American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, home of several deep-sea sportfishing charter boats, also has some great catches in the many shops. A fun jewelry store offers unusual silver pieces, a tropical-themed home furnishing store stocks interesting accessories and artwork, and several clothing stores feature beach apparel, sandals and sportswear.
Mountain Top
Mountain Top is literally atop the mountain, parting the clouds at 1,500 feet and providing unparalleled views of Magens Bay. Its atrium boasts 11 shops offering fine women's handmade clothing, Caribbean and exotic jewelry, island souvenirs, original paintings and reproductions, and a children's boutique with clothing and toys.
Still not shopped out? Take time to explore the boutiques within the larger island hotels. And if you find that you have exceeded the mandatory dollar limit but still haven't bought everything you wanted, don't despair. You can always come back and start again.
How to Buy Diamonds
By Kathleen M. Mangan
To be a savvy diamond shopper, keep in mind that the quality of a diamond and the price you pay for it involve striking a balance between a stone's size and its quality. The four main attributes are cut, carats, color and clarity; collectively, they're known as the Four Cs.
Cut. The brilliance of a diamond depends on the cut, which refers to the number and angle of facets that reflect light, making it the most important of the Four Cs. There are six grades, from ideal to poor.
Carats. A diamond's weight is measured in carats; one carat equals 100 points. Stones of equal weight will vary widely in price, depending on quality.
Color. The whiter the diamond, the greater the value. Grades range from D (the whitest) to Z.
Clarity. There are 11 grades of clarity, determined by the visibility, number and size of inner flaws.
How to Stay Cool
By Mary Hull
On the beach. Bright bikinis, maillots (one-piece women's bathing suits) and colorful trunks make USVI beaches even more beautiful. Hats, sarongs (wrap skirts) and cover-ups help keep the sun's harmful rays at bay. But remember: Swimwear beyond the beach is a no-no.
Limin' gear. Support your local dive shop or favorite bar by relaxing in a cotton T-shirt or logoed tank top. Paired with board shorts and flip-flops, this look says, "No worries, mon."
Out and about. If your tastes tend to be more sophisticated than limin' will allow, choose separates in breathable fabrics such as silk, linen and cotton. You'll be among the most stylish ones on the golf course or taking in the sights. Light and airy shirts, skirts, skorts, shorts and slacks will be appropriate in any situation on any island.
Dining out. Tropical-print sundresses for women and button-down shirts of similar design for men will get you in the door at nearly any local restaurant. Footwear is required, but leave the socks stateside.
Standard equipment. Sunglasses on a Croakie, sandals, sunblock and (of course) a Crucian bracelet are all staples for anyone in the USVI. Keep jewelry to a minimum, and make sure it's waterproof.
