Our Director of Travel Planning, Shanna Stewart, recently returned from one of her favorite escapes - the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. With effortless island-hopping between destinations, she explored the vibrant culture of St. Thomas, the lush landscapes and pristine beaches of St. John, the striking boulders of Virgin Gorda, and the laid-back charm of Jost Van Dyke - each island offering its own unforgettable appeal.
Here are Shanna's Top 5 from her week away.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Made up of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, this tropical trio offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and the convenience of no passport required for U.S. travelers. From the iconic shores of Magens Bay to the lush national parks of St. John to the vibrant underwater world ideal for snorkeling, there's something for every type of traveler. With warm weather year-round and unforgettable scenery, the USVI are a top choice for both adventure and relaxation.
Shanna kicked off her trip with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, where she joined a familiarization visit to experience the resort firsthand. From off-roading around St. Thomas in a 4x4 jeep to sailing aboard the property’s private catamaran, Lady Lynsey (below), she fully immersed herself in both the island’s beauty and the resort’s world-class amenities. Her days were filled with poolside relaxation in private cabanas, indulgent seaside spa treatments, and fresh-caught local lobster enjoyed across the resort’s diverse dining venues. Just 30 minutes from the airport and 5 minutes from Red Hook, it’s a seamless blend of bare island-inspired elegance and convenience. Pro tip: Book the Club Level for an enhanced “hotel within a hotel” experience and culinary delights all day.
St John
In Shanna’s opinion, St. John is the crown jewel of the U.S. Virgin Islands, known for its unspoiled natural beauty and relaxed vibe. A quick 15-minute ferry from St. Thomas, you’ll arrive in Cruz Bay, the island’s main hub filled with charming boutiques, vibrant bars, and locally loved restaurants - perfect to explore after a day in the sun.
With more than two-thirds of the island protected by Virgin Islands National Park, St. John is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering incredible hiking trails, hidden coves, and some of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling. Iconic stretches of sand like Trunk Bay and Maho Bay are postcard-perfect and renowned as some of the best spots for snorkeling alongside sea turtles (Shanna’s favorite!). As for accommodations, the island is home to a collection of upscale villa rentals, many with sweeping ocean views, private pools, and full concierge service.
British Virgin Islands
If you’re planning to island hop from the USVI to the BVI, don’t forget your passport. Whether you're chartering a private yacht, cruising through the islands on a catamaran, or staying on one of the dreamy 60-plus islands and cays, the BVI offers an effortless blend of adventure, luxury, and serenity. From the dramatic boulder-strewn shores of The Baths in Virgin Gorda, to the exclusivity of Richard Branson’s private Necker Island, to the legendary beach bars of Jost Van Dyke, each corner of the BVI offers its own unforgettable slice of paradise.
With its uncrowded shores, exceptional resorts, and natural beauty at every turn, the British Virgin Islands are the ultimate escape for discerning travelers seeking island elegance and off-the-beaten-path luxury.
The Baths & White Bay
One of Shanna’s most memorable experiences was chartering a boat to the BVI, where she got to explore The Baths for the very first time. Nestled at the southwestern tip of Virgin Gorda, The Baths is a stunning natural playground of massive granite boulders - some towering up to 40 feet - set against pristine white sand beaches and hidden rock pools. After a scenic 15-minute hike through dry scrubland and rocky terrain, she was rewarded with the breathtaking view of the horseshoe-shaped Devil’s Bay.
The crystal-clear, refreshing waters were so inviting she could have floated there for hours. A second trail leads visitors through the boulders themselves - where crawling, climbing ladders, and wading through water are all part of the unforgettable journey. There’s no better way to end an adventurous morning than at world-famous White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, dotted with lively beach bars. Cap your day at the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the legendary Painkiller cocktail.
Curious about a Caribbean vacation but need help getting started? Shanna can help you plan your ideal mix of adventure and beachside bliss. Click the button below to get started.
Hi, I'm John, and I'm told I have a cool accent. I absolutely love travel and I am proud to have built a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
