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St. Croix's rich culture and history,
along with its beautiful beaches and world-class recreational
activities, create an experience unlike any other in the
Caribbean. Since the day Christopher Columbus first arrived
at Salt River on St. Croix more than 500 years ago, sugar
and rum have shaped the island's life and land. Fifty-four
sugar mills, each with imposing windmill towers and factory
chimneys, still rest in the shadows of stately eighteenth century
and nineteenth century homes. Located on the west end
of the island, Estate
Whim Plantation is just one example
of these "greathouses." With
acres of rolling green hills, St.Croix's plantation estates
also bore crops of okra, cabbage, corn, and other vegetables
still prominent in Caribbean cuisine. As the sugar industry
declined after the 1960s, tourism became the most important
industry on the island.
Christiansted and Frederiksted, the two main towns of St.
Croix, flourished as commercial ports during the eighteenth
century and nineteenth century. Distinct architecture reflects
the seven flags--Spanish, Dutch, British, French, Knights of
Malta, Danish, and American -- that have flown over the island.
Today, visitors to St. Croix can enjoy a number of indoor and
outdoor activities, from fine dining, shopping, and a casino,
to golf, scuba diving, and horsback riding.
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