This deal has expired, but be sure to check out our Top 25 deals of the week for savings on trips to destinations around the globe.

The U.S. Virgin Islands offer some of the easiest opportunities for a Caribbean escape. As U.S. territories, no passport is required to visit the islands of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, which are reachable within four hours from many cities on the East Coast and in the Southeast. The U.S Virgin Islands Department of Tourism are making it even easier this summer with a new deal that saves at least $500 on a stay of five or more consecutive nights at 26 participating properties on the islands.

Book a trip through participating package operators by visiting the department of tourism's web site before July 31 for travel through Sept. 30, and you will receive the first night free, a $200 credit, and $300 in certificates that can be redeemed at participating restaurants, boutiques, spas, and attractions across the islands.

What makes this deal even more appealing is that it includes stays at places where you wouldn't normally find a bargain. At the Ritz-Carlton, St Thomas, for example, you can save $659 (or 25 percent) on a five-night stay: that breaks down to $1,946 ($390 per night) compared to the $2,605 ($521 per night) it would cost without the free night and $200 credit. If the Ritz is still beyond your budget, you can have a five-night stay at the Tamarind Reef Resort on St. Croix for $800; saving $400.