Located east of Puerto Rico, the three charming islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John make up the U.S. Virgin Islands. The islands were divided between the colonial powers of England and Denmark, before the United States purchased the Danish portion in 1917.

There is plenty to do, including the usual Caribbean pastimes of snorkeling, swimming or just lazing on any one of the pristine white beaches and the world-class turquoise waters. Besides this, walk around to absorb some of the vibrant local culture, in the fascinating marketplaces and historic plantations. St. Thomas is bustling and often crowded with tourists enjoying its spectacular prettiness: if you want something quieter, head out to St. Croix, off whose coast you will find a little gem of an island called

Buck Island, the whole of which with the surrounding reef is a nature reserve.

St. John is also fairly low key, and you can do your own thing without bumping into too many tourists. Two-thirds of this island is protected by the Virgin Islands National Park, thus preserving the perfect white beaches and beautiful views.

St. Thomas is the liveliest and most glittering of the three islands, and there is always a party atmosphere all year round. However, don’t miss the unforgettable Coki Bay on the northeastern corner for great snorkeling and the educative Coral World, an 80,000-gallon aquarium.