United States Virgin Islands🇻🇮 | best regionsYour Guide to the Best regions in United States Virgin Islands

How many islands to visit: Two islands is the number I advise for most backpackers. Each transfer costs half a day and US$30 to 120 in ferry, taxi or flight fares, so a third island rarely repays the time. One island is a fine choice for a week.Choosing by travel style: Choose the national park island for hiking and snorkeling from shore, and accept higher prices. Choose the largest island for local food, history and lower costs. The commercial hub suits short stays and onward connections but is crowded when cruise ships are in, often several a day in winter.What it costs: Budget US$100 to 180 a day if you camp or share a basic room, cook some meals and use open-air safari taxis. Private rooms commonly run US$150 to 300 a night in winter. Expect US$80 to 150 a day on top for a rental car, … read more 👉

How many islands to visit: Two islands is the number I advise for most backpackers. Each transfer costs half a day and US$30 to 120 in ferry, taxi or flight fares, so a third island rarely repays the time. One island is a fine choice for a week.Choosing by travel style: Choose the national park island for hiking and snorkeling from shore, and accept higher prices. Choose the largest island for local food, history and lower costs. The commercial hub suits short stays and onward connections but is crowded when cruise ships are in, often several a day in winter.What it costs: Budget US$100 to 180 a day if you camp or share a basic room, cook some meals and use open-air safari taxis. Private rooms commonly run US$150 to 300 a night in winter. Expect US$80 to 150 a day on top for a rental car, which is needed on the larger island. Beaches in the national park charge a US$5 entry fee. A snorkel rental runs about US$10 to 15 a day, and a guided boat trip US$80 to 150. A one-week visit lands near US$900 to 1,800 before flights.Costs and delays that catch travelers out: Groceries run 25 to 50 percent above mainland prices, so buy staples at the larger supermarkets and avoid resort-area shops. Restaurants add 15 to 20 percent service charges to some bills, so check before tipping again. Book camping and rooms early for winter, since cheap options sell out first. Fuel and car costs jump if you rent for a few days only, so use taxis for short stays.

Traffic drives on the left, with left-hand-drive American cars. That surprises many drivers. Roads are narrow and steep, and tires get punished.Safety and cultural notes: Petty theft from parked cars and beaches is the most common problem, so leave nothing visible and carry little. Avoid walking unlit roads at night, and use taxis after dark. Crime in some neighborhoods is higher than the tourist areas suggest. Coral is protected, so wear reef-safe sunscreen and never touch or stand on it. Greet people before asking for anything, and dress above swimwear in town.