From Cultural expectations to water conservation and driving on the left, check out the list below for some things you may not expect while traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands
You’re making a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands! While you’re ready to visit crystal clear water and beautiful beaches, here are some things to know before your visit!
Driving on the Left:
Virgin Islanders drive on the left side of the road (but the steering wheel is still on the left!). Driving on the left dates back to the islands’ Danish colonial era until the early 1900s. The tradition stuck around, the Danish did not.
Don’t be rude, greetings are expected:
When you see someone or walk into an establishment, it is custom to say “good morning”, “good afternoon”, or “good night”. Saying “hi” or no greeting at all is considered impolite.
Power in the Virgin Islands is expensive and unreliable:
Good or bad weather, power outages can last for minutes or hours, especially if the power company has put the island on an outage rotation. When booking accommodation, make sure it has solar or a generator. If power is off, some restaurants may not operate as well. Remember to be patient, no one can answer when the power is coming back and it is not the staff’s fault if it is out. Check out St Thomas accommodations here
Water is primarily collected from rainwater runoff from roofs into cisterns
Some neighborhoods have access to city water, but most households depend on cisterns and water trucks, so you may see signs to limit water use. This sustainable method of rainwater harvesting is common and helps conserve resources. By being mindful of your consumption, you’re contributing to the island’s eco-friendly way of living.
There is a saying…
“if it’s yellow, let it mellow. If it’s brown, flush it down”. You may see standing water in a toilet, but just remember, water conservation is important and it is habit to let it “mellow”.
While the U.S. Virgin Islands offer stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences, it’s important to embrace the unique rhythm of island life. From driving on the left to conserving water, these small adjustments are all part of the adventure. With a little patience and an open mind, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything the islands have to offer. So relax, take it slow, and soak in the beauty of paradise!
Have you visited the Virgin Islands? What are your tips for visiting? Leave your comment below!
