Helpful Information for Travelers to the Virgin Islands

Traveler Medical Services

Twenty-four hour medical care available at two convenient locations for any problems that may occur during your holiday. Stateside trained staff in emergency medicine and family practice. Walk in or call for appointment at (809) or (340) 775-2303 or 776-6789. Emergencies 772-8348.

Doctors and Dentists

Highly qualified doctors and dentists, who carry degrees from U.S. medical schools, can be found on all three islands. St. Croix and St. Thomas have hospitals; St. John has a clinic.

Travelers' Tips

Do you need a passport for travel to the US Virgin Islands?

U.S. citizens are not required to have passports when traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, but they must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship upon leaving. Some form of identification (driver's license, passport or birth certificate with a picture ID) should be carried. Citizens of any country other than the U.S. should follow U.S. travel regluations.

Tipping

As on the U.S. mainland, tipping of 15% to 20% is customary for service well done. Some hotels automatically add a service charge.

Climate

The Virgin Islands enjoy beautiful weather year round. The difference in average temperature between our warmest and coolest months is 5-7 degrees F. Average temperatures range from 77 degrees in January to April, to 82 degrees in July to 78 degrees in November.

Electrical

Electric outlets on our island take standard North American current, with a 120 volt / 60 cycle.

United States Postal Service

We have the same rates and service. Use airmail outside the U.S.

Clothing

Dress is casual, but please - not too casual. Bathing suits are for the beach, not for the streets. Not only is it frowned upon, but it's against the law. Nights here can be cool (those tropical breezes you know), so bring along a light sweater. And although jackets and ties are rare, they may be required for some of the fancier resorts and .

Driving

We drive on the left. A valid stateside drivers license is all you need.

Transportation

Visitors may choose from a variety of transportation options, from taxi vans to buses to car rentals. Full-service bus lines operate on St. Croix and St. Thomas. Taxi and jeep-rental services are available on all three islands. Taxi vans are the most widely used mode of transportation, and most taxi drivers are able to provide comprehensive tours of the islands. Taxi rates are based on destination rather than mileage.

Pets

Pets are welcome, as long as visitors bring health and inoculation certificates for their animals.

Suntanning

The tropical sun is hot - while enjoying our lovely beaches, be careful when tanning especially around noontime.

Safety

Just like anywhere else, we have crime here too. So have fun but exercise caution. Make sure you have a good map of the US Virgin Islands. When touring on foot, stick to well-lighted streets at night. When going anywhere by car, leave valuables out of sight and locked inside. Better yet, leave them in the safe deposit box at your hotel or on board your ship. Never leave valuables unattended on the beach.

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