United States Virgin Islands, Caribbean territory in Greater Antilles, US.
This Caribbean territory in the Greater Antilles consists of three main islands: Saint Thomas, Saint John and Saint Croix. Around fifty smaller islands and rocky outcrops scatter across the turquoise waters of this region.
Denmark sold these islands to the United States in 1917 for 25 million dollars in gold to establish a naval base during World War I. Since then, they remain an unincorporated territory, yet many traces of Danish colonial times survive in the architecture.
Festivals and music events bring African drumming, Caribbean dance and local cooking demonstrations to the streets throughout the year. These traditions blend into daily life, and visitors often hear live music or see gatherings in public squares across the islands.
English speakers find their way around easily, as the US dollar is the currency and US citizens need no passport. Travelers from other countries follow standard United States entry requirements with all necessary documents.
The national park covers around 60 percent of Saint John and protects coral reefs, mangroves and tropical forests. Visitors reach many of these protected bays and trails only on foot or by small boats from the water.
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