Soggy Dollar Bar - Jost Van Dyke

If I could I would BE HERE NOW! I'd pack a bag consisting only of flip flops, bikini, a tunic or two, cut-off jean shorts circa 1989, sunscreen, big sunglasses & hat, and trashy celeb magazines. I'd plant myself on Jost van Dyke for the weekend. I'd sleep here & spend my days soaking up rays and sipping painkillers at the Soggy Dollar Bar.

Sometimes, I just want to get away to place where I don't have to "dress" for dinner or schedule appointments of any kind. Where tank tops and shorts are just fine. Jost van Dyke, and especially the Soggy Dollar, is that kind of place... where rank and title are left on the boat and only the unpretentious true lovers of the Caribbean make it ashore. Next time you visit the BVIs, join the Painkiller Club.

Why YOU Should Visit the USVI This Winter!!

• $300 in American Express Traveller's Checks
  
• 5th Night Free
  
• A Coupon Book with Savings on Activities & Attractions

No passport? No problem! Passports are not required to visit the USVI! Here are some of the hotels I'm lovin'...

Hibiscus Beach Resort in St. Croix - I love the white sandy beach, super clear water, and the food that onsite restaurant Elizabeth's H2O. Currently, they are offering a great 3 course meal for only $20!

Palms at Pelican Cove - The name gives it away... if palm trees seal the deal for you, this small 40 room hotel is perfect as they have over 100 palm trees on property:The Buccaneer has long been a personal favorite as it falls into the wonderful category of old-world Caribbean charm with graceful hospitality, plenty of leisure, and fine cuisine. A must during this great sale for any discerning traveler:

If you would like to book any of these

Top Secluded Beaches of Puerto Rico

What many will consider the most striking beaches of Puerto Rico—with the exception of Coco Beach—are not actually part of its mainland. Instead, they can be found on islands off the coast. What is often the case with these beaches is that instead of overcrowding and gimmicky tourism ploy, what you get, instead, is a scarcely populated beach that paints a traditional, tropical paradise.

Topping the list is a beach unlike any other in Puerto Rico. It's ecosystem is seemingly unrivaled, and there are no hotels to spoil your line of sight. Mona Island is often referred to as the Galapagos Island of the Caribbean, and like the Galapagos, some of the more bizarre species of animals call it home, roaming its land and waters, openly. As a result, the island is closed to tourists during hunting season (January – April).

To add to exclusivity, tours to the island are only offered from May through November and to visit the island, you'll need permits from the Natural Resources and Environmental Department.

Coco Beach is not quite as elusive as Mona Island, but it does share some similar qualities. It offers lingering stretches of virginal beach and colorful contrast between greenery, sand, and vibrant blue ocean. On the beach, however, are as casual scatter of chic resorts; Gran Melia Puerto Rico and Coco Beach Golf and Country Club, just to name a few.

Shacks Beach, also known as Bajuras, of Isabela Island is known for spectacular waters that facilitate the best snorkeling, surfing, and windsurfing in Puerto Rico. What many notice are the sleepy coconut palms that line the beach and offer ideal conditions for napping or relaxing.

Another deserted beach still absent of hotels (we think), is the Northeast Corridor of Luquillo. The island is not as exclusive as Mona and still offers an impressive amount of exotic wildlife and lush vegetation.

What is particularly appealing about the beaches of Puerto Rico is that, save a few of the overdeveloped areas, most of them are incredibly secluded. They project a sensation of unaware onto their visitors. It is a feeling of isolation that is strangely comforting and familiar.