U.S. Virgin Islands Ranks #1 in Annual “Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean” List by U.S. News and World Report
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, June 25, 2014 – The U.S. Virgin Islands has secured the number one position on U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean” list for 2014-15. The Territory has consistently been recognized on this annual ranking, however this is the first time the destination was awarded the top spot.
“We’re proud to be recognized as the top-ranked Caribbean destination, and honored to know that it was from the recommendations of our visitors and the U.S. News and World Report’s editorial staff,” said Commissioner Beverly Nicholson-Doty. “This recognition further illustrates our increased focus and work with partners to provide world-class tourism offerings that create long-lasting impressions.”
Each year, travel editorial staff from U.S. News & World Report determines which destinations to include on the travel rankings based on recommendations by travel experts and the outlet’s website users. More than 200 destinations covered by U.S. News & World Report were analyzed but only a select few were identified as the publications’ award recipients.
The U.S. Virgin Islands jumped from fifth-place last year to the number one spot in the “Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean” category. The list recognized the Territory for its Carnival festivities, unspoiled beauty of St. John, and rich history of St. Croix.
Staff editor, Allison Michael’s wrote “The U.S. Virgin Islands made an impression on travelers this year, jumping from last year’s fifth-place spot to No. 1 in the Caribbean for 2014-15. Since this island trio is a major port for Caribbean-bound cruise ships, USVI’s visibility is growing – and travelers seem to like what they see.”
The Territory also ranked in the following categories in the 2014-2015 listings:
#10 Best Places to Visit in the USA
#11 World’s Best Places to Visit
“The timing of this recognition is perfect, aligning with our current “Virgin Islands Nice” summer travel promotion,” added Commissioner Beverly Nicholson-Doty. “We will continue to look for opportunities to ensure the U.S. Virgin Islands remains the top destination in the Caribbean for travelers and one of the most favored destinations within the United States and the world!”
To view the full list of travel rankings by U.S. News & World Report, visit: http://travel.usnews.com/features/Where-to-Vacation-in-2014-15/.
