Sun, soft sand, and an easy atmosphere.

For many of usme includedthat is thedefinitionof a getaway.

And to getjustthat, the Caribbean is always a surefire bet.

Alexandra Engler

I’ve tried a few:Turks and Caicosfor the pristine beaches.St.

Luciafor the lush tropical wildlife.

Anguilla for a more remote feel.

Well Traveled: A guide to the USVI St. Thomas

The Bahamas for family fun.

And now add to the list St. Thomas, my choice for easy travel and luxe accommodations.

After a week there escaping the cold Northeast climate, I come back armed with my must-do recs.

The Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas

TheRitz-Carlton St. Thomasis located on the east end, which is a particularly beautiful part of the island.

The waters are crystal clear and a stunning shade of turquoise.

It’s not a bad way to wake up every morning, I must say.

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During the day, sprawl out on a lounge chair on the beach and make yourself at home.

The sand is soft and the water is inviting.

The hotel offers easy access to water sportsSailing!

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The hotel also has two pools (one for families, the other adults-only) and accompanying cabanas.

At mealtime, enjoy the hotel’s restaurants, which offer fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired drinks.

Don’t miss Alloro, the premier restaurant on the property.

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During lunch, Sails Beachside Restaurant & Bar is not to be missed.

St. Thomas hosts the airport and more accommodations so is often where guests stay.

For those who are opting for the beach setting, good choice.

Sun & Sea Bar & Grill in St. Thomas, USVI

(attempt to visit early in the morning before the crowds show up.)

Watermelon Bay offers incredible snorkeling.

Maho Bay typically has the calmest waters.

And Cinnamon Bay is just plain stunning.

And if you’ve decided on a hike, well, you’ll also get some beachtime.

Most of the hikes wind up at beaches in the end.

Bring water and snacks.

If you’re in St. Barths or Turks and Caicos?

Bring out the designer duds.

If you’re in Barbados?

Feel free to go more casual, as the island lends itself to a calmer vibe.

St. Thomas lies somewhere in the middle.

The yellow hue is eye-catching against the blue watersand the fit is perfect for both lounging or getting active.

Bembein Bria Slide

A slide that can take you from beach days to fun nights.

These have a padded strap, so theyre oh-so-comfortable.

The perfect thing to toss in your luggage.

And the food is locally sourced, fresh, andfullof flavor.

Get the ceviche, daily catch sandwich, and anything with jerk chicken.

The servings are large, but you’ll finish your plate because it’s so tasty.

It’s simply the best way to experience the beauty of water.

For example, at the Ritz-Carlton, they have theLady Lynsey Catamaran, which hosts group and private tours.

St. Thomas offers luxe accommodations, easy travel, and access to surrounding islands.

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