Experience “The Reef Life” in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands
By Riesa Pascal
To have the opportunity to travel to the Virgin Islands was an unforgettable experience all on its own, but to combine that with luxurious accommodations at Marriott’s cliffside retreat was a decision that took my vacation to an entirely new level of comfort and pleasure. It was there, in the heart of St. Thomas, where my companions and I experienced the incomparable benefits of “The Reef Life” travel package which starts at an astonishingly low $399 per night.
When travelers book The Reef Life package, they will receive:
– Water-view accommodations (a three-night minimum stay is required)
– $200 Adventure Center credit to use on an excursion
– $100 spa credit for Lazule Sea Spa
– $150 food and beverage credit to use on-site
True to their word, my gorgeous water-view room overlooked the sailboat-dotted Charlotte Amalie Harbor in downtown St. Thomas. Affectionately known as “The Reef,” the iconic Frenchman’s Reef & Morning Star Marriott Beach Resort is just a moments drive (or ferry ride) away from the island’s best attractions. Nothing makes this more abundantly clear than waking up to the sight of a luxurious cruise ship gliding past your window to the island’s bustling port located nearby. Needless to say, I was excited about my first visit to the US Virgin Islands and I was honored to have arrived on the 100th anniversary of the U.S. Virgin Islands as an American territory. To celebrate the momentous occasion, my companions and I enjoyed the Centennial military parade in downtown St. Thomas as well as a joyous Centennial Ceremony. The pride and cheer of locals in attendance was beautiful to witness and I was reminded of how fortunate we were to have traveled to the beautiful and exoctic island of St. Thomas without losing the convenience and comforts of traveling within America. Everything from being able to travel without a passport to spending U.S. Dollars without the hassle of currency exchange makes St. Thomas an easy vacation getaway for
American travelers.
As mentioned above, The Reef Life package also comes with a $200 adventure credit to use on a diverse variety of exciting excursions. As the pulse of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas encourages its travelers to explore the very best of the area through a mix of activities that are available. Just one of the many highlights for me was the St. Thomas Cultural and Historical Sightseeing Tour where we explored some of the island’s iconic and picturesque sights including Drake’s Seat, 99 steps, Beacon Point, and Magen’s Bay Lookout. After reenergizing with authentic Caribbean food at Cuzzin’s Restaurant in the historic downtown district, we were off again to Frenchtown Brewing Company in the bohemian fishing village of Frenchtown. There we got to sample small-batch, tap only craft beers made locally in St. Thomas. With average temperatures ranging in the 80s year-round, it was practically mandatory to swim through the island’s beautiful turquoise waters and get up close and personal with exotic marine life during a snorkeling excursion to St. John. For those of us who wanted to keep the thrills going long after the sun had set, night kayaking proved to be the perfect excursion and it was located just steps away from the resort. Through clear bottom kayaks retrofitted with powerful LED nights, we explored the harbor filled with tarpon, rays, sea turtles and other marine life that swam past our kayaks.
One may need a little R&R after experiencing so much adventure out, about, and around the island! With $100 worth of spa credits for Lazule Sea Spa, The Reef Life package will ensure you get that relaxation while you receive the ultimate spa experience in a setting with spectacular Caribbean views. Frenchman’s Reef’s ultra luxurious Lazule Sea Spa and Salon is the premiere boutique spa experience in the US Virgin Islands. The spa embraces the power of the sea with use of marine extracts from oceanic plant life to restore balance and beauty through innovative skin and body treatments that are rich in vital trace minerals and complex nourishment. Their goal is to provide guests with a rich experience that will leave them feeling renewed and refreshed in a beautiful, tranquil setting. Lazule Sea Spa features 8 treatment rooms including a couples suite, a steam room and a wet room with a Vichy Shower. The spa also features a jacuzzi, cold plunge and a private spa pool with chaise lounge chairs, poolside cabanas and spectacular views of the Charlotte Amalie Harbor. The welcoming oasis also boasts a full service salon featuring hair, makeup, nail services and retail shopping to enhance your relaxation experience.
Although there are endless options for authentic and delicious local dining around the island, I would be remiss not to mention just a few of the six on-site restaurants and bars available for resort guests to enjoy. Best of all, The Reef Life package has you covered with a $150 food and beverage credit to use on property. First, I strongly suggest you fuel up for the day with a breakfast at Aqua Terra which showcases spectacular views of the famous harbor through dramatic ceiling to floor windows. A multitude of breakfast options all under $30 included everything from buffet to continental to grab-n-go dining and more. For a laid-back meal with more incredible ocean views, my companions and I enjoyed lunch at Coco Joe’s. The beachside cafe offered Caribbean bites, Spanish tapas, soups, salads and some of the best paella on the island. A dinner at Sunset Grill served up both classic St. Thomian views along with freshly caught seafood, hearty sides, decadent desserts and traditional favorites including pan-roasted chicken, seared scallops, and lamb with a rosemary reduction.
Our final evening at the property was brought to a close with an oyster farewell dinner at the award-winning Havana Blue restaurant. After enjoying a perfect fusion of Latin American and Caribbean favorites, it was time to say our goodbyes to the breathtaking property that served as our exciting Caribbean refuge for several unforgettable days. Fortunately, The Reef Life package runs from now through December 22, 2017 so there is still plenty of time for you to sign up and experience your own island adventure. For booking, travelers can visit Frenchman’s Reef’s website and enter promo code SO9. A sunny seaside retreat, St. Thomas is truly ideal for every type of traveler from the laid-back beachgoer to the adrenaline junkie craving an island-hopping adventure. With first-rate facilities, breathtaking views, and unforgettable adventures, there’s no doubt that Frenchman’s Reef is the one and only place to start your journey to discovering what “The Reef Life” is all about.
Frenchman’s Reef &
Morning Star Marriott
5 Estate Bakkeroe
St. Thomas, VI 00802, USVI
Reservations: 340-776-8500
www.marriott.com
