Important Travel Information
for St. John Vacations
Passports & Immigration
WIMCO recommends that U.S. citizens ALWAYS travel with a valid passport whenever traveling outside of the continental US. While many of our destinations may only require a birth certificate and a valid driver's license at this time, immigration requirements may change without any notice. For ALL other non-US citizens, please check with the embassy of the country/island to which you are traveling (French, British, Italian) to see if you need a special visa. (Note: If one of a honeymooning couple is a US Citizen and the other is not, a visa is still required by the non-US citizen). When bringing a nanny or babysitter, please be sure that they too have appropriate documentation.
Cars
We recommend you rent a car while visiting the Virgin Islands (both US and British). It is difficult to get around without one. Jeeps and enclosed cars are available for approximately $50 to $60 per day.
Climate
Temperatures range from a pleasant 75 degrees (F) to 85 degrees, seldom falling below 70 degrees, or rising above 87. Humidity is relatively low and the Islands are cooled by Trade Winds.
Arrival/Departure
It is very important to let WIMCO know your complete flight itinerary so that you can be met at the airport, car rental agency, or ferry landing (depending on the island). A representative from the island management firm will then accompany you to your villa. Check in time is 1:00 p.m. Check out time is 12:00pm. Please be considerate to the maid and the next guest by leaving the villa on time. More specific arrival instructions will accompany your confirmation.
Change in Dates
We do allow for a change in the dates of your trip, but we must be advised well in advance. If you change your dates too close to your original time of arrival, you will be billed for the lost days for both the villa and reserved car.
Plane Schedules
We advise checking local and international airline schedules near your date of travel as they may change without notice.
Credit Cards
Most restaurants and establishments will accept credit cards, but we recommend bringing enough cash or traveler’s checks for your stay.
Linens/Maid Service
All linens are provided in your rental home (sheets, towels, etc). You may want to bring a beach towel with you. There are Laundromats located in Charlotte Amalie, Cruz Bay and Roadtown. Maid service varies from island to island so be sure to ask what is included with your villa. Should you require additional maid service, arrangements can be made, with the exception of St. John.
Clothing
The British and U.S. Virgin Islands are slow-paced Caribbean islands. Dress is relaxed, even in the nicest restaurants. Jacket and tie are not necessary, and in fact, appear out of place. Entering shops in swimsuits is not recommended.
US Customs
US residents are allowed a duty free shopping ceiling of $1,000 per person. Over $1,000 and purchases are rated a flat 5%. Anything exceeding $1,800 is then taxed according to published Customs rates. Anyone over 21 may take home six fifths of alcohol, provided it is a locally distilled product.
Cancellations
In general, cancellations within 45 days of your arrival will forfeit the entire 50% deposit. Cancellations made outside of 45 days will retain 20% of the gross amount. Cancellation policies vary with each island manager. Your specific policy will be noted on your confirmation: be sure to ask for a cancellation number if you must cancel your reservation. WIMCO strongly recommends travel insurance, which you can arrange with your reservation agent.
Tax
Villa rentals in the U.S. Virgin Islands require an additional 7.5% government tax. Villas in the British Virgin Islands require anywhere from a 7% to 19% tax, depending on the property. The British Virgin Islands also have a nominal departure tax, payable at the airport.