Sunday, May 06, 2007

On and off the Rock


Unless you own a watercraft (or know someone who does) air transportation is the only reliable, scheduled way to get on or off island. Two major airlines service St. Croix: American and Delta. American offers one flight daily from Miami and Delta offers direct flights from Atlanta twice a week. The nearest airline hub is Puerto Rico. American Eagle offers flights several times a day as do smaller carriers such as Cape Air and Liat.

To island hop from St.Croix, Seaborne Airlines, a sea plane, offers flights to St. Thomas and Puerto Rico. A seaplane bonus is the ability to land right in the harbor of both islands, closest to the historic districts and shopping. (A seaplane review is imminent.) Sea plane barely visible above Hotel on the Cay (see photo).

Cruise ships fail to frequent St. Croix. While the local economy may miss the boost from these floating tour groups, I am not sure St. Croix would please the cruise traveler. Although great duty-free shopping and nightlife exist, St. Croix is not a shop-till-you drop, party the night away place. In short, St. Croix is nothing like Vegas on the Caribbean. St. Croix is a place to enjoy the beautiful scenery, learn about the rich local culture and treasure the simple pleasure of relaxation.

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