About St. Thomas
St. Thomas, located 50 miles east of Puerto Rico, is the most populous of the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), attracting visitors from around the world with its tropical climate, white sand beaches, and rich history. Also known for fine dining, duty-free shopping, and outdoor adventures, such as kayaking, scuba diving, sailing, sport-fishing and more, St. Thomas offers the finest of both natural island beauty and cosmopolitan sophistication.
USVI, consisting of the main islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, along with surrounding minor islands, were purchased by the U.S. from Denmark in 1916. A Danish colony since 1754, the islands were originally inhabited by the Ciboney, Carib, and Arawak tribes before European explorers and pirates began settling the islands. First to visit was Christopher Columbus in 1493, who gave the islands the name we use today.
Language
The official language of St. Thomas is English.
Currency
The U.S. Dollar is the official currency in St. Thomas. Most credit cards are accepted. Banks offer ATMs, as well as cash advances on credit cards.
Gratuity
Most gratuities during your stay at The Ritz-Carlton will be covered by Mallinckrodt. This includes tipping waiters, housekeeping, and porters. Should you decide to take a taxi or dine off property, the tip will be at your own expense. It is customary to tip 15%.
Climate
The sun shines 350 days a year in St. Thomas with less rain and humidity than its Caribbean neighbors. Temperatures in May average 76-84° F (28-29° C), with pleasant breezes. Surface water remains comfortably warm year-round for swimming, diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
Zika Virus Information
Up-to-date and specific information regarding the Zika Virus
Internet Access
Wireless internet is available at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas and complimentary in all sleeping rooms.
Water
As on many islands, fresh water is precious, and the supply dependent upon rainfall or desalination. Please use conservatively.
Health and Safety
Time Zone
St. Thomas is officially Atlantic Time, which is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT – 4). St. Thomas does not operate on Daylight Savings Time, increasing the time difference with the U.S. mainland by one hour March-November.
For additional information regarding the President’s Club trip, please contact the Mallinckrodt Registration Team at [email protected] or at (720) 407-2530.