Spread across the Caribbean, approximately 1,100 miles southeast of Miami, is America’s paradise. The US Virgin Islands (USVI) is all about dreamy seascapes, exotic flora and fauna, and perfect beach weather almost all year ‘round. Its diverse cultural fabric provides the beating heart of this tropical island chain.
At a Glance
- The US Virgin Islands is part of the larger Virgin Islands archipelago, of which the British Virgin Islands are also a part. The USVI has a population of approximately 100,000.
- Its capital and largest city is Charlotte Amalie, named in honor of Charlotte Amalie, a former queen consort of Denmark. It is located on St. Thomas.
- The US Virgin Islands have three main islands: St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. Smaller islands and cays complete the territory. In total, the entire USVI has a land area of about 133.73 square miles.
- English is the official language in the US Virgin Islands. A local version of English Creole is also widely spoken, as well as Spanish, French, and French Creole.
- Tourism is a significant economic driver in the US Virgin Islands. Other successful sectors include government service, manufacturing, finance, and real estate.
- Due to its tropical climate, the US Virgin Islands experiences almost perfect summer weather throughout the year (averaging at 83ºF.) It cools down slightly in the winter when temperatures average 77ºF.
History of the US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands is a multicultural hotspot, the result of a storied history that features themes of exploration, conquest, and more. Today, the USVI is a vibrant island paradise and one of the top tourist destinations in the Caribbean.
- The trail of its early settlers include the Ciboneys, the Arawaks, the Caribs, and the Tainos. They started to disappear in the 16th century when the first European explorers arrived after Columbus.
- Of the Europeans who came to the islands, the Danish were the first to create a settlement in 1672. They started on St. Thomas, expanded in St. John, and finally St. Croix in 1733.
- In 1792, Denmark stopped participating in the slave trade. The emancipation of slaves in the islands followed in 1848 after a revolution broke out on St. Croix.
- The US Virgin Islands became American territory in 1917, with citizenship to locals granted in 1927.
US Virgin Islands Real Estate for Sale
The US Virgin Islands is a popular destination for people looking for second homes, vacation residences, and other real estate investments. These include condos, villas, beachfront and oceanfront properties, luxury homes, and commercial properties scattered throughout the islands.
As an experienced Realtor with the largest, most professional and, yes – most friendly – brokerage in the islands, I can help you find your dream property, one that fits your needs and lifestyle as they merge with our beautiful US Virgin Islands.
Get in touch with me at barbara(at)seaglassproperties(dotted)com or (340) 690-9995 and let’s figure out how to tailor your needs to the most suitable properties. You can also start your search by browsing my website for the latest property listings and up-to-date community guides. Learn more about lifestyle and culture at the US Virgin Islands here.