The US Virgin Islands (USVI) is leading a Caribbean travel renaissance, celebrating a record-breaking 2024 that has reaffirmed the territory’s spot as a top Caribbean destination. Located in the northeastern Caribbean, this stunning & historically rich archipelago is just a 4-hour flight from NYC, making it an easy trip for sunshine and rejuvenation (no passport required for US residents). Can’t believe it’s been 12 years since my last visit!
If you're looking to reset your mind, body, and spirit, this tropical paradise is it! We kicked off 2025 here with an unforgettable EXTRA IS MY ORDINARY x Pink Girls Run The World Wellness Retreat, sponsored by US Virgin Islands Tourism. Founded by a Virgin Islander, EXTRA IS MY ORDINARY® encourages you to embrace your "extra" and unlock the extraordinary within.
Why St. Thomas?
St. Thomas isn’t just a beautiful oasis—it’s a foodie’s dream and a wellness haven, offering fresh seafood and dining experiences that embrace the diversity of the region.
Known for its incredible hospitality; the island is part of the US Virgin Islands, which includes St. John and St. Croix. From the festive calypso airport welcome to the warm greetings throughout the island, it truly has it all— amazing local cuisine and immersive cultural experiences. But travel isn’t just about the destination; it’s about the person you become along the way.
Connection Through Travel
Would you trade your daily grind for a trip that could change everything? For women in their 40s and 50s, taking a trip is more than an escape—it’s about empowerment, connection, and reflection. Our team wanted the inaugural wellness retreat in the territory to be a space where women could truly experience real transformation as they embark on a new year in a way that fosters growth while embracing balance and serenity. We not only focused on enhancing our well-being but also supported these Virgin Islander small businesses (see list below) through activities and community initiatives.
Transportation: Ambassadorial Taxi
Dining: Cutlass & Cane Caribbean Seafood Bar
Online Magazine/Lifestyle Brand: Caribbean Posh
Candles: The Original Good Company
Travel Planner: Caribbean Sentiments
Catering: Three Virgin Catering
Flow Like Water Sail Day
One of the highlights of the retreat was the Flow Like Water Sail Day, a private yachting experience where we bobbed in 80 foot deep water in total relaxation mode. Talk about magic touch…being on the water is incredibly calming, lowering heart rates, reducing stress, and leaving us at ease as we explored the breathtaking turquoise waters and award-winning beaches of St. Thomas and St. John.
Private Villa with Breathtaking Views
Imagine waking up to panoramic views of Magens Bay, St. John, and the British Virgin Islands. Our private villa, perched up next to St. Thomas’ highest point, was the perfect spot for a unique Soca Yoga session blending mellow yoga moves with vibrant Afro-Caribbean rhythms from a local steel pan musician (a musical instrument originally established in the 1930s as a proud symbol of resistance and creativity). 4 Days at this plush location and I felt reborn.
Sound Healing & Cultural Immersion
To top it all off, we embraced the healing powers of sound with a sound bath experience that used rhythmic sounds to balance our nervous systems and promote emotional release—leaving us feeling rejuvenated.
When we weren’t in yoga poses, journaling above Magen’s Bay or enjoying a healing sound bath, we explored other island “gems” like duty-free shopping on Main Street where we discovered unique locally made pieces at Cardow Jewelry.
Join Us for an Unforgettable Wellness Journey
Our wellness retreat offers luxurious accommodations, personalized activities, and the perfect opportunity to reflect, connect with others through community, and immerse in the island’s serene beauty, away from the daily grind. Join the waitlist for our January 2–5, 2026 retreat and get ready for an unforgettable wellness journey welcoming the new year with balance, clarity and embracing new beginnings!
THE CARIBBEAN GREENBOOK
When Jadine Yarde and Fiona Compton learned that nearly 80% of Caribbean hotels are foreign-owned and most spending goes to international companies, they launched the Caribbean Green Book—a database of over 100 local businesses. Their goal: encourage mindful travel, reduce economic disparities, and empower Black and Brown communities.
