Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Doctors
Finding a good doctor in the Virgin Islands is not a problem. If you do get
sick, you may want to ask the concierge at your hotel to recommend a local doctor—even
his or her own physician. See “Fast Facts” in individual island chapters for information on
doctors.
Drinking Laws
In the U.S. Virgins, the legal age for purchase and consumption of
alcoholic beverages is 18. Proof of age is required and often requested at bars, nightclubs,
and restaurants, so it's always a good idea to bring ID when you go out.
Do not carry open containers of alcohol in your car or any public area that isn't zoned
for alcohol consumption. The police can fine you on the spot. Don't even think about driv-
ing while intoxicated. Although 18-year-olds can purchase, drink, and order alcohol, they
cannot transport bottles back to the United States with them. If an attempt is made, the
alcohol will be confiscated at the Customs check point. The same holds true for the B.V.I.
In the B.V.I., the legal minimum age for purchasing liquor or drinking alcohol in bars or
restaurants is 18. Alcoholic beverages can be sold any day of the week, including Sunday.
You can have an open container on the beach, but be careful not to litter or you might
be fined.
Driving Rules
In both the U.S.V.I. and the B.V.I., you must drive on the left. See “Get-
ting Around,” earlier in this chapter.
Electricity
The electrical current in the Virgin Islands is the same as on the U.S. main-
land and Canada: 110 to 120 volts AC (60 cycles), compared to 220 to 240 volts AC (50
cycles) in most of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Downward converters that change
220 to 240 volts to 110 to 120 volts are difficult to find in the United States, so bring one
with you.
Embassies & Consulates
There are no embassies or consulates in the Virgin
Islands. If you have a passport issue, go to the local police station, which in all islands is
located at the center of government agencies. Relay your problem to whomever is at
reception, and you'll be given advice about which agencies can help you.
Emergencies
Call
&
911
in the U.S.V.I. or
999
in the B.V.I.
Family Travel
Most of the Virgin Islands, both U.S. and British, are family-friendly.
St.
Thomas
and
St. Croix
have the most facilities and attractions for families. The British Vir-
gin Islands have significantly fewer family-oriented activities, and some of the smaller and
less developed islands don't cater much to children, although families who love spending
whole days on the beach will probably have a great time. When compared with some of
the other major destinations in the Caribbean (such as Jamaica, where crime is high), the
U.S. Virgins are generally safe, and the British Virgin Islands are even safer. To locate
accommodations, restaurants, and attractions that are particularly kid-friendly, refer to
the “Kids” icon throughout this guide.
Gasoline
Please see “Getting Around,” earlier in this chapter, for information.
7
Healthy Travels to You
The following government websites
offer up-to-date health-related travel
advice:
W
Australia:
www.smarttraveller.gov.au
W
Canada:
www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.
html
W
U.K.:
www.dh.gov.uk/en/policyand
guidance/healthadvicefortravellers
W
U.S.:
wwwn.cdc.gov/travel
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