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Residents call them tourist trees because their bark is red and peels. These tall trees grow all over the islands.

Spicy barbecued chicken and ribs at this tiny spot.

This seaside university offers associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees to students from all over the Caribbean on a prestigious campus that served the US military during World War II. The school held its first classes in 1963 as a junior college. Attend performances that range from ballet to reggae at the school’s Reichhold Center for the Arts (seeReichhold Center for the Arts, St. Thomas), see games at the UVI Sports and Fitness Complex, take a swim at the white, sandy Brewers Bay Beach, or just stroll the spacious grounds.

Managed by Kathy Demar and her small staff, Vacation Homes has a dozen top-of-the-line villas with fine sea views and tropical breezes; most of them are high in the hills along the north shore. The company is known for its attention to service, including stocking the refrigerator with milk and bread.

Vacation St. Croix has more than two dozen luxury villas and condominiums, with beautiful views and furnishings. Most are in the Salt River area, but the company has a good handful on the island’s East End.

Work four hours a day at a research station in remote Lameshur Bay. In exchange for doing various jobs, you get a bed, all meals, and a chance to spend time at a glorious beach and enjoy the place’s camaraderie.

Stop by Vie’s frontyard for conch fritters, fried chicken, and tarts.

Sitting hillside above Teague Bay, the units at Villa Madeline provide the ultimate in privacy, with each having its own pool. The restaurant draws both visitors and residents. A golf course is nearby.

Sitting seaside near Salt River, the casual Villa Margarita has suites with tropical decor, kitchens, lovely views, and the beach close by. Christiansted’s shops are only a 15-minute drive away.

Located in the heart of Road Town and at one of the island’s busiest marinas, this 21-room hotel gives visitors a nautical scene with shopping and many restaurants nearby. Rooms, all with fresh tropical accents, overlook either the sea or the pool.