FAQs
Question
How much should I expect to spend on travel?
Answer
Assuming you already have your passport? (cost $160-$200 depends on expediting fees) **Flying into STT** Flight Tickets = $500-800pp Taxi From Airport to Ferry - $10-15pp Ferry Group Rate - $80 round trip + $10per bag + $10 Port Fees Tortola Travel Taxes = $30pp ($10 Environmental tax, $20 Departure tax) Taxi to Hotel Destination = If staying in Road Town = $10-15pp Taxi to Hotel Destination = if staying on Western side of the islands = **Flying Directly into Tortola** Be reminded unless you coming in on American, the other airlines will be a small plane. Our airport is quaint. lol Flight Tickets = $600-1000pp Tortola Travel Taxes = $30pp ($10 Environmental tax, $20 Departure tax) Taxi to Hotel Destination = If staying in Road Town = $10-15pp Taxi to Hotel Destination = if staying on Western side of the islands =
Question
Is it hot this time of year?
Answer
Yes its the Caribbean in September. Of course its hot. So pack cool clothes, portable fans, hats and whatever else you may need. The Average Temperature this time of year is 82 - 96 degrees
Question
Is the water safe to drink
Answer
About as safe as it is to drink where you are coming from? Most homes rely on rain water in cisterns for their water supply. Hotels may sometime use treated water but overall its custom to drink bottled water. Its perfectly fine to brush your teeth, cooking or any other basic water use.
Question
Should I be cautious of any dangerous areas
Answer
Tortola the main island is 24 square miles and everybody knows everybody. Well for the most part. There are no real danger areas all beaches and towns are open for everyone. The locals will welcome you. Obviously don't be careless and be responsible when drinking. Understand, there are always exceptions or that one time when.... You know what we mean.. Just move with any precautions you would if you were in your own neighborhood.
Question
What currency do they spend there?
Answer
Dollar, Dollar Bill yall! Its weird its a British Territory, but we spend US Dollars. Its because of some relationship between the USVI and us. Either way its easy peezy spending for us.
Question
Will I need cash?
Answer
While most established business accept credit cards (discover and amex are hit or miss) Its still a good idea to carry some cash with you. Especially for the smaller market and craft vendors that may be selling local produce or crafts.
Question
What other taxes and fees should I expect?
Answer
While prices of items in stores are totally astraunomical, there are no added tax to the price marked in the store. (well its included in the price already as well as the shipping cost lol) Some taxes you will need to prepare for is the Environmental Tax ($10) once you arrive in Tortola and the Departure tax when leaving Tortola on the Ferry. Its about $20pp see travel question for more details on travel fees.
Question
What's the best form or communication while I'm there?
Answer
Roaming charges are real and definitely will apply. A few helpful considerations. It is best to see if your provider has an international plan you can add for time you are there. This is usually a flat rate and includes data, free texts and lower calling rates. (T-mobile definitely has this). Other means of communicating to avoid roaming charges is using calling apps when connected to WIFI. Apps such as Whatsapp, GoogleVoice, Google Meets, Facetime etc. Let your family and friends know you are traveling and having the time of your life, you have no time to chit chat lol. Emergency calls only....