GMT -4.
120 volts, 60Hz. Two-flat-pin plugs are standard.
English is the official language. Spanish, Creole and some French are also spoken.
There are no significant health risks. However, only bottled water should be drunk outside the major towns. Medical facilities are of a high standard, but health insurance is vital as medical care is very expensive.
Tipping of 15 to 20 percent is customary for good service. Some hotels and restaurants automatically add a service charge and room tax.
The US Virgin Islands are generally safe for travellers and the vast majority of visits are trouble-free; however, normal precautions against petty crime should be taken, especially in the back streets of towns at night. Don't leave valuables lying on the beach when snorkelling or swimming.
In the US Virgin Islands, politeness is important. Greet people before asking questions or requesting assistance. Greetings depend on the time of day, with good morning, good afternoon, and good evening being common. You may hear locals thanking 'jumbi' (spirits) for good luck, or blaming them for misfortune.
The economy in the US Virgin Islands revolves primarily around tourism, though petroleum refining takes place off St. Croix. Like many other Caribbean countries things are pretty relaxed, and formal business attire is generally not considered necessary as the climate makes this quite uncomfortable. The people are friendly and polite and shaking hands is common upon introductions for men and women; business cards are handed out upon introduction. Business hours are typically 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, with lunch breaks around 12pm.
The international country code for the US Virgin Islands is +1 340 and the code for dialling out internationally is 011 (followed by the relevant country code, for example 01144 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are not required. The AT & T Wireless GSM mobile network covers the islands. Internet cafes are available in the main resorts.
Travellers to the Virgin Islands who are residents of the USA and are over 21 years are allowed to return the the US with 4 litres of alcoholic beverages; 100 cigars or 1,000 cigarettes, tax free, granted they have been purchased in the Virgin Islands.
Travel Guide powered by Word Travels, copyright © 2023 Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Neither Globe Media Ltd nor Travel Vogue can accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.
