Virgin Islands, U.S.🇻🇮
The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is a group of islands in the Eastern Caribbean, located about 40 miles east of Puerto Rico. The USVI comprises three primary islands: St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. Known for its idyllic beaches, pristine waters, and rich history, the USVI is a paradise for sunseekers, water enthusiasts, and history buffs. Popular attractions include the beautiful Trunk Bay on St. John, the historic Fort Christiansvaern on St. Croix, and the bustling downtown Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas. A unique blend of cultures is evident in the local cuisine, music, and festivals. The friendly locals, diverse landscapes, mix of cultures, and old-world charm make the USVI worthy of a visit.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid swimming alone at remote beaches. Undertows can be strong, and marine life can pose hazards.
- Avoid showing off expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash in public.
- Avoid taking unlicensed taxis. Always ensure your transportation is reputable.
- Avoid touching or standing on coral reefs while snorkeling or diving. Coral is fragile and easily damaged.
- Avoid drinking tap water if it tastes heavily chlorinated. Bottled water is easily available.
- Avoid dark alleyways and secluded areas in Charlotte Amalie at night.
- Avoid disrespecting local customs and traditions. Always show respect for local culture.
- Avoid catching iguanas or other wildlife American law protects many species in the USVI.
- Avoid leaving your belongings unattended on the beach. Theft can occur if items are left unwatched.
- Avoid hiking alone in remote areas. It's safer to hike in groups and let someone know your route.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Although the majority of tourism-related activities in the U.S. Virgin Islands are generally safe, crime does exist, like most places around the world. Some areas in Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas have higher crime rates, particularly at night. Street crime such as robbery and petty theft are the most common crimes against tourists. Visitors are advised to take common safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.
Terrorism 💣
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There are no significant instances of terrorism in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The risk of terrorist activity is considered to be low due to it being a small country with no known terrorist organizations. However, like any destination, the USVI isn't completely immune to the global threat of terrorism. It is always advised to stay vigilant and informed.
War ⚔️
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The risk of war in the U.S. Virgin Islands is very low. The last major conflict impacting the territory was World War II, when the islands were used for military purposes. Since then, the USVI has remained largely peaceful, with no major conflicts disrupting the tranquillity of the islands.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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The USVI are prone to natural disasters including tropical storms and hurricanes, with the hurricane season typically running from June to November. In 2017, the islands were severely hit by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, causing widespread damage. Earthquakes and tsunamis can occur, but are far less common. Visitors are advised to monitor local weather reports during the hurricane season.
Medical Care 🏥
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Healthcare facilities in the USVI are limited but generally adequate for routine medical treatment. However, serious conditions often require evacuation to the U.S mainland. It's highly recommended for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in the USVI is generally safe to drink, however, it may not taste as good due to high levels of chlorination. Bottle-fed water is readily available and is typically preferred by both tourists and locals.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Common travel-related diseases, such as traveler's diarrhea, can occur. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya virus have been reported, transmitted through mosquito bites. Visitors are advised to take preventative measures against mosquito bites.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption exists in the U.S. Virgin Islands, albeit to a lesser degree than others in the region. Reports of bribery, embezzlement, and misuse of public funds have been cited. However, these issues mostly affect local politics and are unlikely to directly impact tourists.
Safety for Women ♀️
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The U.S. Virgin Islands are generally safe for solo female travelers, but like anywhere, they should exercise caution, especially when traveling alone at night. Harassment is not commonplace, but can happen.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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While the U.S. Virgin Islands have made progress in terms of LGBT rights, cultural attitudes towards members of the LGBT community can vary. Gay and Lesbian relationships are legally recognized within the territory, but discretion is advised in public. The USVI has a growing LGBT tourism market and most residents are accepting.
Censorship 📺
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There's no significant censorship of media or the internet in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Freedom of speech is protected as a constitutional right. However, there have been isolated incidents of defamation lawsuits against journalists.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation exists on the islands but is not particularly reliable or comprehensive. Taxis are widely available. For those going further afield, renting a car is the best option but remember to drive on the left as it's a local rule. However, driving might be challenging due to rugged terrain and sometimes poorly maintained roads.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Despite having some crime and having a risk of hurricanes, overall, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a safe destination for tourists. But like anywhere, it is always important to practice good safety measures. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night, secure your valuables, and pay attention to local warnings or advisories. It's also important to respect local customs and laws and safeguard against mosquito bites.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
As an overseas territory of the U.S., there are no foreign embassies in the U.S. Virgin Islands. For consular assistance, visitors can move to foreign embassies or consulates in the mainland United States.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
There are no specific vaccinations required for the U.S. Virgin Islands, beyond what is recommended for every country, such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot. However, some travelers may need vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, both of which can be contracted through contaminated food or water.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Dangerous animals in the U.S. Virgin Islands are mostly limited to marine wildlife, such as sharks, stingrays and certain species of fish. On land, there are venomous spiders and centipedes, but these are rare. If you're snorkeling or diving, be aware of sea urchins and coral, which can cause injury if touched or stepped on.
🛂 Visa Requirements
As a U.S. territory, the U.S. Virgin Islands has the same visa requirements as the mainland U.S. Citizens of countries in the Visa Waiver Program (most EU countries, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and others) can visit the U.S. Virgin Islands for 90 days without a visa, provided they obtain an ESTA (electronic system for travel authorization) approval online beforehand. All other visitors will need a U.S. B-1/B-2 tourist visa.
💲 Currency
The currency of the U.S. Virgin Islands is the US dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available. Currency can be exchanged at banks or international currency exchanges.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and retailers in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It's a good idea to carry some cash as backup, particularly for small-scale vendors.
🧑 🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
For non-U.S. citizens, working in the U.S. Virgin Islands requires a U.S. work visa. However, there are many opportunities for seasonal work, particularly in the tourism industry. The USVI's natural beauty, coupled with flexible work opportunities, makes it a great destination for work and travel experiences.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of living in the USVI is relatively high due to its isolated location and reliance on imported goods. However, the cost can vary depending on preferences. Moderate hotels and restaurants can be affordable, but luxury resorts and fine dining can be pricey. Visitors can save money by opting for smaller local restaurants, public transportation, and free activities, such as hiking and beachgoing.