Using PayPal to Transfer Money

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Transferring Money~Usually Free

Sending money to friends and family is free for you and the recipient when you fund the transfer with your bank account or PayPal balance.

How to “Gift” Money Using Pay Pal is Usually Free

First: Sign into your Paypal account

Second: Click on the “Send Money” tab

Third:  Complete the form including adding the recipient’s email and how much you wish to send.

Fourth: Select “I ‘m sending money to family or friends” (This is free if you use your PayPal balance or and/or a bank account.)

Fifth: Click Send once your “fees” confirm a zero balance due.

 

Kenny Chesney Donates to the United States Virgin Islands

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Kenny Chesney wasn’t sure what to expect the first time he went to the Virgin Islands for a video shoot, but he ended up finding a home away from home. He’s made a number of close friends in the islands over the years while enjoying the beauty of the ocean, the shore and the national parks, some of the inspiration for songs found on his new album, Life On A Rock, out April 30.

Read our review of Kenny Chesney’s Life On A Rock >>

With the release of his new album, Kenny wanted to do something to honor what the islands have meant to him. To show his appreciation for the place, he will donate a portion of his proceeds from the sales of Life On A Rock to the Friends of the US Virgin Islands National Park to ensure the legacy of nature for generations to come.

“As the world becomes more developed, protecting these wild places is going to become harder – and the cost of maintaining them needs to be covered,” Kenny said. “It’s easy to forget, or not understand when it’s a line item on a piece of paper, just one more expense. But if you’ve ever seen the trees, the oceans from a ridge, the way it all tangles together, you realize how important [it is] making sure lands like this exist for the people who come after us.

“For me, Life On A Rock comes from this place, so I want to give something back, so it’s there for others,” he continued. “Let them find the peace and the awe that I did for so many years. And I like that the music can be connected with protecting something so important.”

GAC is the official media sponsor of Kenny’s No Shoes Nation Tour. Check out photos, videos and more from the tour in our No Shoes Nation Tour section!

The Friends of the US Virgin Island was founded 25 years ago with the purpose of protecting and preserving the natural habitat in the US Virgin Islands. The organization has been responsible for creating and maintaining accessible trails, beach restoration, coral reef research, various educational projects, ship mooring, archeological preservation and underwater explorations.

“Our national parks are one of those things you might not think about,” Kenny said. “But once they’re gone, you can’t get them back, so protecting and maintaining them is so important. I know: I’ve spent hours in these parks, on these trails and beaches. Over the years, they’ve been a big part of my time away from the road, and I think they’re a great sanctuary for all of us. To me, to connect these songs with something so special is both an honor and a chance to call awareness to the Friends of the Park.”

Shared from Great American Country.com

VI History (The Short Version)

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Districts and sub-districts of the United Stat...

In 1917, St. Thomas was purchased (along with Saint John and Saint Croix) by the United States for $25 million in gold,[7] as part of a defensive strategy to maintain control over the Caribbean and the Panama Canal during the First World War. The transfer occurred on March 31, 1917, behind Fort Christian before the barracks that now house the Legislature of the U.S Virgin Islands. The baccalaureate service for the transfer was held at the St. Thomas Reformed Church as it was identified as the American church in the Danish West Indies.

Percival Wilson Sparks, a U.S. Naval officer, designed the flag that now represents the United States Virgin Islands. Sparks married a local U.S Virgin Island woman, Grace Joseph Sparks; when Sparks’ superior, Rear Adm. Summer Ely Wetmore Kitelle, commissioned the design for the flag, P. W. Sparks asked his wife and her sister, Blanche Joseph (later Sasso), to sew the first flag. That flag was used until such time as a factory-produced flag could be acquired.

The flag’s inspiration came from the U.S. Presidential seal. Sparks decided to have the eagle facing the olive branches (which represented peace) rather than the arrows (which represented the three islands: St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John). (At the request of Emilie Rose Sparks Gray, a daughter of P.W. Sparks and Grace Sparks, so that the family would have clear and undeniable proof, this piece of history was entered into the Congressional Record in Washington, D.C., on April 30, 1986,[8] by the congressional delegate, Ron de Lugo.) Every year Transfer Day is recognized as a holiday, to celebrate the acquisition of the islands by the United States in 1917.

U.S. citizenship was granted to the residents in 1927. The U.S. Department of the Interior took over administrative duties in 1931. American forces were based on the island during the Second World War. In 1954, passage of the U.S. Virgin Islands Organic Act officially granted territorial status to the three islands, and allowed for the formation of a local senate with politics dominated by the American Republican and Democratic parties. Full home rule was achieved in 1970.

The post-war era also saw the rise of tourism on the island. With relatively cheap air travel and the American embargo on Cuba, the numbers of visitors greatly increased. Despite natural disasters such as Hurricane Hugo (1989) and Hurricanes Luis and Marilyn (1995), the island’s infrastructure continues to improve as the flow of visitors continues.

From Wikipedia, click the pic to see more detailed information

Charlotte Amalie Walking Tour

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 Walking Tour of Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas Island

Follow this walking tour through downtown Charlotte Amalie by starting at the Visitors’ Bureau just across from Emancipation Gardens:

Visitors’ Bureau

Island information is available at this centrally located office — just off the Waterfront on Tolbod Gade (across from Emancipation Park). Pick up brochures, maps, and tourist publications. 777-8827.

Image from USVI.net, click the pic to go directly to their website

Emancipation Gardens 

Now the site for many of St Thomas’ official ceremonies, this well-known meeting spot commemorates the emancipation of slaves by Danish Governor Peter von Scholten on July 3, 1848 — 15 years prior to Lincoln’s similar proclamation in the U.S.

Grand Galleria

In 1841, this unique structure opened as the Grand Hotel. It remained a popular place for vacationers to stay until 1975. The block long complex now houses a variety of shops and eateries including a sprawling two-story art gallery.

Frederick Lutheran Church

The congregation was established in 1666, the same year Erik Smidt took formal possession of St. Thomas in the name of the Danish West India Company. The present building was completed in 1793 — and rebuilt in 1826 — after a tragic fire where nothing remained but the walls.

Fort Christian / VI Museum

One of the oldest standing structures in the Virgin Islands, this Danish fortress dates back to 1671. The striking landmark once served as the local jail. Today the fort is home to a museum filled with artifacts that offer keen insight into what life was like for the original settlers of the island. 776-4566.

Legislature Building

Originally a barracks for Danish troops, the building dates back to 1874. This dramatic light green structure with white trim is the meeting place of the Virgin Islands Senate; you can stop in and request a tour — and even watch a session.

Seven Arches Museum

Once a Danish craftsman’s residence, a “Welcoming arms” staircase leads to the second level of the floral-framed front doorway. Dramatic high walls surround this intriguing complex. It was built in the 19 th century featuring a total of seven arches to support the staircase. Your tour of the property includes rooms filled with antique mahogany furnishings. A highlight is an old brick oven housed in a separate cookhouse. A local artist and her husband reside on the property and will host you to a cooling drink in the quiet courtyard. 774-9295.

Government House

This is the official residence of the Governor of the Virgin Islands. The building was constructed by the Danish Colonial Council between the years 1865 and 1867. The architectural design is typical of older homes and public buildings throughout the West Indies. The second floor reception area is open to the public during the week. At the foot of the front steps there is an authentic Danish guardhouse. It was presented as a gift to the people of the Virgin Islands by the Danish government in 1967 — marking the 50th anniversary of the transfer of the islands to the United States.  774-0001.

99 Steps

Stretching from Government Hill to Lille Tarne Gade — Danish for Little Tower Street — 99 Steps stands out as one of several ‘step-streets’ built by the Danes to solve the problem of getting around the town’s hilly terrain. The bricks were brought from Denmark as ballasts in the holds of trade ships. Walk to the top (actually 103 steps) and you will find yourself near the foot of more stairs leading to Blackbeard’s Castle.

Haagensen House

A restored home built in the early 1800s by island entrepreneur Hans Haagensen, this impressive building is just above Hotel 1829. The main house is surrounded by cookhouses, outbuildings and lush, terraced gardens. Colonial elegance is found in the details of salons and chambers furnished with grand antiques.

Crown House

Built in the middle of the 18th century, this stately home was the residence of two past VI governors. It is now a private residence.

Blackbeard’s Castle

The watchtower at this newly refurbished guesthouse and restaurant is well over 300 years old. Originally known as “Skytsborg,” it is considered by some to be the oldest historical structure in the Virgin Islands.  In the 18 th century, bands of pirates — including Edward Teach (the infamous Blackbeard) — were believed to have resided here. The panoramic view from Blackbeard’s is well worth the trek up from town. 776-1234.

Hotel 1829

This structure offers an ideal example of classic island architecture. It was built as a townhouse for a French sea-captain and now serves as an exclusive in-town hotel.

Blue Turtle Art Gallery

Owned and operated by well-known local artist Lucinda Schutt, this spacious in-town gallery represents some of the finest painters, sculptors and photographers in the Caribbean. The distinctive white building with blue trim is easily spotted from Emancipation Post Office. Lucinda is also artist-in-residence at the Ritz Carlton on the East End of the island. She offers painting classes to locals and visitors alike. 774-9440.

Post Office Square

A full service United States post office is located within the strategically located building that marks the beginning of “Main Street.” Be sure to look for murals by Stephen Dohanos. Many of the artist’s works appeared on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post.

St. Thomas Reformed Church

Not only is this the oldest congregation in the Virgin Islands; it is also the longest standing denomination with a continuous ministry in the mainland United States. 776-8255.

St. Thomas Synagogue / Weibel Museum

There is documentary evidence that settlers of Jewish heritage have resided on St. Thomas since 1665. In 1796, the Jewish congregation built the synagogue, calling it: ”Blessing and Peace.” The original building was destroyed by fire. In 1813, the building was dismantled and a larger one erected. It remains the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. Clean sand is kept on the floor to commemorate the biblical exodus of the Jews from Egypt. The adjacent museum and gift shop features works of interest, ritual items, and Judaic arts and crafts. 774-4312.

Chamber of Commerce

At #6 Main Street, the St. Thomas / St. John Chamber of Commerce is an ideal place to pick up maps and brochures and get acquainted with friendly island business people. The group regularly hosts “Business After Hours” events. 776-0100.

Jonna White Gallery

Housed in a former colonial warehouse on Main Street at, Royal Dane Mall, this gallery features the largest collection of etchings by a single artist under the sun. Intaglio etchings by Jonna White are largely expressionist works featuring landscapes, seascapes, birds, and animals. 774-1201.

Tropical Memories Art Gallery — Royal Dane Mall

Located near the Waterfront section of the historic Royal Dane Mall shopping complex, this festive gallery is home to a variety of artistic styles with a strong emphasis on Caribbean themes. 776-7536.

Camille Pissarro Gallery

Camille Pissarro, the father of French Impressionism, was born and raised in the heart of downtown Charlotte Amalie The home of his birth is a treasured landmark — a lovingly nurtured art gallery on Main Street. Under the direction of Debra Wombold, this history-filled building features artworks created by over two dozen renowned artists including Camille Pissarro himself (1830-1903). 774-4612.

Market Square

People come here from all over the island to sell fresh fruit, fish, sauces, and vegetables. Unfortunately, a recent traffic accident took out the historic overhang. Nevertheless, colorful commercial activities continue to thrive. Traditionally, the busiest market day is Saturday; vendors arrive hours before dawn. In season, genips are a popular local treat. Break open the skin and suck the sweet and sour pulp from the pit. Delicious!

Thank you to USVI.NET for this wonderful walking tour of Charlotte Amalie, click on any of the pics to go directly to their website for more information about the Virgin Islands.

Coki Beach

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Coki Beach

February 28, 2012

By

LOCATION: NORTHEAST SIDE OF THE ISLAND ADJACENT TO THE ENTRANCE OF CORAL WORLD

With Thatch Key just across the Leeward Passage, Coki Beach offers some of the prettiest panoramas on the island. This funky little beach is known for its excellent scuba and snorkeling sites. Brightly painted stalls, beach bars and food stands add local color to this stretch, as does the fact that Coki Beach is among the locals’ favorites.

This exquisitely beautiful cove offers excellent scuba diving and snorkeling oportunities. The pristine beach has an on-premise dive shop. Amenities include changing and rest rooms. You will find snack stands, friendly bars and even hair-braiding services. Taxis are usually on hand and the proximity to Coral World, a unique underwater park, is an added plus.

Destination 360 says this about Coki:

“Perhaps one of the best things about Coki Beach in St Thomas is that it’s not pretentious. Instead, it might prefer to be labeled a bit funky. A nice Caribbean beach where you can expect calm, beautiful waters and good snorkeling, Coki Beach is often a favorite with not only tourists, but locals alike. If you’re coming into port at St Thomas on a cruise ship, then you might just consider spending a few hours at Coki Beach, which is what a good amount of cruisers are known to do. Perhaps the best and quickest way to get here from the cruise port is by taxi, and the ride should only take about 15 minutes. There is no entrance fee to enjoy the beach, which is a nice bonus, and for those who are interested, the nearby Coral World Ocean Park is surely worth checking out.

Coki Beach in St Thomas is found on the northeast side of the island, not exceptionally far off from Magens Bay, which is another one of the top rated St Thomas beaches. It’s a fairly busy beach, especially during the peak season, and generally, the crowd is of the younger variety than what is usually found at Magens Bay. Curiously enough, feeding dog bones/biscuits to the fish has become quite the popular thing to do for those spending a day or more at Coki Beach, but it’s up to you whether or not you find that to be a good idea. Seclusion is not usually something you can expect to find at Coki Beach, so if you are seeking a keen spot for a romantic getaway, then you might look to some of the other St Thomas beaches. However, for those who consider themselves social butterflies, it is certainly ideal. If you can get here on a day when the cruise ships are few to none, then you’ll surely notice less people, so that is something to consider if you think you want a more relaxed beach setting.

Snorkeling right off the beach is one of the more popular things to do at Coki Beach in St Thomas, and for those who want to explore the underwater realm even more, there is also a dive shop on-site. The Coki Beach dive shop is PADI certified, so if you’re not familiar with diving, then you can take the proper courses here. For those who are qualified divers, guided dive tours can be enjoyed. There are even dive classes available for kids, which helps to make Coki Beach a family-friendly place. Also helping to make it family-friendly is the aforementioned Coral World, which operates between the hours of 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. There is a fee to enter this attraction, and it should cost adults around $20 to enter, with kids getting in for less. The Marine Gardens exhibit is one of the highlights to be enjoyed during your Coki Beach Coral World side trip, and it allows visitors to observe a range of sea life, such as giant lobsters and seahorses. The Coki Beach Coral World park has been working hard at bettering its facilities in recent years, mainly with the idea of making them more attractive and interactive. When standing on Coki Beach itself, a glance to the right should reveal part of the Coki Beach Coral World facilities, which stretch out into the bay. It’s the ocean park’s Undersea Observatory Tower, which is a Caribbean one-of-a-kind.

Coki Beach in St Thomas is a fun beach to enjoy, even if it’s just for a few hours. Some locals “cater” to the beachgoers, offering to braid their hair or supply them with a beach chair, among other things. A simple “No Thanks” should work to ward off anyone selling things on the beach if you have no interest in buying. There are some nice colorful food stands and such near the beach, so if you get hungry, you shouldn’t want for a bit of variety. Depending on who you are, you’ll either appreciate the food stands and shops, or simply find that they obstruct the scenery a bit, but they are convenient, that’s for sure. There are also restrooms, lockers, and lifeguards at Coki Beach in St Thomas.

Whether you plan to snorkel at the rocky reef area, engage in a Coki Beach dive excursion, or simply take it all in, Coki Beach provides plenty in the way of entertainment. The crystal clear waters here are bound to lure you in, so grab a mask and a snorkel and check out the fish. It’s a treat to see all the colorful fish that abound here. Some tourists have been known to label Coki Beach as the real side of St Thomas, so if you want a nice taste of local culture, you might consider adding it to your United States Virgin Islands vacation plans.”

My opinion about Coki?:

My family enjoys this beach for the snorkeling along the rocks.  however, there are sea urchins everywhere and if you are not careful….. Ouch!  Parking is can be an issue on busy days, but the water is so inviting.

Wikitravel.org says about Coki:

Coki Beach – The best snorkeling beach on St. Thomas. Normal underwater visibility of 100+ feet! Great beach for kids to learn to snorkel. It’s very calm and you can feed the fish in about 3-4 feet of water if you want to. They sell dog treats to feed to the fish and it’s really cool to see them swarm you for one. Beware of the locals though, you will be asked if you want to buy something 20 times before you make it to the beach, once there you are pretty much left alone though. If you take a tourist taxi to Coki Beach (they have awnings) you must be sure to take the same driver on return trip. If you try to take a different driver, nasty arguments can happen. Get the name of the driver who took you and make a time for pickup and return. There are no food facilities at Coki Beach, so be sure to plan for this. There is food available on the beach. People walk around with small menues asking if you want anything to eat. There is also a smoothie stand that only makes all natural smoothies for $7.