The United States Virgin Islands is a group of Caribbean Islands and islets. It is one of the most popular stopovers for people travelling to or coming back from the Caribbean. A U.S. state, it is renowned for its white sandy beaches, pristine waters, lush forests and authentic culture. St. Thomas island, which is the largest U.S. island, is home to the original capital, Charlotte Amalie, which is a favorite destination with tourists looking for good food, water sports and fun. To the north is St. John, home to famous cities like Fort Bragg and Cartier City.
To the south is St. Croix Island, which is also famous for its rainforest environment. Its unique landscape features pine forests, rainforests, tropical fish and saltwater coral reefs. On St. Croix, there is a popular fishing spot where tourists can try their skills in catching tuna, mackerel, Herring and king mackerel. The island also boasts of its clean and beautiful white sand beaches. There is a popular international airport on St. Croix. To the northwest of the island is St. Thomas, which has a smaller airport and a smaller number of flights to and from the United States.
While on St. Thomas Island, make sure you take a cruise down to the island's southern tip. This is where one can find the best scenery and some of the best snorkeling and diving. You can also visit Angel Island, which is home to Angel Beach, which has white sand beaches and an abundance of sea life. Diving fans will be impressed by the large number of wrecks in the area. Angel Island's shops and restaurants cater to a variety of tastes.
An interesting place to visit in the US Virgin Islands is George Town, which is known for its high quality food, including local Caribbean dishes. You can visit Fort Walton Beach, which offers entertainment such as volleyball and horseshoes. Fort Walton Beach is also home to one of the most popular public restrooms in the entire island. It is located on the north coast of St. Thomas.
A little farther north from St. Thomas is St. John along the US Virgin Island's southern coast. Here you will enjoy the island's beautiful beaches and tall grasses. St. John is also known for its limestone caves and sea lions. The most popular activity here is scuba diving, but you can also enjoy snorkeling, surfing and kayaking. The island offers numerous restaurants, dive sites, and beach bars. There are also cruises available to explore the surrounding waters.
In St. Thomas, you should take a leisurely stroll along the beach and stay for a coffee at a beachside cafe before you head back to your room. You can shop in the St. Thomas Market, where you will find exotic clothing, jewelry, paintings, pottery, and souvenirs. There are also several bars, restaurants and lounges.
St. Martin is a unique island with its famous French influence. Its capital city, Saint Martin, features an old cathedral and a lovely museum. The island's cuisine consists mainly of herb and spice fields. You will find wonderful seafood in Saint Martin's restaurants. Other popular restaurants include Jardin and Le Radieux.
One of the most sought after islands in the United States Virgin Islands is St. Thomas. It offers plenty of sun and sand, but it is also famous for its culture and churches. The island has beautiful beaches and even golf courses. There are plenty of holiday rental options on the island, and many families choose this location to take their annual holiday. A United States Virgin Islands travel guide can help you find the right rental property.
Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to United States Virgin Islands are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Review the latest FCDO Travel Advice before travelling to or from United States Virgin Islands
The best (and driest) time to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands is December through March or April. Travelers will enjoy sunny skies and perfect beach temperatures.
For non-U.S. citizens, visiting the U.S. Virgin Islands is just like visiting the mainland United States: You need a passport and visa. A passport is necessary for all visitors to the British Virgin Islands (including citizens of the U.K.). For information on how to get a passport, contact your passport office .
See which forms you may need for entry into United States Virgin Islands.
The official currency of United States Virgin Islands is the United States Dollar (USD). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in United States Virgin Islands you can grab amazing United States Dollar deals via Wise.com (GBP to USD).
Some of the nonnative land mammals roaming the islands are the white-tailed deer, small Asian mongoose, goats, feral donkeys, rats, mice, sheep, hogs, dogs and cats. Sea mammals includes numerous species of whales, dolphins, orcas, manatees and dugongs.
Creole food? Flying fish and cou-cou is the island's national dish, with the fish steamed and served with cornmeal cooked with okra and water.
You can typically expect to pay around £4.00p for an equivalent pint of lager or beer.
The most popular languages spoken within the past 400 years in what is today the US Virgin Islands are English, Virgin Islands Creole English and Dutch Creole. The US Virgin Islands became a United States territory and official English speaking region in 1917. You can learn some basic Creole before you travel to United States Virgin Islands and really impress the locals!
The currency in United States Virgin Islands is the United States Dollar (Tipping is the same as the US or Europe - 15% of your restaurant check, more if service has been exceptional.).
The GMT time difference is -5 hours