U.S. Virgin Islands
Travel tips for U.S. Virgin Islands: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Carry some cash. While cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops, and ferries, you will need plenty of cash for taxis—which almost universally refuse cards—as well as for tips and as a backup during frequent power outages.
Try the food
- Pate: A deep-fried, crescent-shaped pastry stuffed with spiced ground beef, chicken, or saltfish.
- Kallaloo: A thick, dark green soup made from leafy greens, okra, meat, and local seafood.
- Fungi: A savory, polenta-like side dish made from cornmeal cooked with okra.
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type A / Type B
- Voltage
- 120V, 60Hz
- Driving
- Left side
- Tap water
- Usually safe
- Emergency
- 911 (all services)
- SIM tip
- US residents can usually use their domestic AT&T or T-Mobile plans without roaming fees, while international visitors should download an eSIM like Airalo before arrival for immediate connectivity.
Etiquette
Always greet locals with 'Good morning,' 'Good afternoon,' or 'Good evening' before asking a question or beginning a transaction, and tip 15 to 20 percent at restaurants as you would in the mainland US.