Good Bye Maho Bay Camps

Sunset over Maho Bay Camps, St. John on its last evening .

The last guests watched the final sunset over Maho Bay Camps on it's official closing date of May 15, 2013. The well known eco-resort here on St. John has been in operation for over 37 years with founder, Stanley Selengut at the helm.

Many will mourn its closing since this unique community was formed for environmentally conscious travelers even before "eco" had become a recognized part of speech.  People have been coming to stay at the tent cottages located on the lush hillsides of Maho Bay for so many years that honeymooners have become parents and then grandparents bringing their entire family to enjoy living in a tree house for a week or two each year.

Maho Bay Camps was forced to close because the land where the eco-resort is situated on has been sold to a single individual for a family compound.  Concordia Eco-Resort, sister resort to Maho, will continue to operate from its location near Salt Pond Ba,y so some of Maho's guests will be checking that out as well as Cinnamon Bay Campground.  But some things just can't be replaced and there will be a hole in the heart of guests and staff who will forever carry happy memories of their stay at Maho.

Beach-to-Beach Swim 5/26/13

Swimmers jump into the 10th Annual Beach-to-Beach Swim

Ready, Set......SWIM!  Join the fun on Memorial Day Weekend when beginners to advanced swimmers take to the water at Big Maho Beach as part of the 10th Annual Beach-to-Beach Power Swim.  You have your choice of three different abilities:  short course (Maho to Cinnamon) 1mi; intermediate course (Maho to Trunk) 2-1/4mi; or long course (Maho to Hawksnest) 3-1/2mi.

Whichever course you decide on be sure to register before May 24 for the Sunday, May 26 race.....and most importantly show up at the big beach party at the end of the race at Hawksnest Beach.  It makes all that hard work worth it!  For more information see http://friendsvinp.org/race-info or call (340) 779-4940.

March Fundraisers for St. John Schools

Julius E. Sprauve School Gala, St. John USVI

St. John boasts a variety of schools to help guide our young people as they grow up here on island.  This is the month when you can help fund these schools which operate on a slim budget.  Here are three fun events that can make a difference for St. John children.....

Sat, March 16--Gifft Hill School  Dinner and Auction at the Westin St. John Resort $125 each for information call (340) 776-1730www.giffthollschool.org/auction.

Sat, March 23--Guy Benjamin School Benefit Flotilla at Vie's Campground at noon.  $20 each for information call Mary at (340) 513-8141

Sat, March 23--Julius E. Sprauve School Benefit Gala and Auction at Caneel Bay Resort.  For information call (340) 776-6336.

Schooner Roseway arrives in St. John this week!

World Ocean School comes to St. John, USVI

Watch the horizons today for the red sails of Schooner Roseway to come billowing in on a broad reach from their home winter port of St. Croix. This Schooner is unique in its mission as The World Ocean School helping students learn more about themselves through experiences at sea.

This week the Roseway will be working with Julius Sprauve School in Cruz Bay and Guy Benjamin School in Coral Bay. as Abby Kidder, co-founder of the non-profit organization puts it, "we offer a platform for students to experience the beauty and inspiration of sailing Roseway through Caribbean waters, bringing academics and community-building to life."

We're happy to welcome this beautiful schooner to St. John waters and enjoy the view as they sail by packed with local students each learning while working aboard a historic tall ship. For more information about the Schooner Roseway click on http://www.worldoceanschool.org.

St. John Arts Festival this week!

There is a lot going on this week here in St. John for the 13th annual St. John Arts Festival and most of it takes place in Cruz Bay this weekend. Saturday, Feb. 16 the park near the ferry dock, Frank Powell Park will be the place to be....you can see Caribbean dancing, listen to steel pan drums, and watch school children exhibit their ballroom dancing skills.

In the coming week you'll be able to enjoy Koko and the Sunshine Band (Monday), Sambacombo Band (Tuesday), and Inner Visions (Wednesday). Be sure to stop by the small park near the post office and check out the local crafts for sale as well as delicious treats to take tot he beach.

A walk through Cruz Bay is a must during this Presidents Day vacation week....just soak in the music, do a little dancing, and buy some gifts for friends back home. For more information see www.stjohnartsfestival.org.

VI National Park Meeting on St. John Jan. 27

Cinnamon Bay Campground on St. John, USVI

This Sunday, January 27 at 2:00 pm is your chance to learn all you wanted to know about the Virgin Islands National Park.  The Friends of the VI National Park will be holding their annual meeting at the Cinnamon Bay Campground restaurant, so you could even get a swim in before going to this interesting get together.

As a special feature, the meeting will have as is keynote speaker the director of the park system for all of the United States, Jon Jarvis, Director of the National Park Service.  The Friends of the VINP have done an incredible job in fundraising and watching out for the park's interests on St. John over the years, so it will be informative to hear Joe Kessler, the president of the Friends, update us on accomplishment of this last year and plans for the future.

Whether you are an island resident or a visitor, you may want to check out the Friends website http://friendsvinp.org/ for information about St. John and upcoming seminars.  For more information call 340-779-4940.

Lobsters in St. John, USVI

Caribbean lobster--a delicacy found on St. John USVI

Often we are asked what favorite dish is preferred by visitors to St. John....it's a tough one since there are so many amazing choices at restaurants around the island, But we would have to say LOBSTER is at the top of the list.

You may wonder what the difference is between the Caribbean lobster and those you would find served up at lobster shacks along the Maine coast. If you take a look at the photo, you'll see something is missing on local "bugs" here in the islands...they have no claws! They shuffle themselves along the bottom of the ocean with just legs and a big tail. Their primary means of defense are the sharp spines that cover the body.

But don't be concerned about missing the claw meat when you order a grilled lobster at Aqua Bistro, Fish Trap or one of the choice seafood restaurants on St. John. You'll have more than you can handle since these local crustacean grow 5-10 lbs when they're snagged by local fishermen. You may find its the only time you have been filled up on lobster with no room for key lime pie. Bon appetit!

Dawn of a NEW YEAR on St. John USVI

Sunrise over Coral Bay, St. John USVI

What better way to greet the new year than the sunrise over Coral Bay on beautiful St. John! As we welcome 2013, we can start looking forward to island events we would like to attend in the coming year.


Here are a few to choose from....we'll keep you updated throughout 2013 with blog entries and musical, art, and children's events described at www.stjohnessence.com. HAPPY NEW YEAR to all friends on and off island!!!!

January
Jan. 4 is first of (4) Sis Frank Concert Series at St. John School of the Arts

Jan. 19 St. John Animal Care's Winter Gala www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com

February
Feb. 14 9th Annual Celebration of Love - Free marriage vow renewal ceremony at Trunk Bay. Visit www.re-marryyourmate.com/valentine.htm

Feb. 25 8 Tuff Miles Race - Visit www.8tuffmiles.com for details.

March
Easter Holidays (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday)
Last weekend of March - Yacht Club Flotilla benefiting Guy Benjamin School.

April
VI Carnival, St. Thomas

May
Friends of the V.I. National Park Beach-to-Beach Power Swim
Commodore's Cup Regatte benefiting KATS.

June
Month-long St. John Festival Begins up to July 4 celebrations

Sing in the Holidays on St. John USVI

Coral Bay Holiday Sing Along (photo stjohnsource.com)

You have some fun opportunities this week to join in a few singing traditions here on St. John. Two of the events happen Wednesday, Dec. 19--in Cruz Bay the St. John Singers are giving their annual concert at 7:30pm at the Nazareth Lutheran Church (across from JJ's Cafe). And if you're at the other end of the island at 6:30pm that evening, the Coral Bay Holiday Sing Along is a fun time for families to join together and sing Christmas favorites.

The St. John Singers concert is repeated in Coral Bay later in the week on Friday, Dec. 21 at the Emmaus Moravian Church also at 7:30pm. This is a wonderful time of year to celebrate the community and singing together is a happy way to bring in the holiday season. We wish all our friends near and far a joyous holiday and peaceful new year!

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Christmas Prom on St. John USVI

Mongoose Junction Prom coming up December 15

This Saturday, December 15 marks the 17th annual Christmas Party at Mongoose Junction.  Starting at 9pm The Prom is an event not to be missed by islanders and visitors alike since it celebrates the rare occasion when locals dress up in "island fancy" and dance the night away.

The party is FREE and has become a St. John event ever since it was first established after Hurricane Marilyn hit in 1995 when The Prom made its debut as an effort to rebuild community spirit.  This year the spirit is going strong and will be jiving to the vibes of Ah We Band as well as enjoying food provided by Mongoose Junction restaurants and a champagne bar.

Keep an eye on St. John events posted at http://www.stjohnessence.com/ since the island is in full swing for the season...come join us!

December 7 Caribbanese Art Reception

This Friday, December 7 come be part of a special art reception celebrating “Caribbanese: Caribbean/ Japanese Fusion In Art —The People,” at Kimberly Boulon Fine Art Gallery on the second floor of The Marketplace.

The evening event, from 5 to 8 p.m., in collaboration with  St. John School of the Arts will featuring local dance performances and a display of fine art that demonstrates the blend of art forms between Caribbean and Japanese cultures.  

A Kimberly Boulon painting and a Helen Dunkerley ceramics piece will be available by raffle tickets sold at the event supporting local arts education.  The evening will also include “Caribbanese Haiku” poetry by Beverly Melius and live music fusing Caribbean and Japanese styles.  For more information see http://www.stjohntradewindsnews.com/index.php/584-news/2012-12-news/8303-caribbanese-exhibition-at-kimberly-boulon-fine-art-gallery-to-feature-dance-ceramic-art-haiku-and-more.

Snorkeling--a St. John Vacation Highlight

One of the beauties of snorkeling off the many white-sand beaches of St. John is that it is FREE..only a mask and snorkel needed (fins are optional).

Everyone has their favorite spots for spotting turtles, incredible fish and amazing coral reefs, but for stepping out of your car and walking into the quiet waters, Big Maho Bay is top of the list for beginning snorkelers. Young and old can enjoy a gentle swim off to the right around the rocks into Little Maho Bay.

On your swim you're sure to see a few blue-green parrot fish, plenty of silver bar jacks, a few blue tangs, and possibly a turtle or two. You may be treated to an octopus sighting as well as some stingrays searching for food at the ocean bottom. We would love to hear what you find in your snorkeling explorations!

Come to Love City Live!

If you're looking for a reason to start planning your St. John vacation then check out the newest local music celebration Love City Live! Performing on island January 24-27,2013.

You can join the reggae party and hear some of the most recognized musicians in the world. Starting the lineup will be Steel Pulse, the UK's Grammy-winning artists. Also performing will be St. John's own Inner Visions, as well as popular singers like Reemah, born on St. Croix, and Duane Stephenson, known for his poetic lyrics addressing social change.

Love City Live! is a chance to experience local food, view Caribbean art, and enjoy the amazing vibes of world renown reggae performers. Learn more about the schedule of events at http://www.experiencelovecitylive.com/ and register by 12/31 to get the early bird ticket price.

St. John Author Peter Muilenburg's Latest Book is Out: A Sea Dog's Tale

A book is now available that is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs, sailing, adventure, and who just enjoys a well-written story. Peter Muilenburg's "A Sea Dog's Tale: The True Story of a Small Dog on a Big Ocean" grabs the reader quickly with its story of a schipperke puppy who joins the family and lives on board their sail boat for years of adventures at sea.

Many visitors to St. John, USVI know Peter Muilenburg's hand built boat "Breath" having sailed on day charters out of Coral Bay. Peter and his wife Dorothy have shared their warmth and love of island life with visitors and locals alike. Readers will feel like they are sailing right along with the family as they get to know their amazing pup Santos.

Peter writes of Santos, "“He survived kidnap, hurricane, raging surf, and being lost overboard. We gave him up for dead twice...He may have been an 11-pound dog, but he strode through life like a lion.” The new book is available on http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008MU9IAS/ref=rdr_kindle_ext_tmb and will soon be available at local St. John stores.

Paddleboarding in St. John USVI

Have you glanced up from the beach lately and seen someone who looks like he or she is walking on water? It's just one more adventurer who has joined the new craze of Stand Up Paddleboarding or SUP as another way to get out on the water while vacationing on St. John.

In addition to being a great workout, it's a fun alternative to snorkeling since you can get incredible views of fish, coral, and the occasional turtle taking a dive down into the depths. The key to the first time out is balance ....you can start on your knees but it really is easier paddling once you stand up.

There are a few options for renting a paddle board or getting a few lessons. One company who has proven itself as the premier kayaking trip leader and guide for St. John USVI is Arawak Expeditions http://www.arawakexp.com/sup.htm. And someone who has started her own business is Karen Jarvis with Love City Paddle Boards (340) 642-9419. Pick a nice calm day and get out on those aqua blue waters!

Snorkeling the Mangroves of St. John USVI

All who have visited St.John USVI know the beauty and wide assortment of beaches all over the island. Though....there's still more to discover since not all who snorkel have yet tried exploring the mangroves found in the waters of Hurricane Hole, Coral Bay. It's an experience not to be missed!

A wonderful new book has been written just last year by local author, Caroline Rogers called "The Mysterious, Magical Mangroves of St. John, USVI". The photos of coral reefs and fish viewed through the tangle of mangrove roots will nudge any reader to wade into the bay and view the sea life for themselves.

Rogers' book can be purchased through the Friends of the VI National Park website at http://www.friendsvinp.org/books-maps-a-guides/magical-mangroves2012-07-14-21-52-34-detail.

St. John Vacation Rentals

Across the Midwest and into the Northeast the cold winds are starting to blow....which means its a good time to look into vacation villa rentals on the most beautiful island in the Caribbean....St. John USVI.

Here to help you make your decision on which house best suits your needs is our listing of accommodations found at http://www.stjohnessence.com/accommodations.html. There is much to consider including what size house you would like, in which part of St. John you would like to be located, how close to the beaches would you be, and are there any restaurants nearby.

And of course one of the key essentials....what kind of view will you have. Take a look at these incredible ocean views and see which one you would like for a week or two. Come on down and enjoy the 80 degree temperatures year round!

St. John Triathalon THIS WEEKEND!

Come swim, bike, and run in the 14th annual Love City Triathlon and Aquathon on Sunday, Sept. 2nd....race starts at 7:00 am. Or simply show up at Maho Bay beach to cheer on the athletes and join in the fun.

It's a new course and they are staging the race all from Maho Bay. The triathletes will swim a half mile in Maho Bay. Bike to Cruz Bay, Centerline, to the Yogurt stand and go down Kings Hill and finish back at Maho Bay. Then run a new and challenging 4-mile course and return to Maho Bay. The Aquathoners will swim the same ½ mile course, and run a new and challenging 3 miles and return to Maho Bay. For more information about registering for the race go to http://www.stjohnlandsharks.com/.

As a special bonus, anyone who registers before August 30 is eligible for a free night at a Maho Bay Camps tent cottage the night before the race, Sep 1st. To book your free night be sure to call Maho at (340) 776-6226.

St. John USVI promoting Community through Gardens

While many gardeners in northern U.S are starting to harvest the bounty of their summer gardens...here on St. John, USVI a wonderful new project is just coming into bloom. St. John Community Foundation has just completed the first phase of their Community Garden located on 2.5 acres on Gifft Hill.

According to the St. John Tradewinds 8.2.12 http://www.stjohntradewindsnews.com, the garden is open to volunteers looking to work with other community members in maintaining the various areas of the garden. Currently there are paths and newly-planted trees to enjoy and future plans include a butterfly garden, an herb garden, and a bush tea garden.

To learn more about the Community Garden as well as the proposed Arts & Cultural Community Center which would be a place of history, culture and art, check out the St. John Community Foundation website http://www.sjcf.org/.

St. John Takes Part in the 2012 Summer Olympics

Mimi Roller competes in Laser sailing 

All St. Johnians and hopefully many around the world will be poised in front of their TVs watching the 2012 SUMMER OLYMPICS taking place in London, England which opens this Friday, July 27.  You can learn about the 45 year history of participants from St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix, USVI on the website http://www.virginislandsolympics.org/.

Of special interest to all who know and love St. John, is the Laser sailboat competitor, Mimi Roller.  Mimi is one of the 7 athletes that are representing the U.S. Virgin Islands and she got her start in sailing right here in Coral Bay with the local sailing non profit organization called KATS (Kids And The Sea) which introduces local children to the fun of sailing their own boat.  We wish all the best to Mimi and will be cheering for all our local athletes as they compete in the next two weeks!