Beverly
Nicholson-Doty, Commissioner of Tourism for The
U.S Virgin Islands, listed many reasons
why tourists, especially young people, should visit the gorgeous
region. Nicholson-Doty hopes to reach the younger demographics
with the use of cutting-edge marketing tools.
“We
want to target the young [people] who can spend many vacation years
here,” she says.
The
U.S. Virgin Islands, known for crystal clear water, and balmy
year-round weather, beckons tens thousands of visitors to its shores
annually. –christian johnson
What
are three reasons a tourist should visit the U.S Virgin Islands?
The
Virgin Islands is a U.S territory, so it doesn’t require a passport.
It’s a very economical place to visit and helps to save money,
especially with large families. The Islands are exotic yet familiar,
allowing travelers to come to three different islands with unique
personalities.
What’s
special about the culinary offerings of the islands?
The
food delicacies such as callaloo, Spanish-based soups, and coconut
cakes, are specialties on the islands, as well as pate, which is a
fried pastry filled with meat and/or vegetables.
What
are some of the inspirations behind the culture and architecture?
The
Virgin Islands is very influenced by the past, seven flags flew over
the U.S. Virgin Islands, the most recent being Danish. You can see
the influence in the gingerbread-brick streets. The Danish
[influence] is what is most present today on the island.
What
are the best times of year to visit and some of the events that take
place?
We
have several different events that take place yearly. We have
different carnival times for each of the three islands. In April, the
V.I. Carnival is held on St. Thomas. Over the Fourth of July weekend,
[St. John hosts a carnival to celebrate] both the U.S Independence as
well as the Virgin Island’s 3rd
of July Emancipation. Around Christmas there’s a wonderful
festival on St. Croix. I couldn’t list all of the events
because they’re so many but the Web site has an event calendar.
How
has the downturn in the economy affected tourism?
The
economy has had little effect on travel. Locally we have been able to
maintain the number of visitors, and we have done this through
promotions that go year-round. If you visit the Web site, we have
special promotions going on.
For
more information, be sure to visit www.usvitourism.vi