts Museum that features his Taino-inspired artwork along with other resources. Bryan passed away in 2020 but his legacy of honoring the pre-Columbian peoples of St Croix lives on through his inspirational work.

Virgin Kayak Tours at Salt River Marina

SCUBA divers can explore the underwater canyons in Salt River Bay teeming with life. In recent years, tech divers have explored the canyons to depths of 300 feet+.

Take an evening kayak tour of Salt River and experience the wonders of the Bio Bay – a smaller inlet of Salt River Bay that teems with bioluminescent dinoflagellates that light up the water like Avatar!

The beach at Columbus Landing is quiet and rarely busy. It offers great swimming and has a reef just offshore for snorkeling. There’s little to no shade and no facilities, so be sure to bring a cooler and some shade, and most importantly, practice “Carry in, Carry out”.

  • Columbus Cove Beach St Croix
  • Columbus Cove Beach St Croix
  • Columbus Cove Beach Salt River St Croix

Salt River and Columbus Landing are just one more reason to get out and explore our beautiful island while you are here!

Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Eco-friendly, Eco-Tour, Featured, Island Life, St Croix History

Emancipation Day: A Truly Crucian Story

July 3, 2015 by Cindy @ MyStCroix.VI 5 Comments

Emancipation A Crucian History

While many across the United States and its Territories observe the 4th of July holiday celebrating American Independence, July 3rd marks a very important holiday here in the US Virgin Islands – Emancipation Day.

One of my favorite books is Island Beneath the Sea by Isabel Allende which tells the harrowing saga of Zarité from her slavery on a sugar plantation in Saint-Domingue through her escape and participation in the uprising and successful slave revolt in Haiti to her eventual arrival in New Orleans. Though it is historical fiction it offers insight into a dark time and the struggles and strength associated with survival amidst such brutality.

Here on St Croix, there’s a very similar and equally heroic story.

History of Emancipation in the US Virgin Islands

70 years after the revolutionists in the thirteen colonies rose up from tyranny in 1776 and 17 years before chattel slavery was fully abolished in the United States*, the enslaved on St Croix banded together and coordinated an uprising. They were the second island in the Caribbean after Haiti to demand their freedom and set the precedent for emancipation throughout the Caribbean. It is often said that Danish Governor Peter von Scholten abolished chattel slavery. And while it is technically true, it was actually an uprising of heroic enslaved people on July 3, 1848, that prompted him to do it much earlier than he had planned.

Appointed Governor-General in 1827 by King Frederick of Denmark, von Scholten was an advocate of the gradual emancipation of the enslaved people. Undoubtedly, his mistress and confidante, “free-coloured” Anna Heegaard, had an influence on his philosophies. The trans-Atlantic slave trade had ceased in 1803. But, the brutality of forced chattel slave labor on the sugar plantations continued on St Croix and throughout the Caribbean.

In 1839, von Scholten began building schools to educate enslaved children. In 1847 Governor von Scholten proposed his 12-year plan to emancipate the enslaved. A plan that was quite unpopular with local plantation owners.

Emancipation Day July 3

General Buddhoe

John Gottlieb (General Buddhoe) a skilled, freed slave was not about to wait 12 years. Buddhoe, along with his Admiral Martin King, organized the enslaved workers on the West End of St Croix. They coordinated a gathering in Frederiksted at the blowing of the conch shell on the morning of July 3, 1848. Following the call, a large group of enslaved and free coloreds stormed and took Fort Frederik. The crowd demanded that by noon the enslaved be declared free or they would burn down the town.

They sent the ultimatum to Governor von Scholten in Christiansted. Some hypothesize that von Scholten and Buddhoe may have had a previous clandestine agreement. Other stories have it that von Scholten was en route to the slave school at Mount Victory just outside of Frederiksted to oversee an exam when he received the word and was diverted.

Either way, the deadline was extended slightly and by 3 pm von Scholten declared the enslaved to be free. Knowing the history of the Haitian rebellion, they avoided what undoubtedly could have been a very bloody battle with many casualties.

von-scholten-school-mt-victory
Ruins of the von Scholten School at Mount Victory Camp

Freedom for the enslaved didn’t mean true emancipation. Many of them still toiled in unfair conditions earning meager wages that kept them impoverished. In October 1878, labor organizers rebelled again … led by three rebel Queens for the “fyah burn” but that’s another story for another time.

St Croix and many other influential Crucians have had a significant impact on the United States and its history. West Indian-born Alexander Hamilton spent his formative years working for an accountant on St Croix and it was his Crucian benefactors that paid for his education in New York. He later became Chief Staff Aide to General George Washington, the 1st US Secretary of the Treasury, and holds an esteemed place on the US $10 bill.

“The history of labor organizers and the long-term impact of our history and how it ties into US history is significant.  Many of the labor organizers in the early 1900s’ in New York were Crucians. Hubert Harrison is referred to as ‘the foremost Afro-American intellect of his time’ and the ‘father of Harlem Radicalism.'” – Frandelle Gerard, Director Crucian History and Nature Tourism (CHANT)

To learn more about the incredible history of St Croix and the US Virgin Islands while on St Croix, book a walking tour or a hike with one of the many knowledgeable guides at CHANT. You can also visit Estate Whim Museum, a part of the St Croix Landmarks Society to learn more about life on a working sugar plantation.

*While the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on September 22, 1862, by President Abraham Lincoln, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865 – a full two and a half years later – that Federal troops went into Galveston, Texas to inform the enslaved people that they had been freed. We now celebrate that day as Juneteenth. Juneteenth was declared a Federal Holiday in 2021.

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Filed Under: Crucian Heritage, Featured, Holidays on St Croix, Island Life, St Croix Events, St Croix History

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