If you and your partner are looking to escape the madness of California by getting away to the Virgin Islands, take the time to plan the details of your vacation, as well as travel logistics. The Virgin Islands, which consist of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John, have a reputation for being among the cleanest and most friendly islands in the Caribbean, and they're ripe for exploration. Whether you want to catch up on your rest or have an active trip, check out these six tips to ensure your travels are smooth and hassle-free.
1. Book Air Travel
Image via Flickr by ironypoisoning
Getting from California to the Virgin Islands requires hopping on a plane. Because airlines change their routes, check for direct flights from your nearest airport. There likely won’t be a non-stop flight, so you’ll need to investigate alternative itineraries. Expect to connect in cities such as Miami, Houston, Texas, or even New York. Whichever city you choose for making your connection, give yourself at least 45 minutes between flights. Don’t like the idea of having to run through the airport? Allow yourself at least an hour and fifteen minutes to decrease the chances you’ll have to sprint for your flight. After all, who wants to start their vacation off in a sweaty panic? Most major U.S. carriers service the Virgin Islands, so you can choose the airline you prefer or that has the best deal to the island you want to visit. Whichever airline you choose, sign up for their frequent flyer program so you can begin collecting miles. Traveling from California to the Virgin Islands will ensure you have a healthy amount of miles in your account at the conclusion of your trip.
2. Plan for Ground Transportation
Be sure to bring your U.S. driver’s license so you can rent and drive a car on the island for up to 90 days. If you do decide to drive, remind yourself that on these islands, drivers stay on the left side of the road. Also, don’t drive while using your cell phone. Island laws make it illegal to operate a vehicle while using a phone unless you have an earpiece.
3. Time Your Travel
Consider the fun possibilities of visiting the Virgin Islands for a calypso Christmas celebration. Or plan to join the fun of one of the carnivals held each year there featuring plenty of live music, colorful costumes, and cultural activities that salute the West Indies heritage of the island’s native residents.
4. Achieve Peace of Mind
Part of booking your travel involves securing your home and belongings, so you don’t have to worry while you’re away. Learn more about Vivint in California if you want to safeguard your home with the help of professionals. You may also decide to book a house-sitter who makes periodic house checks while you’re away, and who can respond if the security system sounds an alarm.
5. Stay Safe on the Islands
Image via Flickr by F H Mira
While you want to arrange for your home to stay secure while you’re away, you also want to think about your personal safety during the trip. Travel experts advise placing valuables in your hotel’s safe, just as you would in almost any U.S. city. The island streets pose similar dangers to those you’d find on the U.S. mainland, with St. Croix and St. Thomas having higher crime rates than St. John. Avoid areas that aren’t well-lit and don’t explore unknown neighborhoods after dark. Most tourists will not experience a crime, though the most common crime against tourists involves the theft of purses.
6. Protect Your Health
Image via Flickr by Joe Shlabotnik
Plan to use sunscreen because, despite the comfort provided by prevailing tradewinds, the sun is intense in the Caribbean. Reduce your chances of getting food-borne illnesses by eating only fruit you wash and peel yourself. Make sure meats are thoroughly cooked. Although most tap water is safe for drinking, your hotel can advise you on the safest strategy for consuming water. In restaurants, you have no way of knowing the source of ice in your drink, so it’s best to go without ice. By planning ahead, you can anticipate a memorable, relaxing adventure in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Join the conversation
You Might Also Like