helpful Information
what to bring
Sunscreen, bathing suits, cover-ups (required in town), personal toiletries, medicines, sunglasses, camera, insect repellant, passport.
currency
The U.S. dollar is the local currency in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. There are a few ATM machines on St. John, at the Marketplace downtown Cruz Bay.
proof of citizenship
Although we are a U.S. territory, you will be required to clear U.S. Customs and Immigration on your departure from the airport in St. Thomas. You will need either a valid passport or birth certificate, along with a photo ID. If your plans include travel to the British Virgin Islands, you will need a valid passport. No exceptions.
activities
Activities on St. John range from snorkeling, diving, fishing, sailing, hiking; day trips to nearby islands, power boat rentals, shopping, dining to simply “limin’” in town. Beach hopping is a favorite, and several beaches have on-site restaurants. Golf is available on St. Thomas. We will be happy to make recommendations and help book any activities you’d like. One of the favorite activities that never gets old is merely lounging around your private pool, enjoying the spellbinding views while reading or relaxing in the splendid privacy and comfort of your own beautiful home.
Our internet service is provided by the Love City Community Network, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to develop, deploy, operate and maintain internet and other communication systems for the community of St. John sustainable through hurricanes and other natural disasters. Coverage has recently been expanded and upgraded to insure you’ll have a “connected” stay.
Because Rotunda is high in the hills, we get better cell service than most, with a direct shot to the cell tower atop Bordeaux Mountain.
internet/cell phones
A four-wheel drive jeep is the best way to go and they are readily available in Cruz Bay near the docks. We can arrange jeep rentals as a courtesy for our guests. There are so many wonderful beaches and hiking trails that it is a good idea to rent a car if not for your entire stay, then at least for a portion.
FROM ST. THOMAS…
Taxis are readily available at the airport to take you to the ferry in either Charlotte Amalie (10 min taxi then 45 min ferry) or Red Hook (25 min taxi then 20 min ferry) which will transport you to St. John. Departure times are staggered, so where you depart from will depend on your time of arrival. We can arrange private taxi and boat shuttle services if you desire.
getting around
You will be met at the passenger ferry dock in St. John and escorted to your rental vehicle and then to Rotunda for an orientation. We will be on-call during your stay to assist with anything you need.
arrival
We have two well-stocked supermarkets in Cruz Bay. The prices are higher than stateside markets, and you might need a little flexibility with some recipes, but you can buy most everything you need. Starfish is located on the first floor of Marketplace and is the largest of the markets. Dolphin Market is on Centerline Road just as you are leaving town.
grocery stores
St. John has plenty of options for all palettes, ranging from chic and expensive (but not formal) to funky beachside food stands. If you are coming to St. John during the busy months, it’s a good idea to make reservations for dinner, particularly if you have a larger group. At Rotunda we keep a menu book and suggestions to make your job easier. We’d be happy to make reservations ahead of time for you as well.