Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
especially FOR KIDS
Coral World (p. 92)This is the place
on St. Thomas to take your children. It's
a hands-on experience—kids can even
shake hands with a starfish at the Touch
Pond. Later, they can discover exotic
Marine Gardens, where 20 aquariums
showcase the Caribbean's incredible
natural marine treasures.
Magens Bay Beach (p. 81)This beach
is one of the finest in the world, with
calm waters, white sand, and lots of
facilities, including picnic tables.
3
children, you can get a full immersion undersea with no experience necessary. Par-
ticipants are given a helmet and a tube to breathe through. The tube is attached to
an air source at the observatory tower. You then enjoy a 20-minute stroll in water that's
18 feet deep, observing rainbow-hued tropical fish and the coral reefs as you move
along the seafloor. It's a marvelous way to experience the world through the eyes of a
fish. Note: Reservations are required, so call ahead or log on to the park's website.
Coral World's guests can take advantage of adjacent Coki Beach for snorkel rent-
als, scuba lessons, or simply swimming and relaxing. Lockers and showers are avail-
able. Also included in the marine park are the Tropical Terrace Restaurant, duty-free
shops, and a nature trail.
6450 Estates Smith Bay, a 20-min. drive from Charlotte Amalie off Rte. 38. &   340/775-1555. www.
coralworldvi.com. Admission $19 adults, $10 children ages 3-12. Daily 9am-4pm.
Estate St. Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens This estate consists of 11
acres set at the foot of volcanic peaks on the northern rim of the island. The grounds
are laced with self-guided nature walks that will acquaint you with some 200 varieties
of West Indian plants and trees, including an umbrella plant from Madagascar. From
a panoramic deck in the gardens, you can see some 20 of the Virgin Islands, including
Hans Lollick, an uninhabited island between Thatched Cay and Madahl Point. The
house itself, filled with local art, is worth a visit.
At the corner of Rte. 40 (6A St. Peter Mountain Rd.) and Barrett Hill Rd. &   340/774-4999. www.
greathouse-mountaintop.com. Admission $5 adults, $2.50 children 11 and under. Daily 8am-4pm.
DRIVING TOUR: ST. THOMAS
START:
Fort Christian.
FINISH:
Magens Bay Beach.
TIME:
2 1 2 hours.
BEST TIME:
Sunday, when traffic is lightest.
WORST TIMES:
Wednesday and Saturday, when traffic is heaviest.
Begin at Fort Christian, in the eastern part of Charlotte Amalie, and head west along
the Waterfront. To your left, you'll see cruise ships anchored offshore, and to your
right, you'll find several shops. Continue west on Route 30 and pass the Cyril E. King
Airport on your left. As the road forks toward the airport, keep right along Route 30,
which runs parallel to the airport.
93
 
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