Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Environmental Hazards
Food & Water
In the Virgin Islands, standards of cleanliness in places serving food and drink are generally
high.
Bottled drinking water, both carbonated and noncarbonated, is widely available on the
islands. Tap water is usually OK to drink, but ask locally.
Motion Sickness
Eating lightly before and during a trip will reduce the chance of motion sickness. If you
are prone to motion sickness, try to find a place that minimizes disturbance; for example,
near the wing on aircraft or near the center on boats. Fresh air usually helps. Commercial
anti-motion sickness preparations, which can cause drowsiness, have to be taken before the
trip commences; once you feel sick, it's too late. Ginger, a natural preventative, is available
in capsule form from health-food stores.
Sunburn
Use sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF) for any parts of your body exposed to
the sun.
Heat Exhaustion
Dehydration is the main contributor. Symptoms include feeling weak, headache, nausea
and sweaty skin. Lay the victim flat with their legs raised, apply cool, wet cloths to the
skin, and rehydrate.
