Many people say that the Caribbean is no longer the peaceful and quiet oasis for crowd-free holidays it once was. The packed beaches of the Dominican Republic or St. Lucia can sometimes disappoint travellers who are looking for a break from people. Luckily, there is still one place in the Caribbean that many would not have heard of. A place that is a pure paradise worthy of presidential visits.

That island is St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands, and it’s where Robin Patricia Bass now runs two successful private villa brands offering the kind of barefoot luxury that’s becoming harder to find in the Caribbean. Robin, 50, left behind the hustle and bustle of New York City back in 2015. She moved to St. Croix after a brief visit with her partner and says she knew within three days that she had to stay.

"In August 2015, I traveled with my boyfriend to St. Croix," she told the Express. "His father had property on the island and they wanted me to see the property and look into assisting with marketing.

"After just three days on the island looking at the Caribbean Sea, I had this overwhelming feeling I had to be there. I turned to my partner and said 'Why don't we do the real estate from here?'"

Originally from New Hampshire, Robin had spent two decades in the travel and hospitality industry in the US, including roles at the Grand Hyatt in New York and the New York Tourism Bureau.

Looking for a slower pace and a stronger sense of community, Robin decided to follow her passion and start a new chapter in the Caribbean.

“I was looking for a sense of community,” she said. “I craved less of the busyness. It was tough in the beginning, but I stuck with it.”

She earned her real estate licence, worked on commission, and built a reputation as a trusted local expert.

In 2021, she launched Premier Properties USVI, followed by Aura Villas USVI in 2025 - a new sister brand aimed at more affluent travellers.

The villas she offers range from affordable to ultra-luxurious.

Prices start at around $175 (£140) per night for a one-bedroom and rise to $2,000 (£1,600) for a seven-bedroom beachfront estate.

Each property is carefully selected for privacy, views, and unique charm.

Guests can choose from hillside retreats, marina condos, or homes with private bars, infinity pools and panoramic views of nearby Buck Island.

Full concierge services come as standard, and Robin promises “memories to last a lifetime”. There is even a private chef.

“This island is still authentic and untouched,” Robin said. She added: “No one has heard of it and it's brimming with authenticity and nature. We are an off the beaten track hidden gem - truly a quiet luxury in the Caribbean.

“We don’t have mass-market chains or big resorts. It’s a real antidote to overtourism.”

St. Croix, part of the United States since 1917, has a fascinating past.

It’s home to Alexander Hamilton’s family roots, and its culture blends American, Danish, African and Caribbean influences.

It also has connections to Hollywood - scenes from The Shawshank Redemption were filmed here - and has welcomed famous visitors like Joe Biden, who frequently vacations on the island with his family.

For travellers, the island offers rainforest trails, coral reefs, historical forts, and quiet beaches without the crowds.

And getting there isn’t too difficult - a short flight from Miami or Charlotte connects visitors to paradise.

“It’s a bit longer from Europe, but definitely worth it,” Robin added. Flights can be found from London to Miami for as little as £186 with Norse Atlantic Airways.

With her two brands now flourishing and a deep network of local partners, Robin says her biggest mission is to ensure every guest feels valued.

“We work with all of our clients to create a highly personal and memorable experience,” she said. “It’s not just about luxury. It’s about kindness.”

And there are plenty of personal touches - like a jewellery tradition unique to the island.

“Locals make gorgeous rings and necklaces from shipwreck porcelain,” Robin said. “You find pieces on the beach and take them to a jeweller - it’s stunning and so special.”

For Robin, St. Croix isn’t just a business location - it’s home. “I’ve poured my heart into curating this collection. One trip here is never enough.”