The holidays are a time for joyous laughter, coming together, and giving thanks to those most important to you—or at least that’s been the tradition. But maybe next year it’s time to break out a new tradition. The holiday months are the perfect time to take a well-deserved retreat in paradise—away from work, inclement winter weather, and family drama. Retreating to the calm waters of St. John USVI certainly has its perks this time of the year.

Worried you might regret not indulging in the holiday festivities? No worries. There are still plenty of options for getting your Thanksgiving fix while on the vacation of your dreams. Thanksgiving is largely celebrated throughout the Caribbean, most notably in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Some restaurants even offer traditional favorites, in addition to some island specialties!

If you’re looking for something more fun and tropical to do after your Thanksgiving feast, then head over to Coral Bay, St. John, for the Thanksgiving Regatta—which is a large boat race held annually. All classes of boats are welcome to enter the regatta, which could prove to be an exciting family even, regardless of whether or not you choose to participate or simply watch from the shore.

No matter how you choose to spend your time here in St. John, one thing is for certain—your happiness. Of course any vacation away from the stresses of the real world is bound to put a smirk on the most miserable face, but a winter excursion to the tropics of St. John will leave you and your family feeling joyous and rejuvenated.

If you are still hesitant on bringing the whole family, don’t be! There are plenty of activities, locations, and restaurants for the whole family to experience and enjoy. Let your family experience new surroundings, culture, and food this year as you instill a new family tradition.

Although it’s a little late for a Thanksgiving retreat this year, there still time to book your vacation getaway this season. Perhaps consider treating your family to merry surprise this Christmas with a holiday retreat in St. Johns in the upcoming New Year.