UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS TRIP

I always look forward to my trips to the United States Virgin Islands. This visit was to attend the annual Symposium put on by the St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix Hotel Association. And as usual, they do not disappoint.

A very professional run organization, subject matter and attendees treated with the utmost respect, hotel offerings of good quality and allotted time to visit places of interest, whether it is your favorite jewelry store, sailing or whatever else catches your fancy, as you are truly in paradise. I have to digress and acknowledge with thanks the Award received "The partner Who Contributes The Most To Our Local Economy", which I now have prominently displayed in my office.

The main event was held at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Hotel, St. Thomas, and the staff was on top of their game to make sure all preparations including av and food was seamless and on time. Events were also held at various hotels, so that everyone had a chance to visit the different properties. I stayed downtown at the Windward Passage Hotel run by one of the best managers in the Caribbean, Ms. Wein Demetrios. At this hotel, all details are attended to.

Once the Symposium on St. Thomas was finished, I headed over to St. Croix along with a few wholesalers for a site inspection. Took the seaplane over (which I do like - you take off in the water and land in the water)and then was whisked away to see the first property, The Palms at Pelican Cove. A lavish lunch was provided and the very generous manager - Ms. Julie Printy decided to give away a few hotel stays. I was one of the lucky recipients and upon a full inspection of the hotel, thought it was the ideal place to get away from everything. Great beach, lots of privacy all in a very casual manner.

Next property was the Caravelle Hotel. It is downtown St. Croix on the waterfront. This is a lovely historic property, and you are greeted in the lobby entrance with a fountain. The hardest part of this inspection was to get me to leave room 222 - as this beautiful room was the ultimate - overlooking the waterfront.

The King Christian Hotel was next - a pretty and inviting lobby, again on the waterfront. If you are looking to go to the beach, there is a 2 minute ferry ride to the beach. Chenay Bay Hotel was next on the list - could have stayed at the open air restaurant on the beach all day. I did not eat at this hotel, but I understand their food is one of the best. I also noticed that the beach hut was covered with netting to make sure you were never bothered by anything pesky. A good selling point for me. Stayed at the Divi Resort. Lovely rooms facing the beautiful Caribbean Sea, and of course for those with the energy and inclination, there is a very large casino across the street. Always love this property. A touch of class with all amenities, but one that offers down to earth relaxation.