St John Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Mobile Connectivity

For U.S. Travelers, major U.S. Providers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile generally offer coverage on St. John as domestic service. No roaming charges for calls, texts, or data for U.S. Customers with compatible plans. Confirm with your carrier.

Options

For international visitors, local SIM cards are available from providers like Viya (main offices on St. Thomas).
Alternatively, an eSIM from Airalo (eSIM provider) presents a good option for data access without a physical SIM.
Consider Solis Wi-Fi for a portable WiFi device.

Internet & Language

Wi-Fi is widely available. Most hotels, villas, restaurants, and bars offer free Wi-Fi. Cell service is generally good in Cruz Bay and along main roads. Service can be spotty in remote areas or secluded beaches.

Communication Aids

Download offline maps and information before heading to remote areas.
English is the state language. No language barrier for English speakers. Local dialect is Caribbean English.
For language learning, explore Rosetta Stone.

Business Operations

Know typical operating hours to plan your activities.

Hours

Retail Shops: Typically open from 9 AM - 5 PM or 10 AM - 6 PM, especially in Cruz Bay.
Restaurants: Generally, lunch service runs from 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, and dinner service from 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM.
Grocery Stores: Starfish Market in Cruz Bay, the largest grocery store, is generally open from 7 AM - 9 PM daily.

Financials & Holidays

Cash machines can be found in Cruz Bay at banks and Starfish Market. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is excellent for small purchases.

Dates

Banking Hours: Standard weekday banking hours, generally Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 4 PM.
Public Holidays: St. John observes all federal U.S. Holidays, which may bring closings or reduced hours.
Seasonal Closures: During the low season (August to October), some businesses may close for annual renovations.

Travel Etiquette

Greetings & Attire

Greeting Customs: A polite "Good morning," "Good afternoon," or "Hello" before any request is appreciated.
Appropriate Attire: Casual is normal. Swimwear is for beaches and pools. Cover-ups are expected in towns, shops, or restaurants.
Dining: Be prepared for "island time," service might be slower; patience is valued.
Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, particularly for kids.

Tipping & Sensitivity

Tipping: 15-20% for good service is customary in restaurants, bars, and for taxi drivers, similar to the U.S. Mainland.
Taboos: Avoid discussing local politics unless invited by a local resident.
LGBTQ+ Information: St. John adheres to U.S. Laws. The island is generally welcoming. Public displays of affection are discreet.
General: Modesty outside vacation spot or beach areas might deter unwelcome notice.

Offline Map Aid

Download offline maps of St. John on your phone before your trip. This aids navigation even if cell service is inconsistent in certain areas.

Travel Accessibility

St. John's rugged terrain has considerations for travelers with mobility needs.

Infrastructure & Transport

St. John's natural landscape, with steep hills, uneven terrain, and limited sidewalks outside central Cruz Bay, has mobility challenges. Reliance on open-air safari taxis, not wheelchair accessible, adds to this.

Accessible Locations

Trunk Bay is the most accessible beach, with a concrete pathway from parking to beach and accessible restrooms. Some resorts may offer beach wheelchairs for guests.

Service & Resources

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. Travel with a companion or arrange details with tour operators/accommodations. Thorough pre-planning and direct communication are important.

Flight Compensation

For flight delays or cancellations, Compensair is a service to explore.

Options

Claims for delays.
Claims for cancellations.
Claims for refused entry onto the plane.

Airport Lounges

Priority Pass grants frequent travelers independent airport lounge access globally.

Benefits

Relax in comfortable lounges.
Access worldwide airport lounges.
Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and refreshments.

Accommodation Accessibility

Features

Some newer holiday resorts and private villas may have accessible rooms or features.
Look for ramps and roll-in showers.
Inquire directly with the accommodation when booking.

Transportation Options

Private taxi services may accommodate some needs if arranged in advance.
Rented vehicles are often SUVs/Jeeps, which might be difficult for some individuals to access.
Specific communication about requirements is important.

Mobility Concerns

If you have mobility concerns, contact your chosen accommodation and any tour operators directly before booking to confirm their accessibility aspects and services.

Further Practicalities

Beyond connectivity and basic services, here are more considerations for your visit.

Cultural Norms

Politeness is highly valued. A polite greeting shows respect. Dress casually. Swimwear for beaches/pools. Cover-ups in towns.

Etiquette Tips

Politeness: "Good morning," "Good afternoon," or "Good evening" before a request.
Patience: "Island time" means service can be slower; patience is appreciated.
Photography: Ask permission before photos of individuals, especially children.

Local Sensitivity

Avoid local politics unless invited. Respect local customs. Public displays of excessive wealth are generally not encouraged.

Social Awareness

Sensitive Topics: Avoid local politics discussion unless invited.
Religious Sites: Dress respectfully (covered shoulders, longer shorts/skirts) if visiting churches.
Cultural Awareness: Respect local customs and traditions.

Getting Around

Safari taxis are common. Rental Jeeps popular for exploring.

Mobility Aids

Rental Cars: SUVs/Jeeps popular for terrain.
Safari Taxis: Common for popular routes.
Walking: For shorter distances in Cruz Bay.

Information

Postal services available in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay.

Quick Facts

U.S. Postal Service runs on St. John.
Post offices in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay.
Check specific business hours around public holidays.

Important Travel Advice

Health & Safety

Health: Consult a doctor for any specific health concerns.
Safety: Keep valuables secure.
Water: Drink bottled or filtered water.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency: Dial 911 for emergencies.
Healthcare Facilities: Limited on St. John; St. Thomas has larger hospitals.
Insurance: Travel insurance is always a consideration.

Further Considerations

Local Awareness

Gender Considerations: St. John adheres to U.S. Laws.
Financial: Cash is useful for small purchases, street vendors, safari taxis.
Weather: Monitor weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season.

Resource Links

Accessible Caribbean Travel (ACT) might have resources.
Virgin Islands National Park website for trail info.
Direct communication with service providers is beneficial.

Accessibility Arrangements

If you have mobility concerns, contact your chosen accommodation and any tour operators directly before booking to confirm their accessibility aspects and services.

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