Honeymoon in St Thomas

This tropical island provides the ideal spot for a romantic getaway.

When you land at the tiny airport on the island of St. Thomas, there’s a good chance you’ll be greeted by smiling people handing out free rum samples. And when you arrive at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, just 10 miles from the airport, don’t be surprised if another happy crew welcomes you with open arms and a fruity cocktail. If you couldn’t tell from the tan faces, the Caribbean climate, and the flowing booze, this marks your official entry into the no-worries zone.

Like any beach getaway worth its saltwater, St. Thomas takes beauty to the extreme. Unbelievably blue waters, white sand, and tropical forests all make an appearance. These qualities, coupled with the island’s abundant duty-free shopping, make St. Thomas one of the world’s most popular cruise ports. While that reputation is good for the cruise lines—as well as the island’s economy—it may not be so appealing to honeymooners looking for a romantic respite. Luckily, there’s The Ritz-Carlton. The sprawling resort spreads across 30 acres overlooking Great Bay and lies at the eastern tip of the island, comfortably distant from the cruise port hubbub.

It takes more than a good location, however, to make a great escape, and the St. Thomas Ritz-Carlton boasts a number of other charms as well. Your first clue that the resort represents the finest in laid-back luxury is the gorgeous Mediterranean-style architecture and open-air lobby. That Caribbean-cool theme continues in the guest rooms. Besides being comfortable, roomy, and finely appointed, each of the resort’s 180 guest rooms and suites features a private balcony or terrace that’s perfect for taking in the beauty of the grounds and their surroundings.

Assuming you’ll want to leave your room at least a few times during your stay, the hotel also provides a number of non-love-nest activities. Plan a private charter on the Lady Lynsey, The Ritz-Carlton’s 53-foot catamaran, or get sporty at the Aquatic Center. All the typical water sports are right at your fingertips, including scuba diving, snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing, and more. If you’d like a little less adventure with your outdoor recreation and want to continue your love story on the high seas, arrange for a Magic Moments yacht excursion (yachtmagicmoments.com). The spacious Sea Ray Express will meet you at the hotel and whisk you away for a full day of swimming, sunbathing, and lounging. The friendly crew provides breakfast, lunch, and all kinds of beverages—both adult and otherwise. While they do all the work, all you have to do is kick back and relax. The yacht will make stops in the British Virgin Islands, so be sure to bring your passport. You won’t want to miss out on visiting St. John and Tortola.

Not quite relaxed enough? Book an appointment or two at The Ritz-Carlton Spa. After all that sun worship, a facial is likely to do you some good. The After Sun Soothing Facial, which includes a vitamin C masque, should do the trick. Another must, of course, is the couple’s massage. Book your treatments in the beachside cabana, and a nice sea breeze will only enhance the pampering.

If even that sounds too taxing for the no-worries zone, you could always just lie back on a lounger by the shore. And, by all means, order another rum drink.

WHERE TO STAY
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
6900 Great Bay, St. Thomas,
U.S. Virgin Islands
340-775-3333

HOW TO GET THERE
American Airlines (aa.com) flies from DFW to Cyril E. King Airport with a connection in Miami.