St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
St. Thomas is one of the most popular cruise ship ports of call in the Caribbean. Virtually every ship sailing an Eastern Caribbean itinerary travels to St. Thomas. The small, 31-square mile island is home to the U.S. Virgin Islands capital. The pristine beaches, warm weather, friendly residents and duty-free shopping are just some of the reasons St. Thomas is a favorite destination.
St. Thomas has been known as having some of the best duty free shopping in the Caribbean; downtown Main Street has over 300 stores with items including jewelry, perfume, alcohol and clothing. The Vendor’s Plaza, is a fun place to shop or browse. The open-air market is filled with over 50 local vendors who sell t-shirts, island clothing, hats and other souvenirs. The plaza is wheelchair accessible and provides curb-cut access. Visitors should be aware that the plaza tends to get crowded and difficult to maneuver in a wheelchair when cruise ships are in port.
At Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Center visitors can explore over five acres of tropical paradise and see Bahamas’ unique collection of wildlife, including many indigenous endangered species. Ardastra is famously known for their marching Pink Flamingos. During the 20 minute show, visitors will get close and personal to the National Bird of the Bahamas. Visitors also have a unique chance to feed the friendly Lory parrots. The Gardens are filled with brilliant bougainvillea, hibiscus, exotic fruit trees, coconut palms and other exotic plants. A few years ago Ardastra was renovated and it is now almost all wheelchair-accessible.
One of St. Thomas’s most popular attractions is Coral World. At Coral World, guests can experience the beauty and magic of life under and above the Caribbean Sea. Park goers can handle starfish, sea cucumbers and hermit crabs in the Touch Pool; feed stingrays; enjoy the sounds of colorful Lorikeets; observe fascinating sea life like tiny seahorses, giant lobsters and sharks in the Marine Gardens. Most of Coral World's exhibits are wheelchair accessible. There are ramps throughout the park and a wheelchair lift in the Caribbean Reef Encounter. The Tropical Nature Trail, and the middle and lower levels of the Undersea Observatory Tower are not wheelchair accessible and may be difficult for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the top level of the Tower is accessible and affords beautiful vistas of neighboring islands. For individuals who have sight impairments, the Park provides several opportunities for guests to touch marine life and to enjoy narrated feedings.
Interesting Fact: The United States Virgin Islands is the only place under United States jurisdiction where the rule of the road is to drive on the left. So, look both ways and be careful when crossing the street.
