FAQ

You will always hear the locals greeting anyone, even if they walk into the post office with a “good morning”, “good afternoon” & “good night” depending on the time of day. When you meet someone. Please remember to reply in turn the same greeting and you will get along with anyone. Most people are very friendly and will love talking to you about the island and its culture.

There are no dangerous snakes in the VI, but you might want to pay attention to the invertebrates. Painful, yet non-poisonous stings can be delivered by red ants, wasps, scorpions and centipedes. If you are prone to allergies, you may have similiar reactions to these bites. Our iguanas are seen throughout the island, often warming themselves in the sun, found near water and are agile climbers. If you head towards them they will scurry away super fast.

Visitors to our island should exercise the same safety precautions used when traveling anywhere else in the world. If you have any problems. Please call 911. Some basic precautions: Lock your property doors and cars when you exit and do not leave valuables visible. Be aware of your surroundings at all times and park or walk in well lighted areas. Always look left when crossing the street.

Be sure to use sunblock ALL THE TIME. The Sun is so strong here you dont want to ruin your vacation by getting burnt on your first day. Reef Safe sunscreen is mandatory here.

There is some really great shopping in St. Thomas. Charlotte Amalie (downtown) has the greatest density of stores. You will find many unique shops, boutiques and a multitude of jewelry stores along Main Street, the Waterfront & the side streets and alleys, the stores are housed in historical buildings so shopping and sightseeing in one trip is easy. Small cozy restaurants and some fun bars are

→ Vendor’s Plaza is downtown where booths are set up to sell an assortment of local souvenirs. You’ll tind silver ewelry, t-shirts, tropical print wraps and dresses, beach bags, trinkets and more.

→ Havensight is located where the cruise ships dock and has a large shopping area for souvenirs, jewelry, clothes, perfumes, liquor, electronics, sunglasses and more. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat too.

Mountain top is our largest souvenir shop located at the highest point on St. Thomas and home to their famous Banana Daiquiri.

Those who provide service are often dependent on tip income and generally very grateful for any tips received, especially when prompt and exceptional service has been provided. The following are a suggested guideline for St. Thomas:

Driver: 15%-20% (If you have a driver for the week, we recommend tipping at the end of the week rather than daily).

Excursions: 15-20% of the cost of the trip for fishing, boating, island tours, etc.

Maid Service: $50 – $100 for the week.

Private Chef:  18% is almost always included in your service cost. Additional gratuity is at your discretion. Concierge or Property Manager:  Gratuity is at your discretion and appreciated. If they go out of their way to make your stay more enjoyable or memorable, they will appreciate your token of gratitude.

VENMO/PAYPAL: If you would like to leave a gratuity for housekeeping, concierge or the property manager without leaving cash at the property, you can send via Venmo or PayPal to @Judith-Martino or use the QR code and she will gladly get it to the appropriate person.

Driving can be crazy here. Please remember to stay to the left. Stop at all stop signs, (our locals do not), Keep the speed limit, (our locals do not), don’t worry what’s behind you, they will pass you if you are too slow. Stay safe and keep your eyes on the road!

 If you would like to leave a gratuity for housekeeping, concierge or the property manager without leaving cash at the property, you can send via Venmo or PayPal to @Judith-Martino or use the QR code and she will gladly get it to the appropriate person.