BASIC FACTS
Relax and Enjoy
Villa Azul offers a relaxing, private unit – yet close to the beach, many restaurants and the Ferry to St. John Island.
More About St. Thomas Island
It is wonderful to stroll the streets of this charming old town, rich in architectural detail, historical treasures, and wonderful shopping. Take the time to hear tales of pirates and colorful scoundrels. Find out why St. Thomas was nicknamed “taphus,” the pub house, since it’s early beginnings. Stroll up the ramparts of Fort Christian for an amazing view of the harbor. Visit historic house-museums for a glimpse of life in the Caribbean of the 18th century.
Learn about slavery and plantation life, about slave ships and the Middle Passage and the triangle trade route from Guinea and Gana across the Atlantic into the West Indies.
Learn about how the Jewish Community got its start, and visit the second oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. Find out about Camille Pisarro, the Impressionist artist born on this tiny speck of land, and about the racy tale of his parents, who starred in a most scandalous episode of St. Thomian 19th century society. Discover that the Mexican General Santa Anna, of Alamo fame, resided on St. Thomas for 6 years following his exile after the Texas uprising. He brought such an enormous fortune in Mexican Silver dollars with him that they became an acceptable currency on the island, known as “Santa Annas.”
More Facts For The Visitor
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St. Thomas is approximately 3 miles wide by 12 miles long.
The climate is tropical all year round, with an average temperature of 28° C or 82° F. - This small island boasts a population of about 50,000. Although the majority of the islanders are of African descent, St. Thomas is very cosmopolitan and you will meet many people from around the world.
- The local currency is the U.S. dollar, and most establishments accept major credit cards.
- The U.S. Telephone Area Code is 340.
- Driving is on the left hand side. So if you are driving, just remember, “Keep Left”.
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As per the purchase-treaty of 1917, St. Thomas is a duty free port.
Furthermore, there is no sales tax in the Virgin Islands. Shopping is a joy! - The official language is English.
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St. Thomas is on Atlantic Standard Time all year round.
During the summer months, when the Eastern states are on Daylight Savings Time, we are the same time as New York City. In the winter months, we’re and hour earlier. - Visitors to the islands can return home with a maximum of $1,200 worth of duty free purchases. The next $1,000 above that will be taxable at a rate of five percent. Anything in excess of that will be determined by Customs.
- Even though this is a U.S. Territory and Passports are not mandatory, please bring it with you. As a port of entry, visitors to the Virgin Islands are re-entering the mainland and proof of identity will be required, and a Passport makes the process easier. Also, you will need a Passport if you intend to visit the British Virgin Islands.
- If you like golf, the world class Mahogany Run golf course awaits you. Take the challenge of the devil’s triangle… and showcase your skills!
