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| About St. Thomas |
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| Basics: St. Thomas spans 32 square miles with the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean to the South. The capital is Charlotte Amalie, named in 1692 for the Queen of Denmark. Christopher Columbus first discovered the Virgin Islands in 1493. Ruled at different times by Holland, France, England, Spain and Denmark. The island was decidely under Danish rule and influence from 1671 until 1917 when the United States purchased St. Thomas as part of its military defense strategy for $25 million. In 1927, residents were granted US citizenship. Currency: US dollar Electric Current: Same as the US: 110 volts Time: Atlantic Standard Time. During daylight savings time, this is the same as Eastern Daylight Time. Official Language: English Entry Documents: US citizens do not require a passport to enter, but do require proof of citizenship to return back to the States. A birth certificate with photo ID or passport will work. Canadian and European travelers will need a valid passport. All travellers will need proof of citizenship to leave the island and a passport is a good idea since a day trip to the British Virgin Islands may be in order. Driving: On the left Getting Around: Car rental rates are very reasonable. Actually, renting a car for a week in St. Thomas from Hertz was less expensive than renting a car for 5 days from Hertz in Dallas. It helps to have a car if you want to explore the island but only if you will be comfortable driving on the left. We did it, it wasn't so bad. Taxis are plentiful, but can add up--be sure the negotiate your fare ahead of time as there are no meters. There is the "Dollar Taxi" that the locals told us about that travels in one direction around the main roads of the island. Stand on the edge of the road and wait for it to come by (usually no more than 10 minutes). Phone: You can direct dial to the US mainland. Most major cell phone carriers get service in the Virgin Islands. Tipping: 15-20 %, like in the US is customary. Online info: These websites can assist you in planning and give you more info on St. Thomas. www.viplayground.com Trip Advisor Virgin Islands Department of Tourism US Virgin Islands Virgin Islands Daily Newspaper |
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