U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam to Continue Until 2029, Strengthening Island’s Reputation as a Destination for Major Sports Events

The U.S. Virgin Islands’ Paradise Jam basketball tournament will remain a central part of St. Thomas’ sports calendar through 2029, with a new four-year extension confirming its place until November 2029. This prestigious tournament, now in its 27th year, continues to attract top NCAA men’s and women’s basketball teams each November, solidifying the island’s status as a premier destination for major sports events. Beyond the excitement of high-level competition, the Paradise Jam brings substantial economic benefits, driving tourism and supporting local businesses, hotels, and restaurants. As the event evolves, it strengthens St. Thomas’ profile as a world-class venue for large-scale sporting events, boosting both the island’s sports tourism and overall economic growth.

Held annually in November, the Paradise Jam has become an essential part of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ sports tourism landscape. The tournament features Division I basketball programs from around the U.S. who gather in St. Thomas, with games broadcast nationwide, drawing attention from a broad fan base. Combining thrilling basketball matchups with the island’s breathtaking natural beauty, the tournament has established itself as an exciting destination event for fans, families, and alumni alike. Year after year, thousands of visitors flock to St. Thomas for the multi-day competition, making it one of the most eagerly awaited events on the region’s sporting calendar.

Beyond its sporting appeal, the Paradise Jam has emerged as a significant economic force within the U.S. Virgin Islands. The influx of visitors for the tournament plays a vital role in supporting the island’s economy. Hotel rooms fill up quickly, local businesses experience a spike in sales, and the hospitality sector benefits immensely from the large number of tourists, teams, and fans who visit each November. The event serves as an important economic driver, particularly during a critical tourism period, ensuring that the island’s economy sees sustained growth as a result of the tournament.

The continued success of the Paradise Jam highlights the increasing importance of sports tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands. Each year, the tournament brings a steady stream of visitors, contributing to the local economy by boosting sectors such as retail, restaurants, transportation, and attractions. The event not only fills hotels but also strengthens the broader hospitality sector, offering a wide range of benefits for the local community. As such, the new agreement reinforces the Paradise Jam’s status as a central event in the territory’s economic and tourism strategy.

This long-term partnership further solidifies St. Thomas’ reputation as a premier destination for large-scale sporting events. The renewed agreement ensures the island will remain a consistent host for major college basketball tournaments, bolstering the U.S. Virgin Islands’ image as an attractive location for group travel and high-profile competitions. The Paradise Jam’s continued presence reinforces the appeal of St. Thomas as a hub for world-class events set against the backdrop of its idyllic Caribbean scenery.

The extended commitment to the Paradise Jam represents a significant moment in the history of the tournament, ensuring it will remain a cornerstone event for years to come. Not only does the tournament serve as a major highlight for basketball enthusiasts, but it also plays a critical role in enhancing the island’s growing sports tourism sector. As the event continues to evolve and grow in stature, it will only strengthen its position as a leading destination for both sports fans and travelers, showcasing St. Thomas’ stunning beauty and providing unforgettable experiences for all attendees.

The U.S. Virgin Islands’ Paradise Jam will continue in St. Thomas through 2029, further strengthening the island’s reputation as a prime destination for major sports events by attracting top NCAA teams and boosting local tourism and business.

With the tournament’s future secured through 2029, the Paradise Jam is poised to remain a hallmark of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ sports calendar. As the island continues to host one of the most anticipated basketball tournaments of the year, it will contribute to the region’s sustained growth, bringing increased visibility and recognition to the U.S. Virgin Islands as a top-tier destination for both sporting events and tourism. The Paradise Jam’s continued success is a testament to the power of sports tourism and the important role it plays in the economic and cultural fabric of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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Florida Continues to Attract Domestic Spring Break Visitors While Mexico, Greece, and Iceland Rank Highest Internationally in 2026

As Spring Break 2026 nears, Florida continues to lead domestic travel searches, with destinations like Key West, Destin, and Orlando capturing the most attention for their sunny beaches, lively nightlife, and wide range of attractions. The state’s accessibility, diverse resorts, and entertainment options make it the go-to choice for millions of Americans seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. On the international front, Mexico stands out, with Cancún and Puerto Vallarta topping searches for their warm weather, vibrant culture, and affordable beach resorts. Greece and Iceland also draw significant interest, appealing to travelers looking for scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique experiences abroad.

A recent nationwide analysis of Google search trends, covering January 2025 through January 2026, shows that Americans are concentrating their spring break plans on these popular hotspots. While Florida dominates domestic searches, Mexico remains the international favorite, with Cancún leading globally, reflecting a clear pattern of preference for destinations that offer both convenience and memorable experiences.

Mexico Leads International Searches

International travel searches indicate that Mexico remains the top choice for spring breakers. Cancún ranks as the most-searched destination in 13 US states, the highest for any overseas location included in the analysis. Its consistent popularity is likely fueled by a combination of tropical beaches, vibrant nightlife, and extensive resort options catering to a variety of travelers.

Following Cancún, Greece claims the top spot in eight states, offering picturesque islands, historical sites, and Mediterranean charm that appeal to both adventure-seeking students and families. Belize also ranks prominently, securing the first position in five states, thanks to its mix of natural beauty, barrier reefs, and eco-tourism opportunities. Puerto Vallarta, another Mexican destination, leads searches in four states, highlighting the continued allure of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Iceland and Peru round out the list, each taking the top international spot in three states, reflecting growing interest in unique cultural and adventure experiences abroad.

The data indicates a trend toward destinations that combine accessibility with distinctive cultural, recreational, and natural attractions. Countries offering scenic beaches, historical exploration, and outdoor activities appear to resonate most with American travelers planning their spring escapes.

Florida Dominates Domestic Interest

Domestically, Florida continues to command spring break attention. Key West tops the list in 17 states plus Washington, D.C., totaling 18 state-level wins. Destin, Florida, follows closely, leading in 15 states. Together, these two destinations account for 33 of the 51 total domestic top spots, demonstrating a concentrated preference for Florida’s sunny beaches, recreational options, and entertainment amenities.

Where multiple in-state destinations compete, the study identifies a clear leader. In Florida, Orlando surpasses other options due to its combination of family-friendly theme parks, attractions, and nightlife. Texas travelers favor Galveston over South Padre Island and Port Aransas, while South Carolina shows a strong preference for Myrtle Beach over Hilton Head Island. Alabama’s Gulf Shores ranks above Orange Beach, reflecting the popularity of accessible beaches with extensive amenities.

The findings underscore the enduring appeal of destinations offering a balance of leisure, entertainment, and accessibility. Florida’s dominance highlights how a mix of beach culture, nightlife, and varied accommodation options continues to draw domestic travelers year after year.

Trends Shaping Spring Break Travel

The analysis of search patterns reveals several key trends shaping 2026 spring break planning. Travelers are gravitating toward destinations that provide both relaxation and adventure, from sun-soaked beaches to culturally rich locales. Domestic searches emphasize ease of travel, short flight times, and family-friendly options, while international searches highlight exotic destinations that combine natural beauty with unique cultural experiences.

Budget considerations, resort availability, and the popularity of curated experiences—such as eco-tours, water sports, and historical sightseeing—also appear to influence search behavior. Florida’s strong presence in domestic searches suggests that well-known beach destinations remain reliable favorites, while Mexico’s international appeal indicates that travelers are seeking a blend of affordability and immersive experiences abroad.

Top International Spring Break Destinations for 2026

• Cancún, Mexico
• Greece
• Belize
• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Iceland

Top Domestic Spring Break Destinations for 2026

• Key West, Florida
• Destin, Florida
• South Padre Island, Texas
• Lake Havasu, Arizona
• Panama City Beach, Florida

Florida remains the top domestic choice for Spring Break 2026, with Key West, Destin, and Orlando leading searches thanks to their beaches, resorts, and attractions, while Mexico, Greece, and Iceland rank highest internationally as travelers seek sun, culture, and adventure.

Overall, the findings highlight a concentrated but diverse pattern of spring break planning. Florida and select international locations continue to dominate US travelers’ searches, reflecting preferences for sun, sand, cultural immersion, and accessible entertainment. As spring break 2026 approaches, these destinations are set to welcome large numbers of Americans seeking memorable experiences across both domestic and international locales.

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