Blackbeard’s Castle, coconut rum, amber, historical houses, lush green hills, ancient forts and grilled octopus are just a few of the things on the menu when you stay in an aparthotel or holiday letting in the capital of the United States Virgin Islands.

When staying in picturesque Charlotte Amalie on the Island of Saint Thomas why not take in some of this region’s swashbuckling history and pay a visit to Blackbeard’s Castle. The 400 year old Fort Skytsborg, a short trip from your apartment rental or serviced residence in Charlotte Amalie, was renamed in honour of the pirate who paid regular visits to the island. Climb to the top for spectacular views and hear the tales of Blackbeard’s demise. Take a browse around the numerous, infamous pirate statues including Blackbeard himself as well as Captain Morgan and the fictional Jack Sparrow. All the staff are in costume adding to the atmosphere and will take you on tours of the rum distillery where you can sample some wonderful mixes, coconut is just delicious. You can also visit the Amber Museum and admire the wonderful pieces of hardened, golden resin. Watch out for the dinosaur.

You will also find lovely historic houses here which you can take a guided tour round with some very knowledgeable tour guides who will provide plenty of historical information. The houses are filled with antiques and numerous exhibits of historic interest giving you an idea of what life would have been like in Blackbeard’s time.

Seven Arches Museum is an 18th century Danish house which has been beautifully restored and converted into a museum and boasts exquisite antique furniture. The owners, who actually live in the property, are more than happy to give you a tour for a small donation.

There are also two swimming pools where you can enjoy a cooling dip, so remember to bring your bathers and don’t forget to pay a visit to the gift shop for all those piratey souvenirs. This entire site is set in the most beautifully tended grounds which also makes for a lovely, peaceful walk. A really fantastic day out and I bet you didn’t know that Blackbeard was married a whopping 25 times, that old rogue.

Before returning to your serviced apartment or holiday let in Charlotte Amalie take a quick detour to Amalia Café for a wonderful evening meal. This sidewalk cafe offers fantastically fresh and flavoursome Spanish cuisine, Al Fresco on the sidewalk and here you can enjoy delicious sangria and the best grilled octopus. Just perfect.

Serviced and self-catered apartments, flats, holiday lets and aparthotels can be up to 30% cheaper than most equivalent hotel rooms and are becoming increasingly popular due to the freedom they offer. Whether it’s a short stay apartment you are looking for or a long term apartment, our holiday apartments combine all the amenities and comforts of home. With plenty of room why stay in a cramped hotel room when you can stay in spacious surroundings in and around Charlotte Amalie.

From budget serviced apartments, through to mid range and luxury serviced apartments, compare prices and get an instant booking confirmation at CityCentreApartments.com