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The USVI are found in the Atlantic Ocean, just 40 miles east of Puerto Rico and immediately west of the British Virgin Islands.
The combined size of the islands within the USVI is twice the size of Washington D.C. and they are famous for their white sandy beaches while the highest point of the islands can be found at Crown Mountain in Saint Thomas.
The USVI enjoys a tropical climate with very little seasonal change throughout the year. Rainfall is concentrated during the high sun period (May-October) and the winter experiences high winds.
The manufacturing sector within the islands consists largely of rum distilling, while the financial services sector continues to grow as vital part of the economy.
The official language of the islands is English but many locals will speak the Virgin Islands Creole dialect during informal situations.
Local farmers on the islands grow their own fruit and vegetables and some rear their own animals too. Their goods are sold in local open air markets which are flourishing throughout the USVI.
Fungi are the main staple of the traditional diet on the islands, which consist of cornmeal that has been boiled to a thick consistency with okra added. This staple is usually eaten alongside boiled fish or salt fish.
Unsurprisingly, the most popular sport on the USVI is American football, baseball and basketball while cricket and English football is also commonly played within communities.
Dance is a huge part of the culture and the Bachata dance and salsa are popular pastimes for many locals.
Fun fact: There are toxic trees on the islands which tourists are advised not to stand under in case of rain which will cause the fruits from the trees to fall and leave painful blisters on the skin.
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