Many people's Initial thoughts regarding a trip to the Caribbean typically scream out either "Bahamas!" or "Cancun!"- especially considering these places have built up a great reputation of tourism over time. Also, now that Americans can fly to Cuba, this hotspot has been stealing the spotlight most recently and rightfully so.

There are a multitude of islands & destinations to be seen throughout the Caribbean, so unless if you're a complete baller rolling in the dough with a ton of free time on your hands, it is doubtful you will be able to see all of these turquoise-watered beauties in one lifetime. Having been to multiple destinations in the Caribbean, Kristen Harkey narrows Down the list to one in this month's Rad Traveler spotlight destination.

The beautiful clear-water, white sand beaches, and colorful essence of the Caribbean has been a desirable destination since the 19th century. The islands and land encapsulating the Caribbean has attracted over 25 million visitors since 2013. So, who doesn't love a tropical getaway?

I've been to a handful of places in the Caribbean, all rich in their own culture, values and experiences. For the most part, the beaches look similar but that does not get tiring no matter where you land in the tropics of the Caribbean Sea. However, I will say there is one place in particular that truly stands out- the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.

The Virgin Islands are located off the coast of Puerto Rico and present the perfect tropical & relaxing destination for all types of visitors. What sets them apart from their neighboring islands? Trust me when I say that there is a certain magical pull to these Islands that is just so inexplicable you can only understand by experiencing it.

You definitely don't need to keep St. Thomas on the down-low, but this down-low view is incredible.

FAQ

Here is a quick run down of some fun facts-

Why go to one island when you can go to multiple at once?

Beats me! The more the merrier and there's definitely more to love over here at the Virgin Islands. There are three main islands in the USVI's- St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix whereas the BVI's consist of over 50 islands & cays with Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke making up its four main islands .

Getting there

The easiest way to access the islands is to fly into the main island of St. Thomas, which is where I called home for a week during my visit. From here you can ferry to St. John, take a quick flight to St. Croix or charter a boat to any of the islands of the USVI/BVI's.

Passport?

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a U.S. territory so if you are American you do not need a passport to travel there. If you plan to hop over to the British Virgin Islands at some point, you will need to have your passport as every incoming boat vessel must check-in and get stamped at the BVI border control.

dress code

The VI's are very laid back and most places don't require getting dressed up (unless you plan on going somewhere really fancy for dinner). Beach attire is common at most places.

Stay

St. Thomas is the main island of the USVI's, so booking a hotel on this island is a typically more budget friendly. This island is where you will also find all the shopping, nightlife, and big resorts. However, if you are looking for a nice place to stay for a quiet family vacation, couple's get away, honeymoon, etc.- St. John has some very nice hotels where you can unwind and relax in some of the most breathtaking scenery throughout all the islands since it is covered in protected National Parks. Lastly, if you are looking for a more relaxing trip that is filled with golf and/or historic sites, I recommend heading to St. Croix.

Caneel Bay | St. John

This resort is home to seven beaches and is set on a 170-acre peninsula. Even if you are not planning to stay here, take a relaxing lunch break in their Beach Bar & Grill where I enjoyed a pulled pork sandwich on banana bread. You can also enjoy a nice dinner at ZoZo's at the Sugar Mill located atop of the resort's 18th-century sugar mill ruins.

The Ritz-Carlton | St. Thomas

This 30-acre oceanfront resort offers a luxury resort experience. Although this resort is not all-inclusive, this nearly five-star property won the 2016 Condé Nast Traveler, Top Resorts in the Caribbean: Readers’ Choice Award.

The Westin | St. John

The Westin St. John four-star villa property offers ocean views and apartment-style layouts. A great option for a romantic getaway or a family retreat to the Caribbean.

Sugar bay | St. Thomas

Sugar Bay is one of the more affordable 4-star oceanfront resorts in St. Thomas and also where I stayed during my exploration throughout the islands. The resort is all-inclusive and overlooks St. John Island to the East. The resort offers many water activities for free and the water surrounding the resort is shallow and safe for swimming/snorkeling.

DO

There is so much to do throughout all of the Islands and each island has something unique to offer. Visiting more than just one of the Virgin Islands will be a rewarding experience and well worth the day away from the comforts of your resort. Here are the top activities I recommend when visiting the islands-

Take a Charter

The best way see and experience more than just one or two of the islands is to charter a boat for the day. This can be pricey but a lot more affordable if you travel with a group. I took a private charter through Over the Line Charters. We had Travis as our captain who was awesome. However, there are plenty of other boat charters companies you can use- Simplicity Charters is another good one. Most charters offer a 6-hour full-day sail and is a great way to attain more information about the islands.

Famous for it's original Painkiller cocktail, this bar is located on the island of Jost Van Dyke in the BVI's. Its setting in the White Bay is perhaps how Soggy Dollar received it's name as most boats anchor themselves in the bay and visitors must jump in the water and swim to shore to access the bar. However, Soggy Dollar does currently accept major credit/debit cards but remember to leave your cell phones and other valuables in the boat, you won't be needing them at this relaxing and one of a kind spot!

Jump off Willy T's Boat

Anchored off the shore of Norman Island in the BVI's is Willy T's legendary floating bar and restaurant. The schooner can only be accessed via boat. Spend an hour or so here to get yourself a nice refreshing cocktail and then take a thrilling leap off the second story into the crystal clear, turquoise waters of Privateer Bay!

Foxy's Bar @ Jost Van Dyke

Foxy's Bar is located on the island of Jost Van Dyke in the BVI's. The island is only 3.5 square miles and has as little as 300 inhabitants but is full of rich history. Relax in the hammocks on the shore of this quaint island or go for a walk on one of the many hiking trails that take you through overgrown ruins of 18th century sugar mills.

Take a ferry to St. John and relax at trunk bay

St. John is one of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The ferry ride to the island from St. Thomas takes less than 20 minutes and leaves out of Red Hook every hour. The ride itself costs $6 each way for adults. The ferry terminal is cash only so be advised to have US Dollars on hand for purchasing your ticket.

Once you arrive, take one of the taxis at the taxi stand to the left as you exit and make your way to Trunk Bay (approx. 15 minutes). With over a quarter mile of white sand- Trunk Bay is the most photographed beach in the USVI's and is a masterpiece of the National Park Service. The beach offers full facilities and is the only St. John beach that charges an entrance fee of $5 per adult.

Red Hook

Located on the southeast coast of St. Thomas. Known for its ferry port to St. John but also for its dining and nightlife. Island Time Pub is a great option for a casual and fun dinner, which offers New York style pizza as well as Caribbean cuisine- located on the second floor balcony overlooking the marina. This is also where you can find Duffy's Love Shack, which is known as "The World's Most Famous Parking Lot Bar."