Amidst political turbulence and mounting challenges back in Washington D.C., President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden have opted for a serene escape to St. Croix, the southernmost U.S. Virgin Island, to welcome the arrival of 2024. Their 19-year-old granddaughter, Natalie, the daughter of the late Beau Biden, accompanied them on this sun-soaked retreat.
The Bidens touched down on St. Croix’s picturesque shores, arriving via Air Force One on a Wednesday afternoon.
St. Croix forms part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, an unincorporated U.S. territory. Among the four U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas, Water Island, St. John being the others), St. Croix stands out as the largest, covering 84 square miles, which is roughly three times the size of St. Thomas, despite having a similar population. Comparatively, St. John and Water Island are considerably smaller.
Throughout its history, St. Croix has seen the flags of seven different nations fly over its lands: Spain, Great Britain, the Netherlands, France, the Knights of Malta, Denmark, and the United States. For history enthusiasts, this island is a must-visit.
On St. Croix’s northern shore, you’ll find Christiansted, once the capital of the Danish West Indies. It boasts charming 18th-century buildings with butter-colored facades, red roofs, and picturesque stone streets. To the west, its twin city, Frederiksted, is home to a fort that once defended the island against pirates and rival nations. Scattered across the landscape between them, you’ll encounter the remnants of numerous sugar and cattle estates. One of these estates has been transformed into a botanical garden with beautifully restored structures. At the island’s tip stands Point Udall, featuring its iconic sundial monument, marking the easternmost point in the United States.
St. Croix offers not only a rich historical experience, but also stunning beaches, world-class recreational activities, fine dining options, resorts, casinos, and golf courses. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to explore the island’s unique expressions of arts, crafts, music, festivals, and cultural events.
Biden’s choice of destination, the tranquil beaches of the U.S. Virgin Islands couldn’t be further from the frenetic pace of the nation’s capital.
As the President grapples with looming questions about his political future, dwindling approval ratings, and an escalating situation involving U.S. military deployments in the Middle East, the Caribbean offered a much-needed respite. In search of solace and relaxation, they found refuge at the luxurious beachfront residence of their generous benefactors, Bill and Connie Neville.
Bill and Connie Neville, prominent Democratic donors with a prosperous background in the tech industry, have been longstanding friends of the Bidens. Notably, they were guests of honor at a White House state dinner alongside French President Emmanuel Macron. Their opulent villa, nestled in an exclusive area where properties can command prices up to $3 million, is the epitome of coastal opulence. With three bedrooms, a sparkling pool, and private beach access, it offers the epitome of island luxury.
While basking in the seclusion of this serene enclave, President Biden will have the opportunity to admire sweeping bay vistas. In addition, he may take advantage of one of St. Croix’s esteemed golf courses. All of this provides a welcome respite as he confronts a gathering political storm on the mainland.
