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Now that you’ve planned your dream St. Thomas vacation, booked your hotel, and reserved a rental car, you will need to be ready to drive on the left side of the road.
As others have noted, it is not like driving in the United Kingdom. The driver’s wheel is often still on the left side of the vehicle, which can leave a left-driving newbie out of sorts.
Here are some practical ways to make learning these skills a little easier.
Before you take off in your rental car:
- Be aware that, as a vacationer, you are not alone. Others are also trying to get the hang of this left-hand-side driving thing.
- Drive defensively. With locals and vacationers driving, and such varied levels of driving expertise all on the road together, driving defensively is extra important.
- Slow down. (No worries. You are on island time!)
- Be aware of your surroundings always.
- Using a cell phone while driving is illegal here.
- Still, don’t worry. You will get more used to it.
- As a pedestrian, always watch traffic direction when crossing streets.
Basic Rules
- When making a right turn, aim for the far left side of the road, according to the Coliani & Leonard website. Hug the left side of the road.
- Always remember to look right (where oncoming traffic will come from) when turning.
- If making a right-hand turn, cross over the road and yield to oncoming traffic.
- If you’re determined to take part in the thrill of the roundabout, enter from the left and move clockwise around the circle, yielding to surrounding vehicles.
- Always check your blind spots carefully before crossing traffic. Because of the way vehicles are designed, you sit closer to the center line than the roadside curb. That can be confusing unless you are constantly checking your blind spots.
Road Safety and Conditions
- Island roads are often unlined, winding, full of potholes, and built into sharp, hillside curves.
- Rain can make the asphalt slippery as ice when wet. Again, slow down throughout the hilly terrain.
- Pass on the right lane when driving on highways or multi-lane roads.
- Reserve a vehicle with an automatic transmission so you don’t have to worry about shifting. Focusing is crucial.
Historical Insights
- Why do St. Thomas drivers drive on the other side of the road compared to mainland Americans? According to Beverly’s Jewelry, a local St. Thomas jeweler, the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) were once a Danish colony; Denmark drove on the left side of the road. Also, during the 18th and 19th centuries, Britain, Spain, and France dominated the Caribbean, and their customs (Including that of driving on the left side of the road) heavily influenced these islands.
- When the United States purchased the islands from Denmark in 1917, these local customs persisted.
- Driving on the left is part of the beloved culture and history of these stunning islands, so enjoy it.
The next time you’re on the island and planning to drive, pull out this handy guide to help keep you, your family, and everyone else safe on the road.
You’re Home Away from Home on St. Thomas
The Windward Passage offers the amenities and services you want to make your stay unforgettable and feel at home on the island.
We offer suites and rooms, including spacious standard rooms, oceanview suites, and plush accommodations.
As a 50+-year-old establishment, we offer historic elegance, comfort, and stunning views to create a dreamy home away from home in St. Thomas.
We offer free, secure, and convenient self-parking for hotel guests.
Not only that, we offer amenities such as:
- Renovated bayfront rooms
- A full courtyard bar with covered outdoor seating and two large-screen TVs
- A heated, outdoor, freshwater swimming pool with plenty of lounge chairs
- A well-equipped boutique gym
Count on us to make your stay easy and relaxing as you explore St. Thomas.
Click on the link in the upper right corner of the page to book now or call 340-774-5200 for more information!
We look forward to serving you!