For your convenience, The Ritz-Carlton has provided the following information about St. Thomas to help you plan for and enjoy your stay in the Virgin Islands.
Climate
The weather in St. Thomas is genearlly sunny all year round with the temperature ranging from 88 degrees Fahrenheit during the day to 76 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The trade winds provide a pleasant breeze.
Clothing
We respectfully request our guests to be neatly attired at all times in the public areas of the resort. Our dress standard also applies to our younger guests as well:
- Cotton or lightweight clothing is suitable for daywear
- Proper evening attire is recommended when dining in restaurants
Visas
There are no local Visa requirements
Passports
U.S. citizens are not required to have passports or proof of citizenship when ENTERING the U.S. Virgin Islands from a U.S. airport. All arrivals to the U.S. Virgin Islands from foreign airports are required to show proof of citizenship and pass through customs. All persons leaving the U.S. Virgin Islands, whether American citizens or not, must be prepared to show proof of citizenship upon leaving the islands to return to the mainland.
Accepted documents for Proof of Citizenship for Americans: 1. A passport issued under competent authority, 2. An Alien Registration Card (this applies to U.S. permanent residents only) 3. A certified copy of a birth certificate and government issued photo identification 4. A Certificate of Naturalization, issued by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. Citizens of any country other than the U.S. should follow U.S. travel regulations and requirements for entry into the United States.
Health Requirements
There are no health requirements for travel to the US Virgin Islands.
Language
- The national language of St. Thomas is English
- English is widely spoken in the Virgin Islands
Airports
Cyril E. King Airport is located approximately 30 minutes from The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. Be advised that you should check-in at the airport no later than 2 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the airport, cruise ship dock, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas and at popular attractions and beaches. Taxis charge per person and by destination. There are no metered taxis. Taxi rates are set by the VI Taxicab Division.
Rental Cars
Rental Agencies are located at the airport and in walking distance from the main cruise ship dock. There are several agencies to choose from. Having your own transportation will make sightseeing, beach hopping, dining, shopping and exploring the island much more convenient. Visitors should be advised that cars drive on the left-hand side of the road. Remember to stay to the left, especially when leaving parking lots and turning corners.
Parking
Parking is readily available at beaches, restaurants, attractions
Buses
VITRAN buses cover popular routes on St. Thomas. Country buses run every hour from 5:15 a.m. to 8 p.m. between town and Red Hook. City buses travel between Schneider Regional Medical Center and town and run between 6:15 a.m. and 8 p.m. Country bus fare is $1 and City bus fare is $2.
Trains
There is no train service on St. Thomas
Electricity
Electric outlets in the Virgin Islands take standard North American current, with a 120 volt / 60 cycle.
Currency
- Transactions are done in the U.S. Dollar
- A currency exchange service is available at the hotel’s front desk
- You may also change your money or cash travelers checks at banks
- Remember to bring along your passport to help facilitate exchanges
Phone
- The area code is 340
- International calls are made by first dialing 011 followed by the numbers. Calls within St. Thomas do not require an area code before the number
- For local directory assistance, call 913
Tourist Information
- U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism – (800) 372-USVI
- St. Thomas Tourist Information Office, Charlotte Amalie – (340) 774-8784
Emergency Phone Numbers
The local number for emergency services is 911.
Public Holidays
The U.S. Virgin Islands celebrate all major U.S. holidays. Banks and most stores are closed on these days.
Hours of Work/Business
Hours of operation vary for local businesses.
Banking Hours
Typical banking hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Shopping Hours
Most stores in downtown Charlotte Amalie are open both weekdays/weekends.
Tipping
Service charges and gratuities are not typically included as part of your bill. It is customary to leave 15 to 20% gratuity on food and beverage services.
Seasonal Temperatures
Spring (March, April, May): High 86°F/30°C; Low 71°F/21°C
Summer (June, July, August): High 89°F/31°C; Low 76°F/24°C
Fall (September, October, November): High 89°F/31°C; Low 76°F/24°C
Winter (December, January, February): High 85°F/29°C; Low 72°F/22°C