š“Why I Recommend St. Thomas to My ClientsāAnd Why Youāll Love It Too! š“
As a travel advisor, Iāve had the joy of helping many clients fall in love with the Caribbeanāand St. Thomas is always one of my top recommendations. It's not just a tropical island; it's a vibrant, unforgettable experience that offers so much more than just sun and sand.
Let me show you why St. Thomas should be your next getaway!
āØ What Makes St. Thomas So Special?
St. Thomas stands out because itās the perfect blend of Caribbean charm and American convenience. Itās a U.S. territory, which means no passport is needed for U.S. citizens, and the currency is the U.S. dollarābut it still feels like a whole new world with its lush hills, historic streets, and crystal-clear waters.
And here's something unique: you drive on the left side of the road here! Itās a quirky detail that adds to the islandās character.
Charlotte Amalie, the vibrant capital of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a Caribbean gem blending historical charm with tropical allure. Founded by Danish settlers in the 17th century, this harbor town has a rich past shaped by piracy, trade, and colonial rule. Its iconic landmarks like Blackbeardās Castle and Fort Christian, the oldest standing structure in the Virgin Islands, offer a window into the islandās storied history. Walking through the cobblestone streets of the downtown area, visitors can admire the historic Danish architecture while shopping for duty-free goods, making it a popular destination for cruise ships and tourists alike.
Beyond its historical attractions, Charlotte Amalie is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. Just minutes from the city, Magens Bay beckons with its crystal-clear waters and pristine sands, ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Adventurous visitors can snorkel at nearby Coki Point Beach or take a boat tour to explore surrounding cays. For a birdās-eye view of St. Thomas, the Skyride to Paradise Point offers stunning panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea.
Culture and cuisine thrive in Charlotte Amalie, where visitors can sample local Caribbean flavors, from fresh seafood to tropical fruits. The bustling Emancipation Garden and Vendorās Plaza are excellent spots to discover local crafts, music, and the vibrant spirit of the island. A fun fact: Charlotte Amalie is home to the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, the St. Thomas Synagogue, which was built in 1833 and is a National Historic Landmark.
With its mix of history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Charlotte Amalie offers an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Whether youāre soaking up the sun on a world-class beach or diving into the islandās rich heritage, thereās something for everyone in this captivating destination.
I always encourage clients to eat like a local, and in St. Thomas, that means flavorful dishes that reflect Caribbean roots:
Pates ā Fried pastries stuffed with beef, chicken, or saltfish
Callaloo Soup ā A leafy green stew full of herbs and often seafood
Johnny Cakes ā Island-style fried bread, perfect with just about anything
Conch Fritters ā Crispy and packed with local flavor
Red Peas Soup ā Comfort food with beans, dumplings, and spice
Pair your meal with a Painkiller cocktail or a cool bottle of Carib beerāand you're officially on island time!
š”Travel Advisor Tipš”
Don't skip a chance to try the Conch Fritters. They are delicious!
St. Thomas is generally safe and welcoming, especially in tourist areas. But like any destination, a few smart precautions go a long way:
Avoid flashing valuables
Stick to well-lit areas at night
Swim only in designated areas when lifeguards or warning flags are present
Use registered taxis or recommended tour guides
Stay aware and take the usual precautions, just like you would in your own neighborhood.
When you book with me, I vet all vendors and tours for safety and reliability, so you can relax and enjoy.
š Entry Requirements for Tourists
ā Passport
- A valid passport is not required for U.S Citizens.
- For UK, and Canadian citizens, the passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
- For other nationalities, the passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date
š¬ Visa
- No visa is required for stays up to 90 days for citizens of the U.S., Canada, UK, EU, and many other countries
- If a visa is required for your nationality, it must be obtained in advance through a British embassy or consulate.
š« Onward or Return Ticket
- You must show proof of a return or onward ticket upon arrival.
š Immigration Form
- All visitors must complete an immigration form upon arrival. This is typically provided by your airline.
š Health & COVID-19
- All COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted. No testing, vaccination, or insurance is required1.
- No other vaccinations are required unless you're arriving from a country with a yellow fever risk.
ā ļø Important Notes
š« Firearms & Ammunition Laws
- Strictly Prohibited for Tourists: Firearms and ammunition are highly regulated in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tourists are not allowed to bring firearms or ammunition without going through a complex and expensive permitting process.
- Even a single bullet in your possessionāwithout proper authorizationācan lead to arrest, confiscation, and severe penalties 1 2.
- Importing firearms without a license is illegal, and carrying a firearm (openly or concealed) without a valid local permit is a criminal offense 2.
Bottom line: Leave all firearms and ammunition at home when traveling to St. Thomas.
š Tourist Stay Duration
- U.S. Citizens: No visa is required. You can stay as long as you like, as itās a U.S. territory.
- Non-U.S. Citizens:
- Most tourists are allowed to stay for up to 90 days under the U.S. visa waiver program, depending on their nationality.
- Caribbean nationals may be eligible for a 45-day visa-free stay under the Virgin Islands Visa Waiver Act, but this applies only to the USVI and not the mainland U.S. 3.
- Extensions beyond the initial stay must be handled through U.S. immigration authorities, and approval is not guaranteed.
Travel Requirements
ā For U.S. Citizens on a Closed-Loop Cruise:
- Passport is NOT required, but strongly recommended.
- You can travel with:
- A government-issued photo ID (like a driverās license) AND
- An original or certified copy of your birth certificate with a raised seal
- Many cruise lines recommend carrying a passport or passport card in case of emergencies (e.g., needing to fly home unexpectedly).
š For All Other Cruise Passengers:
- Valid passport is required.
- For most nationalities (U.S., Canada, UK, EU), no visa is needed for stays under 90 days
š§¾ While Ashore in St. Thomas
- You typically only need your cruise ship ID card (sign-and-sail card) and a photo ID to disembark and reboard the ship
Travel Documents
Valid Passport
- Required for Cruise ā Recommended
- Required for Flying ā No
Birth Certificate + ID
- Required for Cruise ā Accepted (closed-loop cruises)
- Required for Flying ā No
Cruise Boarding Pass
- Required for Cruise ā Yes
- Required for Flying ā N/A
E-Ticket Form (DR)
- Required for Cruise ā No (by cruise)
- Required for Flying ā Yes
Visa / Tourist Card
- Required for Cruise ā Not for U.S. citizens
- Required for Flying ā Not needed for stays under 30 days
š Duty-Free Allowances
The duty-free allowance for US residents returning from the Caribbean depends on whether you're returning from a U.S. insular possession (like the U.S. Virgin Islands) or other Caribbean countries.
1. Returning from a U.S. insular possession (USVI, American Samoa, or Guam)
- You can bring back $1,600 worth of items duty-free per person, every 30 days, as long as you bring them with you.
- This includes up to 1,000 cigarettes (with at least 800 acquired in the insular possession) and five liters of alcohol (with at least one being a product of the insular possession).
2. Returning from other Caribbean countries
- You can bring back $800 worth of items duty-free per person, every 30 days, as long as you bring them with you.
- This includes 200 cigarettes and two liters of alcohol (at least one must be produced in the Caribbean).
šļøImportant notes
- Combined exemptions: Family members can combine their individual exemptions on a joint declaration.
- Mail/shipments: If you mail items home, different rules apply. Goods valued up to $1,600 from an insular possession are duty-free. Goods up to $800 from a Caribbean Basin or Andean country are duty-free. You must complete a declaration form (Form 255) at customs and send a copy with your items.
- Declaring items: Declare all articles acquired abroad on the Customs Declaration Form (CBP Form 6059B).
- Prohibited and restricted items: Certain items are prohibited or restricted, including some agricultural products and items that infringe intellectual property rights. Check for the latest information on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
- Stay length: The duty-free exemption applies if you've been outside the US for at least 48 hours, unless you're returning from Mexico or the US Virgin Islands.
Disclaimer: While this information is based on the provided search results and current regulations, it is important to consult the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website ( among others) or contact them directly for the most up-to-date and specific guidance regarding your travel.
One of the most exciting parts of a St. Thomas trip for my shoppers-at-heart is the incredible duty-free shopping. You can bring back up to $1,600 per person in goodsātax-free!
As your travel agent, I always suggest shopping for:
š Fine jewelry and luxury watches (think top designer brands at great prices)
š Leather goods and high-end handbags
š¹ Local rums, Caribbean spices, and fruit jams
š Handmade candles, crafts, and souvenirs from local artisans
Head to Main Street in Charlotte Amalieāa shopperās dream lined with boutiques and galleries.
š§ Tours & Activities I Recommend
Whether youāre traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, thereās something for everyone. These are just a few of my favorite tours to recommend:
š” Skyride to Paradise Point ā Incredible views and photo ops
š¢ Snorkeling at Turtle Cove ā Swim with sea turtles and vibrant fish
āµ Catamaran sails to St. John or the BVI
šļø Historical walking tours of downtown Charlotte Amalie
š¶ Mangrove lagoon kayak excursions
šļø Beach-hopping tours for a mix of fun and serenity
šŗ Hidden Gems I Love to Share
I love sharing insider spots with my clients. Here are a few hidden gems I often include in custom itineraries:
Hull Bay ā A local favorite beach, especially if you surf or just want peace
Phantasea Tropical Botanical Garden ā Quiet, colorful, and romantic
Drakeās Seat ā A scenic overlook with history and incredible sunset views
Mountain Top ā Sweeping views and the islandās most famous banana daiquiris
Iām happy to book these experiences for youāmany sell out quickly, especially during cruise season!
š”Travel Advisor Tip š”
Sunny Liston Tours is one of my all-time favorites!
I book with them every time I visit St. Thomas. Their tours are always fun, lively, and packed with great infoāan unforgettable way to explore the island!
Check them out: Sunny Liston Tours
Donāt miss a boat ride to St. John!
Itās the perfect way to spend a beach day or enjoy some sightseeing. The short boat ride, make it a must-do during your St. Thomas getaway.
šµ Currency
- U.S. Dollar (USD) is the official currency in St. Thomas, as it is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- No need to exchange money if you're coming from the U.S. mainland.
š§ ATMs
- ATMs are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and near cruise ports.
- Most accept major debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).
- Be aware of possible foreign ATM fees if your bank is not U.S.-based.
- Bring small bills ($1s, $5s, $10s) ā change can be hard to get.
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.
- Avoid relying on ATMs for emergency cash ā they may not work or accept your card.
- No currency exchange services at the airport or most locations ā exchange before arrival if needed
- Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour companies.
- Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, followed by American Express and Discover.
- Itās still a good idea to carry some cash for small vendors, taxis, or tips.
Flying into St. Thomas (STT) ā The nearest airport is Cyril E. King Airport.
Taxis are easy to find and reliableābut fares are charged per person, not per ride, so itās good to know that ahead of time. If youāre feeling adventurous, renting a car gives you freedom to exploreābut donāt forget, youāll be driving on the left!
As your travel agent, I can help you arrange private transfers or rental cars depending on your comfort level and plans.
Here are some smart packing tips for a trip to St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, especially considering the warm, tropical climate and casual island vibe:
š Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking)
- Swimwear (bring at least two so one can dry while you use the other)
- Cover-ups or sarongs for beach-to-town transitions
- Casual outfits for dining or exploring (shorts, sundresses, polos)
- Light sweater or wrap for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with grip (some areas are hilly or cobbled)
- Water shoes if you plan to snorkel or explore rocky beaches
š§“ Essentials
- High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
- Bug spray (especially for evenings)
- A reusable water bottle
- Sunhat and sunglasses
- Small backpack or beach bag
- Snorkel gear (optional, but handy if you prefer your own)
š Travel & Safety
- Passport or ID (U.S. citizens donāt need a passport, but bring valid ID)
- Travel insurance info
- Photocopies of important documents
- Medications (with prescriptions if needed)
- Basic first aid kit
š± Tech & Extras
- Phone charger and portable power bank
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Camera or GoPro for underwater shots
- Travel guide or downloaded maps (Wi-Fi can be spotty in some areas)