The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) are a U.S. territory in the Caribbean, which means no passport is required for U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland. Travellers can easily access all three islands — St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas — in one vacation.
If your idea of a perfect summer includes incredible beaches, tropical drinks and gourmet dining, then look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands, a trio of easily accessible Caribbean islands that require no passport. Summer is synonymous with St. John Celebration. Smaller and more intimate than other carnivals, this event marks the end of slavery on the islands and the founding of the United States. Held June 28 through July 4, its parade is just as fun, albeit smaller, than others, and the lines for food and drinks are shorter. On July 7, head to St. Croix for the annual Mango Melee at St. George Village Botanical Garden. The event features chefs and mixologists using the golden-fleshed tropical fruit in every way imaginable, a mango-eating contest and music by top local bands. In St. Thomas, don’t miss the King of the Wing contest during June, in which 40 teams compete for the coveted crown and a chance to represent the USVI at the National Buffalo Wing Festival.