In 1493 Christopher Columbus didn’t see much appealing here and sailed on. The Danish later claimed the island and established settlements. St. Thomas became a key trade and fueling station for trans-Atlantic travel. With very tolerant standards, pirates like Edward Teach known better as Blackbeard set up base here. The main city was called Taphus for all the taverns lining the harbor until in an effort to clean up its image the city's name was changed to Charlotte Amalie, for Danish King Christian’s wife. Today as a part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is a major cruise port with incredible duty-free shopping and some of the world’s top-rated beaches. Put on the sunscreen and join Eric for a tropical stay in wonderful St. Thomas.