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What is the STJ Etiquette that we should be aware of when visiting "town" and the little shops? Like clothing wise (bikini, swim shorts, shirtless, footwear) No shirt no shoes no service?? Or is it a pretty relaxed atmosphere? If we only braught our towels with us to the beach and decided to stop somewhere to have a snack, with just our suits on, it that appropiate? Or how about riding in the taxi with just swimwear on? Going into "town"? Shopping the shops? Bars/pubs and restruants?
Hi Zena.
The following paragraphs are quoted from this message board's faq:
https://www.vinow.com/general_usvi/faq/#population
"Q: Any particular taboos I should be aware of when visiting the Virgin Islands?
A: Virgin Islanders are quite conservative, so it is seen as an insult when visitors walk around in swimwear (for ladies) or without shirts (for the gents) if not on the beach or poolside. This situation can be seen in the main 'tourist shopping areas', particularly in Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas as it is a popular cruise ship port of call. Visitors clad in only a bikini top and shorts or bareback with shorts are likely to receive a surly response from customer service in stores. Be respectful and wear shirts and beach cover ups when everyone else besides the beach and pool.
A long standing tradition in the Virgin Islands is greeting someone before any transaction of any kind starts. So it is strongly recommended to say Good Morning or Good Afternoon before asking 'how much is this' or 'how do I get to such and such place'. And Good Morning is the suggestion... not Hello or Hi - they don't have the same effect. Saying 'Excuse Me, how much is this' rather then 'Good Morning, waiting for a response and then asking the question' will sometimes be ignored. Adding a 'How are you today?' is a nice addition as well."
Unless you're on the beach or at the pool, you really should be covered up. Some of the beaches on STJ have snack bars where it would be okay to be in your swimsuit, but if you leave the area, please put on something over your suits even if it's only a t-shirt and sarong.
Hail and amen!
The older and feistier I get after living here on STT for now 22 years, I've been known to come to a stop while driving by a bare-breasted (don't get excited, you guys!) MALE tourist walking topless down the Smith Bay Road,
"Good afternoon!" I've said and then, "Excuse me, but you really need to put on your tee shirt?"
Not one has ever been offended after the explanation and they've actually been grateful for the heads-up.
Cruise ship people are a whole different ballgame with half of them, these days, not even knowing whether they're docked in US or foreign ports.
But yes, an oversized tee will work.
