You’re here. Now what?
Here’s our short list of things to know so you can enjoy your time on St John.
QUICK STATS
The island of St john is just 9 miles long and 3 miles wide [ 28 sq mi ].
Coordinates: 18°20′N 64°44′W
Time zone: GMT-4
Avg temp: Winter [ 77F ], Summer [ 82F ]
Area code: 340
Currency: US Dollar
Driving: Drive on the LEFT
Do I need a passport to travel to St john / Virgin Islands?
The short answer: NO. US citizens do not need a passport to travel to St John / St Thomas or St Croix ( USVIs). VI Tourism promotes the “No passport required” slogan. However, you’ll need a passport to travel to and from some of the neighboring islands of the BVIs / British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, etc. So travelling with your passport is recommend by this traveler : )
ENJOYING YOUR TIME
Getting to know the island is what it’s all about. Here are a couple of tips to get you started …
A local custom and great way to start every meeting is with a “Good morning”, “Good afternoon” or “Good evening”. Leave out this introduction and you’ll start out on the wrong foot.
Drive on the left!
Relax, you’re on vacation. Island living happens at a different pace. It’s why you came to St John. So remember, nothing happens quickly and that’s how it should be!
Be courteous. The Island is popular …and small. That means we all gotta get along and enjoy ourselves.
Most of the Island is a National Park. Always respect the place, St John’s hiking trails, St John’s coral reefs and sea life.
SUN PROTECTION
Don’t be that tourist that ruins your trip on the first day with a wicked sunburn. When packing for the beach include high SPF sun tan lotion, hat, beverages and moderate your time in the sun.
WATER SAFETY
Snorkeling is one of the most enjoyable things to do on St John. But, even a confident swimmer can be distracted. Make sure you stay within your physical limitations. Be aware of your surroundings. Never snorkel alone. Watch for strong currents, waves, boats, jet skis, changing weather and the distance you’ve traveled.
PLANTS / ANIMALS
Virgin Islands National Park covers about 2/3 of the island – respect the natural resources you’ve come to enjoy so that others can do the same!
T’ingz To Avoid!
Christmas Bush – same, same as poison ivy but nastier. Don’t touch – wash off gently with soap and water.
Catch-n-Keep – This member of the Acacia family has very effective hooked thorns!
Manchineal Tree – This tree is rare but definitely a bad bad tree. Do not touch, sit under it or consume the lime-like fruit!
Sea Urchins – These little guys love some of the same places we like to swim. Keep your eyes open and do your best to avoid any contact!
Jellyfish – Most stinging Caribbean jelly fish can cause minor discomfort, skin irritation and rashes. Be aware when swimming and snorkeling.
Lion Fish – This fish is very attractive but don’t be tempted to touch …the spines are poisonous!
Mosquitos – Dengue Fever is spread by mosquitos and usually presents with flu-like symptoms. Kids and older adults are at highest risk. Precautions such as wearing clothes that cover the skin when out for the evening and using insect repellent go a long way toward reducing your chances of becoming ill.
Jack Spaniard Wasps – These little guys aren’t particularly aggressive – but they love to build their nests right at head height. Best to see them before they see you!