I've just returned from St. Croix, and am still trying to figure out if its swollen with opportunity & poised for serious growth, or dying the slow death of neglect. The current state of this island could lead one to either conclusion, and you have to wonder what's happening there.

For a first-time visitor, the unmistaken message was "what you see is what you get - take it or leave it". The tourism industry there is clearly talking a good game, but that's about it. Looks like past time to get serious about sprucing up the island and making it inviting to tourists, otherwise, the promotion is just so much hollow noise.

St. Croix has so many things going for it, that it's hard to understand why those who should be interested in its welfare don't appear to be doing much about improving the islands image.

The advertising and promotional materials found in all the usual places indicate that tourism is indeed desirable, and an acknowledged contributor to the local economy, but I got the overall sense it wasn't a particularly high priority.

That being said, I must admit Saint Croix is somewhat intriguing and inviting, especially for those willing to dig a bit deeper, who may be interested in finding their own place in the sun.

Regardless of whether it decides to improve its attractiveness as a desirable place for tourists to visit, it's a beautiful island and one where prices remain well below most other Caribbean destinations. You can still find plenty of locations to build, or existing places to buy, without breaking the bank. Plus it has the advantage of being a U.S. territory.

For those looking for a good deal on property, it doesn't much matter what tourists think, as long as the economy stays viable by other means. If that holds true, then buying property on St. Croix still looks like a good deal without much real down side.

If things stay as they are, property values will continue to grow modestly, and the island will remain much as it is.

On the other hand, it seems a good time to get in, as values could increase dramatically. The islands comparatively large size would allow for many years of sustained growth before it even gets close to becoming as densely populated as St. Thomas, its sister to the north.

So whether St. Croix stays stagnant or spruces up and gains attention, there's not really a down side for those looking for property.

It's also not a bad deal for visitors as long as expectations are properly set. It doesn't have the pizazz of other more popular islands, but neither does a vacation there come with their cost.

If you want a fairly laid-back island with gorgeous views of the ocean, a world to explore underwater, or just a place to enjoy the sun and a good book, then this is it. You'll also find great food, and lots of history.

For divers in particular, it's a must dive destination. Saint Croix is home to the "Wall", a 7-mile long reef running parallel to the north shore, that drops from 50' to 3200'. Scuba divers will find easy diving and lots of choices for spending their bottom time.

I for one hope they get serious about fixing up and promoting the island. A couple quick, and quite visible fixes, would be to simply clear the hugely overgrown roadways, and replace faded out or missing signage in areas of historical significance. These alone would be a vast improvement.