{"id":4722,"date":"2025-12-10T08:32:32","date_gmt":"2025-12-10T12:32:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yts.staging.wpmudev.host\/conference\/?page_id=4722"},"modified":"2026-01-13T11:33:57","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T15:33:57","slug":"about-usvi","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/about-usvi\/","title":{"rendered":"About USVI"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"cs-content\" class=\"cs-content\"><div class=\"x-section e4722-e1 m3n6-0\"><div class=\"x-row e4722-e2 m3n6-1 m3n6-2 m3n6-4\"><div class=\"x-row-inner\"><div class=\"x-col e4722-e3 m3n6-6\"><div class=\"x-tabs e4722-e4 m3n6-7\" data-x-element-tabs=\"\"><div class=\"x-tabs-list\"><ul role=\"tablist\"><li role=\"presentation\"><button id=\"tab-e4722-e5\" class=\"e4722-e5 x-active\" role=\"tab\" aria-selected=\"true\" aria-controls=\"panel-e4722-e5\" data-x-toggle=\"tab\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e5\" data-x-toggle-group=\"tab-group-e4722-e4\"><span>About USVI<\/span><\/button><\/li><li role=\"presentation\"><button id=\"tab-e4722-e16\" class=\"e4722-e16\" role=\"tab\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-e4722-e16\" data-x-toggle=\"tab\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e16\" data-x-toggle-group=\"tab-group-e4722-e4\"><span>Overview<\/span><\/button><\/li><li role=\"presentation\"><button id=\"tab-e4722-e33\" class=\"e4722-e33\" role=\"tab\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-e4722-e33\" data-x-toggle=\"tab\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e33\" data-x-toggle-group=\"tab-group-e4722-e4\"><span>Culture<\/span><\/button><\/li><li role=\"presentation\"><button id=\"tab-e4722-e45\" class=\"e4722-e45\" role=\"tab\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-e4722-e45\" data-x-toggle=\"tab\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e45\" data-x-toggle-group=\"tab-group-e4722-e4\"><span>Know Before You Go<\/span><\/button><\/li><li role=\"presentation\"><button id=\"tab-e4722-e52\" class=\"e4722-e52\" role=\"tab\" aria-selected=\"false\" aria-controls=\"panel-e4722-e52\" data-x-toggle=\"tab\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e52\" data-x-toggle-group=\"tab-group-e4722-e4\"><span>Travel Information<\/span><\/button><\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"x-tabs-panels\"><div id=\"panel-e4722-e5\" class=\"x-tabs-panel e4722-e5 x-active\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"tab-e4722-e5\" aria-hidden=\"false\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e5\"><div class=\"x-text x-text-headline e4722-e6 m3n6-8 m3n6-9\"><div class=\"x-text-content\"><div class=\"x-text-content-text\"><h2 class=\"x-text-content-text-primary\">General Information<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e7 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Geography<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">The United States Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The three principal islands \u2013 St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas \u2013 are magnificent tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e8 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Population<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Since 1960, the population in the U.S. Virgin Islands has nearly tripled. There are now an estimated 56,200 people on St. Croix, 54,000 on St. Thomas and 4,400 on St. John. The Water Island population is roughly 200.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e9 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Language<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">English is the primary spoken language, but Spanish and Creole are also heard throughout the three islands. Many locals speak in a distinct dialect, as a result of the French, Danish and Spanish influence on the destination.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e10 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Weather<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">The U.S. Virgin Islands offers year-round warm temperatures with averages of 77\u00b0F (25\u00b0C) in winter and 82\u00b0F (28\u00b0C) in summer.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e11 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Time Zone<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas all fall within the Atlantic Standard Time zone, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time (except during Daylight Savings Time).<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e12 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Currency<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">The U.S. Dollar is the currency used in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Most locations accept credit cards and travelers checks. There are ATMs located throughout the islands.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e13 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Political History<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Seven flags have flown over St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix since Christopher Columbus discovered them in 1493. The islands have been ruled in succession by the Spanish, English, French, Knights of Malta, French (for a second time), the Danish and now, the U.S. Virgin Islands is a territory of the United States. This eclectic historical path has influenced the development of all three islands, particularly during the Danish reign. Street, town and area names, architecture and former plantations all reveal the vast influence on the islands still remaining after 251 years under Danish rule.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e14 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-f\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Government<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">As a Territory of the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands residents are U.S. citizens. Under the US Constitution, residents of unincorporated territories, such as the U.S. Virgin Islands, do not vote in elections for a US president and vice president. However, they may vote in the Democratic and Republican presidential primary elections, in which a governor and lieutenant governor are elected on the same ticket (by popular vote) for four-year terms (eligible for a second term).<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e15 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-h\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/dot.vi.gov\/our-islands\/general-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><div id=\"panel-e4722-e16\" class=\"x-tabs-panel e4722-e16\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"tab-e4722-e16\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e16\"><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e17 m3n6-l m3n6-m m3n6-n m3n6-o\">St. Thomas combines the natural beauty of the islands with an energetic, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the United States Virgin Islands, is the most visited port in the Caribbean and boasts one of the most beautiful harbors in the world. The city\u2019s reputation as the shopping mecca of the Caribbean attracts visitors from around the world who are drawn to its elegant dining, exciting nightlife and international, duty-free shopping.<\/div><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e18 m3n6-m m3n6-n m3n6-o m3n6-p\">A mountainous island, St. Thomas offers stunning vistas in all directions, with views of the Caribbean from 1,500 feet above sea level. Breathtaking natural wonders like magnificent Magens Bay and Drake\u2019s Seat are also world- renowned. For the sports-minded, St. Thomas is well known for its world-class yachting and sport fishing, and welcomes golf enthusiasts to the George and Tom Fazio-designed Mahogany Run Course.<\/div><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e19 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Beautiful Beaches<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Thomas has more than 40 pristine white sand beaches with turquoise waters.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e20 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Breathtaking Vistas<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Thomas provides some of the most scenic and picturesque views of the Caribbean. Visitors can enjoy beautiful overlooks, including Drake\u2019s Seat and Valdemar Hill. Paradise Point Tramway lifts visitors 700 feet above sea level on a cable car, for one of the most spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie harbor. Situated at the top of the lift on Flag Hill is a complex that includes a caf\u00e9 restaurant, a nature trail and several retail shops. Paradise Peak \u2014 a winding quarter-mile nature trail \u2014 gives visitors the opportunity to explore additional overlooks of the island.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e21 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Cruising the Caribbean<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Attracting thousands of visitors each year, St. Thomas is the Caribbean\u2019s number one cruise ship port, and truly a shopper\u2019s paradise. Cruise ship passengers enjoy a special duty-free shopping status: No customs duties or sales tax are imposed on tourism-related items.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e22 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Serious Golf<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Thomas\u2019 Mahogany Run, a George and Tom Fazio design, boasts 18 of the most beautiful and challenging holes in the Caribbean. Golfers extol the virtues of this 6,022-year, par 70-championship course for its sheer beauty and exhilarating play, especially on the 13th, 14th and 15th holes. This signature trio, aptly nicknamed the Devil\u2019s Triangle, turns an already ambitious round of play into a veritable Cliffside drama in which golfers must overcome a formidable stretch of Caribbean Seat that sprawls between the tee and the green.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e23 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Wet and Dry Water Activities<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Opportunities and facilities for snorkeling, scuba diving, snuba, parasailing, windsurfing and kayaking are all available within the beautiful turquoise waters surrounding St. Thomas. For those visitors who prefer to enjoy the water without getting wet, the U.S. Virgin Islands offers submarine cruises and glass bottom boat rides. Both day and night tours are available to explorers of all ages.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e24 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Island-Hopping<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Thomas\u2019 close proximity to the other U.S. Virgin Islands makes island-hopping fun and easy. Visitors staying on St. Thomas can quickly take a ferry over to St. John for a day trip, or a seaplane or ferry to St. Croix.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e25 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Historic Ft. Christian<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Built in 1672, Fort Christian is a U.S. national landmark and the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands. Built to protect the town\u2019s harbor from the raiding European armadas that sailed the Caribbean centuries ago, Fort Christian also once served as St. Thomas\u2019 first Government House, a church and community government center. Today, the brick fortress is home to the Virgin Islands Museum, where early island memorabilia and antique maps trace the islands\u2019 colorful history.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e26 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Coral World Marine Park & Observatory<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Located on the northeast shore at Coki Point, Coral World is recognized as an internationally renowned tourist attraction. The 4.5-acre park consists of an underwater observatory tower, a tropical nature trail, a marine gardens aquarium, and an 80,000-gallon coral reef tank. The circular, glass-enclosed tank offers visitors a glimpse of the Caribbean Sea and its underwater inhabitants. The aquatic panoramic view provides an up-close look at beautiful species of coral, tropical fish, stingrays, barracuda, tarpon, moray eels, seahorses, crabs, nurse sharks, sea anemones, and more. Other special attractions include an open-air shark pool, a \u201ctouch\u201d pond, and Sea Trekkin\u2019.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e27 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Virgin Islands Carnival<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Celebrated on St. Thomas each spring, the month-long celebration of Carnival provides revelers with extravagant displays of pageantry, spirited music festivals, mouthwatering food festivals and colorful parades.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e28 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">St. Thomas Synagogue<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Overlooking the pristine beaches and crystal-clear water of Charlotte Amalie Harbor, the Synagogue of B\u2019racha V\u2019shalom Uv\u2019gimilut Hasadim (meaning \u201cBlessing, Peace and Loving Deeds\u201d) exists as one of the most impressive religious structures in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The dedicated Jewish community and congregation, traceable back to the late-17th century, completed the present synagogue in 1833. The synagogue\u2019s membership continues to carefully maintain its interior, including the impressive Ionic columns and mahogany benches.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e29 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Local Arts and Crafts<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Visitors can find a variety of locally made goods on St. Thomas, including paintings and silk-screened prints. Local artisans sell their products in the marketplace of downtown Charlotte Amalie, along Main Street, in Vendors\u2019 Plaza, at Havensight Mall, and at other locations throughout the Island.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e30 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Fine Dining, Exciting Nightlife<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">St. Thomas offers a wide variety of culinary delights ranging from West Indian fare to international cuisine. Caribbean and West Indian delicacies such as conch, kallaloo, fungi, curried chicken, plantains, sour sop and johnnycakes are tantalizing additions to be sampled at many of the island\u2019s first-class restaurants. Exciting nightlife includes performances of calypso, reggae, quelbe, jazz and pop music by talented local musicians.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e31 m3n6-b m3n6-d m3n6-e m3n6-i\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Banana Daiquiris on Mountain Top<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">While touring St. Thomas\u2019 higher elevations, visitors can treat themselves to a taste of contemporary island culture with a stop at Mountain Top for a refreshing banana daiquiri. Since the 1960\u2019s, this site has offered the legendary cocktail made with local rum, cane sugar and bananas.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e32 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-h\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/dot.vi.gov\/our-islands\/st-thomas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><div id=\"panel-e4722-e33\" class=\"x-tabs-panel e4722-e33\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"tab-e4722-e33\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e33\"><div class=\"x-row e4722-e34 m3n6-1 m3n6-3 m3n6-5\"><div class=\"x-row-inner\"><div class=\"x-col e4722-e35 m3n6-6\"><span class=\"x-image e4722-e36 m3n6-s m3n6-t\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2025\/12\/culture-1.jpg\" width=\"676\" height=\"440\" alt=\"Image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"x-col e4722-e37 m3n6-6\"><span class=\"x-image e4722-e38 m3n6-s m3n6-t\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2025\/12\/culture-2.jpg\" width=\"612\" height=\"459\" alt=\"Image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"x-col e4722-e39 m3n6-6\"><span class=\"x-image e4722-e40 m3n6-s m3n6-u\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2025\/12\/culture-3.jpg\" width=\"630\" height=\"351\" alt=\"Image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/span><\/div><div class=\"x-col e4722-e41 m3n6-6\"><span class=\"x-image e4722-e42 m3n6-s m3n6-u\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/20\/2025\/12\/culture-4.jpg\" width=\"632\" height=\"357\" alt=\"Image\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e43 m3n6-n m3n6-o m3n6-p m3n6-q\">From clear, blue waters to fascinating historical landmarks and thrill-filled outdoor excursions, St. Thomas is your must-see for fun and culture. While the island\u2019s duty-free shopping is a favorite for treasure hunters, it\u2019s the warmth of the people, the rhythms of daily life and the flavors found in local restaurants that leave a lasting impression. Savor island classics like fish and fungi, kallaloo stew, rice and whelks, tasty pates (handmade pies) and sweet dumb bread at neighborhood eateries. Or visit Fort Christian, dating back to 1680, and the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. Beyond its landmarks, the island tempts adventurers with colorful scuba-diving spots, peaceful beaches and nightlife that hums long after the sun sets.<\/div><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e44 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-h\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.visitusvi.com\/st-thomas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><div id=\"panel-e4722-e45\" class=\"x-tabs-panel e4722-e45\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"tab-e4722-e45\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e45\"><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e46 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-j\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Do I need a passport to go to St. Thomas?<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">U.S. citizens do not need a passport to visit St. Thomas, but it still serves as the best identification when traveling. Otherwise, you must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship when departing the islands, such as a raised-seal birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen, then a passport issued by your country of origin is required. If you are not sure of your status, please contact the U.S. Customs & Border Protection agency (www.cbp.gov). <\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e47 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-j\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">What is the currency in St. Thomas?<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">As a U.S. territory, the currency is the U.S. dollar in St. Thomas. Automated teller machines (ATMs) can be found throughout St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John. Most establishments accept credit cards and traveler\u2019s checks. The most widely accepted credit cards are Visa and MasterCard. Tip: Remember when you\u2019re traveling to put some cash and cards in a safe place as backup.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e48 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-j\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">What language is spoken in St. Thomas?<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">English is the official language in St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, but you can definitely detect the sound of colorful dialects and expressions that may take time to get accustomed to. Spanish is also commonly spoken. Tip: The USVI is a territory of the United States, but it has its own culture. It is always best when exploring new cultures to be respectful and mindful.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e49 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-j\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">What is the time zone on St. Thomas?<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Atlantic Standard Time. During the spring and summer months, we are on the same time as the U.S. East Coast. When the clocks fall back in the autumn and winter, the USVI remains an hour ahead.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e50 m3n6-b m3n6-c m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-j\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"#\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Do I need to bring an adapter for my electronics?<\/span><span class=\"x-anchor-text-secondary\">Standard 120-volt current is used on St. Thomas and across the U.S. Virgin Islands. No adapters are required.<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e51 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-k\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.visitusvi.com\/st-thomas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><div id=\"panel-e4722-e52\" class=\"x-tabs-panel e4722-e52\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"tab-e4722-e52\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-x-toggleable=\"tab-item-e4722-e52\"><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e53 m3n6-n m3n6-p m3n6-q m3n6-r\"><p><b>Passport Requirements<\/b><\/p>\n<p>U.S. citizens traveling to the United States Virgin Islands need only supply proof of citizenship (birth certificate with a raised seal) and a government-issued, valid form of identification to board flights and upon departure.<\/p>\n<p><b>Duty Free and Alcohol<\/b><\/p>\n<p>https:\/\/www.viport.com\/general-9<\/span><\/p>\n<p>The following are the current duty-free exemptions in the USVI:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \t<li><b>$1,600 Per Person Tax Exemption\u00a0<\/b>U.S. citizens, including children, can go shopping and return up to $1,600.00 worth of duty-free merchandise every 30 days from the USVI.<\/li>\n \t<li>If you return directly or indirectly from a U.S. insular possession (U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, or Guam), you are allowed a $1,600 duty-free exemption. As long as the amount does not exceed what that state considers a personal quantity*, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will allow you to enter the U.S. with up to five liters of alcohol duty-free as part of your $1,600 exemption - as long as at least four liters were purchased in the insular possession, and at least one of them is a product of that insular possession. Additional bottles will be subject to a flat duty rate of 1.5% and subject to Internal Revenue Service taxes.<\/li>\n \t<li><b>Alcoholic Beverages\u00a0<\/b>U.S. residents 21 years of age and older can return to the mainland with four liters of liquor, duty-free. Add a 5th liter duty-free if it is a product made in the U.S. Virgin Islands (Captain Morgan and Cruzan Rum)! Compare this to the one-liter-per-person duty-free limit outside the U.S. territory. Please note: Some airlines will allow you to check a box of liquor without an additional baggage fee. Please check directly with your airline for up-to-date information.<\/li>\n \t<li><b>Tobacco Products\u00a0<\/b>U.S. citizens age 21 or older are allowed up to 100 cigars (not of Cuban origin) and up to 5 cartons, or 1,000 cigarettes, duty-free, per person, if purchased in the U.S. Virgin Islands.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/travel\/international-visitors\/kbyg\/types-exemptions\">Click here for more information from the U.S Customs and Border Protection website.<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><b>Merchandise Shipped to the United States:\u00a0<\/b>A U.S. resident may ship goods purchased in the U.S Virgin Islands (\u201cunaccompanied purchases\u201d) to the United States. Unaccompanied purchases are goods you bought on a trip that are being shipped to you in the United States. \u00a0In this instance, you may declare up to $1,600 worth of duty-free goods per person under your exemption if the merchandise is purchased in the USVI. An additional $1,000 worth of goods may be mailed dutiable at a flat rate of 1.5% percent.<\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e54 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-h\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/dot.vi.gov\/our-islands\/general-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><div class=\"x-text x-text-headline e4722-e55 m3n6-9 m3n6-a\"><div class=\"x-text-content\"><div class=\"x-text-content-text\"><h2 class=\"x-text-content-text-primary\">Getting There<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e56 m3n6-n m3n6-p m3n6-q m3n6-r\"><p>When traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens enjoy all the conveniences of domestic travel \u2014 including online check-in \u2014 making travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands easier than ever. As a United States Territory, travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands does not require a passport for U.S. citizens arriving from Puerto Rico or the U.S. mainland.<\/p>\n<p>Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens.<\/p>\n<p>https:\/\/www.visitusvi.com\/st-thomas\/<\/p>\n<p><b>Traveling by Air to the U.S. Virgin Islands<\/b><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viport.com\/general-9\">https:\/\/www.viport.com\/general-9<\/a><\/p>\n<p><i>Disclaimer:<\/i>\u00a0The Virgin Islands Port Authority does not oversee travel requirements to enter and depart the United States Virgin Islands. This duty is handled by federal agencies such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. We strongly encourage you to verify entry requirements by visiting TSA's website for the most accurate information regarding entry to the U.S. Virgin Islands: \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsa.gov\/travel\/security-screening\/identification\"><b>www.tsa.gov\/travel\/security-screening\/identification<\/b><\/a>. <b>Verify your travel ID requirements with TSA before you travel.\u00a0<\/b><b>If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel. \u00a0The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. TSA strongly encourages you to check this list again before traveling, so you do not arrive at the airport without acceptable ID.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsa.gov\/real-id\">REAL ID<\/a> - compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles. A temporary driver\u2019s license is not an acceptable form of identification.<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \t<li>State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)<\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports.html\">U.S. passport<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports\/need-passport\/card.html\">U.S. passport card<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li>DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)<\/li>\n \t<li>U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents<\/li>\n \t<li>Permanent resident card<\/li>\n \t<li>Border crossing card<\/li>\n \t<li>An acceptable photo ID issued by a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.federalregister.gov\/documents\/2021\/01\/29\/2021-01606\/indian-entities-recognized-by-and-eligible-to-receive-services-from-the-united-states-bureau-of\">federally recognized<\/a>\u00a0Tribal Nation\/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)<\/li>\n \t<li>HSPD-12 PIV card<\/li>\n \t<li>Foreign government-issued passport<\/li>\n \t<li>Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card<\/li>\n \t<li>Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)<\/li>\n \t<li>U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)<\/li>\n \t<li>U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential<\/li>\n \t<li>Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>REAL ID<\/b><\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \t<li>As of\u00a0<b>May 7, 2025<\/b>, state-issued driver\u2019s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.<\/li>\n \t<li>Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.<\/li>\n \t<li>Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance, may be directed to a separate area, and may receive additional screening. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Don\u2019t Have Your Acceptable ID?<\/b><\/p>\n<p>The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening.<\/p>\n<p>You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose not to provide acceptable identification, you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed.<\/p>\n<p><b>Expired ID<\/b><\/p>\n<p>TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration, for the above-listed forms of identification.<\/p>\n<p><b>Children<\/b><\/p>\n<p>TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. Contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.<\/p>\n<p><b>Names With Suffixes<\/b><\/p>\n<p>TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-text-headline e4722-e57 m3n6-9 m3n6-a\"><div class=\"x-text-content\"><div class=\"x-text-content-text\"><h2 class=\"x-text-content-text-primary\">Emergency, Health, and Other Travel Advisories<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e58 m3n6-n m3n6-p m3n6-q m3n6-r\"><p><b>COVID-19<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>All domestic travelers and international travelers are no longer required to complete the USVI Travel Screening Portal or present an approved green QR code to travel to the USVI.<\/b>\u00a0Please refer to the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/travelers\/travel-during-covid19.html\">CDC requirements for domestic travel<\/a>\u00a0and the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/coronavirus\/2019-ncov\/travelers\/international-travel\/\">CDC requirements for international travel<\/a>\u00a0to stay up to date on the current travel requirements for the United States. For questions, please call the VI Department of Tourism at\u00a0<b>(340) 774-8784<\/b>\u00a0or send an email to\u00a0<a href=\"mailto:info@usviupdate.com\">info@usviupdate.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><b>Emergency Notices and Travel Advisories<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Emergency notices are posted on our Facebook and X (Twitter) social media accounts.<\/b><\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \t<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/usviports\"><b>www.facebook.com\/usviports<\/b><\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"http:\/\/www.x.com\/usviports\"><b>www.x.com\/usviports<\/b><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Requesting Special Services<\/b><\/p>\n<p>To request assistance with boarding or disembarking an aircraft, contact your airline (i.e., for wheelchair assistance).<\/p>\n<p><b>Helpful Travel Websites<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n \t<li><b>TSA:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/about\/contact\">https:\/\/www.tsa.gov\/contact<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><b>U.S. Department of State:\u00a0<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/\">https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><b>U.S. Customs:<\/b> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/about\/contact\">https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/about\/contact<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsa.gov\/travel\/security-screening\/identification\">TSA Acceptable Identification for Adults and Children<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tsa.gov\/travel\/frequently-asked-questions\">TSA Travel Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/passports.html\">U.S. Passports<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas.html\">U.S. Visas<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cbp.gov\/travel\">U.S. Customs and Border Protection<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/international-travel.html\">International Travel<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.help.cbp.gov\/s\/article\/Article-424?language=en_US\">Bringing alcohol from the U. S.\u00a0Virgin Islands\u00a0into the United States<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-text-headline e4722-e59 m3n6-9 m3n6-a\"><div class=\"x-text-content\"><div class=\"x-text-content-text\"><h2 class=\"x-text-content-text-primary\">Non-U.S. Citizens<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"x-text x-content e4722-e60 m3n6-n m3n6-p m3n6-q m3n6-r\"><p>Non-U.S. citizens flying domestically within the U.S. need to present a valid, unexpired foreign passport or other approved identification to the TSA at security checkpoints. Citizens of countries other than the United States of America should follow U.S. travel regulations.<br\/> <a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit.html\" target=\"_blank\">Visit this site for more information.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><b>A foreign national traveling to the United States for tourism needs a visitor visa (B-2 or combined B1\/B2) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Travel for pleasure or tourism may include a short visit for vacation, visiting family and friends, or for medical treatment.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visitor.html\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Visitor Visa\u00a0for Tourism<\/b><\/a><b>\u00a0(B-2 or B1\/B2 visa)<\/b><\/p>\n<p>For vacation, seeing family and friends, or medical treatment.<\/p>\n\n<ol>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visitor.html#overview\" target=\"_blank\">Overview<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visitor.html#apply\" target=\"_blank\">How to Apply<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visitor.html#fees\" target=\"_blank\">Fees<\/a><\/li>\n \t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visitor.html#documentation\" target=\"_blank\">Required Documentation<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/visa-waiver-program.html\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Visa Waiver Program<\/b><\/a><b>\u00a0VWP<\/b><\/p>\n<p>Most citizens of participating countries (see NOTE below)* may travel to the United States for short visits without a visa though the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit.html#ExternalPopup\" target=\"_blank\">Visa Waiver Program<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit.html#ExternalPopup\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program Requires ESTA Approval<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit\/citizens-of-canada-and-bermuda.html\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Canadian &amp; Bermudian Citizens<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need nonimmigrant visas for tourism.<\/p>\n<p>Traveling to the United States for another reason?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/visa-information-resources\/all-visa-categories.html\" target=\"_blank\">SEE ALL VISA CATEGORIES<\/a><\/p>\n<p>NOTE<\/p>\n<p>* With respect to a \"country\" or \"countries\" participating in VWP, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that \u201c[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.\u201d 22 U.S.C. \u00a7 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to \u201ccountry\u201d or \u201ccountries\u201d in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the one-China policy of the United States, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.<\/p><\/div><a class=\"x-anchor x-anchor-button e4722-e61 m3n6-d m3n6-f m3n6-g m3n6-h\" tabindex=\"0\" href=\"https:\/\/travel.state.gov\/content\/travel\/en\/us-visas\/tourism-visit.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><div class=\"x-anchor-content\"><div class=\"x-anchor-text\"><span class=\"x-anchor-text-primary\">Learn More<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>About USVIOverviewCultureKnow Before You GoTravel InformationGeneral Information GeographyThe United States Virgin Islands is part of the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. The three principal islands \u2013 St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas \u2013 are magnificent tropical environments, each distinguished by its own personality.PopulationSince 1960, the population in the U.S. Virgin Islands has nearly tripled. There are now an estimated &#8230; <a href=\"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/about-usvi\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read More<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_cbd_carousel_blocks":"[]","rs_blank_template":"","rs_page_bg_color":"","slide_template_v7":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-4722","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","no-post-thumbnail"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4722","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4722"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/4722\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/iac-caribbean.com\/conference\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4722"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}