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St. Thomas - in conjunction with St. Croix and St. John, its sister islands - comprise an official U.S. territory located in the Caribbean. The island embraces the Atlantic Ocean on the North side and the Caribbean Sea on the South. The traditions of St. Thomas' early settlers and the continued influence of today's residents have contributed to shaping the territory's truly distinct culture. Influences on the island range from Dutch and English to Danish, French and Spanish. Thought by many to be the liveliest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, it's prominence as one of the Caribbean's most renowned shopping meccas is one of its most alluring attractions. Restored 17th and 18th century warehouses that are stretched along the waterfront were once used to hold molasses, rum, spices and other trade goods awaiting export, but now house a variety of unique shops containing modern-day treasures. After navigating through the narrow byways of downtown Charlotte Amalie's historic shopping district, visitors to St. Thomas still have much of the island's historical sights to explore.

Charlotte Amalie harbor is the perfect place for travelers to begin their journey through St. Thomas' historical sights. Harbor side since 1672, Fort Christian is the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands. Now a U.S. national landmark, this brick fortress was built to protect the town's harbor from raiding European armadas that sailed the Caribbean centuries ago. Overlooking Charlotte Amalie on nearby Government Hill looms the medieval-style Skytsborg, better known today as Blackbeard's Castle. Formerly used as a residence and an observatory, Blackbeard's Castle is on the National Register of Historic Places and today doubles as a popular restaurant and hotel. While in St. Thomas, you'll also witness an exciting new effort designed to preserve the island's natural wonders, called "eco-tourism." One of St. Thomas' most popular eco-friendly activities is the guided kayak tour through its marine sanctuary and mangrove lagoon. Led by experienced naturalists and biologists who are knowledgeable about the island's plant and marine life, the kayak tours are a first-hand educational experience for visitors.

Whether soaking up the sun on one of its many beautiful beaches, shopping along the downtown waterfront or touring historical sites spanning three centuries, vacationers have much to fill their days while visiting St. Thomas.