Island Do's and Do Not's

Clothing

Shoes, Shirts, and Shorts or Pants are required while walking around in town. Lets leave the bathing suits at home. While we are an island and want you to have fun, the West Indian culture is very conservative. Please cover up while walking around in town.

Sidewalks

While there are only a few sidewalks in town, please use them. Nothing upsets the locals more than people walking down the middle of the street or in the roadways. Be courteous and stick to the sides.

Greetings

The West Indian culture is a very polite one. Greetings of good morning, good afternoon, and good evening are pretty much a requirement when interacting with any of the locals. If you forget, don't worry, they will remind you.

Wildlife

We all know the donkeys, iguanas, mongoose, and sea turtles are wonderous creatures here on the island. Please do not feed, harass, or chase them. We encourage taking photos from a distance. Donkeys, iguanas, and mongoose can bite, and the turtles get scared when you're too close. Please keep a safe distance.

Trash

Currently, there are very few public trash cans while walking through town. We kindly ask that you use designated trash receptacles or even carry a trash bag with you.

Water/Power Usage

Water and power are precious resources here on the island and are very costly. We cannot stress enough just how precious they are. Please be aware of this and limit your usage as much as possible. Nobody wants to experience rolling black-outs while on vacation.

No Haggling

We realize that haggling over price is a common practice in most places. It is however NOT acceptable here in the USVI. In fact, it is considered rude and insulting to haggle over prices.

Tipping

It is extremely expensive to live in the islands. Most locals work two and sometimes even three jobs to afford the cost of living. Please remember that when tipping those who have provided a service for you. Tips are commonly given to food service, taxis, cleaning staff, baggage carriers, information attendants, bartenders, shop salespersons (if you've taken up more than 10 minutes of their time). Basically anyone who helps you with anything is commonly tipped.

Island Time

We drive on the left! Honk (quick double-tap, not long ones) in thanks when someone lets you into traffic. Oh, and when going through round-abouts, go LEFT!

Maps

Carry a map at all times. If you ask for directions, you'll surely be lost. Google maps does not always work here. A physical map is always recommended.

Bug Spray

Mosquitos are a big deal as are no-see-ums. It is highly recommended that you wear bug spray at all times during your stay. Nobody wants to deal with Dengue on their vacation.

Crime

St. John is a very safe place to visit. Of course, as with any area, petty theft is always an issue. Just be diligent, keep anything of value hidden or out-of-sight. Do not "advertise that you have cash on hand. Just sticking with the basics can go a long way.