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Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
Edition 150   |   3:33 read time
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands | @d_smoove
Where else can you drive on the left side of the road, marvel at Danish architecture, and still be in America? Why, in Charlotte Amalie, of course. The capital and largest city in the U.S. Virgin Islands was a haven for pirates long before it became the sought-after destination it is today — you’ll enjoy the deepwater harbor as much as those swashbucklers did, albeit for different reasons. St. Thomas is a particularly lovely island, and Charlotte Amalie is its gateway.
 
 
Fun Fact:
Charlotte Amalie was founded as Taphus, which is Danish for "beer hall," in 1666.
 
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
N 18.34° / W 64.93°
 
#stthomasusvi | BackyardProduction
May — June
As with the USVI in general, Charlotte Amalie is warm and sunny throughout the year. Early summer is still the sweet spot, however, because there’s so little rainfall. Expect temperatures in the 70s and 80s, abundant sunshine, and difficulty removing yourself from the beach.
 
99 Steps | @andreifcretu
99 Problems But a Step Ain’t One
Among the most unique aspects of Charlotte Amalie are its step streets, which were called frigangs by the Danish (who controlled the U.S. Virgin Islands until 1917). Built in the 18th century, they’re just what they sound like: stone staircases that get you from one place to another. The most famous of these are the 99 Steps, which are surrounded by palm trees and flowers and were originally known as Store Taarne Gade (“Greater Tower Street”) by the Danes. As steep as they are photogenic, they’re also misnamed — there are actually 103 of them.
Blackbeard's Castle | @keanetravels
FKA Skytsborg
The journey matters, but so does the destination. Ascending the 99 Steps will take you to Blackbeard’s Castle, one of five National Historic Landmarks to be found in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Formerly known as the equally cool-sounding Skytsborg (“protection castle”) and first built in 1679, the watchtower is said to have been a stronghold for the infamous pirate born Edward Teach. Whether that’s true is impossible to verify, but you know what they say: When the legend becomes fact, print the legend.
Magens Bay Beach , St Thomas Virgin Islands | @jucaphotographer
The Bay to End All Bays
Just a 15-minute drive from Charlotte Amalie is Magens Bay Beach, the most beautiful — and popular — beach on St. Thomas. Its white sands and lush greenery will inspire many a photo, but be sure to spend as much time as possible soaking in both the sun and the sights. Very few waves and a gradual drop in depth from the shoreline make it especially relaxing, though this tranquility comes with a modest entry fee of $5 for adults.
Fort Christian | @jeffrey_hoek
Still Standing
The oldest standing structure in the entire archipelago, including those belonging to Britain and Spain, Fort Christian has been holding it down for more than 300 years. The fort has seen it all throughout its distinguished tenure, from seafaring swashbucklers and Danish soldiers to religious gatherings and the governors who used to live there. Today it’s a considerably more relaxing spot, though you can still feel the history within its walls. The National Historic Landmark is also home to the St. Thomas Museum, the go-to spot to learn more about the island’s Scandinavian influence.
@bethp33
 
Bethany’s Discovery
@bethp33
"Early morning stroll through the historic part of Charlotte Amalie. This is a famous staircase called 99 steps which lead to Blackbeard’s Castle built in 1679."
 
Azul Cafe | @azulshipwreckcafe
Greener and Greener
Casual bites abound at the Green House, a bar and restaurant with a toucan logo and a welcoming menu. In addition to the likes of conch fritters and sliders featuring their famous bang-bang sauce, it offers daily specials (usually prime rib, lobster, or steak) and a happy hour that will leave you especially, well, happy as you enjoy the oceanfront view. Or, if you like the idea of a restaurant whose ethos can be described as “small batch, from scratch,” try Azul Shipwreck Cafe. Paninis, bowls, and sandwiches abound, all of it made with health and freshness in mind.
 
Mafolie Hotel & Restaurant | @take_me_away365
Sea Level
Speaking of views, the Mafolie Hotel boasts some of the most stunning on St. Thomas. That's true of the hotel itself — which offers a free breakfast, poolside bar, and other welcoming accommodations — and doubly so of its restaurant and bar, which sits at 866 feet above sea level.
 
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands | @pickled_photons
Don’t Overlook the Overlook
"Visit the Bone Church in Kutná Hora — I recommend getting there by train instead of doing it with a tour guide so you can move through it at your own pace and there are tons of information available to read on what you’re looking at!" – @d_smoove
SUBMIT TO UPCOMING DESTINATIONS!
 
 
   
 
   
 
 
 
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700 N Colorado Blvd, # 513, Denver, CO 80206

Charlotte Amalie

EDITION 150 | 4:15 read time

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas | @thedscvrr

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas is no hidden gem, and you’ve probably seen photos of its gorgeous, whitewashed villages plastered all over your social media. But there’s a good reason this island makes it on every Greek top ten list. From the cliffside views of the sea to the charming back alleys to the stunning sunsets, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas is worth more than a mere daydream.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

N 36.39° / E 25.46°

Edition 150

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

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