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Air-conditioned Virgilio’s creates North Italian fare with subtle seasonings (seeVirgilio’s Restaurant, St. Thomas).

Located in an old stone warehouse in Charlotte Amalie’s shopping district, this is where the island’s movers and shakers dine. Eavesdropping is a fine art here. Pasta comes in many forms – the seafood and linguine is a sure bet. Or try the chicken served in lemon sauce (seeVirgilio’s Restaurant).

The island shifts into party mode every Easter weekend for its annual carnival. A beauty pageant and a small parade are the highlights. Residents of other islands often visit at this time, so make hotel bookings early.

Laurance Rockefeller bought up many acres of St. John land and donated them to the federal government in an act of foresight that has helped preserve St. John’s natural environment. The park, and Rockefeller’s posh Caneel Bay Resort (seeCaneel Bay Resort, St. John), opened December 1, 1956.

Established in 1956, this park occupies about two-thirds of this 20-sq mile (52-sq km) island. Besides a range of plants and animals, it features gorgeous beaches, hiking trails on its lush hillsides, interesting ruins along the hills and coasts, and water-sports galore (seeVirgin Islands National Park, St. John).

Take. Don’t forget towalk with your passport or other identification when visiting the islands.

WA seaside location and fantastic Caribbean food makes Walker’s by the Sea a popular choice with locals and tourists alike. Favorite dishes include fried or steamed ole wife (a local seafood specialty) and braised oxtail in a herb-accented sauce.

Dive just off the beach at this 12-room resort sitting seaside near Cane Bay’s Wall. Indeed, if you’re a certified diver, dive and snorkel gear are included in your room rate. Rooms have tropical decor, patios or balconies, kitchens or kitchenettes, and gorgeous sea views.

This area gets busy when the ferries from St. Thomas, St. John, and Jost Van Dyke arrive. If you’re arriving from outside the BVI, you’ll clear BVI Customs and Immigration here. The area around the ferry dock has a couple of basic restaurants and convenience stores. Soper’s Hole marina with restaurants and shops sits within walking distance across the harbor. There are small hotels near the ferry dock and the marina.

Sitting beachfront at Great Cruz Bay, the Westin Resort has a kids’ club. Families are attracted in summer by package plans. Kids like the pool, where they get to mix with their peers.