How Life Works

Last Updated: 5/19/2013 02:36 PST

Paradise Found: Big Savings on a U.S. Virgin Islands Dream Vacation

Paradise Found: Big Savings on a U.S. Virgin Islands Dream Vacation

The U.S. Virgin Islands is a paradise with majestic beaches and outdoor life, but it's also teeming with rich history and diverse cultures. Made up of St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas islands, this part of the Caribbean has become a major destination for American tourists, mostly via cruise ships. That's great, but it's only a buffet—a small sampling of what the territory really has to offer.

St. Thomas is the most cosmopolitan of the three islands, yet it still retains the distinctive atmosphere of a secluded Caribbean paradise. It's also only 32 square miles, making it an ideal destination for an immersion trip where you can live like a local. The only difficulty is knowing where to stay.

After a little digging we not only found a great place right on the water, but at an incredible rate: Crystal Cove on Sapphire Beach.

THE DEAL
This offer includes a five-night stay for two in a one-bedroom, two-bathroom condo for only $790. The property features a private beach and pool, lighted tennis courts, and unparalleled ocean views. The condo itself includes everything you need, such as a kitchen, dining area, linens and towels, a gorgeous king-size bed, and a living room with a pull-out sofa and two Murphy beds. This makes it perfect for either an inexpensive family getaway, or a quiet romantic trip for two.

YOUR STAY
Sure, you've got the beaches, but St. Thomas also offers a world-renowned golf course, great shopping and sailing, snorkeling and diving, and a festive, sexy nightlife that's unlike anything you've seen in the U.S..

Go on a walking tour of St. Thomas' diverse architecture, evidence of the many nations that colonized the three islands in the 17th and 18th centuries. Take the Skyride 700 feet above the city, or climb the famous 99 Steps of Charlotte Amalie for an incomparable view of the Caribbean. And, if you’re interested in culture and history, don’t miss seeing the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, the 1680-built Fort Christian, or the childhood home of Camille Pissarro, one of the best-known French Impressionists.

Through this deal you also get numerous other savings on local experiences that you'll definitely want to hit.

MORE SAVINGS
Use your 12% discount at Dependable Car Rental to easily explore the island. Must-see spots include Coral World Ocean Park to swim with sea lions, feed stingrays, and stroll through an underwater observatory. Your $60 credit at Caribbean Water Sports & Tours can go toward parasailing, captaining your own mini boat, or taking a guided boat tour of the island. Also included is a free daily snorkel rental from the dive shop, so you can explore the crystal clear waters with ease.

Even with a fully-loaded kitchen, no one wants to spend their entire vacation cooking. Fortunately, this deal features a $25 daily credit for two local restaurants. The Sapphire Bar and Grill serves familiar favorites like pizza, sandwiches, and burgers, but offers a taste of St. Thomas (think blackened tuna bites with sriracha aioli and Caribbean jerk chicken wings). There's also the Caribbean Saloon, where you can sip a rum, amaretto, and mango beverage while nibbling conch fritters and other local delights.

Best of all, you'll be able to experience all this like one of the locals, taking in St. Thomas in a way that no cruise ship tourist could ever imagine. It will ignite your passion for travel, and the spirit of St. Thomas will touch your soul forever.

ACT NOW
This deal is through Living Social Escapes, so you have 30 days to change your mind after purchasing. Even better, round up 3 other people to take the deal as well and you get to go for free.

Click here to check out this and other great travel deals from Living Social Escapes.

This article sponsored by LivingSocial Escapes Copyright Howlifeworks.com 2013