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St. John Facts
- Clothing:: top
Dress is casual. Most folks wear jeans and t-shirts, shorts, sun dresses, polo shirt and trousers. In November, December and January the nights can be cool, so bring along a light sweater for dining at open air restaurants. Although jackets and ties are rare, they may be required for some of the fancier resorts. Hats and sun protection are strongly recommended.
- Driving:: top
We drive on the left. No temporary licenses are required for those holding a valid US license. Temporary licenses are available for those holding a non-US license for a small fee. Out of island licenses are valid for 90 days after arrival during which time you can apply for the USVI license. In order to rent a car you must be at least 25 years old in most cases.
- Religion:: top
Catholic and Protestant with some Jewish representation.
- Business:: top
Banks are open Monday-Thursday, 9am-2.30pm, and Friday, 9am-2pm and 3.30-5pm. The main banks are Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, Bank of Nova Scotia, Barclays, Chase Manhattan Bank, Citibank, First Federal, First VI Federal Savings Bank and the VI Community Bank. Shops are open 9am-5pm every day except Sunday but will open at other times when cruise ships arrive. Payment cards very widely accepted.
- Credit Cards & ATM Networks:: top
Credit and charge cards are widely accepted. ATM networks operate in the Virgin Islands. ATM machines are often found in front or inside of banks.
- Drinking Water:: top
Most U.S.V.I residences use cistern water for drinking. Hotels usually specify if their water is not safe to drink. Bottled water is suggested for those with sensitive stomachs. In general the water at restaurants, in homes and in villas is good to drink.
- Telecommunications:: top
The international dialling code for the US Virgin Islands is +1 340 followed by seven digits. On the islands, use only the seven digits. To dial the UK from the US Virgin Islands, the international access code is +44 followed by the area code, omitting 0, and then the number.
- Cellular Phone Service:: top
European GSM cellular phones will not work in the U.S.V.I. U.S. standard digital cellular phones will probably work if your carrier offers roaming features and allows roaming in the Virgin Islands. Sprint PCS and Cingular Wireless phone will work as these two providers have offices in the USVI. Some ATT users and Verizon users have reported that their phones work, others have said their phones have not worked while a few have said the phone worked with roaming charges. If you use ATT or Verizon you should call your provider to inquire as to whether your plan will allow you to use your phones without roaming while in the U.S.V.I. It is a good idea in general to call your provider and find out whether the cellular plan you have will allow for usage in the USVI.
- Gay & Lesbian Travelers:: top
Although gay life is fairly hush hush in many of the small Caribbean islands, the Virgin Islands is fairly open and welcoming. There are a few hotels and bars that cater to gay travelers. There are not really any strictly gay clubs or restaurants, however from time to time gay groups might host a special party at a local bar or club - everyone is welcome. There are no gay parades. In everyday situations it is unlikely you would see couples being very openly affectionate in public places. There is no negativity toward gay persons living or visiting the U.S.V.I., people might give a second glance if they notice say an embrace but nothing that would be considered intimidating.
- Required Visitor Documents:: top
Entering the USVI from a US Airport: U.S. citizens are not required to have passports or proof of citizenship when entering into the U.S. Virgin Islands from a U.S. airport. Please note however that airlines have different policies and may ask for proof of identity at check-in.
Entering the USVI from a Foreign Airport: All arrivals from foreign airports are required to show proof of citizenship and pass through customs.
Leaving the USVI, Returning to the US Mainland: All persons leaving the USVI, whether American citizens or not, must be prepared to show proof of citizenship upon leaving the USVI to return to the mainland.
Accepted documents for Proof of Citizenship for Americans: 1. A passport issued under competent authority, 2. An Alien Registration Card (this applies to United States of America permanent residents only) 3. A certified copy of a birth certificate with government issued photo identification (this applies to Canadian and United States citizens only) 4. A Certificate of Naturalization, issued by the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service.
Why do you need proof to Leave? Because of the location of the Virgin Islands, there is a required pre-clearance for all flight destined for the USA and Puerto Rico. The U.S. Virgin Islands is considered a 'port of entry' to the mainland, which means you are reentering the U.S., this requires proof of citizenship.)
Citizens of any country other than the U.S. should follow U.S. travel regulations and requirements for entry into the USA.
- Travelers with Disabilities:: top
The Virgin Islands is a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities, but not as difficult as several years ago. Many businesses have made modifications to better serve people with disabilities. When making travel arrangements it is always a good idea to ask questions about accessibility to pools, beaches, dining facilities and the lobby. Newer accommodations have ramps and accessible facilities. Older facilities often times were built before legal specifications were in place. Discuss your needs with the receptionist or operator to insure your needs are met.
- Tipping:: top
As on the U.S. mainland, tipping of 15% to 20% is customary for service well done. Some hotels and restaurants automatically add a service charge and for parties over 6 people at restaurants the tip is almost always added automatically; so be sure to check your bill.
- Drinking Age:: top
The drinking age in the United States Virgin Islands is 18 years old.
Note: While an 18 year old can buy and consume alcohol legally within the USVI, you must be 21 to leave the territory and return to the states with alcohol purchases.
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