St Thomas US Virgin Islands Travel Guide
Major U.S. Carriers (AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon) generally service the U.S. The Virgin islands archipelago under domestic plans. International visitors with unlocked GSM phones consider a local SIM from Viya.
Wi-Fi is widely available across St. Thomas. Most hotels and vacation rentals offer access. Many restaurants, cafes, and some public areas, including Cyril E. King Airport, offer free Wi-Fi.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) operates in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Send postcards and packages using standard U.S. Domestic rates. Post offices are in Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook.
English is the official language. All communications, signs, and business interactions are in English. A local English Creole dialect is spoken by many residents, but standard American English is universally understood.
While generally good, service can be slower or less reliable than in mainland cities, especially in remote areas.
Familiarity with local hours of operation and schedules enhances your visit to St. Thomas.
Shops in Charlotte Amalie operate roughly 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, often extending hours on busy cruise ship days.
Restaurants generally serve from breakfast through dinner (e.g., 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM). Some bars in Red Hook extend hours, especially on weekends.
Attractions typically operate 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. Verify specific hours for any site before your visit, as they fluctuate seasonally.
Banks operate Monday-Friday, approximately 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. ATMs are widely available 24/7 at banks, major supermarkets (Plaza Extra, Cost-U-Less), and visitor areas like Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook.
During the low season (September-November), some smaller businesses or restaurants may close for renovations or staff vacations. This is especially true if a hurricane has recently impacted the island.
On bank holidays, banks and government offices close, and some businesses operate on reduced hours or close entirely. Plan accordingly.
Engaging respectfully with local customs and etiquette makes a positive impression.
Good manners are valued. Always begin interactions with a polite greeting, like 'Good morning,' 'Good afternoon,' or 'Good evening,' before asking a question. Maintain polite eye contact and offer a friendly smile.
Casual attire generally acceptable. When away from beaches and resorts, cover-ups over swimwear are respectful. Avoid walking in towns or entering establishments in just a swimsuit. Modest wear is fitting for churches.
Tipping follows U.S. Standards (15-20% for good service). Be patient with 'island time,' which means a slower speed. Embrace the unhurried atmosphere. Eating loudly or chewing gum in formal settings may be impolite.
Politely ask permission before taking close-up photographs of individuals, especially children. Be mindful of private property signs. Exercise caution when photographing government buildings or military installations.
Your respectful behavior and positive interactions contribute to a welcoming experience for everyone.
Travelers with mobility challenges or other accessibility needs might discover infrastructure limitations on St. Thomas.
St. Thomas's hilly terrain, uneven sidewalks, and historic architecture pose challenges for mobility impairments. Many older buildings in historic Charlotte Amalie are without ramps or elevators. Sidewalks can be narrow or nonexistent.
Some newer vacation spots and attractions (Coral World Ocean Park) possess better access with ramps and accessible restrooms. Magens Bay Beach made efforts for accessibility, including restrooms and sometimes a mobi-mat.
Safari taxis are generally not wheelchair accessible. Accessible private vans may be available through specialized tour operators if pre-booked, though they cost more than standard taxis. When renting a car, verify it meets your needs.
Ferries going to St. John typically have ramps, but accessibility can vary depending on the specific vessel and tide levels. It is advisable to contact the ferry operator directly for current conditions and assistance.
Contact the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of The travel industry or specific hotels directly for accessibility details. Travel agencies specializing in accessible travel offer valuable guidance.
