Visiting St. Croix is a pleasure because unlike many islands - it's a real place, with real people who actually live on the island. You won't have any problems meeting locals - in fact, you'd be hard pressed to come on the island for even a day or so without making at least one new friend.

But it's not just making friends that makes St. Croix (and Sugar Beach) so special - it's the wonderful things to do while you are there. Tops on my list is to try a local restaurant (or two). So here's a quick review of one of my favorite places to enjoy. Feel free to suggest other places for me to try - and of course - let me know if you agree with my selections.

First on my list whenever my feet (and frequent flyer points) get me on island is Breezes. Like most of the places on island, it's casual, with good food, awesome sunsets and great breezes. But what sets Breezes apart in my book are 2 things - it's location - and the Mongoose. First the location. Breezes is right on the beach next door to Sugar Beach - we're talking barefoot walking for a total of a minute. So getting there is really really easy. (Not staying at Sugar Beach - no problems - you can drive there! But strolling is just so much nicer)

Once there - you walk past the bar with it's tin can art, and are seated at one of their lovely 'outdoor' tables. The view of the night sky is frankly spectacular, and you can hear the ocean lapping on the beach from every seat. Ordering is easy too - pick anything - you'll be happy. My favorite - which given that this is an island restaurant seems strange - is the roast beef. It's delicious. I've always enjoyed all their fish options - but it's the roast beef that I think of when I think of Breezes.

But my real reason for making Breezes my first stop is the Mongoose. Yes, it's a drink. Made with rum (of course) and soursap. It's delicious - refreshing, not too heavy, and to me it means you are on vacation.

So next time you visit St. Croix and Sugar Beach - drop in to Breezes, say hi for me - and have a Mongoose. I know I'll feel the vibes and know someone on island was thinking of me - even here in the cold North!

March 20, 2012 - Leslie Eiser