blog1 » US Virgin Islands

US Virgin Islands Local Dialect: Words, Phrases and Sayings

Blogger — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:43:53 +0000

Understanding local dialects can help english-speaking travelers feel right at home when communicating with those locals who speak in dialect.

English 74.7%, Spanish or Spanish Creole 16.8%, French or French Creole 6.6%, other 1.9%

Here are some of U.S. Virgin Islands, phrases, meanings available below:

Meeno – (me aint know) I don’t know

Wha yuh sayin – what’s up

Hail up – hi, hello

Ya – here (St. Croix)

Heh – here (St. Thomas, St. John, BVI)

Cyan (sometimes spelled “kyan”) – cannot

Safe – all right, or okay, i.e. “you safe”

Whe pa’ he/she/yuh deh? – Where is/are he/she/you

Whe’ he/she/yuh deh? – Where is/are he/she/you?

Deh deh – It is here/It is there (St. Croix)

He/she ain deh deh – He/she isn’t there (St. Croix)

He/she ain deh – He/she isn’t there (St. Thomas, St. John, BVI)

I/he/she gon to come back – I/he/she left and am/is returning shortly

I/he/she deh ya – I/he/she am/is here (St. Croix)

Come ya – come here (St. Croix)

Come heh – come here (St. Thomas, St. John, BVI)

I’s – I am

Yuh/ yo – your as in “wah happen to yuh foot?”

You’s – you are

Ahyuh – all of you

* Deh – there
* Dem – them (can also be added at the end of any noun to make it plural, as in “de hass dem”)
* De’ – the, as in “see de’ tings dem rite deh” (see the things right there)
* Dat – that
* Das – that is
* Dah – that
* Ting – thing
* Tek – take
* Mek – make
* Wha – what
* Geh – get, or have
* Cah – because (never used on its own, only used in conjunction with other words in a sentence)
* Faarm – thing, used to describe something, use is similar to colloquial use of “shit” to describe objects or
things
* Fetch – used similarly as “faarm” “Wah fetch I seein here?”
* Blak – (Block) To ignore
* Move from ya/Geh from ya – go away (St. Croix)
* Geh from heh – go away (St. Thomas, St. John, BVI)
* Nah – no
* Clear – light-skinned (similar to the term “red-bone” used by American Southern Blacks to describe light-
skinned Black persons)
* Ih – it, as in “ih real hot outside” (it is really hot outside)
* Ah – of, as in “I geh two ah dem” (I have two of them)
* Ah nex – another, as in “I geh ah nex one” (I have another one)
* Vex – upset (vex is also an English word, but it is used much more often in Virgin Islands Creole than in
standard English)
* Tief – to steal
* Jook/Chook – to stab or poke
* Schupid – stupid
* Parah – crazy, paranoid
* Bus’ off – to leave
* Qaul – shortened form of “quarrel”, i.e. Wha yo quallin fa? (What are you quarreling about)
* Bun tyas – to make skid marks with the tires of a car
* Cahn – marijuana
* Bun – to smoke, usually refers to smoking marijuana
* Wuk up – to dance (usually specific to calypso or soca music)
* Breeding – the state of being pregnant
* Breed – to impregnate
* Breed aff – to impregnate someone/the action taken to become pregnant
* Dealin – when a couple is not yet officially dating, but are on their way to be; the equivalent to the
stateside phrase “talking”
* Deh Togeda – literally “they’re together”, used when a couple is officially dating (St. Croix)
* Mahgah/Meeguh – meager, extremely skinny
* All ah we – all of us
* Cheese and bread – (OR jeez-um-bread) a remark of surprise
* Eh eh – a remark of surprise
* Mehson – literally “my son,” commonly used at the beginning or ends of sentences, akin to the American
English slang use of “oh, man!”
* Deh man (Eeh de man) – use is similar to “mehson.”
* Azman – I agree; ie Someone says “Dah fetch hot today mehson.” (It is hot today.) If you agree that it
is hot you would respond by saying “Azman”
* Yuh chek? – asked at the end of a sentence, akin to saying “you know?”
* Chek you latah – see you later
* Uh huh pampa leh-leh – a remark made by school children when another student has gotten in trouble
* Uh huh pinkidi wahp mahmy sook a lollipop – similar to above
* Coo-coo – the act of defecation, or feces (commonly said by children)
* Rample – to mess up, as in “Don’ rample up de bed I mek up, mehson!”
* Quelbe – official music of the U.S. Virgin Islands, formerly known as “scratch music”
* Quadrille – native dance of the Virgin Islands and other Caribbean countries
* Bahn ya – literally “born here,” an important and commonly used phrase in Virgin Islands society, used by
some to determine whether someone is or is not a “native Virgin Islander.” For example, someone might
say “my parents are from Antigua, but I’m a Virgin Islander, because I bahn ya!”
* Bam! – said after someone has made a stupid joke. Primarily used on St. Croix, its usage is not as
common in recent years.
* Blam! – same as Bam!
* Wraut up – cursed out
* Lyah – liar
* Ah good! – serves you right (St. Croix)
* Ihs good! – serves you right (St. Thomas)
* Seerias! – serious, used when one is serious and is not joking
* Foh true? – you serious?
* Yuh sick de man? – are you crazy?
* Chek yah – come here
* Watch yah! – look at this. Term of endearment used before, after, or during an argument. (St. Croix)
* Ignohrant (also Ignant) – one who gets “vex” quick.
* Gahn een – someone who is crazy; lost their mind.
* Lime/Limin – location of a party or hangout; hanging out.
* Buss Ah Lime – “Lewee Go Buss Ah Lime” (Let us go out.)
* Pickin Whelks – wearing pants with pant legs that are obviously too short.
* Hall Up – Wearing pants above belly button.
* Disgustin – being extremely playful; harassing
* Mos Defenetly – that is true; in high agreement with.
* Neva Dat – never, ever (a instant reaction or response)
* Nah Dat Deh – no sir
* Self – often used in conjunction with a pronoun, (i.e. me’en self know, meaning “I don’t know, myself”)
* Jokey – silly, often used to describe someone who is not serious
* Bazzidy – not thinking straight/acting logically (more as a consequence of being distracted from being in
love)
* Bag-up – Grounded, in punishment
* Licks – a beating
* Bana : as a real ass (you is a real bana)(you are stupid)
* Rass : meaning the term you ( Ur rass stchupid yah)
* Baxide – Butt or ass. Like saying kick his butt
* Bun – means to be cheated on or to have caught a clapse
* My boy or my girl – is used to acknowledge a friend
* Kyard/Hard Kyard – means to cheat on your spouse or lover
* Diff’rently; (differently) means that the person agrees with what you are saying or appreciates a
compliment
* Kriss – very good, perfect
* Lee – means to leave (I gahn lee ah you: I am leaving) OR (Lee di ting alone: Leave it alone)(St.
Thomas, St. John, BVI)
* Koolin – relaxing (I juss deh ya/heh/here koolin – I’m just relaxing.)
* Oh Lawd – oh Lord
* Oh Gawd – oh God
* Fo true – is that the truth?
* Wha mek – why, as in “Wha mek you do dat?” (Why did you do that?)
* Bell – ditsy, dumb
* Dingee – slow thinker
* Dingbat – silly person, uses no sense
* Foolee – a complete idiot
* Eediot – name given/used for one who continuously acts foolish
* Deading – laughing very hard
* Tek a leak – go the urinate
* Scatta – to command someone to leave
* Scatta yo baxide – “get from around me”
* Das wah I tryn’ sho yo! – “That is what I’m trying to explain to you.”
* You doan done – “you’re out of hand” or “you never stop with your craziness.”
* Mahnin (as in “Good Mahnin”) – good morning, a typical greeting among islanders.
* Chi’ren dem – children
* Massive – clique i.e. Crucian Massive, Valley Massive, North Side Massive, Round de Field Massive,
Thomas ville Massive, etc.
* Muddah – mother
* Fahddah – father
* Neyney – godmother
* Pepe – godfather
* Gongolo – millipede
* Puss/Gyul/gyal – girl
* Pussman – a male player
* Toss – boyfriend/girlfriend or a pretty/handsome girl/boy
* Kyat – player of either sex (but primarily used for males)
* Yankee/Cont’nental – a person from the United States
* Gahrot/Gyasso/Islo – Gahrot is originally a reference to a person from Antigua but generally means a
person originally from another Eastern Caribbean island not including the U.S. and British Virgin Islands
(down islander). The term is used as a slight originating in the “garrot bird”, a bird that steals objects;
Gyasso is from garcon, a French patois speaker while local poor white French were referred to as Cha
Cha folk.
* Papa – a person from Puerto Rico
* Santo/Santo Domingan – a person from the Dominican Republic.
* Bukra – a White man.
* Babylon – the United States, the police, or the government
* The Bob – short form of Babylon, but only referring to the United States
* Chicken fry – fried chicken (U.S. Virgin Islands)
* Chicken and chips – fried chicken and French fries (British Virgin Islands)
* Lahlah – idle gossip
* Mih-lay – malicious gossip
* Licks/whoop – spanking (a form of child discipline)ie. “I gon whoop yo lil’ ass.”
* Donkey years – many years
* Science – if someone says something out of context
* Hass – horse (St. Croix)
* Cyar – car (St. Croix)
* Bahnah – a person’s behind
* Foot – consists of the whole leg and thigh area (no specification between the leg or foot. all considered
the foot.)
* Jumbie/Soucoyant – an evil spirit
* Obeah – African-derived religious traditions commonly used to do harm. Derived from the days when
African slaves in the Virgin Islands used obeah against their masters.
* Mocko Jumbie or Moko Jumbie – a popular carnival figure who is a masked, costumed person on stilts who
scares away evil spirits
* Pardnah or Partna – a friend, companion or close associate
* Quaht/Quata – a quarter
* Bubbla – water fountain (St.Thomas/St.John)
* Tahmun – tamarind (St. Thomas)
* Tambrahn – tamarind (St. Croix)
* Jam – a party
* Grave yahd – literally the “grave yard”; the cemetery
* Moomoo – fool, as in “das a moomoo”
* Goonk – an extremely large head (British Virgin Islands)
* Gargan/Bigga/Big Man/Bahss/Bahss Man – street reference to one who is well respected.
* Coonoomoonoo – a fool
* Ahyo you guys or you all(CRUS) ===Profane words/expressions===
* Rizzla – joint
* Buck – built or smells bad
* Antiman, battyman – a gay person
* Rass – ass
* Ram – euphemism for rass, not as vulgar. Could also be used to describe a situation where there is a
crowd of people, for example “the club ram pack” (the club is packed)
* Sket/skettel – a sexually promiscuous woman
* Jam – to gyrate on, or dance closely to
* Muddascunt – literally the Virgin Islands creole pronunciation of “mother’s cunt,” its use is similar to
“motherfucker.”
* Geh yo muddascunt! – a common insult* Wife – sex (the act – past, present or future)
* Mention – another term for lyin or joker.
* Sauce/poptart – A gay man
* Fagit – punk, a weak person, homosexual
* Well my peace/well my fukin peace – state of shock or disbelief
* Confusion – trouble

US Virgin Islands Map

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:39:42 +0000

Map Of US Virgin Islands

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US Virgin Islands Calendar Of Events

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:36:30 +0000

The US Virgin Islands
Annual Events
The U.S. Virgin Islands offer year-round
warm weather. So, no matter which month
you are visiting in, you can experience a
bit of this island culture. From concerts to
sporting events, there is something for
everyone in the US Virgin Islands.

The list below presents an overview of the
major events in the island area.

January
St. Croix Christmas Festival. Late
December-Early January. For information,
please call (340) 773-1830.

February
St. Croix House Tour. February – March.
For information please call (340) 772-0598.
Candlelight Concert at Estate Whim. Mid
February. St. Thomas. For information
please call (340) 772-0598.
Valentine’s Day Jump-Up. Mid February.
Christiansted, St. Croix. For information
please call (340) 773-1991.

March
St. Croix House Tour. February – March.
For information please call (340) 772-0598.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Mid March.
Christiansted, St. Croix.
Starving Artists Day at Estate Whim Plantation.
Late March. St. Croix. For information please
call (340) 772-0598.

April
Annual Rolex Cup Regatta. Early April. Hosted
by the St. Thomas Yacht Club at Cowpet Bay,
this regatta features world racers competing
with sailors from neighboring islands. The
winner of each class gets a Rolex watch.
For information please call (340) 773-9333.
Virgin Islands Carnival. Late April- Early
May. St Thomas. For information please
call (340) 776-3112.

May
Virgin Islands Carnival. Late April- Early May.
St Thomas. For information please call
(340) 776-3112.
Memorial Day Regatta. Late May. St Croix
Yacht Club.

June
Warren Young Memorial Race. Mid June.
St Croix Yacht Club.
Father’s Day Trailwalk & Picnic. Mid June.
St Croix Landmarks Society.

July
Virgin Islands’ Emancipation Day. Early
July.
St. John Carnival Parade. Early July.

August
St. Thomas USVI Open Atlantic Blue Marlin
Tournament. Early August. To benefit the
Virgin Islands Council of Boy Scouts. For
information, please call (340) 775-1929.
St. Thomas Arts Alive Lifestyle Expo. Early
August. At Tillet Gardens. For information,
please call (340) 775-1929.
St. Thomas Open. Late August. Competition
at the Mahogany Run Golf Course. For
information, please call (340) 777-6006.
St. Thomas August Madness Day Race.
Late August. For information, please call
(340) 775-6320.

September
Foreign Film Festival. Through September.
At the Whim Plantation Museum, St. Croix.

October
St. Thomas Classics in the Garden Concert .
Late October. Enjoy classical music in an
outdoor setting, located at Tillet Gardens.
For information, please call (340) 775-1929.

November
St. Thomas All Caribbean Charter Yacht Show.
Early November. Many yachts on display
and more. For information, please call
(340) 776-5950.
St. Croix Coral Reef Swim. Late November.
At the Buccaneer. For information, please
call (340) 773-2100.
St. Thomas Arts Alive Holiday Arts and Crafts
Festival. Late November. Featuring arts and
crafts booths, food and more. For information,
please call (340) 775-1929.
Mumm’s Cup regatta. Mid November.
St Croix Yacht Club, sponsored by Mumm’s
Champagne. For information, please call
(340) 773-9333.

December
St. Croix Christmas Festival. Late
December-Early January. For information,
please call (340) 773-1830.
VI Match Racing Championship. Early
December. St Thomas. For information,
please call (340) 775-6321.
Caribbean Christmas Concert. Late December.
Reichold Center. For information, please
call (340)693-1550.
S.J. Boxing Day Memorial Race. Late
December. St. Croix Yacht Club. For
information, please call (340) 773-9333.
Annual Christmas Party. Mid December.
At the Whim Plantation, St. Croix. For
information, please call (340) 772-0598.

US Virgin Islands Important Addresses

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:33:45 +0000

LOCAL TOURIST INFORMATION:

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism;
PO Box 6400;
Charlotte Amalie;
St Thomas;
VI 00804-6400.
Tel: 774 8784
Fax: 774 4390.

U.S. Embassies and Consulates Abroad:

Note that the Bahamas , Cuba , Haiti , and Jamaica are on
Eastern Time. All others are one hour ahead. Note: Some (809)
area codes are expected to change. If you are unable to get
through on (809), consult your telephone directory or the operator.

US Virgin Islands- Division of Tourism St. Croix
P.O. Box 4538
Christiansted, USVI 00822
1-809-773-0495;; FAX
1-809-778-9259;//www.usvi.net

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism
St. Croix
Prederiksted, Custom House Bldg
Strand St
USVI 00840
1-809-772-0357

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism St. John
P.O. Box 200
Cruz Bay, USVI 00830
1-809-776-6450

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism St. Tomas
P.O. Box 6400
Charlotte Amalie, USVI 00830
1-809-774-8784;; FAX +1-809-774-4390

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism (Canada)
33 Niagara St
Toronto, ON M5V 1C2
1-416-362-8784; 800-465-8784; FAX +1-416-362-9841

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(United Kingdom)
2 Cinnamon Row
Plantation Wharf, York Place
London, SW11 3TW, England
44-71-978-5262;; FAX +44-71-924-3171

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(Germany)
Grazer Str. 3-5
6050 Offenbach, Germany
49-69-892008;; FAX +49-69-898892

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(Italy)
Via Gherardini 2
20145 Milano, Italy
39-2-33105841;; FAX +39-2-33105827

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(Japan)
Suite B234B
Hibiya Kokusai Bldg 2-3
Uchisaiwaicho 2-chome
Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100, Japan
81-3-3597-9451;; FAX +81-3-3597-0385

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA)
1270 Ave. of the Americas
New York, NY 10020
1-212-332-2222; 800-USVI-INFO, 800-372-8784;
FAX +1-212-332-2223

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA,GA)
225 Peashtree St, N.E. #760
Atlanta, GA 30303
1-404-688-0906;; FAX +1-404-525-1102

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA,IL)
122 S. Michigan Ave #1270
Chicago, IL 60603
1-312-670-8784;; FAX +1-312-670-8789

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA,CA)
3460 Wilshire Blvd, #412
Los Angeles, CA 90010
1-213-739-0138;; FAX +1-213-739-2005

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA,FL)
2655 Le Jeune Rd #907
Coral Gables, FL 33134
1-305-442-7200;; FAX +1-305-445-9044

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA,DC)
900 17th St. N.W. #500
Washington, DC 20006
1-202-293-3707;; FAX +1-202-785-2542

US Virgin Islands Division of Tourism(USA, PR)
1300 Ashford Ave
Condado, Santurce, Puerto Rico 00907
1-809-724-3816;; FAX +1-809-724-7223

Medical Clinics:

Abdulghani Kareem MD
Address: 40 La Grange
Phone: (1-340) 772-5555

Bombay Bazaar
Address: 2-3 Strand Street
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-3100

Doctors-On-Duty
Address: 3-7-8 Vitraco Park
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-7966
Fax: (1-340) 774-1928

Watergate Weliness Center Inc.
Address: Bolongo Bay
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 715-3040

Hospitals:

Roy L. Schneider Hospital & Community Health
Center (Sugar Estate, U.S. Virgin Islands.
PHONE: 340/776-8311).
St. Thomas

Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital and Health Center
(6 Diamond Ruby, north of Sunny Isle Shopping Center

on Rte. 79, Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/778-6311).
St. Croix

Ingeborg Nesbitt Clinic (516 Strand St., Frederiksted,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/772-0260).
St. Croix

Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center
(Rte. 10, about 7 mins east of Cruz Bay,
Susannaberg, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/693-8900).
St. John

Pharmacies:

Havensight Pharmacy (Havensight Mall, Charlotte Amalie,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-1235).
St. Thomas

Kmart Pharmacy (Tutu Park Mall, Tutu,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/777-3854).
St. Thomas

Sunrise Pharmacy (Red Hook,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/775-6600,
Vitraco Park, near Havensight Mall, PHONE: 340/776-7292).
St. Thomas

D&D Apothecary Hall (501 Queen St., Frederiksted,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/772-1890).
St. Croix

Kmart Pharmacy (Sunshine Mall, Cane Estate,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/692-2622).
St. Croix

People’s Drug Store, Inc. (Sunny Isle Shopping Center,
Rte. 70, Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/778-5537).
St. Croix

Chelsea Drug Store (The Marketplace Shopping Center,
Rte. 104, Cruz Bay, U. S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-4888).
St. John

Emergencies Contact Information:

Area Code: 340

Hospital (340) 776-6400

St John, US Virgin Islands

Hospital (340) 776-6400

Police Department (340) 693-8880

US Coast Guard (340) 774-6663 emergency only (787) 289-2040

Marine Safety Detachment (PHONE: 340/772-5557

USN Operations Center Recompression Chamber (787) 865-2000

Diving Accident Network-Duke University Medical Center (919) 684-8111

VI Territorial Emergency Management Agency (340) 776-6446

Ambulance, Fire, and Police 911 Phone: (340) 693-8880

Air Ambulance Network (PHONE: 800/327-1966).

Medical Air Services (PHONE: 340/777-8580 or 800/643-9023).

Area Code – 340

St Thomas, US Virgin Islands

Hospital (340) 776-8311

Police Department (340) 774-2211

US Coast Guard (340) 774-6663 emergency only (787) 289-2040

Marine Safety Detachment (PHONE: 340/776-3497

USN Operations Center Recompression Chamber (787) 865-2000

Diving Accident Network-Duke University Medical Center (919) 684-8111

VI Territorial Emergency Management Agency (340) 774-2244

Ambulance, Fire, and Police 911 Phone: (340) 693-8880

Air Ambulance Network (PHONE: 800/327-1966).

Medical Air Services (PHONE: 340/777-8580 or 800/643-9023).

Area Code – 340

St Croix, US Virgin Islands

Hospital (340) 778-6311

Police Department (340) 778-2211

US Coast Guard (340) 774-6663 emergency only (787) 289-2040

Marine Safety Detachment (PHONE: 340/776-3497

USN Operations Center Recompression Chamber (787) 865-2000

Diving Accident Network-Duke University Medical Center (919) 684-8111

VI Territorial Emergency Management Agency (340) 774-2244

Ambulance, Fire, and Police 911 Phone: (340) 693-8880

Air Ambulance Network (PHONE: 800/327-1966).

Medical Air Services (PHONE: 340/777-8580 or 800/643-9023).

Area Code – 340

Scuba-Diving Emergencies:

Roy L. Schneider Hospital & Community Health Center
(Sugar Estate, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-2686).

Emergency Air Services:

Medical Air Services Association
Address: Orange Grove
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 773-7979
Fax: (1-340) 773-4552

Advanced Air Ambulance
Phone: (1-800) 633-3590
E-Mail Address: info@flyambu.com

AAA Air Ambulance
Phone: (1-800) 327-1966

Skymed Virgin Islands Inc.
Address: 25 Anchor Way Gallows Bay
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 713-9991

Ferry Services:

Transportation Services
Address: Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 776-6282

Tuglife Car Ferry (St. John Barge)
Address: Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 775-6279

Virgin Island Fast Ferry
Address: Gallows Bay, Christiansted
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: 1-340-719-0099 (December–May) / 1-877-733-9425 (June-November)
Email: contact@virginislandsfastferry.com

Automobile Rentals:

US. Virgin Islands (St. Croix)

Atlas Leasing Company

Address: La Grande Princesse
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-2886

Budget Rent-A-Car
Address: Henry E Rohisen Airport
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-9636 / (1-800) 626-4516

Gold Mine Car Rental
Address: 1 Strand Street
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-0299

Thrifty Car Rental
Address: 213 La Grande Princesse, Christiansted
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-7200
Fax: (1-340) 773-7202

Preferred Rentals
Address: Henry E Rohisen Airport
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-9744
Fax: (1-340) 778-9843

US. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas)

Avis Rent A Car System
Address: Cyril E. King Airport
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1172
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-1468
Fax: (1-340) 776-2932

Dependable Car Rental
Address: 214 B-1 Altona & Welgunt
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-800) 522-3076
Fax: (1-340) 777-9535

Discount Car Rental
Address: 14 Contant
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-4858 / (1-877) 478-2833

E-Z Car Rental
Address: East End
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 775-6255 / (1-800) 524-2027

First Truck & Car Rental
Address: 15 Lindberg Bay
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-3730

US. Virgin Islands (St. John)

Best Rent A Car Of St John
Address: 300 Contant & Enighed
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 693-8177
Fax: (1-340) 693-8860

Horizon Rent-A-Car Inc.
Address: 1B Glynn
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 779-3900

Paris Car Rental / Hertz Rent-A-Car
Address: 4B Estate Enighed
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 693-7580 / (1-800) 654-3001

Spencer’s Jeep Rentals
Address: 1A Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-888) 776-6628
Fax: (1-340) 693-8399

St John Car Rental Inc.
Address: Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 776-6103
Fax: (1-304) 776-6103
E-Mail Address: raintree@islands.vi

Taxi Companies:

US. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas)

Agyenim’s Taxi Service & Tours
Address: Raphune Hill
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-1031

Allie’s Taxi Stand
Address: Veterans Drive
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 777-8007

Dohm Per Water Taxi
Address: 2Y-1 Nazareth
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 775-6501
E-Mail Address: vitaxi@viaccess.net

US. Virgin Islands (St. Croix)

Golden Rock Taxi
Address: Golden Rock Shopping Center
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-7007

F’Sted Taxi & Tours
Address: 54 Two Brothers
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 772-4775

St Croix Taxi Cab Association
Address: Henry E Rohisen Airport
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-1088
Fax: (1-340) 778-6887

US. Virgin Islands (St. Johns)

St John Taxi Services Inc.
Address: Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 693-7530

Cruises:

Hail Mary Harbor Cruises
Waterfront, Christiansted
Tel: (340) 690-BOAT or (340) 773-9500
Email: marysimpson150@hotmail.com

Internet Service Providers:

AT&T Of The Virgin Islands
Address:
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-6000
Fax: (1-340) 778-1903

St Thomas Communication

Address: 168 Crown Bay Marina
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-4324

V I Powernet
Address: Buccaneer Mall Suite 210
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 779-9999
Fax: (1-340) 774-4583
E-Mail Address: staff@vipowernet.net

Viaccess
Address: Buccaneer Mall
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-0024
Fax: (1-340) 774-0008

Vitelcom Powernet
Address:
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 714-3700
Fax: (1-340) 774-4583

Internet Cafes:

Cyber Celtic Café / Quiet Mon Pub
Address: Cruz Bay Town
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-304) 779-4799

Every Ting
Address: Cruz Bay, Bay Street
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-304) 693-5820

Little Switzerland Internet Cafe
Address: Main Street

Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-2010

Travel Agents and Bureaus:

World Wide Travel Inc.

Address: 19 Norre Gade
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-2424
Fax: (1-340) 774-7548

World Wide Travel Inc.
Address: 19 Norre Gade
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-2424
Fax: (1-340) 774-7548

Travel Desk Of St Croix
Address: 72 Flag Drive
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-8220
Fax: (1-340) 773-2339

Regency Travel
Address: 227 Reuckle Building
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-3331

St John Adventures Unlimited
Address: 3AA Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 693-7730

At Your Service Travel Agency
Address: Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 776-6232
Fax: (1-340) 776-6373

Airline Companies:

Air St Thomas
Address: Cyril E King Airport
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-2722
Fax: (1-340) 776-2992
E-Mail Address: air.st.thomas@att.net

Delta Air Lines
Address: Cyril E King Airport
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-800) 221-1212

Executive Air
Address: Henry E Rohisen Airport
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-2000
Fax: (1-340) 779-3838

Vieques Air Link Inc.
Address: Henry E Rohisen Airport
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-9858

Clair Aero Inc.
Address: Cyril E King Airport
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-7790

Banks:

Banco Popular De Puerto Rico
Address: Charlotte Amalie
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 693-2777

Chase Manhattan Bank
Address: Waterfront Branch
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 775-7777

First Bank
Address: 6 King Street
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-0504

Mid Island Federal Credit Union
Address: 49 Castle Coakle
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-6297
Fax: (1-340) 778-3616

The Bank Of Nova Scotia
Address: 214 C Altona & Welqunst
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-0037
Fax: (1-340) 776-5997

The Bank Of Nova Scotia
Address: 4500 Estate Diamond, Christiansted
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 778-5350
Fax: (1-340) 778-5898

The Bank Of Nova Scotia
Address: 1B Cruz Bay
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-340) 776-6552
Fax: (1-340) 776-6554
Categories: Banks

Virgin Islands Community Bank
Address: 12-13 King Street
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-0440

Tourism info centers:

Arawak Expeditions Inc.
Address: 42 Chocolate Hole, P.O. Box 853
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-800) 238-8687
E-Mail Address: arawak@worldnet.att.net

Atlantis Submarines Inc.
Address: Havensight Mall
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-5650
Fax: (1-340) 776-2919
E-Mail Address: atlantis@viaccess.net

Caribbean Pelican Rides
Address: Veterans Drive
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-7808

Power Places Tours & Conferences Inc.
Address: 4 King Street
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 772-2030
Fax: (1-340) 772-1392

Southerland Tours
Address: Chandlers Wharf, Gallows Bay
Island: St. Croix
Phone: (1-340) 773-9500
Fax: (1-340) 773-8307
E-Mail Address: southerland@viaccess.net

Tourists’attractions:

Estate St. Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens
Address: 6 AA St Peter Mtn Rd
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-4999

Paradise Point Tramway
Address: 17-16 Estate Thomas
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-9809
Fax: (1-340) 774-9955

World Famous Mountain Top
Address: 3A-18 Mountain Top
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 774-2400
Fax: (1-340) 777-4691

Sightseeing tours:

St. Croix Safari Tours
SWEENY TOUSSAINT – Owner/Operator
Toll Free: 1-800-524-2026
Local: 340-773-6700
Email: sjtouss@hotmail.com

Whim Plantation Museum
St. Croix Landmarks Society
52 Estate Whim
(Located on Centerline Road – Rt. 70)
Frederiksted, St. Croix VI 00840
Tel: (340) 772-0598
Fax: (340) 772-9446
Email: Landmark@viaccess.net

Carambola Golf & Country Club
72 Estate River
Kingshill, VI 00851
Voice: (340) 778-5638
Fax: (340) 779-3700
Email: info@golfcarambola.com

The St. George Village Botanical Garden
127 Estate St. George, Frederiksted,
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands 00840.
Phone: (340) 692-2874
Fax: (340) 692-6154
Email: ggarden2@viaccess.net

US Virgin Islands Things To Do

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:31:10 +0000

Barrington-Hall Corporation
Affordable Sailing Vacations for families and groups. Power Yachts, Crewed Catamarans & luxury sailboats of all sizes.
Free Advice for the passionate traveler. Quality details separate one group from the rest. Visit their Web site for more information. Email: info@sailing-vacations.net (Ph: 954 917-0595 Toll Free: 800 478-2029)

Captain Nautica – Power Raft Expeditions Captain Nautica offers full day “Best of the B.V.I.’s” or Half Day “Virgin Isles
Snorkeling Escapade” boat trips. Captain Nautica is the Fun Way To Go!

Ed Hamilton & Co. is a yacht charter booking agency offering free independent advice on all Caribbean bareboat companies and crewed yachts,power or sail. Visit their Web site for crewed and bareboat slide shows, boat descriptions and information on all aspects of Caribbean chartering.

New Horizons
A full day sail aboard New Horizons is an all-inclusive trip to 2 islands for snorkeling. This 65′ sailboat provides everything for you: Continental Breakfast, premium open bar, hot Italian buffet lunch, snorkeling equipment with instruction and much, much more!!. 6501 Red Hook Plaza, Suite 16 St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands 00802 Email: newhorizons@viaccess.net
(Phone: Toll Free 800 808-7604 or 340 775-1171 Fax: 340 774-5825)

Oasis Marigot specializes in Bareboat and Crewed Yacht Vacations for visits to St. Lucia, Martinique and The Grenadines. Guests also have a choice of three types of accommodations – designed to fit most budgets.

Virgin Traders Motor Yachts
(Toll Free: 888 684-6486 Phone: 284 495-2526 Fax: 284 495-2678) Virgin Traders Motor Yachts are based out of Nanny Cay on Tortola in the British Virgin Islands and serve both the British and US Virgin Islands. They offer a range of high
quality Motor Yachts from 40ft, either Bareboat or Skippered. Please visit their Web site to begin your cruise to Paradise with what is regarded as the finest Fleet available today anywhere in the Caribbean.

ST. THOMAS
MOUNTAIN TOP TOUR*

Visit Bluebeard’s Castle, Drake’s Seat, and Moutain Top, the highest point on St. Thomas.
After a refreshing drink while enjoying the view, enjoy an afternoon of tax-free shopping in
downtown Charlotte Amalie.

ST. JOHN & TRUNK BAY*

Depart your hotel early in the morning and board the ferry to St. John for a tour of the
national park and the Annaberg ruins. After a picnic lunch at Caneel’s Cinnamon Bay, enjoy
snorkelling at Trunk Bay.

ATLANTIS SUBMARINE*

An adventurous submarine excursion, consisting of a 50-minute underwater tour and
harbour cruise.

CHARLOTTE AMALIE

A shopper’s dream! Once a gathering place for pirates, the streets are now lined with
duty-free shopping- most popular areas are the Waterfront, Main Street, Back Street, and
the Havensight Mall.

CORAL WORLD:

This educational center is teriffic fun for kids, and allows visitors to explore the wonders of
coral reefs. Highlights include the 80,000 gallon reef tank, the “touch”
tank, and the walk-through observatory.

ST. CROIX
BUCK ISLAND CRUISE

Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of scenic Buck Island, a volcanic inlet surrounded by
hundreds of acres of underwater coral gardens. Cruise to island on glass bottom included.

WHIM GREAT HOUSE

One of the Caribbean’s finest restored great houses. Tour through the windmill, the cook
house, and the actual manor where the furnishings reflect the grandeur of 18th century
colonial St. Croix.

CHRISTIANSTED JUMP-UPS

Single-night events held in February, May, July and November with dancing, music, and
energetic parades!

CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

A month-long islandwide holiday Carnival celebration with Christmas trees, songs and
carolers, culminating in the Three Kings Day Parade in early January.

Reefs:

Buck Island Reef National Monument – St. Croix

Trunk Bay – St. John

Cane Bay – St. Croix

Cow and Calf Rocks – St. Thomas

Tunnels at Thatch – St. Thomas

Sail Rock – St. Thomas

Honeymoon Beach – St. John

Grass Cay – St. John

Flanagan’s Cay – St. John

Outer Brass – St. Thomas

Tunnicate Pinnacle – St. Thomas

Armando’s Paradise – St. Thomas

Tektite – St. John

Carval Rock – St. John

Northstar- St. Croix

Two Brothers

Historic Sites

St. George Village Botanical Garden St. Croix

Estate Whim Plantation Museum – St. Croix

Salt River Bay National Historic Park and Ecological Preserve

WIT Shoal – St. Thomas

Fort Christian – St. Thomas

99 Steps – St. Thomas

Market Square – St. Thomas

Weibel Museum – St. Thomas>

Estate Little La Grange & Lawaetz Museum – St. Croix

Beaches

Coki Beach – St. Thomas

Sapphire Beach – St. Thomas

Magens Beach – St. Thomas

Rainbow Beach – St. Croix

Morning Star Beach – St. Thomas

Hawksnest Beach – St. John

Cinnmon Bay – St. John

Salt Pond Bay – St. John

Hull Bay – St. Thomas

Davis Bay – St. Croix

Bluebeard’s Beach – St. Thomas

Limetree Beach – St. Thomas

Grape Tree Beach – St. Thomas

Caneel Bay – St. John

Brewer’s Bay – St. Thomas

Maho Bay – St. John

Scott Beach – St. John

Tours

Atlantis Submarines International – St. Thomas

Cruzan Rum Distilery – St. Croix

Estate St. Peter Greathouse & Botanical Gardens – St. Thomas

Chris Sawyer Dive Shop – St. Thomas

Heritage Trail – St. Croix

Golf

Carambola Golf Club – St. Croix

Mahogany run Golf Course – St. Thomas

Places of Worship

Beracha Veshalom Vegimulth Hasidim Synagogue – St. Thomas

Frederick Lutheran Church – St. Thomas

St. Thomas

Scuba Diving Directory
Windward Holiday Inn
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 340 777-9802
Toll Free 888 900-3483

Admiralty Yacht Vacations
3700 Villa Olga
Frenchtown, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 340 774-2175
Toll Free 800 544-0493
Fax 340 774-8010

Aqua Action Dive Center
6501 Red Hook Plaza
Suite 15
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802-1306
Telephone 809 775-6285
Toll Free 888 775-6285
Fax 809 775-1501

Blue Island Divers
Suite 505 Crown Bay Marina
Sub Base
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 340 774-2001
Fax 340 777-9600

Caribbean Diver
6200 Frydenhoj
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 809 775-6384
Fax 809 775-0822

Chris Sawyer Dive Center
6300 Frydenhoj
Suite 29
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 340 775-7320
Toll Free 877 929-3483
Fax 340 775-9495

Coki Beach Dive Club
Mr. Peter Jackson
P.O. Box 502096
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00805
Tel/Fax 340 775-4220
Toll Free 800 474-2654 474-COKI

Dive In
P.O. Box 8080
Sapphire Beach Resort and Marina
St Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 340 775-6100 Ext 2144
Toll Free 800 524-2090 ext 2144
Fax 340 775-2403

Drumbeat Charters-Dive & Sail
5100 Long Bay Rd.
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
Telephone 809 774-5630
Fax 809 776-3074

Hi-Tec Water Sports
No.17 Crown Bay
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00804
Telephone 809 774-5650
Fax 809 774-5650

Joe Vogel Diving Co., Inc.
P.O. Box 7322
Villa Olga, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 809 775-7610
Toll Free 800 448-6224

Ocean Fantasies
P.O. Box 9544
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 809 774-5223

Ocean Quest Divers
P.O. Box 3184
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00803
Telephone 809 776-5176
Toll Free 800 544-5911

Regency Yacht Vacations
5200 Long Bay Rd.
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
Telephone 809 776-5950
Toll Free 800 524-7676
Fax 809 776-7631

Sapphire Beach Resort & Marina
Joann Haley
Post Box 8088
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 340 775-6100
Toll Free 800 524-2090
Fax 340 777-3555

Scuba Bob’s
Mr. Robert J. Clements
“Scuba” Bob Clements
9716 Estate Thomas
Suite 8-67
St.Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
United States Virgin Islands
Telephone 340 715-3494

St. Thomas Diving Club
7147 Bolongo Bay
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 340 776-2381
Toll Free 877 838-8734
Fax 340 777-3232

Virgin Islands Charteryacht League, The
Flagship- 5100 Long Bay Road
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 809 774-3944
Toll Free 800 524-2061
Fax 809 776-4468

Trimarine Boat Co, Ltd
Duncan and Annie Murrhead
Owners
P.O. Box 4065
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00803
Telephone 809 494-2490
Fax 702 727-7123
Telephone 702 727-7308
Toll Free 800 648-3393
Fax 809 494-5774

Underwater Safaris
PO Box 304447
Veterans Drive Station
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00803
Telephone 809 494-3235
Telephone 809 494-3965
Telephone 809 494-4118
Fax 809 494-5322

Virgin Islands Diving Schools & Supplies
Bay 1, Building #2P.O. Box 12140
Vitraco Park, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 809 744-8687
Fax 809 774-7368

Virgin Islands Diving Schools Inc.
P.O. Box 9707
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00801
Telephone 809 774-8687
Fax 809 774-7368

Yacht Blue Eagle
5300 Long Bay Road
Suite one
St. Thomas, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 809 690-2671
Telephone 809 774-5935

Wyndham Sugar Bay
Mr. Bob Marshall
6500 Estate
Smith Bay, St. Thomas
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 340 777-7100
Fax 340 777-7200

St. Croix

Cane Bay Dive ShopMr. Hal Rosbach
PO Box 4510
Kingshill, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00851
Telephone 340 773-9913
Toll Free 800 338-3843 338-DIVE
Fax 340 778-5442

St. Croix Ultimate Bluewater Adventures, Inc.
Mr. Ed Buckley
Caravelle Arcade, Suite 14
Christiansted, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00820
Telephone 340 773-5994
Toll Free 877 789-7282 877 STX SCUB
Fax 340 773-5910

Anchor Dive Center
P.O. Box 5588
Christiansted, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00823-5588
Telephone 340 773-3434
Telephone 809 778-8544
Toll Free 800 532-3483 800-532-DIVE

Blue Dimension Dive Center
P.O. Box 5267
Sunny Isles, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00823
Telephone 340 773-8634

Blue Paradise Scuba
Carambola Beach Resort
P.O. Box 3031
Kingshill, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00851
Telephone 340 778-3598

Coral Cliff Diving
Rio Magdalena 14
Soto,
Curacao
Telephone 599 964-2822
Toll Free 800 344-1212
Fax 599 962-5846

Dive Experience
P.O. Box 4254
#1 Stand Street
Christiansed, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00822-4254
Telephone 340 773-3307
Telephone 340 773-0210
Toll Free 800 235-9047
Fax 340 773-7030

Dive St. Croix
59 Kings Wharf
P.O. Box 3045
Christiansed, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00822
Telephone 809 773-3434
Telephone 809 773-2628
Toll Free 800 523-3483
Fax 809 773-9411

Mile Mark Watersports
59 King’s Wharf
Christiansted
Christiansted, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00822-3045
Telephone 340 773-3434
Telephone 340 773-2628
Telephone 800 523-3483
Fax 340 773-9411

S.C.O.R.E./ V.I. Divers
1112 Strand St.
Christiansted, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00820
Telephone 340 773-6045
Toll Free 877 773-6045
Fax 340 773-2859

Scuba West LLC
#12 Strand St. Frederiksted
St. Croix, St. Croix
United States Virgin Islands
00840
Telephone 340 772-3701
Toll Free 800 352-0107
Fax 340 772-1852

St. John

Cinnamon Bay Watersports
P.O. Box 270
Cinnamon Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00830
Telephone 809 776-6458

Coral Divers
Coral Bay Water Sports
10-19 Estate Carolina
Coral Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00830
Telephone 809 693-5938
Toll Free 800 420-3232 800-H203232
Fax 809 776-6850

Cruze Bay Water Sports Co.
P.O. Box 252
St. John, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00831-0252
Telephone 340 776-6234
Telephone 340 779-4351
Toll Free 800 835-7730
Fax 340 693-8720

Dive Shop, The
P.O. Box 70
Cruz Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00830
Telephone 809 776-6256

Low Key Watersports
P.O. Box 716
Wharfside Village, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00831
Telephone 809 693-8999
Toll Free 800 835-7718
Fax 809 693-8999

Paradise Watersports, Inc.
P.O. Box 54
Cruz Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00830
Telephone 809 693-8650
Fax 809 693-8690

St. John Watersports
P.O. Box 70
Mongoose Junction
Cruz Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 809 776-6256
Fax 809 776-7406

P.O. Box 70
Mongoose Junction
Cruz Bay, St. John
United States Virgin Islands
00802
Telephone 809 776-6256
Fax 809 776-7406

SUGAR BEACH
3245 Estate Golden Rock
St. Croix, United States Virgin Islands
00820
Toll Free: 1-800-524-2049
Phone: 340 773-5345 Fax: 340 773-1359
Email: SugarSTX@VIAccess.net

Adventure Winifred
Daysail the classic yacht Winifred from
St. Thomas, The US Virgin Islands to
St. John for the best day of your vacation.
Snorkel, swim, or just relax aboard with
2 to 6 guests. Recommended by The New York
Times. Email: winifred@sailwinifred.com
(Phone: 340 775-7898)

US Virgin Islands Things To Know

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:27:30 +0000

ST. CROIX

Time Zone* EST+1

Summer Sunrise/Sunset: 5:44 AM to 6:56 PM

Winter Sunrise/Sunset: 6:37 AM to 5:49 PM

Average Temperature Summer: 84 degrees F

Average Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average Rainfall: 40″

Rainiest Months: August-October

Water Temperature Summer: 83 degrees F

Water Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average humidity: 70%-80%,

Dry Season: December-June

Hurricane season: June-November

US. VIRGIN ISLANDS: ST. JOHN: Things To Know

Time Zone* EST+1

Summer Sunrise/Sunset: 5:44 AM to 6:57 PM

Winter Sunrise/Sunset: 6:46 AM to 5:49 PM

Average Temperature Summer: 82 degrees F

Average Temperature Winter: 77 degrees F

Average Rainfall: 54″

Rainiest Months: August-October

Water Temperature Summer: 83 degrees F

Water Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average humidity: 89%

Dry Season: May-August

Hurricane season: June-November

US. VIRGIN ISLANDS: ST. THOMAS: Things To Know

Time Zone* EST+1

Summer Sunrise/Sunset: 5:44 AM to 6:57 PM

Winter Sunrise/Sunset: 6:46 AM to 5:49 PM

Average Temperature Summer: 85 degrees F

Average Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average Rainfall: 44″

Rainiest Months: August-october

Water Temperature Summer: 83 degrees F

Water Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average humidity: 78.9%.

Dry Season: January-April

Hurricane season: June-November

US Virgin Islands Getting Around

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:22:04 +0000

By Air:

Seaborne Airlines (PHONE: 340/773-6442, www.seaborneairlines.com)
flies between St. Thomas and St. Croix.

By Bus:

St. Thomas:

On St. Thomas, the island’s 20 deluxe mainland-size buses
make public transportation a very comfortable — though
slow — way to get from east and west to Charlotte Amalie
and back (service to the north is limited). Buses run about
every 30 minutes from stops that are clearly marked with
“Vitran” signs. Fares are $1 between outlying areas and
town and 75¢ in town.

St. Croix:

Privately owned taxi vans crisscross St. Croix regularly,
providing reliable service between Frederiksted and Christiansted
along Route 70. This inexpensive ($1.50 one-way) mode of transportation
is favored by locals, and though the many stops on the 20-mi (32-km)
drive between the two main towns make the ride slow, it’s never dull.
The public Vitran buses aren’t the quickest way to get around the island,
but they’re comfortable and affordable. The fare is $1 between Christiansted
and Frederiksted or to places in between.

St. John:

Modern Vitran buses on St. John run from the Cruz Bay ferry dock
through Coral Bay to the far eastern end of the island at Salt Pond,
making numerous stops in between. The fare is $1 to any point.

By Car:

Even at a sedate speed of 20 mph, driving can be an adventure —
for example, you may find yourself in a Jeep slogging behind a
slow tourist-packed safari bus at a steep hairpin turn. Give a
little beep at blind turns. Note that the general speed limit
on these islands is only 25 to 35 mph, which will seem fast
enough for you on most roads. If you don’t think you’ll need to
lock up your valuables, a Jeep or open-air Suzuki with four-wheel
drive will make it easier to navigate potholed dirt side roads
and to get up slick hills when it rains. All main roads are paved.

Rates begin at $40 a day and $225 a week, not including vehicle
license fees and other surcharges. At the height of the winter
season it may be tough to find a car, and occasionally all rental
companies run out of cars at once; reserve well in advance to ensure
you get the vehicle of your choice.

On St. Thomas:

Avis (PHONE: 340/774-1468) is at the Marriott Frenchman’s Reef,
Havensight Mall (adjacent to the cruise ship dock), Seaborn
Airlines terminal on the Charlotte Amalie waterfront, and the
Cyril E. King Airport.

Budget (PHONE: 340/776-5774) has branches at the Cyril E.
King Airport, the Sapphire Beach Resort & Marina and at
the Havensight Mall, adjacent to the main cruise ship dock.

Cowpet Rent-a-Car (PHONE: 340/775-7376) is located on the
east end of the island.

Dependable Car Rental (PHONE: 340/774-2253 or 800/522-3076)
offers pickups and drop-offs at the airport and to and from
major hotels.

Discount (PHONE: 340/776-4858) has a location at Bluebeard’s
Castle hotel.

Hertz (PHONE: 340/774-1879) has a counter at the Cyril E.
King Airport.

Tri Island Car Rental (PHONE: 340/775-1200) is located on
the east end of the island, opposite the Red Hook ferry dock.

On St. Croix:

Atlas (PHONE: 340/773-2886) is located outside Christiansted
but provides pickups at hotels.

Avis (PHONE: 340/778-9355 at airport; 340/713-1347 at seaplane ramp)
is located at the airport and at the seaplane ramp in Christiansted.

Budget (PHONE: 340/778-9636, www.budgetstcroix.com) has branches at
the airport and in the King Christian Hotel in Christiansted.

Midwest (PHONE: 340/772-0438 or 877/772-0438, www.midwestautorental.com)
is located outside Frederiksted, but picks up at hotels.

Olympic (PHONE: 340/773-8000 or 888/878-4227, www.stcroixcarrentals.com)
is located outside Christiansted, but will pick up at hotels.

Thrifty (PHONE: 340/773-7200) is located outside Christiansted,
but will pick up at hotels.

On St. John:

Best (PHONE: 340/693-8177) is just outside Cruz Bay near the
public library, off Route 10.

Cool Breeze (PHONE: 340/776-6588, www.coolbreezecarrental.com)
is in Cruz Bay across from the Creek.

Delbert Hill Taxi & Jeep Rental Service (PHONE: 340/776-6637)
is in Cruz Bay around the corner from the ferry dock, across
from Wharfside Village.

Denzil Clyne (PHONE: 340/776-6715) is across from the Creek.

O’Connor Jeep (PHONE: 340/776-6343) is in Cruz Bay at the
Texaco Station.

St. John Car Rental (PHONE: 340/776-6103, www.stjohncarrental.com)
is across from Wharfside Village shopping center on Bay Street in Cruz Bay.

Spencer’s Jeep (PHONE: 340/693-8784 or 888/776-6628) is
across from the
Creek in Cruz Bay.

Sun & Sand Car Rental (PHONE: 340/776-6374) is in Cruz Bay
across from the Creek.

At Home:

Avis (PHONE: 800/331-1084; 800/879-2847 in Canada; 0870/606-0100
in the U.K.; 02/9353-9000 in Australia; 09/526-2847 in New Zealand, www.avis.com).

Budget (PHONE: 800/527-0700; 0870/156-5656 in the U.K., www.budget.com).

Hertz (PHONE: 800/654-3001; 800/263-0600 in Canada; 020/8897-2072
in the U.K.; 02/9669-2444 in Australia, www.hertz.com).

US Virgin Islands Getting There

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:19:31 +0000

The U.S. Virgin Islands have daily, non-stop flights from New York, Newark, Baltimore, Atlanta, and Miami. Connecting flights are availabe to and from Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, New York, Miami, and Atlanta via the San Juan hub.

In addition, there’s connecting service from Canada, Europe, South America, and the Far East. Commuter service between San Juan and St. Croix and St. Thomas is also available.

These airlines offer service from the U.S. mainland to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

American Airlines http://www.aa.com/
Continental Airlines http://www.continental.com/
Delta Airlines http://www.delta.com/
United Airlines http://www.united.com/
U.S. Airways http://www.usairways.com/

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

U.S. citizens need proof of citizenship such as a
passport, voter registration card, or birth certifi-
cate accompanied by a driver’s license or photo
ID.

Entry requirements for all other visitors are
the same as entering the U.S. from a foreign
destination.

AIRLINES

Air Anguilla: (264) 497-2643

Air Sunshine: (800) 327-8900

Air St. Thomas: (800) 522-3084

American Airlines: (800) 433-7300

American Eagle: (800) 433-7300

Bohlke International: (340) 778-9177

Cape Air: (800) 352-0714

Continental: (800) 231-0856

Delta Airlines: (800) 221-1212

Gulfstream International: (800) 525-0280

LIAT: (800) 468-0482

Seaborne Aviation: (888) 359-8687

US Airways: (800) 622-1015

TWA: (800) 221-2000

United Airlines: (800) 241-6522

US Virgin Islands FAQs

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:16:57 +0000

When is the best weather in US Virgin Islands?

The extremely consistent weather conditions in the Virgin Islands are one of
the reasons this area is considered to be one of the best cruising grounds in
the world! The trade winds are nearly constant ranging from 10-25 knots, allowing
for wonderful sailing. It also keeps it nice and pleasant for sunbathers! The water
temperature ranges from 76 to 85.

Do I need a passport to visit US Virgin Islands?

When traveling internationally, carry your passport even if you don’t need one
(it’s always the best form of I.D.) and make two photocopies of the data page
(one for someone at home and another for you, carried separately from your passport).
If you lose your passport, promptly call the nearest embassy or consulate and the
local police.

Islands include Anegarda, Jost van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda. Proof of U.S.
citizenship, photo ID, onward/return ticket, and sufficient funds required for
tourist stay of up to 6 months. Consult the British Embassy for further information
(202/588-7800).

Is the water safe to drink?

Water precautions are advised outside the main centres. Tap water is considered
safe to drink. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption.
Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe
to eat.

Do I need electrical adaptors for my hairdryer/radio etc?

The electrical current in the Virgin Islands is the same as on the U.S. mainland:
110 volts AC, 60 cycles.

Should I exchange my money for local currency?

The US dollar is the currency used in St. John, but foreign currency can be
exchanged all major bank branches on the island. Credit cards are widely
accepted. You may want to inquire as some cards are charged a fee to compensate
for the fees that the merchant must pay the card issuer. Personal checks are
generally not accepted.

US Dollar (US$) = 100 cents. See the USA section for information on currency
exchange, exchange rates, credit and debit cards and so on.

Currency restrictions:
Import and export of amounts in excess of US$10,000 must be declared.

Are there any airport fees?

US$ 10 is levied on all foreign nationals.

What is the legal drinking/gambling age?

The drinking age in US. Virgin Islands is 21 years old. Also you must be 21 years
of age or older to purchase liquor at a store or in a restaurant.

Can I get married in US Virgin Islands?

A letter to the territorial court of the U.S.V.I. in St. Thomas or St. Croix
requesting marriage license; proof of divorce; appointment needed to be married
by a judge

No blood tests or physical examinations are necessary, but there is a $50 notarized
application and license, and an 8-day waiting period, which is sometimes waived
depending on circumstances. Civil ceremonies before a judge of the territorial court
cost $250 each; religious ceremonies performed by clergy are equally valid. Fees
and schedules for church weddings must be negotiated directly with the officiant.
More information is available from the U.S. Virgin Islands Division of Tourism,
1270 Ave. of the Americas, New York, NY 10020 (tel. 800/372-USVI or 212/332-2222;
www.usvitourism.vi).

The U.S. Virgin Islands tourism offices distribute the guide Getting Married in
the U.S. Virgin Islands, which gives information on all three islands, including
wedding planners, places of worship, florists, and limousine services. The guide
also provides a listing of island accommodations that offer in-house wedding
services.

Couples can apply for a marriage license for St. Thomas or St. John by contacting
the Territorial Court of the Virgin Islands, P.O. Box 70, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. 00804
(tel. 340/774-6680). You can apply for weddings on St. Croix by contacting the
Territorial Court of the Virgin Islands, Family Division, P.O. Box 929, Christiansted,
St. Croix, U.S.V.I. 00821 (tel. 340/778-9750).

Can I bring my pet to US Virgin Islands?

TYou can temporarily import your pet with a health certificate and proof of up
to date vaccinations, including rabies.

For more information contact the United States Virgin Islands Department of
Agriculture at Estate Lower Love, Kingshill, St. Croix, US Virgin Islands, 00850;
tel (340) 778-0997 or (340) 774-5182; e-mail agriculture@usvi.org.

What about fishing?

Black Pearl Sportfishing Charters has been finding the fish for over 30 years! So
whether you are a novice or experienced fisherman (or fisherwoman), come fishing
with Black Pearl Charters and experience true Caribbean sportfishing at it’s best!

Black Pearl Sportfishing Charters is a fast, stable and comfortable fishing yacht
with twin turbo diesels. She is fully equiped with tournament tackle, offshore fly
rods and much much more! The perfect fisherman’s fishing vessel!

Black Pearl Sportfishing Charters is available for

1/2 day fishing
1/2 day fishing
3/4 day
full day (8 hours)
Marlin fishing (10 hours)
Shark fishing
Live Bait
Island Tours & Snorkeling
Tours Include:

Tackle & bait
Soda, beer, water & snacks
Trip starts and ends at Sapphire Marina
Pick ups at other locations can be arranged.
Fishing Calendar

Wahoo & Dolphin – March to May
Yellowfin Tuna – May to September
Blue Marlin – June to October
White Marlin – August to October
Spearfish – Novemver to February
King Mackerel – Year Round
Shark – Year Round
Sportfishing Charter Rates

1/2 day (4 hours) sportfishing $600.00
3/4 day (6 hours) sportfishing $1000.00
full day (8 hours) sportfishing $1200.00
Marlin (10 hours) sportfishing $1400.00

Black Pearl Sportfishing Charters
1-866-782-5584
340-775-9982
St. Thomas USVI

Deep-Sea Fishing:
The U.S. Virgins have excellent deep-sea fishing — some 19 world
records (8 for blue marlin) have been set in these waters in recent
years. Outfitters abound at the major marinas like Red Hook. We
recommend angling off the Fish Hawk (tel. 340/775-9058), which Captain
Al Petrosky sails out of Fish Hawk Marina Lagoon on the East End. His
48-foot diesel-powered craft is fully equipped with rods and reels.
All equipment (but not meals) is included in the price: $550 per half
day for up to six passengers. Full-day excursions start at $1,100.

Can I use a metal detector on the beaches?

There are no restrictions on the use of metal detectors.

Where are the “clothing optional” beaches?

Unlike in some parts of the Caribbean, nudity is frowned upon throughout the U.S.V.I.
and B.V.I. and is punishable by law. However, even though it’s an offense, standards
are more relaxed in the U.S.V.I.

USVI – St. John’s Salomon Beach can be clothing optional in spite of “No Nudity”
postings. It’s my understanding that Little Magen’s Bay Beach, on St. Thomas,
also allows nude sunbathing…follow the trail from the main beach at
Magen’s Bay.

What is there to see or do in US Virgin Islands?

St. Thomas, USVI:

Chris Sawyer Diving Center
6300 Estate Frydenhoj Suite 29, St. Thomas
(340) 775-7320/(877)929-3483

The Kilnworks Pottery and Art Gallery
6029 Estate Smith Bay 4H, St. Thomas
(340) 775-3979

See & Ski
6501 Red Hook Plaza Suite 201, St. Thomas
(340) 775-6265

Waters Edge Sports
121 Hendrick’s Isle, St. Thomas
(954) 234-3251

Lucinda Schutt’s Watercolor Class
The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
(340) 775-1023

Mango Tango Art Gallery
Al Cohan’s Plaza, Raphune Hill, St. Thomas?
(340) 777-3060

World Famous Mountain Top, Inc.
P.O. Box 11719, St. Thomas
(340) 774-2400

VIP Yacht Charters
6300 Estate Frydenhoj, Suite 27, St. Thomas
(340) 847-9224

Virgin Islands Eco Tours
P.O. Box 11612, St. Thomas
(340) 779-2155

St. Peter Greathouse Estate & Gardens
St. Peter Greathouse, P.O. Box 11711, St. Thomas
(340) 774-4999

Paradise Point Tramway
9617 Estate Thomas, Tramway Building, St. Thomas
(340) 774-9809

Mahogany Run Golf & Tennis

P.O. Box 7517, St. Thomas
(340) 777-6006/(800) 253-7103

St. Croix, USVI:

Divi Carina Bay Casino?
35 Estate Turner Hole, Christiansted, St. Thomas?
(340) 773-9700

St. John, USVI:

Pastory Gardens
6335 Estate Pastory, St. John
(340) 777-3147

Vacation Vistas
62A Chocolate Hole, 00831, St. John
(340) 776-6462

Nauti Nymph Power Boat Rentals
(340) 775-5066/(800) 734-7345

Waters Edge Sports
121 Hendrick’s Isle

US Virgin Islands is a great place, can I move there?

You can live in the U.S. Virgin Islands but planning to move to the
Virgin Islands can be a challenging decision.

Ask questions, join discussions, meet other people that are moving to the
USVI or that have moved already and get help from USVI residents on the
Discussion Board.

What paperwork do I need to live and work in the Virgin Islands?

If you are an American citizen you do not need any new documents in terms
of work visas or papers. American citizens can freely travel and work in
the U.S.V.I. Social Security cards are needed, passports are a good idea,
other identification papers like drivers license and a birth certificate
should be carried.

If you are not an American then you will be required to secure a resident
alien status, work visa, student visa and/or temporary visa – as you would
have to do in order to live and work in the United States mainland. The same
federal immigration regulations that exist in the US mainland are in use in
the Virgin Islands. For more information visit: Bureau of Citizenship and
Immigration Services.

What about Crime?

Crime in the Virgin Islands statistically speaking is fairly high, particularly
on St. Croix and St. Thomas. St. John is quiet with the exception of a few thefts
of items left unattended in parked open cars or on the beach. Water Island is also
quiet. Crimes on St. Thomas and St. Croix fall into similar categories for the most
part; Crimes against visitors and tourist are very low, with an infrequent occurrence
of bags being stolen. Car-theft occurs periodically and often in poorly lit areas.

Your best protection for the first couple of weeks as a new resident is to function
as you would back home in an unfamiliar area, with care and caution and with your
eyes open. If things do not seem quite right then leave. Once you have resided on
the island for a couple weeks you will get to know what areas are problem areas.
Active Police Departments are available throughout the U.S.V.I.

Calling to and from US Virgin Islands?

IDD is available. Country code: 1 340. There are no area codes. Outgoing
international code: 001. The USA (including most toll-free numbers) can
be dialed directly from the islands. Efficient overseas cable and telephone
services are in operation.

What about island hopping?

Taking a Ferry
Virgin Islands Fast Ferry – 340-719-0099 – Ferry Service runs during the peak
winter months between St. Croix and St. Thomas and usually begins in late November.

Mermaid Fast Ferry – 340-719-2880 – Year round service! Adults: $50 – $65 R/T,
$30 – $35 O/W, Children 3-12 yrs old: $40 R/T, $25 O/W.

Taking an Airplane
Bohlke International Airways – takes you on a fun island hopping day trip which
includes lunch, a swim, and island sightseeing. Choose from Virgin Gorda, famous
for the scenic Baths, or little Anegada, a tranquil snorkeler’s paradise, perhaps
British Tortola, or very French and chic St. Barth’s. 778-9177

Air Sunshine – 800-327-8900 St. Thomas, San Juan, Tortola, and other destinations.

American Eagle – 800-474-4884

Bohlke International – 340-778-9177

Cape Air – 800-352-0714

Continental

LIAT – 340-774-2313

Seaborne Seaplane – 1-340-773-6442 or Outside U.S.V.I. 1-888-FLY-TOUR

Can I access the Internet from US Virgin Islands?

There is limited Internet access on the major islands in the Virgin Islands chain,
including St. Thomas (the best), St. Croix, and St. John, along with Tortola and
Virgin Gorda in the B.V.I. On some of the more remote islands, you may be out of
luck. Many visitors log on at their hotel. Costs in general are about $2 to $5 per
half-hour.

ISPs include VIAccess (website: www.viaccess.net). Internet cafes exist on
St. Thomas.

Internet Cafes:

Cyber Celtic Café / Quiet Mon Pub
Address: Cruz Bay Town
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-304) 779-4799

Every Ting
Address: Cruz Bay, Bay Street
Island: St. John
Phone: (1-304) 693-5820
Little Switzerland Internet Café
Address: Main Street
Island: St. Thomas
Phone: (1-340) 776-2010

Can I use my cellular telephone in US Virgin Islands?

Your own cell phone may work in the US Virgin Islands. Cingular Wireless and
Sprint PCS phones will work since these two companies operate in the USVI.
If you have an AT&T or Verizon phone, call your provider to inquire about
roaming plans for this area.

For those sailing to the BVI, the service provider changes. When you arrive
in the BVI and turn on your phone, you will get a signal from CCT Boatphone
(the BVI cellular service provider). You can then register your phone with
Boatphone using a credit card. For information about activating your cell
phone for use in the BVI, or for renting a phone while you are visiting,
go to www.bvicelluar.com for details.

Depending on the charter company, your boat may have a phone installed on
board. VIP has phones on all their boats that may be used only when you enter
the BVI and only for calls to VIP’s office in St. Thomas. If you want, you
may set up an account with BoatPhone directly to use the phone on board to
keep in touch with home. However, the BoatPhone charges are expensive – up to
$4.00 per minute.

CYOA does not provide phones on board at this time.

What is the Dress code in US Virgin Islands?

Dress in the USVI is casual chic and lightweight clothing is appropriate. It is
against the law to wear bathing suits or to go shirtless in public areas other
than the beach or pool. You should bring a light sweater/jacket for evenings.
Upscale restaurants my require jackets and ties.

Do you need a driving License?

If you are an American citizen you do not need any new … other identification
papers like drivers license and a birth certificate. Driving Rules– In both the
U.S.V.I. and the B.V.I., you must drive on the left.

Emergencies Contact Information?

Ambulance, Fire, and Police (PHONE: 911).
Air Ambulance Network (PHONE: 800/327-1966).
Medical Air Services (PHONE: 340/777-8580 or 800/643-9023).
Marine Safety Detachment (PHONE: 340/776-3497 in St. Thomas and
St. John; 340/772-5557 in St. Croix).
Rescue Coordination Center (PHONE: 787/289-2040 in San Juan; PR)

Hospitals:

Roy L. Schneider Hospital & Community Health
Center (Sugar Estate, U.S. Virgin Islands.
PHONE: 340/776-8311).
St. Thomas

Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital and Health Center
(6 Diamond Ruby, north of Sunny Isle Shopping Center
on Rte. 79, Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/778-6311).
St. Croix

Ingeborg Nesbitt Clinic (516 Strand St., Frederiksted,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/772-0260).
St. Croix

Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center
(Rte. 10, about 7 mins east of Cruz Bay,
Susannaberg, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE:
340/693-8900).
St. John

Pharmacies:

Havensight Pharmacy (Havensight Mall, Charlotte Amalie,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-1235).
St. Thomas

Kmart Pharmacy (Tutu Park Mall, Tutu,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/777-3854).
St. Thomas

Sunrise Pharmacy (Red Hook,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/775-6600,
Vitraco Park, near Havensight Mall, PHONE: 340/776-7292).
St. Thomas

D&D Apothecary Hall (501 Queen St., Frederiksted,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/772-1890).
St. Croix

Kmart Pharmacy (Sunshine Mall, Cane Estate,
U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/692-2622).
St. Croix

People’s Drug Store, Inc. (Sunny Isle Shopping Center,
Rte. 70, Christiansted, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/778-5537).
St. Croix

Chelsea Drug Store (The Marketplace Shopping Center,
Rte. 104, Cruz Bay, U. S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-4888).
St. John

Scuba-Diving Emergencies:

Roy L. Schneider Hospital & Community Health Center
(Sugar Estate, U.S. Virgin Islands. PHONE: 340/776-2686).

What are the entry requirements in US Virgin Islands?

Entry requirements for the US Virgin Islands are the same as those for the
mainland United States.

Canadian and US citizens do not require a passport but they must provide proof
of citizenship, such as an original birth certificate with raised seal and official
photo identification, such as a driver’s license.

Citizens of the UK require a machine-readable passport (MRP) valid for six months
past their expected stay. UK citizens without MRPs require a non-immigrant visa in
addition to their passport. Note: MRPs issued between October 26, 2005 and October
25, 2006 must have a digital photograph on the data page and those issued on or
after October 26, 2006 must have an integrated chip with information from the data
page (e-passport). The “Travel advice by country” section (for the United States)
of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website (www.fco.gov.uk) lists questions
and answers to help you determine whether or not you are eligible to enter the
US without a visa.

Non-citizen residents of Canada and nationals of other countries may require non-
immigrant visas. Consult your nearest United States consulate or embassy or visit
the US State Department’s website.

Note: A visa does not guarantee entry into the US. It allows you to travel to a
US port of entry, such as an airport, and request permission of the Department of
Homeland Security immigration inspector to enter the country.

What is the lanquage in US Virgin Islands?

English is the official language, though island residents often speak it with a
lilting Creole accent, so you might not recognize certain words at first. If you
have trouble understanding someone, ask them to speak slowly.

What are the store hours in US Virgin Islands?

On St. Thomas, stores on Main Street in Charlotte Amalie are open weekdays
and Saturday 9 to 5. The hours of the shops in the Havensight Mall (next
to the cruise-ships dock) are the same, though occasionally some stay open
until 9 on Friday, depending on how many cruise ships are at the dock. You
may also find some shops open on Sunday if a lot of cruise ships are in
port. Hotel shops are usually open evenings, as well.

St. Croix shop hours are usually Monday through Saturday 9 to 5, but there
are some shops in Christiansted open in the evening.

On St. John, store hours run from 9 or 10 to 5 or 6. Wharfside Village and
Mongoose Junction shops in Cruz Bay are often open into the evening.

What about tipping?

Tip about 15 per cent. Some hotels and restaurants automatically add your tip
to the bill so check first as it is not necessary to leave an additional tip.

Can you use credit cards?

All major credit cards and traveler’s checks are generally accepted. Some places
will take Discover, though it’s not as widely accepted as Visa, MasterCard, and
American Express.

Travelers cheques:
To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take
travelers cheques in US Dollars.

Is there a best time to visit the island?

The Eastern Caribbean enjoys one of the best climate in the world with year round
sunshine and warm, tropical temperatures cooled by tradewinds. The “rainy” season
can occur at any time from June to November but rainshowers never last for long.

Is there an airport?

Cyril E. King Airport; Flights from the U.S. are direct to St. Thomas. Transfers
to St. Croix are via air or boat and St. John via ferry

What about Taxes?

There’s no sales tax in the USVI, but there’s an 8% hotel-room tax. The St. John
Accommodations Council members ask that hotel and villa guests voluntarily pay a
$1 a day surcharge to help fund school and community projects and other good works.
Many hotels add additional energy surcharges and the like, so please ask about any
additional charges, but these are not government-imposed taxes.

What about Banks?

Bank hours are generally Monday through Thursday 9 to 3 and Friday 9 to 5; a
handful open Saturday (9 to noon). Walk-up windows open at 8:30 on weekdays.

Each of the islands has several banks. On St. Thomas, First Bank has locations
in Market Square, Waterfront, Estate Thomas, Port of Sale, Red Hook, and Tutu.
There are waterfront locations for Banco Popular, as well as branches in Hibuscus
Alley, Sugar Estate, Fort Mylner, Red Hook, and Altona, 1 mi east of the airport.
The Scotia Bank has branches at Havensight Mall, Nisky Center, Tutu Park Mall,

and the Waterfront.

St. Croix has branches of Banco Popular in Orange Grove and Sunny Isle Shopping
Centers. V. I. Community Bank is in Orange Grove Shopping Center and in downtown
Christiansted. Scotia Bank has branches in Sunny Isle Frederiksted, Christiansted,
and Sunshine Mall.

St. John’s has two banks. First Bank is one block up from the ferry dock, and
Scotia Bank is at the Marketplace shopping center on Route 107.

Banco Popular (PHONE: 340/693-2777,

First Bank (PHONE: 340/775-7777,

Scotia Bank (PHONE: 340/774-0037 in St. Thomas;

Scotia Bank (PHONE: 340/778-5350 in St. Croix;

Scotia Bank (PHONE: 340/776-6552 in St. John,

About US Virgin Islands

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:14:50 +0000

WHY US VIRGIN ISLANDS?
Beautiful beaches – golf – nightlife – water sports – national part and more…

ABOUT US VIRGIN ISLANDS?
Tourism is the major business, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are closely associated with the economy and culture of the British Virgin Islands. Covered with red-roofed buildings and houses, the capital city of Charlotte Amalie sits amidst lush green hills, and is widely considered the most beautiful port in the Caribbean. The duty-free shopping, hotels and restaurants on St. Thomas and St. Croix are second to none. Air and ferry service to all major islands is convenient and economical.

PEOPLE / CULTURE:
he first people known to have inhabited what is today the Virgin Islands were the Carib, Arawak and Ciboney Indians. These indigenous people are believed to have left and/or been forcibly removed by the late 1500’s. African slaves that were forcibly brought to the islands as labor for the plantations. Whites and Blacks born in the islands were called Creoles. At the end of the plantation era many of the white planters and their families returned to Europe. There was an influx of immigrants from neighboring Puerto Rico to St. Croix to work in agriculture. French immigrants from St. Barths and British immigrants from the British Virgin Islands came to St. Thomas and today are well established. As a new US territory American officials and military personal were sent to the islands. These five groups made up the majority of the population in the early 1900s.

Today the population of the Virgin Islands is 78% black, 10% white and 12% other. While 81% of the population is of West Indian background only 49% were born in the Virgin Islands. The remaining 32% were born elsewhere in the Caribbean.

Christopher Columbus discovered the Virgin Islands on his second voyage to the Americas in 1493. He named the islands for Saint Ursula and the other virgin martyrs associated with her. Columbus attempted to land at Saint Croix in November 1493 but was driven away by fierce Carib Native Americans who inhabited the island. The Carib Native Americans were annihilated, but no permanent settlements were made. The Virgin Islands remained a Spanish possession throughout the 16th century.

First Settlements
Denmark colonized Saint Thomas in 1666. The Danish West Indies Company controlled the group until 1755, when Frederick V, king of Denmark, bought the islands. In 1800, during the Napoleonic Wars, Britain blockaded Saint Thomas and in 1801 occupied the island. In 1802 Saint Thomas was returned to Denmark. From 1807 to 1815 the British again occupied the Danish West Indies; in 1815 the islands were once more restored to Denmark.

Danish Rule
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Virgin Islands flourished as a center for the slave trade and as a producer of sugar. To harvest the sugar, the Danes began to depend on slavery and started importing slaves from Africa in 1673. The slave trade was prohibited by the Danish government in 1792. A slave revolt on Saint Croix in 1848 led to the slaves’ immediate emancipation. The slaves had the tacit support of the Danish governor of the islands, Peter von Scholten, who was opposed to slavery. After the emancipation of the slaves, the economy of the Virgin Islands disintegrated. The population of the islands dwindled. It was not until the 1940s that the economy began to recover.

American Colony
During the American Civil War (1861-1865), the Union began to negotiate with Denmark for the purchase of the Virgin Islands in order to establish naval bases in the Caribbean. Nothing came of the negotiations, however, until World War I (1914-1918). In 1917 the United States bought the Virgin Islands from Denmark for $25 million and built a naval base in order to protect the Panama Canal and to prevent Germany’s seizure of the islands. Virgin Islanders have been U.S. citizens since 1927.