What to pack for a week in the Caribbean

 What to pack for your week-long trip in the Virgin Islands with Caribbean Art Escapes:

The climate in the Caribbean is sunny and warm, with daily high temperatures in the upper 80’s and evening lows in the upper 70’s. The sun is quite intense so sunscreen is a necessity. I recommend lightweight clothing that provides SPF protection, as well as a hat and sunglasses. There will be opportunities for swimming and water activities every day, so be sure to pack a bathing suit and cover-up. Beach shoes are highly recommended for accessing the water in some of the rocky areas, or you can wear other types of water shoes, surf shoes, scuba socks, or other types of shoes that can be worn in the water such as Crocs. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes for other activities, but we won’t be doing anything too strenuous so your usual everyday casual footwear will be perfect for walking around town or touring the attractions on the island.

Pack light! You only need summer clothes, and not many of them. You know you will want to shop at the artisan markets and island boutiques while you’re here, so leave room in your suitcase to pack your vacation purchases and souvenirs for your return trip home.

St Croix is part of the United States Virgin Islands – a U.S. territory – so U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to travel here. More info about travel requirements HERE. However, if you want to take the ferry or the seaplane to visit any of the other islands while you’re here, you will need your passport. Side trips off-island are not included in your Caribbean Art Escapes package, but if you want to island hop or take a side trip while you’re here then we can help you make those arrangements. Info about island hopping HERE. 

There are only a couple of major airlines serving the Henry E. Rohlsen (STX) airport on St Croix with only one or two flights per day, and those flights are always booked full several weeks in advance. Flight delays are not uncommon. If you miss your connection you might find that there may not be another flight available, so be sure to schedule long layovers between your connecting flights! Click HERE for STX airport information.

Be sure to pack your cell phone and charger. Almost all major U.S. cellular plans work just fine here. Wifi is provided at the villa.

The coral reefs here are absolutely AH-MAY-ZING! We provide snorkeling equipment and you can walk out on a beach and see a fantastic assortment of tropical fish, turtles, octopus, and more in shallow water that is crystal clear. I highly recommend bringing a waterproof camera to capture the fantastic underwater scenery. If you’re not a swimmer, no worries -- we also provide boogie boards, kayaks, paddle boards, and other beach toys that you can float on, or you can just chill and hang out in a lounge chair under the shade of the palm trees.

Don’t forget your medications and any special items that you need. This is a very small island and shopping is quite limited. You may find that you can’t get a replacement here for something that you forgot to bring, so please make a list and double check it when you pack.

 

Packing list

* Light, breathable layers for warm weather

* Swimsuit + cover-up

* Wide-brim hat or cap (for sun protection while painting)

* Comfortable walking sandals or sneakers

* Water shoes (ESSENTIAL for rocky beaches or wading. Crocs or scuba booties can substitute)

* Daypack or tote bag for daily excursions

* Reusable water bottle (hydration is key!)

* Sunscreen (High SPF and reef-safe recommended)

* Sunglasses

* Phone/camera + charger

* Personal medications

* REAL ID or passport (passport is not required for U.S. citizens, but REAL ID is necessary)

* Health insurance card 

* Travel insurance info

* Copies of travel documents (digital & printed)

* Credit card and a small amount of cash (USD)

The recommended list of art supplies will depend on which type of workshop or retreat you have registered.