Getting Around the U.S. Virgin Islands
The easiest way to get around any of the islands is either by taxi or rental car. You'll find the roads easy to navigate and well-maintained (unlike the roads in the British Virgin Islands).
Taking Taxis
As opposed to traditional taxis, taxi vans are commonplace throughout the USVI. These are full-sized vans that offer shared-ride services, so be prepared to ride with other tourists or local residents.
FAST FACT
In addition to taking a taxi from one location to the next, taxis associated with the V.I. Taxi Association can be rented for two-hour, three-hour, or full-day private sightseeing tours. To schedule a tour or to learn about rates, call 340-774-4550.
Private taxis are also available in the USVI, but the fares are higher. You can reserve a private taxi at any taxi stand or through your hotel or resort. When hiring a taxi, look for vehicles with the Virgin Islands Taxi Commission medallion clearly displayed. This ensures that the taxi is properly licensed and that you will be charged based on distance traveled (not on time).
The maximum fare to reach any destination on any one of the islands should be well under $20 each way. The average taxi fare will be closer to between $5 and $10 each way, depending on the distance you travel.
TRAVEL TIP
For a fun-filled, relatively inexpensive, and exciting island tour of St. Thomas, be sure to experience Air Force 1 Taxi Tours. Rates start at $40 per person. The taxi service will pick you up at your hotel (or cruise-ship port) and take you on a memorable, ninety-minute tour in an open-air covered vehicle. Shopping tours, sightseeing tours, and beach tours are available. For information or to make a reservation, call 800-501-0122.
Renting a Car
Many rental car companies are available in the USVI. The thing to remember, however, is that cars drive on the left side of the road (the opposite of U.S. traffic). Aside from that, all traffic laws and driving customs are identical to those in the United States. A valid U.S. driver's license or international driver's license is required to drive within the USVI. Also, the driver and passenger sitting in the front seat of any car are required by law to wear a seatbelt.
You'll find all the popular rental car companies in the USVI. Budget Rent-A-Car (www.budget.com) offers a particularly large selection of Jeeps, SUVs, vans, and four-wheel-drive vehicles. When you rent a car for more than two days from Budget, you'll receive a coupon book full of over $1,000 in savings on attractions, shopping, restaurants, and activities.
