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Local News

Sacred Ground: Exploring the History of St. John’s Cemeteries

Sacred Ground: Exploring the History of St. John’s Cemeteries 1

Cemeteries symbolize a range of sentiments, including love, grief, reflection, and solace. In many ways, these plots of land filled with headstones are for the living. They’re a place to visit departed loved ones and maintain deep connections as they celebrate the lives of those who have moved on.

However, cemeteries also offer historical value, allowing those interested to look into the past. On St. John, there is no lack of history, and much of the past is reflected in the cemeteries that remain today.

Burial traditions have changed over the years, and cultural differences are also a consideration. Each cemetery, like each tombstone, has its own unique story. Here are some places to visit and pay respects or explore more deeply the island you love visiting or call home.

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The Story Behind St. John’s Iconic Donkeys – And Yes, There Are Cute Photos

The Story Behind St. John’s Iconic Donkeys - And Yes, There Are Cute Photos 2

Good morning!

Many visitors love the wildlife of St. John, and the donkeys are certainly a staple.

These feral donkeys have a long history on the island and continue to run free. They roam the island’s fields, roads, and even beaches. They’re gentle, and each has its own personality. So, just because you’ve seen one or even a dozen doesn’t mean you won’t have a unique donkey encounter in the future. That is what’s so fun about these beautiful, gentle creatures. Everyone who has encountered them has their own story.

Here’s how these donkeys became a symbol of St. John and how you can help protect them.

The Story Behind St. John’s Iconic Donkeys - And Yes, There Are Cute Photos 3

Read moreThe Story Behind St. John’s Iconic Donkeys – And Yes, There Are Cute Photos

Local Biologist’s Conservation Film Debuts on St. John

Local Biologist's Conservation Film Debuts on St. John 4

The first time I met Abbie Martin, it wasn’t in the tropical wetlands of the Brazilian Pantanal, but in a pottery class in Coral Bay. We were a motley crew of aspiring ceramic artists, struggling to make forms out of our stubborn clay. 

By the third class, my ceramic aspirations had faded, so I focused on getting to know my classmates instead. I knew Abbie was a skilled boat captain, but it wasn’t until later that I learned the full scope of her work: she founded the Jaguar ID Project and created the largest jaguar demographic database in the world, identifying a staggering 389 jaguars in central South America. 

Local Biologist's Conservation Film Debuts on St. John 5
courtesy of the Jaguar ID Project website

Abbie is the catalyst for wild jaguar conservation in the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland in central South America. Abbie Martin’s work, alongside her team of biologists, is the focus of a new documentary, premiering at the St. John School of the Arts on April 19th at 6:30 pm.

Read moreLocal Biologist’s Conservation Film Debuts on St. John

Business Spotlight: The Saint Unveils New Wellness Programs & Events

Business Spotlight: The Saint Unveils New Wellness Programs & Events 6

Good Morning!

Last week we covered the opening of The Saint, a brand new resort within walking distance to downtown Cruz Bay. It gave a sneak peak in terms of what to expect from enjoying the swim up pool bar as a day pass holder, to staying in a room as a guest at The Saint. Take a moment to click here and read that story if you haven’t already for a more in depth look at the whole property. 

This article will focus on the new wellness programming and events that are being rolled out at The Saint this week. With a focus on holistic well-being, the new programming includes immersive sound healing, yoga and meditation, energy therapies, plant medicine, creative arts, and sacred ceremonies.

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Business Spotlight: Staying at The Saint – A Dive Into St. John’s New Day Club & Spa

Business Spotlight: Staying at The Saint - A Dive Into St. John's New Day Club & Spa 7

Good morning! 

Beautiful St. John, we all know and love this island – the stunning beaches, the laid-back vibes, the pure magic of it all. But now that magic is about to be elevated because of a new wellness resort coming to Cruz Bay. 

I recently got a sneak peek at The Saint, a brand-new wellness resort and day club that’s about to redefine the St. John experience. Consider this your exclusive behind the scenes pass, the second in a series of articles where I’ll be sharing all the details about this incredible place. 

Business Spotlight: Staying at The Saint - A Dive Into St. John's New Day Club & Spa 8
The beautiful display that greets each guest upon arrival

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Discover St. John’s Coral Reefs by Boat

Discover St. John's Coral Reefs by Boat 13

Snorkeling around St. John has always been a favorite hobby of mine: it’s a meditative experience and an opportunity to witness the harmony of underwater life.

Purple sea fans swaying in tune with the water, juvenile fish darting playfully among the reefs, and the occasional, rare sighting of eagle rays gliding through the water is what makes snorkeling St. John such a magical experience.

Not to mention the turquoise water is always an inviting temperature and visibility stays consistent year-round.

Read moreDiscover St. John’s Coral Reefs by Boat