Our last port was Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. It definitely had a “U.S.” feel to it. There were more American establishments and American surfer-looking teenagers working at the beach. There were a lot more big, fancy houses. Yet it also had an international, Caribbean feel to it. The best of both worlds? This day was the only one where we experienced rain. The impending storm teased us right up to the point of dragging our lounge chairs on the beach to a desirable spot. The heavens then let loose for about 15 minutes, getting everything wet. The trees were not the kind to protect you (or your stuff) from weather. But we certainly weren’t cold. The rain was as warm as the ocean water. We figured that we may as well get in the water while it rained. We were already drenched. It felt great. The Ultimate Island Experience was very touristy. We learned that Blackbeard’s castle is actually not a castle that he lived in. The United States built it to attract tourists. It is also housed within hotel grounds. So that was a bit disappointing. However, the period houses were interesting and were, I believe, authentic. And the 99 steps were certainly not as long as the steps we climbed in London. But they were charming. All in all, a very charming island.

houseofbaldwin,