The Virgin Islands are the perfect place for those dream vacations with family and friends. Friendly people, a relaxing atmosphere, exotic foods, postcard-perfect views, and warm, clear waters make the stress of everyday life melt away.
Just like anywhere you’ve never been, there are a few little tricks to make sure your Virgin Islands vacation is perfect. The best way to make the most of your Virgin Islands vacation is to plan ahead. Here are some helpful tips that will make your time on the islands as fun and easy as possible.
Sun and insects: protect yourself!
The sun in the Virgin Islands is quite intense and has been known to cause some painful sunburns. Even with the constant trade winds keeping you cool, it’s still very important to protect your skin. Be sure to apply sunscreen throughout the day, especially when it’s covered in clouds—those UV rays never take a day off. Also protect your head, skin, and eyes by wearing a hat and sunglasses. Sunscreen sold on the islands is very expensive, so pack it in your check-in luggage; remember, airlines will confiscate it as carry-on luggage. The other item to watch out for are the “no-see-ums”: small nat-like creatures that come out at dawn and dusk, and immediately after it rains, depending on the time of year. These things bite, and the bites itch like crazy. Be sure to buy insect repellant that contains DEET. It’s the only thing that really works to keep them away.
Be very careful in the water!
There are plenty of quiet, sheltered bays in the Virgin Islands, but you can never be too sure. When snorkeling, always work with a buddy system. Having a buddy not only allows you and your partner to take care of each other, it also gives you the opportunity to share a unique and surreal view of Caribbean underwater life. Other things to watch out for while out on the water, aside from rough waves and unpredictable currents, are rocky outcroppings, sea urchins, and stinging sea corals. Keep your hands to yourself, you’d be surprised how painful a sea urchin sting can be. Also, there is a lot of boat traffic on the water, so make sure that wherever you are swimming or snorkeling, there is a flag on the boat to indicate that you are in the water. Try to stay in the designated swimming areas, there are tons, to be as safe as possible.
Driving is part of the adventure!
In the Virgin Islands, we drive on the left side of the road. Getting used to Virgin Islands traffic can take some time; that’s true whether you’re a pedestrian or driving a rental car. Crossing streets on foot can sometimes be tricky because cars will be coming from opposite directions than you’re used to, so look around constantly. The other thing to keep in mind is that the islands are very mountainous and, like most islands, the roads are not all in good condition. Go slow and watch out for hidden driveways and sharp turns. The other problem is that the views are so incredible that many people stop in the middle of the trail to watch. You’ll also hear a lot of honking in the Virgin Islands; this is not meant to be rude. People in the Virgin Islands use their horns to greet and communicate. It can be a bit surprising at first, but you’ll quickly get used to it.
Be aware of your surroundings – Take the safety precautions you always use when traveling anywhere else in the world. Wearing flashy jewelry and flaunting large amounts of cash in public can attract unwanted attention, so don’t. When touring the city, especially after dark, stay in busy, well-lit areas. It is best to carry cash and passport in a safe place on your body, and ladies, keep your bags closed and in sight if you leave it. If you are traveling with a group, always let everyone know where you are going and when you are expected to return.
Wear proper clothing!
Although bathing suits are common attire at resorts, islanders are more appropriate and bathing suits in public areas are simply not acceptable. Remember, this area was a British territory so some of the traditions still hold. When you’re out on the town, casual clothing is fine, but nothing too risqué. If you are in an event or Carnival, there is also appropriate clothing for those moments, but as a rule, only wear swimsuits when you are at the beach or in the pool.
Your visit to the Virgin Islands should be an incredible experience that you will treasure for a lifetime. These simple tips will help make your experience in the Virgin Islands a wonderful one.