The US Virgin Islands are like paradise on earth. Pristine beaches, top notch cuisine and a host of land and sea activities, all within easy reach and direct flights. Plus there are no language barriers to consider and you don’t even need a passport. You’d never expect a place like this to have to pay tourists to visit, but that is exactly what’s happening in 2017! The US Virgin Islands are celebrating their Centennial, the 100th anniversary of the US taking control of the islands from Denmark. To honor that history, the islands are offering visitors who travel there in 2017 $300, just to enjoy a vacation! Spend a few days exploring the islands amazing beaches, hiking, and trying some of the many water sports or island adventures.
Of course there are some strings attached to the amazing deal. You can’t spend the money anywhere you like. The goal is to get travelers to learn about the islands’ rich culture and history, not just get wasted on the beach from drinking too much rum punch. So you can use your $300 credit for eco-tours, museums, kayaking adventures, culinary tours, or other cultural activities. This actually helps you have a more dynamic island vacation, and some culturally rich experiences in between partying and poolside lounging.
So how do you actually get the deal? Just book your trip for 3 or more nights on the official tourism site, VisitUSVI.com. You’ll just have to book by October 31st for travel between January 2nd and December 31st 2017, and stay at one of the participating hotels. The list includes everything from sprawling 5 star properties to charming bed and breakfasts, so there will be an option for every travel style! Once you book, the tourism board will send you $300 in paper vouchers that you use just like cash at any of the participating hotels or tour vendors. You can time your trip to catch one of the many celebratory events, such as Transfer Day on March 31st, when the islands were officially ceded to the US. Or just imagine spending Christmas or Thanksgiving in Caribbean fashion. There are 3 islands to choose from, so stay on one and explore the others. Just book sooner than later. Even though the deadline isn’t until October, the more people hear about the deal and rush to book, the more expensive flights and hotels will get!
Full list of hotels
St. Crois:
· Divi Carina Bay Resort & Casino
· Renaissance Carambola Beach Resort
St. John:
St. Thomas:
· Frenchman’s Reef Marriott Resort
· Lindbergh Bay Hotel & Villas
Hope I'll see you there!
