U.S. Virgin Islands - Location Guide & Travel Tips 
Location
The U.S. Virgin Islands are comprised of several dozen islands, with the main ones being St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. They are actually part of the Leeward Island archipelago, and lie about 50 miles east of Puerto Rico.
St. Croix, the largest by far, is farther to the south, lying approximately 45 miles south of St. Thomas and St. John, which are within 4 miles of each other. Another 4 miles to the east and north lies Tortola, and the rest of the British Virgin Islands.
Geography
All the islands have a mostly hilly terrain, shaped by long past volcanic activity, and more recently by the seismic shifts of earthquakes. They also possess some of the most beautiful beaches to be found anywhere. Total population is around 102,000.
St. Croix has flatter areas on its southern side, with rain-forest in the northwest, and its 2 main towns, Christiansted in the middle of the north side, and Frederiksted, in the middle of the west side. It boasts awesome scuba diving off the north wall, which lying a short swim from the beach, quickly drops down thousands of feet. St. Croix, at 28 miles long by 7 miles wide, is home to nearly half the population of the U.S.V.I. It is also the location of the easternmost point of the United States at Point Udall on the far eastern tip.
St. Thomas, at about half the physical size of St. Croix, is home to most of the other half of the Virgin Islands population, and on the same island is Crown Mountain, the highest point, reaching 474m. It is also home to the capital at Charlotte Amalie, whose port is one of the busiest in the Caribbean.
The third island, St. John, is the quiet island, and the smallest of the 3 main islands. Most of it is undeveloped, with around 70% being protected as National Park lands. There are no airports, and the usual way of getting to St. John is by ferry. It's spectacular beach at Trunk Bay has consistently been voted one of the 10 Best in the World.
Climate
The Virgin Islands have a warm, tropical climate, with temperatures mostly in the 80's, varying only a few degrees throughout the year. Trade-winds are fairly consistent throughout the year, keeping the islands pleasant. Rainfall averages only about 40 inches annually, with the most rain falling during the months of September and October.
On St. Croix, drought can be a problem since it lacks freshwater sources either from streams or underground. Because water is scarce, rainwater is captured in cisterns on most properties to provide water needs.
Language
English is the official language and spoken everywhere. Some English or Spanish Creole may also be heard.
Time Zone
Atlantic Standard Time, one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time and the same as Eastern Daylight Time. GMT -4.
Currency
U.S. dollar. Travelers checks and major credit cards are welcome everywhere.
Telecommunications
Modern phone service, including direct dial. Cellular service is also available across the islands, with the only problem areas being those behind the very highest hills, as they are not line-of-sight locations. Depending on service provider, U.S. cell phones often work without roaming. Cingular and Sprint work as in the states.
Electricity
120 volts. North American standard plugs & receptacles.
Government
Virgin Islanders are U.S. Citizens, but can not vote for the President. They have a non-voting representative in Congress. They vote for their own governor, legislators, and have a judiciary similar to the U.S.
Passports & Immigration
Passports are not required for U.S. citizens, but be prepared to show another valid form of identification such as government issued picture ID, like a drivers license, plus a birth certificate with raised seal. Citizens of other countries should follow U.S. travel regulations.
Entry Requirements for the United States change effective December 31, 2006 -- All air & sea travelers, including U.S. citizens, to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, and Bermuda must have a valid passport or other accepted document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality, to enter the United States.
Departure Tax
No airport departure tax.
Service Charges & Tax
Room tax is 8%. Enjoy no taxes when shopping
Tipping & Gratuities
Same as in the US; 15-20% depending on the service. Some restaurants & hotels will automatically add a service charge.
Disclaimer
We attempt to ensure the accuracy of all information provided, however we are not responsible for the content provided herein. For the most current information, please visit the United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism website, at http://www.usvitourism.vi