Saturday 27 August 2016

Why You Should Kayak in the USVI


There are so many things you can do on your Virgin Islands vacation. Many choose to lounge on the beach and soak up the sun. Others may prefer the duty-free shopping and amazing restaurants our islands have to offer. Even if those are still your favorite things to do, we urge you to go out of your comfort zone and try something new; like kayaking! If kayaking is already one of your favorite things to do, than what better place to do it than the United States Virgin Islands? Here are our list of reason why you should kayak in the USVI! 

It’s Easy to Learn
Kayaking is fairly easy to learn. When renting a kayak, they'll usually ask you if you'd like a demonstration and don't be afraid to ask questions before heading out. You may not be an olympic athlete, but you’ll still have a blast. Some rental companies even offer guided tours, which can be not only fun, but insightful. 

Remember, if you’re going out alone, stay in the recommended areas while kayaking in the Caribbean. The beach attendants typically will tell you where your boundaries are, and if they don’t, you can always ask! The waters stay pretty calm in protected coves and bays, but the currents can pick up substantially in open waters. Don’t let that scare you away though! There are plenty of calm, protective coves and bays that are a blast to kayak though. 

An Adventure 
It’s fun to leave the beach and go exploring every once and awhile! Kayaking can bring you to places you can’t reach just from swimming alone (well maybe you can swim there, but it’s more enjoyable in a kayak). Unless you lead kayaking tours, it’s typically not something you do every day, so it’s a great way of making memories that will last for years. 

It’s For All Ages
Since kayaking is pretty simple to learn, it’s fun for all ages! Even if you’re little one wants to go, but doesn’t want to paddle, they can still hop on and enjoy the ride (as others paddle). It can be a fun way for kids to discover the true beauty of nature.

It’s also a great low impact sport. It’s easy on the knees and as long as you’re in calmer waters, it isn't too demanding on your arms and shoulders. Know your limitations though.

Opportunity to Take Amazing Photos
If you trust yourself, bring your camera! They also offer waterproof cameras and cases for those of you who want that extra peace of mind. It’s hard to take a bad picture in the USVI, and you can’t go wrong with shots on the water. 

Stunning Surroundings 
Be in awe as you paddle around and explore the beauty of the islands. Don’t forget to bring your snorkel gear when you’re feeling adventurous. Hop off your kayak and discover the seas below (but keep your kayak close by). 

Gets You Up and Active
Vacations can be lazy; we all know this. Sometimes it feels good to get out and do something active! Try to break up your beach hopping with a fun kayaking trip (or zipline adventure)! We guarantee that you’ll feel better at the end of the day. 

It May Take You Out of Your Comfort Zone
Tree Limin' Extreme is all about getting you outside of your comfort zone! If kayaking is something new for you, you’ll never know if you like it until you try it. Vacations are a great time to experience and see new things! 


For more information about our zipline, check out our website www.ziplinestthomas.com

Wednesday 10 August 2016

Virgin Islands Hook Bracelet


If you’ve been to the USVI, chances are you’ve heard about the famous Hook Bracelets. Although they originate from St. Croix, they are a big part of the entire USVI’s culture for both locals and tourists alike. If you’re in any shopping area that sells jewelry, it’s almost impossible to not run into any signs or shops that don’t sell Hook Bracelets in some way or the other.

Where did it all start, you ask? First let me tell you about the legend of the Hook Bracelet:

A long time ago, on the island of St. Croix, there was a beautiful woman who was madly in love with a sailor. The two were planning to get married and the woman wanted to give her husband-to-be a wedding gift that really represented the bond between them. These were the days before the jewelry stores, so wedding bands were out of the question. She had to get creative and went to his tackle box for inspiration. She gathered fishing hooks and heavy leader and got to work. 

The woman snapped and smoothed the hooks, wrapped and braided the wire, and then created the very first pair of Hook Bracelets. She presented the two bracelets, one for her, one for her husband, on their wedding day. When they exchanged bracelets, they clasped the hooks facing their loved ones heart’s to symbolize that they were “hooked” to one another. 

Today, people who adorn the Hook Bracelets wear the hook facing their hearts if they are in a relationship or wear the bracelet facing away from their heart if they are ‘single’.

Taken

Single

The original creator of the Hook Bracelets is Sonya Hough of St. Croix. Her shop, Sonya Ltd, was established in 1964 and is still there today making Hook Bracelets and other jewelry. If you want to get the most authentic Hook Bracelet on the market, visit her shop and get yours custom made!

Check out her shop’s website for her vast Hook Bracelet designs and other jewelry: http://www.sonyaltd.com

Don't forget to "Like" us on Facebook
And visit our Website
SaveSave