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Reviews of Explore the Virgin Islands

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"solidly recommended"

Virgin implies serene, unspoiled, and the Virgin Islands are just that. "Explore the Virgin Islands" is in its seventh edition, and offers a complete and comprehensive tourist guide for potential travelers to the Virgin islands. With maps, photos, plenty of tourist information such as hotels, car rental, and information on activities abound. An absolute must for anyone considering a trip to somewhere nice this winter, "Explore the Virgin Islands" is solidly recommended. — Midwest Book Review

"vast amount of information"

Explore the Virgin Islands, 7th edition
Harry S. Pariser
Manatee Press (2008)
ISBN 9781893643598
Reviewed by Danelle Drake for Reader Views (11/08)

"So descriptive I could almost lie back in my hammock, smell the sea air and hear the Audubon’s shearwater’s eerie howl. “Explore the Virgin Islands” takes you there, to all of the islands: St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, the British Virgin Islands, and Tortola. With charts, photos, sidebars and maps accompanying the vast amount of information packed between the pages, you will quite possibly not appear to be a tourist.

Regardless of your interest, there are locations, locations, locations in this guide. I became intrigued by the inhabitants of the Virgin Islands; the detailed account of the discovery and colonization is something not found in many books on travel.

Planning your next trip will be completed easily with the aid of “Explore the Virgin Islands” by Harry S. Pariser whether you plan on camping or luxuriating in a pristine resort. Be sure to tuck this gem from Manatee Press in your bag before you travel and have a wonderful time."

"What does a travel guide need to do?"

"What does a travel guide need to do? Tell us how to get where we want to go, where to stay, what to do while we're there, and warn about possible problems we can prepare for before we set out. This book fulfills those purposes and is also a history book with a bit of sociology and cultural studies thrown in. You may need to read between the lines just a bit to get the meaning, but I assure it's there" — Curled Up With a Good Book

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"useful to residents"

"While would-be visitors are the usual audience for most guidebooks, Explore the Virgin Islands is also useful to residents who want to see their sister islands or spend the day looking at their home island through tourist eyes." — St. Thomas Source>> read more from this review

"Cool Book of the Day"

The latest edition of Explore the Virgin Islands is named "Cool Book of the Day."

"...right on target."

" This new edition is a welcome addition with updated, essential, and well-organized information on history and hotels; bird-watching and beaches; diving and dining; and dozens of other topics. The maps and charts are relevant and easy to read; Pariser's observations are personalized and to the point, and the impressive details make travel planning an easy, enjoyable task. If you are heading to the Virgins, don't leave home without this Compendium. -- Gay Nagle Myers, Travel Weekly, November 3, 2008

"a fantastic guidebook"

Explore the Virgin Islands
By Harry S. Pariser
Matatte Press (2004)
Reviewed by Juanita Watson for Reader Views (1/06)
This is a fantastic guidebook. Harry S. Pariser covers everything you need to know about the
Virgin Islands and more. Condensed into a small, lightweight purse or backpack sized book,
there is no compromising in quantity of information. Included are all the essentials –
accommodations for all budgets, various choices of transportation, and endless ideas for
entertainment, shopping, and restaurants. It covers every type of traveler.
Do you lean towards a more natural experience? There are choices such as ecotours, hiking
trails, secluded beaches, dive sites, National Parks and even horseback riding. Maybe you
prefer a more refined experience. Pariser provides information on art galleries, villas, formal
dining, sailing, and yachting. How about an island wedding? Many ideas are included to help
you plan that perfect day. Find out about golfing, bowling, bird watching, deep sea fishing, car
rentals, tours, taxi fares, banking, internet access, island hopping and more. This guide really
does have it all.
I especially appreciated the easy to follow maps, relevant charts, and inspiring photos. I feel this
book would allow any traveler to easily plan a memorable vacation experience. Pariser also
includes many websites, email addresses, and phone numbers to help you get direct and timely
additional information.
All that said, what I really think sets this guidebook apart from many others is the wealth of
additional information. A lengthy section, and various excerpts throughout the book, detail
history, archaeology, flora and fauna, native foods, music and more. I personally have a fuller
and deeper travel experience learning about the local culture, and this book provides just that.
Not only is Explore the Virgin Islands a highly informative travel book, but a genuinely
interesting read too. Dowload a PDF of this review

"...no better guide book...."

"We have vacationed on St. John and St. Thomas and I can tell you there is no better guide book for seeing these beautiful islands in the Caribbean."– Jerry Henderson, beachesbeaches.com

http://beachesbeaches.com/Featured_Beaches/Virgin%20Island%20Book%20Review.html

"....the real skinny...."

http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&s=Arts%2FEntertainment:Showcase&p=1105684753

Explore the Virgin Islands: The Real Skinny on the U.S. and British Virgins
.
     May 24, 2005 – Harry Pariser's Explore the Virgin Islands is a guide book written the way all guide books should be; it's insightful, informative, up-to-date, and has a unique voice. This isn't a watered-down guide from a massive multi-national publisher. It is the real skinny on what to see and do in the Virgin Islands from a seasoned traveler and writer with an eye for details and interesting facts and a passion for his subject.
     Explore the Virgin Islands covers the U.S. (St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas plus Water and Hassel Islands) and British Virgins (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada and more) in breadth and detail, with a keen eye on the history and ecology of one of the Caribbean's most beautiful areas.
      The book's introduction demonstrates Pariser's true interest in the region and its environment. Pariser includes a ton of great background information, as well as anecdotes about the history of the Virgin Islands old (the Carib Indians, Slavery) and new (former Sen. Adelbert Bryan). There is also an expanded section on the flora and fauna of the Virgin Islands, its animal life, and of course the many coral reefs. He sends his readers on vacation with the knowledge and appreciation to fully enjoy the complexities and beauties of the Virgin Islands.
     Explore the Virgin Islands is a handsome, softbound volume with a stunning cover photo. It's filled with numerous detailed maps, color and black and white photographs, and helpful charts and sidebars (more than one hundred) with diverse information ranging from Anegada's pink flamingos to Blackbeard the Pirate. Indeed, it's Pariser's mix of island history and folklore with complete travel nuts and bolts that make this book both interesting and useful.
     Vacationers will find everything here they need on the practicalities of planning their trip - where to stay, what to eat, and the best things to do. Each island's most popular attractions are given ample space. For example, on St. John the hiking trails and the U.S.V. I. National Park are fully explored, while St. Croix's diving gets the spotlight, with lots of information on dive sites and shops. All of this is presented with relevant phone numbers, website and e-mail addresses, locations, opening times and more.
      As part-time Virgin Islands residents we are familiar with most of the travel guides to the area, and this book is clearly our favorite. It contains a great mix of information attractively presented, with the entertaining sections on the history and natural wonders of the Virgin Islands, both above and below the water, complimented and balanced by the practical advice that any traveler would need. It is an indispensable tool for your pre-trip planning. But, once you are here, you will find yourself picking it up for a restaurant phone number, to check for what you might see while snorkeling, or to find out the name of an interesting building you saw while walking in any one of the islands' towns during the afternoon.

"....invaluable...."

Reader: Marcia Schutte
Rating: 4 hearts

This Sixth Edition of Harry Pariser’s EXPLORE THE VIRGIN ISLANDS is testament to the author’s familiarity with and love for the Caribbean. Blending history, destinations, and a thorough listing of what to do and where to do it, this guidebook covers it all. The handy size and lightweight paperback format make it one of the easier guides to slip into a carry-on for pre-trip reading as well as into a beach tote for during-the-trip consultation.

A frequent Virgin Islands visitor, I just returned from my most recent sojourn. As familiar as I am with the Virgins, I consulted Pariser’s book more than once during the trip, and learned a quite a lot about all the islands, their histories, and their unique offerings. Of note is Pariser’s inclusion of information about Water Island, the fourth U.S. Virgin Island. Most guidebooks omit Water Island entirely. Additionally, his descriptions of island flora and fauna are accurate, informative, and entertaining.

A semi-formal check of restaurants, beaches, activities, and sights on St. Thomas (USVI) indicates that Pariser is right on the mark with locations, pricing, and hours. The guide was invaluable as we made our way to the center of the island, seeking out Tillet Gardens in Tutu. Pack this book and a bikini, and you’re set for a delightful vacation in the U.S. and/or British Virgin Islands. We rated this book four hearts -- Heartland Reviews

http://www.heartlandreviews.com/Travel_Archive.html

"...a superb guide..."

"Harry Pariser has produced a superb guide to both the U. S. and British Virgin Islands. The sixth edition is even better than the previous one, with still more information and coverage of virtually every topic about the islands. What makes the guide unique is its extremely complete coverage of both groups of Virgin Islands, the wealth of information on every topic, including history, culture, hotels, resorts, adventure travel, water sports, other activities, beaches and transportation, and the hundreds of sidebars and tips, many with information not found elsewhere. The guide is in a compact format to fit easily into carry-on luggage or a rucksack for quick reference while traveling. Online updates are available to keep information current, and a host of other items are available on the website, including a photo tour, travel notes for the islands and more Web links. In addition, readers will find very extensive internet listings (websites and e-mails) to assist their travel planning. Even residents of the islands will find this guide useful and they may learn things they don't know about their own island!"
-- Bill Todd, About.com

Download PDF of this review.

"...right on target."

"The prolific Harry S. Pariser never fails to deliver, and the sixth edition of his Virgin Islands guide---covering the U. S. and British Virgin Islands---again is right on target. It's been three years since his last V.I> guide, and Pariser has updated and expanded his listings in all categories from accommodation to activities, from dining venues to dive sites, from tours to trail hikes. Web sites, tips, charts, maps and info nuggets round out his extensive research. Pack it, read it, use it---the book won't disappoint. -- Gay Nagle Myers, Travel Weekly, December 13, 2004

"....an indispensible resource...."

Now in its sixth edition, Explore The Virgin Islands is a travel guide for tourists, business travelers, and anyone eager to see the sights of the US and British Islands. Packed with charts, maps, photos including an inset section of color plates, historical information, locations of restaurants and gourmet bistros, tours, car rentals, prime shopping locations, places for snorkeling, scuba, and sailing, and much more Explore The Virgin Islands is an indispensible resource for maximizing one's activity and fun. Organized by island, the entries and general information give a superb overview of the highlights to search out when visiting this fantastic and beautiful land. — Midwest Book Review

"....comprehensive...."

The sixth edition of Explore the Virgin Islands is the most comprehensive and personalized guide available. Harry S. Pariser has done it again! --Anne Marie Porter, St. John, USVI resident and wedding minister.

"....a valuable guide...."

Explore the Virgin Islands is a valuable guide for anyone planning on traveling to any of the United States or British Virgin Islands, specifically the islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. This key information is provided for easy reference while planning or while traveling. However, this book will also be just as interesting for the armchair traveler as this book contains ample information about the natural environment, history, and culture on these beautiful islands as well as some extremely stunning colour photographs." -- Suite101.com

Full review at: http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/18931/113263

Fifth Edition Reviews

"stand a notch above others..."

"....stunningly illustrated..."

"Explore Barbados"
"Explore the Virgin Islands"
by Harry S. Pariser
Manatee Press, San Francisco
Reviewed by Mike Huck mike@huckocean.com
Rating: * * * * four out of five stars

When I was fresh out of college I traveled around Europe on a tall ship. In each port we visited one of the cadets would run out an buy a guide book for the city. We all laughed at him, but he was the cadet who always had the inside information and always knew where the points of interest were in each city. Had we stopped in the Virgin Islands, or on Barbados, he would have rushed to buy either of these two books. Harry Pariser starts each of these volumes with a comprehensive overview of the history of each of the islands, its physical geography, the flora and fauna, and perhaps most importantly, a detailed discussion of the people and culture of each island. After giving the reader a good understanding of the physical and social environment, Pariser includes a section entitled "Practicalities". This section is the real jewel of the book as it includes everything from the proper way to tip a taxi driver to strategies to avoid the local rush hour. Pariser includes detailed listings of the recreational opportunites and their costs, as well as listings of local festivals and events that might escape the casual visitor. For the volume describing the Virgin Islands, Pariser organizes his information by island which gives the reader a good insight into the history of these islands. Following this section are detailed descriptions of various parts of the islands. He goes district by district summarizing what can be found and how best to enjoy the points of interest. Reading the descriptions is just like walking down the street with a friend who has long lived in the area. Pariser's detailed information on the attractions, prices and places to avoid are invaluable to travellers seeking to get the most out of a limited visit.
If the descriptions weren't enough, both volumes are stunningly illustrated with images of exotic animals, festivals and beautiful beaches. They also include comprehensive maps and suggestions for visits at specific times of the year.Pariser also includes tips about everything from how to hitchhike around the islands on yachts, to dealing with the beach boys who can be intimidating. Anyone planning a Caribbean journey would be well served to seek out one of these volumes.

"....complete and well rounded...."

Extraordinary Guides to Extraordinary Places

Series: Explore The Virgin Islands, Explore Costa Rica, and Explore Barbados

"This is a most unusual series of travel guides for the Caribbean basin. The author has written ten books on this area. He includes much more than the standard hotels, restaurants, and places to go information. He approaches his destinations from an ecological point of view. He includes snorkeling and sightseeing information. These guides are almost what the military would call an area study manual. The information is so complete and well rounded. There are lots of excellent photos and illustrations. Anyone planning a trip to this region would be well advised to carry along the appropriate guide to his or her destination. We rated this series a high four hearts." -- Bob Spear, Heartland Reviews

"....a superb guide...."

Harry Pariser has produced a superb guide to both the U. S. and British Virgin Islands. What makes the guide unique is its extremely complete coverage of both groups of Virgin Islands, the wealth of information on every topic, including history, culture, hotels, resorts, adventure travel, water sports, other activities, beaches and transportation, and the hundreds of sidebars and tips. The guide is in a compact format to fit easily into carry-on luggage or a rucksack for quick reference while traveling. Online updates are available to keep information current, and a host of other items are available on the website, including a photo tour, travel notes for the islands and more Web links. -- Bill Todd, About.com

"...a good read!"

"Ask me if I've read a good book lately, and I'll tell you about a Virgin Islands visitor guide. As a travel contributor to the Source, I was asked to comment on the new 5th edition of 'Explore the Virgin Islands' by Harry S. Pariser. Two hours after sitting down and opening the book, I was convinced I had a good read. The guide offers thorough insights to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands -- written almost tongue in cheek with plenty of biases thrown in from the author and his many correspondents.The first 40 pages are about the land, climate, plants life, animal life, sea life, history, government, economy and music. Throughout, the book delves into such topics as Sir Francis Drake, the history of Water Island and Frenchtown, the St. John slave revolt, the making of the V.I. National Park, the Danes/English/Knights of Malta on St. Croix, the history and design of Christiansted, sugar and guavaberry in the BVI, Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola, and Anegada's flamingos.... After 32 years of living in the Virgin Islands and traveling to all the islands and most of the cays, I am amazed at how much new information I could glean from Pariser's book. This new information has me looking forward to revisiting many of the islands and cays.The book is a treasure trove of e-mail addresses and telephone numbers for restaurants, accommodations, charter services and other tourist-oriented locations throughout the islands. If for no other reason, resident adults should get thebook to fill in the holes in their knowledge of the wonderful and unique environment we live in." -- Kirk Grybowski, St. Thomas Source, June 3, 2002

"...info and tidbits that readers are not likely to find in other guidebooks..."

"What I like best about this very thorough guide to both the US and British Virgin Islands are the charts and sidebars -- 100 of them -- sprinked throughout the 340 pages. They contain info and tidbits that readers are not likely to find in other guidebooks, such as the list of Most Romantic Places to Kiss on St. Croix; Coffee Break Time on St. Thomas; and Archaeology on St. John. Of course, the book has all the essential travel information on where to stay, eat, shop, visit, swim, snorkel and sightsee. The main focus of this guide -- and others in the same series (Barbados, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica) -- is recreational activities, balanced with maps, cultural insights, environmental concerns, history, and candid observations. It's definitive -- and very welcome in guidebook land." -- Gay Nagle Myers, Travel Weekly, June 10, 2002

"highly recommended!"

"Now in a newly updated fifth edition, Explore the Virgin Islands by veteran travel expert and author Harry S. Pariser is a compact, versatile, illustrated, and 'user friendly' guide to making the most of one's stay in the tropical paradise locals of the Virgin Islands. Individual chapters cover the attractions of each island, as well as the basics of history, government, sailing, sports, and practical concerns for an unforgettable visit to a singularly beautiful land. Packed with street maps, website addresses, flora/fauna information, history, and much more, Explore The Virgin Islands is highly recommended. Online updates are available. If you are planning a trip to the Virgin Islands, begin by browsing through the pages of Explore the Virgin Islands!" -- Midwest Book Review

"personalized and comprehensive"

"Having lived on St. John for 20 years, it was fun to learn new information about this special island from Explore the Virgin Islands. Mr Pariser has hiked the trails and met the people. His book is the most personalized and comprehensive guide I have read. It is a must for anyone visiting St. John. Pariser's most complete guide is unique and fits easily into your beach bag or backpack." -- Anne Marie Porter, St. John, USVI resident and wedding minister.

"a plethora of useful and fascinating information"

"The fifth edition of Explore the Virgin Islands showcases a plethora of useful and fascinating information concerning the U.S. Virgin Islands and their British counterparts. Judging by the amount of effort that author Harry S. Pariser put into this well-illustrated tome, he must have a torrid love affair with a region many people refer to as 'heaven on earth.' This guide provides a no-holds-barred history of the islands, illustrated with period photos and etchings. It also covers what tourists want to know about: geography, the best restaurants, travel tips, hotel prices, reef locations and taxi rates. What sets it apart from the mainstream travel book is the inclusion of adult boutiques, places inhabited by duppies (Caribbean ghosts), and one or two offbeat streets where Fodor's might fear to tread. If it's in the Virgin Islands, it's covered in this handbook. It's the next best thing to being there, and when it comes to the Virgin Islands, that's saying a lot." -- Fearless.com

"essential information"

"...everything you need to know about the U. S. and British Virgin Islands....essential information to plan your trip.... -- Culebra Calendar

"Nicely organized...."

"This versatile book will appeal not only to first-time visitors, but to seasoned Virgin Island vacationers as well. Nicely organized and easy to follow, it takes you to St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and the smaller British islands of Norman, Peter, Salt, Cooper, Guana, Sandy Cay, Necker, Great Tobago, the Dogs and even Fallen Jerusalem National Park, an island of itself. Profiling the major towns of Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, Road Town, Frederiksted, Spanish Town, West End, Cane Garden Bay and Frenchtown in great detail, it also includes less-visited settlements, like Coral Bay, Cruz Bay, Caneel Bay and Sage Mountain. With a mind toward the eco-conscious traveler, Pariser pays special attention to sanctuaries, preserves, national parks, coral reefs and marine parks, highlighting the outdoor activities they offer -- hiking, snorkeling, diving, horseback riding, birdwatching, sailing. Practical services -- transport, banks, post offices, shops --- are all covered. His list of dining options offers everything from gourmet meals to delightful creole dishes. Accommodations span the range from camping to family-run B&Bs to luxury resorts. And an extensive introduction opens your eyes to the culture, history and geography of this popular sun-filled destination. Color photographs and detailed maps round out this comprehensive guidebook." -- Tamassee.com