United States Virgin Islands travel tips
United States Virgin Islands travel tips: Idyllic Caribbean archipelago with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and a relaxed atmosphere for sailing and exploring.
United States Virgin Islands 🌎
United States Virgin Islands travel tips. Here is a list of all activities in the United States Virgin Islands.
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Charlotte Amalie
Flag Codes
ISO alpha-2 VI, ISO alpha-3 VIR
Currency
Badge | Dollar
CODE | USD
NUMBER | 840
SYMBOL | $
FRACTION | Penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +1-340
SIM Card
Coverage
3G / 4G / 5G
Mobile Networks | Liberty Mobile | T-Mobile |
Location
The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) is a group of islands located in the Caribbean Sea. The USVI is an unincorporated territory of the United States. The islands are situated east of Puerto Rico and west of the British Virgin Islands. Here is a brief overview of the main islands in the USVI:
St. Thomas: St. Thomas is the most populated and developed island in the USVI. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant capital of Charlotte Amalie, and duty-free shopping opportunities. Cyril E. King Airport serves as the main international airport on the island.
St. John: St. John is a neighboring island of St. Thomas and is renowned for its pristine beaches and lush national park. Two-thirds of the island is protected as the Virgin Islands National Park, offering hiking trails, snorkeling spots, and scenic views.
St. Croix: St. Croix is the largest of the USVI islands and is located further to the south. It has a rich history, beautiful beaches, and unique cultural attractions. Henry E. Rohlsen Airport serves as the main international airport on the island.
These three main islands make up the core of the US Virgin Islands, but the territory also includes smaller islands and cays such as Water Island, Buck Island, and several others. Each island has its own distinct characteristics, attractions, and natural beauty, offering visitors a range of experiences within the USVI.
Currency
The official currency of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) is the United States Dollar (USD). The USVI is an unincorporated territory of the United States, and as such, the US Dollar is the accepted currency throughout the islands. This means that you can use US Dollars for transactions, including shopping, dining, and other expenses, without the need for currency exchange.
Languages
The primary language spoken in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) is English. As a territory of the United States, English is the official language of the USVI, and it is widely spoken and understood throughout the islands. Communication with locals, service providers, and in official capacities is predominantly conducted in English. Visitors to the USVI will generally have no language barriers when interacting with the local population or accessing services.
Climate 🌡
The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) have a tropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. Here are some key features of the climate in the USVI:
Temperature:
The average temperatures in the USVI range from around 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C) throughout the year. The warmest months are typically from June to October, with temperatures occasionally reaching the 90s°F (30s°C). The coolest months are from December to February, with temperatures dipping into the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C) at night.
Rainfall:
The USVI experiences a wet and dry season. The wet season generally runs from May to November, with the highest rainfall occurring in September and October. During this time, brief, heavy showers or thunderstorms can occur, often followed by sunny weather. The dry season, which is relatively drier, spans from December to April, with lower chances of rainfall.
Hurricane Season:
The USVI is located in the Atlantic hurricane belt, and the official hurricane season extends from June 1 to November 30. The peak of the hurricane season typically falls between August and October, with a higher probability of tropical storms or hurricanes. It’s important to monitor weather updates and follow official advisories during this period.
Trade Winds:
The USVI benefit from consistent trade winds that provide a refreshing breeze and help moderate the heat. The trade winds are strongest from December to February, providing relief from the humidity and making outdoor activities more comfortable.
The USVI’s tropical climate makes it an attractive destination for beach lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking a warm getaway. The islands enjoy year-round warm temperatures, with a slightly cooler and drier season from December to April. However, it’s important to be prepared for the possibility of rainfall and tropical storms during the wetter months, especially in the peak of hurricane season.
United States Virgin Islands travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to United States Virgin Islands, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Cultural Sensitivity:
Respect local customs and traditions.
Health:
No specific vaccinations required; medical facilities are available.
Safety:
Exercise normal precautions; secure belongings and be aware of surroundings.
Activities:
Explore St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix; enjoy water sports and historic sites.
Transportation:
Taxis, rental cars, and ferries available; drive on the left side of the road. View Guide.
Electricity:
Standard voltage is 120V; bring necessary adapters.
Island-Hopping:
Discover unique charm of each island; consider visiting St. John’s pristine beaches.
Enjoy the incredible beauty and diversity that United States Virgin Islands has to offer!
The best of the best
The cuisine of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) is influenced by African, European, and Caribbean flavors. The local cuisine features a variety of dishes made with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and spices.
Conch Fritters
Conch fritters are a popular appetizer made from conch meat mixed with flour, onions, peppers, and spices. They are deep-fried until golden and served with dipping sauces.
Johnny Cake
Johnny Cake is a traditional cornbread-like bread made with cornmeal, flour, sugar, and butter. It is often served with butter or as a side dish with meals.
Saltfish and Dumplings
This dish combines salted codfish (saltfish) with boiled dumplings made from flour, water, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch.
Here are some typical foods of the US Virgin Islands:
Callaloo: Callaloo is a stew made with leafy greens, typically amaranth or taro leaves, along with onions, garlic, okra, and various seasonings. It is often cooked with meat or seafood and served as a side dish.
Roti: Roti is a popular Caribbean dish that has made its way to the US Virgin Islands. It consists of a flatbread filled with curried meats or vegetables. Chicken, goat, or vegetable fillings are commonly used.
Pates: Pates are savory pastries filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables. They are similar to empanadas or turnovers and can be found in various flavors such as chicken, beef, fish, or vegetable.
Mangoes: The USVI is known for its abundance of mangoes, which are widely enjoyed as a fruit or incorporated into desserts, sauces, and beverages. Mangoes are in season during the summer months and are a popular tropical treat.
Bush Tea: Bush tea refers to a variety of herbal teas made from local plants and herbs. It is often enjoyed for its medicinal properties and is a popular beverage in the USVI.
Coconut-based Dishes: Coconuts are abundant in the USVI, and their flavor is featured in many dishes. Coconut milk is used in stews, curries, and rice dishes, while fresh coconut is used in desserts and drinks.
Exploring the local cuisine is an enjoyable part of experiencing the culture and flavors of the islands.
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