Virgin Islands (U.S.A.) Statistics

Geography-Population

Capital:  Charlotte Amalie

Area:  346.36 km ²

Climate:  tropical; rainy season from May to November

Population:  109,750 (est. 2010)

Languages:  English

Government-EconomyGovernment Type: Unincorporated, organized territoryGDP: $1.577 billion (est. 2004)

Information for Foreign Students in the US Virgin IslandsGetting There Flights are into either St. Croix or St. Thomas. St. John does not have an airport, but is easily accessible via St. Thomas. Many flights connect through San Juan, Puerto Rico, but direct flights from the continental U.S. involve less hassle and flying time.

Obtaining a Visa Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are the same as for entering the United States from any foreign destination. Upon departure, a passport is required for all but U.S. citizens.

Money Currency used in the US Virgin Islands is the US Dollar. The islands are duty-free and have many shops with a special interest in tanzanite, rums, diamond and gold jewelry.

Health
Low-lying buildings usually use the public water, which is fine to drink. Places up in the mountains almost all have independent water supplies, replenished by the rain that falls on their roofs. The safety of this water depends on regular cleaning and treatment of the building's cistern.

Safety There are several parts of St. Thomas that are not safe after dark, and a couple places that are not safe at any time of day. The islands may seem like paradise, but the crime rate is comparable to many large cities.

TransportationGetting around any of the Virgin Islands is fairly easy. All of the islands have bus service and/or a regulated taxi service. Upon docking at Cruz Bay, taxis, rental cars, and scooters are available.