The island of St. Thomas attracts big-name acts for its nightclubs, and offers some of the best shopping in the Caribbean. The 50,000 inhabitants are all keen to make their own contribution to the cheerful, upbeat tempo.

St. Croix, the largest, has massive stone forts, Danish and Victorian buildings, historic plantations and Buck Island Reef National Monument. This is an 880-acre nature reserve with an underwater snorkelers’ trail and an incredible diversity of marine life.

St. John is mostly forested and tranquil, and is protected from over-development. It is a particular favourite with campers, who enjoy its small-island charm and secluded beaches.