U.S. Virgin Islands Nutz and Bolts

Country: U.S. Virgin Islands
Where is it?: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico
Why do people go here?: More the haunt of yacht goers with deep pockets and time to kill than backpackers, but its proximity to the United States makes the Virgin Isles a popular getaway.
What are the main entry points?: Flights from the US are numerous.
Currency used: US dollar (USD)
Country Code: 1-340
Religion: Baptist 42%, Roman Catholic 34%, Episcopalian 17%, other 7%
Population: 108,775
Ethnic Breakdown: Black 78%, white 10%, other 12%. West Indian 81% (49% born in the Virgin Islands and 32% born elsewhere in the West Indies), US mainland 13%, Puerto Rican 4%, other 2%
Government: Organized, unincorporated territory of the US
Languages: English (official), Spanish, Creole
Major Cities: Charlotte Amalie
Attractions: Yachting, Proximity to the US, Beaches
Accommodation: Virgin Islands Hostels, Virgin Islands Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: US Virgin Islands- Division of Tourism St. Croix P.O. Box 4538 Christiansted, USVI 00822 +1-809-773-0495;; FAX +1-809-778-9259; www.usvi.net
Health Issues: No vaccination requirements for any international traveller.
When to go: Summertime is balmy, but with better diving and less tourists.
Specific Events/Holidays: Transfer Day (from Denmark to the US), 27 March (1917)
Getting Around: Boats are the best way to move between the islands, and renting a car is the best way to get around on them.