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Looking like prehistoric creatures, bright green baby iguanas and the darker adults thrive all over the US and British Virgin Islands, but trees in dry areas see greater populations. They’re somewhat elusive in most areas, and a sighting is a special event.

Fabulous harbor and city views greet you from the terrace and many rooms at this cozy hotel sitting high up above Charlotte Amalie. Several rooms have four-poster beds. Island lore has it that the hotel’s 17th-century stone tower was used as a lookout by the pirate Blackbeard.

This rambling spot features a popular courtyard restaurant. The 22 rooms are fresh with tropical colors; six of them share baths. Not much of a view, but the convenience of being close to Cruz Bay’s shopping and dining lures visitors.

Long-time island resident Kathy McLaughlin looks after around 10 vacation villas, all decorated with tropical flair and most located in the Chocolate Hole/Great Cruz Bay area. A six-bedroom villa at Bordeaux called Château Margot practically qualifies as a castle.

The hillside Island View Guest House, northwest of Charlotte Amalie, delivers just that – a gorgeous view of St. Thomas from its spacious porch. Rooms are homey with a tropical touch. Enjoy a swim in the pool, or head out for the beach, to take in the sights or shop in nearby Charlotte Amalie.

While these villas are found all over St. Croix, most are on the East End, with great views from their locations up in the hills. One villa with seven bedrooms is perfect for family reunions.

With large, rounded scarlet blooms made up of individual flowers and set on green leaves, ixora looks somewhat like a geranium. This year-round bloomer is popular with home gardeners and landscapers who use it as a hedge.

A benign swear word or exclamation.Jeese and bread , it sure is hot today!

Found on just about all West Indian menus, this staple is simply a deep-fried, flattened biscuit (dumpling). Johnnycakes are usually served hot, but residents take them cold in their lunches. If you happen on an event with food demonstrations, you may see cooks rolling them out in the kitchen.

In addition to Jolly Dog logo t-shirts and hats, this tiny store stocks bright beach towels, sarongs, and souvenirs such as mugs and locally made hot sauce.