Travel to St Croix Archives | My St Croix Travel Guide Virgin Islands Vacation Blog

May 8, 2012 Filed Under: Featured, Island Life, Photography, St Croix Events, St Croix Food and Wine, St Croix Night Life, St Croix Restaurants, Taste of St Croix, Travel Tips Tagged With: crucian heritage, crucian traditions, Island Life, St Croix, st croix calendar, St Croix Events, st croix food, st croix food and wine experience, St Croix Night Life, St Croix Vacations, travel tips, Travel to St Croix, What to do on St Croix

St Croix One Taste at a Time

A Taste of St Croix isn’t just a gastronomic competition featuring A-list celebrity chef judges each April, it’s a journey through the many flavors that make up the cultural, agricultural and culinary map that is St Croix. It’s a time to celebrate the dining establishments that not only bring in locals and tourists, but bring them back time and time again. And it’s a time to explore new wines, dance and party along a stunning palm-tree lined Caribbean beach.

This year’s “Taste” at Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort was, in my opinion, one of the best I’ve seen yet! There were so many enthusiastic participants, the decor was fun and fab and the list of celebrity judges was nothing short of impressive. I’d had the chance the day before to briefly meet Chef Govind Armstrong at his book signing at Undercover Books and was excited to catch him before the festivities for a brief interview. When asked what things about St Croix that he liked most so far, he mentioned how wonderful our local growers were at establishing a network with the local restaurants. Earlier in the week, celebrity and participating chefs had a chance to browse a special St Croix Food & Wine Week Farmer’s Market to purchase local produce for their menus. Chef Armstrong was particularly impressed at the abundance, diversity and quality of our fresh local produce and especially in that many growers had asked the restaurants and chefs, prior to the planting season, what they would like to see harvested. By working together the chefs and farmers are creating a new market on St Croix that not only benefits the restaurants, but also visitors and locals (like me!) who frequent our wonderful farm stands.

Chef Armstrong, who grew up in Costa Rica and has traveled extensively throughout the Caribbean, also mentioned that he really loved the landscape and the warm people of our island. He’s looking forward to a return trip with his family where he can take more time to explore St Croix and especially visit and hike through some of our lush green spaces like those at the Virgin Islands Sustainable Farm out West in the rainforest or simply lime on one of our beautiful beaches.

But this night, it was all about the FOOD on St Croix and there’s plenty of it! So enjoy my delicious journey through the event and then go visit some of these great chefs in their natural habitat – find them by exploring our

St Croix Dining Guide

St Croix Lime Editor, Trevor Clendenin, enjoys a taste at the wine bar following the press conference.

The lobby at Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort was transformed into a chic lounge
by Michele Marquis of Dream Island Events

The event spans the entire beach at Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort.

A real Caribbean celebration featuring palm trees, turquoise waters and blue skies.

One of my favorite restaurants on the island, Salud! is known for their savory, Mediterranean and North African-inspired dishes. If you are visiting St Croix – don’t miss this great dining experience.

Another one of my personal favorites, Dashi offers creative Asian/Caribbean fusion specials on a nightly basis, and of course, the freshest sushi often featuring local caught, fresh off the boat fish.

Everybody loves the Brew Pub! The only micro-brewery in the Caribbean featuring
some of the best live entertainment and a great pub-style menu!

Prestige Wine Group, one of the event sponsors, offered up a wonderful selection of wines for tasting.

The judges begin the arduous task of tasting the night’s competition.

Celebrity Chef judges like Govind Armstrong and Ana Sortun feasted on
competition categories of appetizers, soups, entrees, desserts and cocktails.

Every girls needs a “Little Black Dress”

… and Palm trees.

The Bistro, my daily haunt, was just getting set up as I went by (judging started before the event opened to the public), but I knew I’d be back later in the evening for a hot cuppa joe!

I was so excited to see an abundance of local produce featured throughout the event!

Nate Olive of Ridge to Reef Farm at the VI Sustainable Farm Institute describes the food that Chef Tahira is dishing up. They ended up with First Place in the “Local Fare” category!

Local bok choy (one of my favorite veggies) was used in dishes served up by caterer Shanti Shawa

Schooner Bay Market entered twice as “Schooner Bay Every Day” representing their great Christiansted market and as “Schooner Bay Catering”. I met up with them as they sent food to the judges tent. Looked yummy!

It was now time to hit the beachside Captain Morgan lounge and begin my quest to find the swashbuckling hottie who I’d spent so much time with in college. That guy got me in a lot of trouble back then!

I didn’t find the Captain yet, but I did find some really tasting Captain Morgan spiced rum punch!

Local restaurants and caterers continued lining up to present to the judges

Local celebrity Chef Joseph Stiles, an ambassador for the event, chats with
visiting celeb Chefs Eric Greenspan and Chef Roberto Trevino

Guests were starting to head in and the People’s Choice ballot box was open… so it was time to start tasting some food!

The Galleon Restaurant ended up taking First Place for their entree!

West Indies Corp was pouring luscious wines from
2011 Winery of the Year recipient Williamette Valley Vineyards

Bluewater Terrace, famous for Lori’s downhome country fried chicken was serving that and
a really decadent neapolitan of lobster, ham and other yummy goodness.

Bumping into good friends at fun events is Reason #127 why I love St Croix

The events of the St Croix Food & Wine Experience offer a great opportunity for the youth in local high school culinary programs to spread their wings. The kids from St Croix Complex High School’s “Good to Chew’ catering class made a really great showing with their prawn and scallop dish. The St. Croix Central High School Culinary Arts Class took Second Place in the Dessert category and The Afterschool Cooking Class took First place in the Vegetarian dish category. I’m happy to say there’s no shortage of great up and coming chefs in our island’s future!

Local radio personality and restaurateur, Kim Jones, was keeping her tawdry crew in line as they served up some might tasty margaritas and AMAZING hand-made pork and local pumpkin tamales. In fact, Pirate’s Tavern won Second Place Best Appetizer and First Place in the dessert category. (I missed that – dang!)

Eat@Cane Bay‘s owner and chef Frank Pugliese served up some delicious sliders

And really decadent dessert!

Cruzan Rum was well represented with their “Love Potion #9” featuring Cruzan 9 spiced rum.

The wine kept flowing as the sun went down!

Stafish Patisserie didn’t disappoint, offering up cake bites with flavors like mango, guava and keylime.

Juggling all of this food and wine can be tough work, but event admission includes these handy plates with a spot for your glass.

Art Farm was serving up an INCREDIBLE dairy free icecream that was like a cross between sorbet and gelato with a coconut milk base. They sell it at their weekly farm stand. I can’t wait to bring some home!

Another of my favorite restaurants, Savant, known for their Asian/Mexican/Caribbean fusion and super fresh fish was offering a Thai style soup …

… And rockstar chef “Dreads” dished up scallops with fried wontons and a to-die-for wasabi cream sauce.
(Tip: try their casava crusted fish of the day at Savant, it never disappoints!)

Then it was time to head over to the (soon-to-open in the old STIXX location)
John Eddie’s Low Life Bar & Refuge to find out what bartender Jesse Card was concocting.

His hand smoked “Bonfire Old Fashioned” ended up taking First Place in the Beverage Category!

Joe & Vic of Tavern 1844 were defending their “Best Burger”‘s 2011 First place win in the Entree category. They didn’t take first this year, but they place 2nd with their now named “Second Best” Burger: a delicious combination of fried goat cheese, whiskey-glazed apples, caramelized onions & truffle honey on a hand-crafted Tavern burger. Decadent!! Oh, and they serve it with a side of duck-fat fries.

I had a few more bites left in me, so I headed over to yet another favorite joint on the island….

I knew Rowdy Joe’s would be serving up some of their “Good Mood Food”.
The lamb empanada was scrumptious. Rowdy’s took second place in the Vegetarian category.

Boardwalk favorite RumRunner’s once again claimed the “People’s Choice” award, BUT this year,
they shared it in a tie with The Carambola Golf Club!

I finally caught up with Captain Morgan and his Morganettes. He’s always leading the party!

The party in the Captain’s lounge was in full swing and I got a chance to catch up with Gov. DeJongh for an interview. He – along with Captain Morgan – was excited for the grand opening the following Monday, of the Captain Morgan Experience Center on St Croix.

Somehow I made room for one more delicious bite – my friends at Ziggy’s Market
were serving up the perfect late-night snack – Cubanos!

After the long, grueling day of tasting and reporting, I needed a shot of caffeine and knew
I’d find it at The Bistro’s table. Proprietor Clint Simon was still serving it piping hot with a smile!

On our way back to the lobby to cover the award announcements, I stopped by Tutto Bene’s table and I was so glad I did! They had an adorable ducky pond incorporated with their famous antipasto. They ended up taking first place for “Best Presentation”.

Bellies were full and the crowd was anxiously awaiting the award results. It was an amazing evening that wasn’t over – following the Awards Ceremony guests and participants danced it all off in Divi’s Starlight lounge at the Moet After-Party.

For a full list of 2012 results visit A Taste of St Croix’s website.

If I’ve convinced you that you can’t possibly miss the 2013 Taste of St Croix – visit the St Croix Food & Wine Experience website for updates on 2013 events and travel packages!

Tell us about your favorite St Croix dining Experience!

Leave a comment below by Wednesday May 30th and you’ll be entered to win a signed copy of St. Croix Food & Wine Experience: A Culinary Guide to the Island Featuring More Than 100 Recipes from Island and Celebrity Chefs. Pages have been autographed by event founders Katherine Pugliese & Kelly Odom, and local and celebrity chefs like Govind Armstrong, Ana Sortun, Roberto Trevino, and more!

Winner will be selected by random drawing on May 30th and announced on our Facebook Page. When posting a comment, your email will be submitted to us and we’ll contact the winner for shipping details! All comments are moderated and approved by the editor before being posted online.

March 28, 2012 Filed Under: Family Fun, Featured, Island Life, St Croix Events, Vacation Tips Tagged With: family fun, Island Life, St Croix, st croix calendar, St Croix Events, st croix food, Travel to St Croix, vacation tips, Virgin Islands, What to do on St Croix

Things are heating up for the United Way Chili Cookoff!

Prepare your taste buds for the 11th Annual Chili Cook-off at Divi Carina Bay Beach Resort this coming Sunday April 1, 2012 from 9am to 1pm! Proceeds from the event benefit the United Way. You’ll be treated to some amazing and fiery samples, great music and admission is *FREE*.

Prizes will be awarded to the top ten Chili cooks and top three Vegetarian Chili cooks; and prizes for “Showmanship” will also be awarded to three teams. One winner will be sent to represent St. Croix at the National Chili Cook-off in Terlingua, Texas, with airfare, RV rental and entrance fee included.

The Dragonkeeper’s will be defending their 2011 Title and will be competing this year with two Chili’s: Dragon’s Breath (last year’s Grand Champion Chili) and Dragon’s Fire Chili to kick it up a notch. Bam!

teamdinky (450x337) — Team Dinky. Photo Courtesy Laura Ballard

Sassy (385x450) — 2011 Grand Prize Winners Robin Becker & Laura Ballard with their mascot "Dinky". Photo courtesy Laura Ballard

hornygoat (450x337) — Michelle Miller & Ryan Ellison's Horny Goat Chili will be competing again this year. Photo courtesy Laura Ballard

The crowd will be entertained from 1-9pm by local favorites like Michael Justis & the Trailer Trash with an Ocean View Band, The Deanna Brown Band, Prodigy Block, Dick’s Garage and a performance by Kiki & the Flaming Gypsies.

crowdshot (450x337) — Come for the Chili and stay for the Bands!

Major Sponsors for the event are: Coors Light distributed by Bellow’s Intl; Divi Carina Bay Resort; Certified Angus Beef® Brand, distributed by Merchant Market; Diageo USVI; JKC Communications; Executive Insurance Service; Innovative Companies, Cruzan Rum; WSVI-TV Channel 8ABC and 107.9 FM Da Vybe.

Entry Forms for the competition are available by calling 340-718-0582 or by email: unitedwayofstcroix@msn.com. All judged chili must be cooked on the beach and ingredients will be inspected before cooking. Chili can be cooked with meat, turkey, pork, chicken and fish. Chili to be served to the public may be cooked in advance.

December 23, 2011 Filed Under: Featured, Top Ten, Travel Tips, Vacation Tips Tagged With: family fun, St Croix Beaches, St Croix hiking, St Croix Vacations, top ten, travel tips, Travel to St Croix, vacation tips

10 Tips on Packing for your Caribbean Vacation

When the weather gets cold up North, folks start dreaming of warm-weather, tropical adventures in the Caribbean. And we hope that many of you are headed our way to the US Virgin Islands and St Croix. With many airlines now charging baggage fees, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of what you are bringing with you on your vacation to St Croix and other Caribbean islands. So, I’ve compiled my Top 10 helpful tips on packing for your Caribbean vacation.

1. Make a list and check it twice. You don’t need a lot when vacationing in the Caribbean or on St Croix. Most dress is casual, dressed up can be as easy-breezy as a button-down tropical shirt for gents and a sundress or capris and a nice top for ladies. Bring a couple of swimsuits, a few shorts that and a couple of pair of capris you can pair with several different tops and 3 or 4 sundresses, and maybe one really nice outfit. For footwear, you’ll find that you live in flip-flops which pack easily. Bring a few pairs in different colors to offer some variety. I like at least one pair with a little bling that easily goes from day to evening. I also recommend bringing a pair of water shoes or Tevas with ankle straps for hiking.

2. Pack must-have essentials in your carry-on. It stinks when it happens, but it does happen. Planes get delayed en route to your destination and you’re forced to overnight somewhere along the way without your suitcase. Or you arrive at your destination but your checked bag doesn’t right away. Be sure you have everything you need for at least 1 night in your carryon and you’ll reduce your stress level immensely. In particular, pack any necessary medications (ensuring you have more than enough for your entire stay) or items you can’t live without.

On the occasions when I travel with checked baggage, I usually pack at least a lite pair of pajamas, a cotton sundress, extra undies and a pair of flip flops in addition to my toiletries in my 3-1-1 bag (see tip 3). I also like to throw in a few granola bars, a bag of nuts and another snack, just in case. That way, when I’ve been delayed in another city, I’m ready to make the best of it. If traveling for an island destination wedding, be sure everyone in the wedding party carries on their wedding day attire, jewelry, and essential items.

3. Heed the 3-1-1 Rule. For carry-on, you can only bring on liquid toiletries that are under 3oz. Everything must fit in a 1-quart, clear, zip-top bag (1 per person). You can use a zip-lock disposable bag or I like my TSA approved clear toiletry bag. I can stuff in more securely – and I mean stuff! I like to use a separate bag for my powdered makeup and eyeliners and only pack travel-sized liquids, medicines and lip glosses in the bag (yep, they count lip gloss as a liquid!) It’s a great way to use samples you’ve collected in freebie offers during the year. The flat shampoo and conditioner sample packets are the best at maximizing space and it’s a great opportunity to try out some fun new products. I restock my bag after each trip or when I get new samples, so it’s always ready to go. For more details visit the TSA’s 311 website.

4. Packing Cubes. Love them. I started using these about 5 years ago and now never leave home without them. I’ve even given them as gifts. eBags Packing Cubes make a great inexpensive set with mesh fronts that keep clothes fresh. I use the small one for lingerie, the medium for tops and the larger size for a pair of jeans, a couple of capris, shorts, and a few sundresses. They stack nicely in my carryon and maximize space. I can really pack them tightly! They make unpacking at the hotel a breeze and then I repurpose them as laundry bags for soiled clothes. When packing efficiently, I can easily fit everything I need for a week’s vacation in my carryon rolling bag and tuck it safely in the overhead bin. I also like that when my bag is opened by TSA, everything stays neatly in place and there’s no chance of my “unmentionables” falling out!

5. Pack the right fabrics. Remember that tropical locations are humid. Stay away from packing fabrics like rayon and other synthetics that don’t breathe. Cotton and linen are preferred fabrics in the Caribbean as they are lightweight, breathable, and wick moisture. You’ll be more comfortable and thankful you thought ahead. Side benefit, they tend to fold up small and take less space in your luggage.

6. Use TSA approved locks. These are a must especially if you are checking baggage. It’s unfortunate, but I have heard all too often of things going missing from people’s baggage, especially after off-island shopping trips. These are unfortunate crimes of opportunity. If your bag is easy to get into, the chances are much higher that it may fall victim. Simply adding a TSA-Accepted Lock makes it more difficult for baggage handlers to reach in and thus they pass it by. Be sure to get the combination lock style so that you don’t have to worry about lost keys.

7. Use your beach bag as your personal carryon. Or pack a foldable, reusable shopper to use as your beach bag. When I’m traveling, I use a smaller purse that can easily tuck inside my larger personal bag with a book, my iPad, 3-1-1 bag and other items. Using a beach bag that can serve double duty (and that will fit under the seat in front of you) is not only practical but will get you into an island state of mind from the minute you leave your house! Check out our roomy custom designed canvas bags.

8. Leave your beach towels at home. Hotels and rental villas will have beach towels for your use, so there’s no need to take up valuable real estate in your suitcase with those. In fact, I usually travel with a couple of cotton sarongs that fold up small and dry quickly. I use them at the beach instead of a towel: The cotton wicks up water quickly; They open up nicely to lie on; When finished, shake out the sand and use it as a wrap!

9. Think about the excursions and adventures you have planned. Don’t forget that the sun here is very strong! While you’re out enjoying yourself, you are going to want to wear a hat with a brim and sunglasses, as well as a strong SPF, waterproof and reef-safe sunscreen. If you will be participating in any water sports, I highly recommend wearing a UV-protection Rash Guard Shirt , particularly when snorkeling. Backs are notoriously burnt to a crisp on snorkel tours where you spend an hour face down in the water. If you don’t have one to pack, you can pick one up at most dive shops. They make a world of difference and you’ll see a lot of full-time residents wearing them too. If you plan to do some real hiking or go horse-back riding, pack sturdy shoes or sneakers. Like the Boy Scouts say “Be prepared!”.

10. Go through security like a Pro. I often say there should be a separate line for frequent travelers who know how to get thru security efficiently (TSA are you listening?!). Take your ID, passport and printed ticket and place them in the outside pocket of your purse or in a Passport Wallet so that you don’t have to dig. Keep these out and handy after you check-in for your flight and wait in the security line.

Dress and pack your carryon with security in mind. I wear my flip-flops or slip-on shoes to the airport whenever I can and change into sneakers or other shoes once I’m THROUGH security. Same goes for belts and large metallic earrings. Be sure to unhook your Crucian hook bracelets or the metal detector will go off.

If traveling with a laptop or other electronic device, remove them from sleeves or cases ahead of the security line. Once through security, grab your things, find a nearby seat, and then put on your shoes and belt, and repack your bag. The 500 people waiting behind you will appreciate you getting out of their way quickly!

A little pre-planning and efficient packing can help you avoid stress, expense and help you to get into the island mindset quickly… a glass of Cruzan Rum Punch awaits you at the St Croix airport (STX)!

… What are your best packing tips? Share them with us in the comments below!

September 26, 2011 Filed Under: Featured, Scuba, St Croix Scuba diving, St Croix Watersports, Watersports Tagged With: Shane Untamed, St Croix SCUBA, St Croix Vacations, Travel to St Croix, Underwater Weddings

Shane Untamed Unwinds

In June of this year, I had the absolute pleasure of hanging out with and getting to know the REAL Shane Reynolds of Nat Geo Wild’s Shane Untamed and his beautiful wife and professional photographer Romona Robbins Reynolds. They had come down to chill out after a busy year of globe trotting and producing their new show and to celebrate the premier of the “Giants of the Sea” episode that featured their search for whale sharks in Djibouti and was filmed in part by their friend and mine – St Croix’s Jerry Merten of MJS Visions (Jerry also filmed and edited our debut video and has filmed several weddings for me with SunCelebrations). I have to say that my favorite part of watching the Shane Untamed season is that IS the real Shane Reynolds you see on screen, making him the perfect travel guide. And as you’ll see below, Romona is his perfect match illustrating their adventures through her stunning photography. I’m honored to now call them friends and to have them as guest bloggers giving their perspective on St Croix. Enjoy!

All Photos Courtesy Romona Robbins Reynolds

Shane: Man, it’s quite remarkable how much faster 5 hours of programming goes by on TV than it does in the field/edit bay. Shane Untamed season one has officially had its domestic run on Nat Geo Wild (yep, it went by that quick). It will be rerun in the states and continues to debut around the world, but I won’t be seeing any new episodes air in the coming weeks on my TV, so now’s the time to reflect. Technically it was a good run. Ratings were respectable, and demographics were spot on. Critics were impressed and feedback was virtually 100% positive, so I feel good about the possibility of a second season, but until that contract gets dropped on my desk I’ll assume I’ve been let loose on the world of freelance lifestyle once again. This time, however, I will make sure to appreciate the down time…soak it in, so to speak.

Shane Untamed Shane Reynolds and Romona Robbins Reynolds — Shane Untamed’s Shane Reynolds and Romona Robbins Reynolds

So what’s the best way to do that? Well, for me it’s not much different than clocking in for my regular job…but it’s nice to carry a bit less equipment with me. So the wife and I struck off for the Virgin Islands in search of a more “relaxing” adventure.

We began in St. Thomas, which basically served as a springboard to the other islands we really wanted to see. First was St. John, which is the quintessential island vibe. I expected more of a high-end resort style, but this little island was a pleasant surprise. Mostly undeveloped and entirely beautiful, this is the perfect one or two day getaway (if that’s all the time you have). We rented a car and drove every road we could. A lone turtle beckoned us onto a beach on the east side of the island that we had all to ourselves. On St. John, snorkeling, hiking and sunsets are a welcome cliché. The food is spectacular and I could even stand shopping for more than 5 minutes (but not MUCH more).

From there we did a day trip on the Stormy Petrol to Virgin Gorda, part of the British Virgin Islands. This beach looked like something you’d find on a pirate ride at Disney World…in a good way. Hiking through and snorkeling these unique stone structures was the real deal. But the best was yet to come.

After making our way back to St. Thomas we took a quick flight with Seaborne Airlines over to St. Croix, my favorite Virgin. This is a much larger island without the touristy vibe of St. Thomas but still has the conveniences that St. John lacks.

Romona: After a hectic, yet exciting, year of hard work and play, my husband and I were more than eager for some R&R. My most fond memories of this trip, however, are from St. Croix. From lush rainforests to gorgeous white sandy beaches, this island offers bountiful activities for tourists and locals alike. Tucked away on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, we settled ourselves into a cozy romantic room at the Villa Greenleaf. This was the perfect place to start our vacation. We never had to worry about a thing. We wanted to ride horses in the rainforest and on the beach, and our host took care of it. Our stay here was tremendous!

Shane: While adventure lies around every corner, it’s the diving that brought us. So after decompressing a few nights in the peaceful-picture-perfect villa, we moved closer to the water (Hotel Caravelle) for easier access to the dive boat.

Romona: Hotel Caravelle is located right on the bustling harbor filled with fantastic restaurants and laid back bars. Best of all, our dive boat awaited us each morning at the dock. All we had to do was go down to the first floor! Everyday was a new adventure out in the warm and inviting ocean. The water is teaming with life; we saw an abundance of sea turtles and fish…including an eight-foot hammerhead! Simply AMAZING!

Shane: The diving was better than we could’ve hoped for. While the visibility wasn’t reaching it’s full potential, the debris was bringing in some interesting marine life. While you’d think an 8 foot hammerhead would be the highlight, we couldn’t top having Capt. Ed renew our vows on an underwater shipwreck. St. Croix knows how to have a good time! Not only was it the perfect place to enjoy some downtime after a hectic production year, but this place would make a good adventure show on it’s own! Like I said, we never stop working.

vow-renewal-underwater-romona_robbins (500x334) — Shane and Romona Renew their Vows Under Water

Romona: My most memorable and cherished moment on this island is that my hubby and I renewed our vows…underwater! Captain Ed of St. Croix Ultimate Blue Water Adventures made all this possible. Thanks, Reverend Ed! If you are looking for adventure (on land or by sea) and/or a quite retreat in paradise… St Croix is the place to be!