Is St. Thomas dangerous?

Question

We are planning a trip and would love to go to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands but have heard from some people that over the last few years the area is not very safe.

If you have been there, please elaborate on the island once you leave the resort.

We will be staying at the Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort, so if anyone has been there that would be even more helpful!

Please give us as much information as possible.

We are also considering the Cayman Islands, but would prefer St. Thomas.

Answer 1

I have been to St. Thomas twice and haven't experienced it as dangerous. I did hear about it being dangerous though, but I never felt unsafe or anything. We stayed in a rented house and drove around in a rented car. Our local neighbors took very good care of us, we met only nice people. I guess it's all about practicing common sense just as you would back home. As long as you are on St. Thomas, I do recommend you to visit St. John's also. It's a short ferry ride away and then you are in absolute paradise. Take care, keep your eyes peeled and you'll be all right.

Answer 2

I have lived there for 19 years and it is a beautiful place.  Its not dangerous there are plenty of nice people that live there.

Answer 3

We have been to the Virgin Islands including St Thomas numerous times and have always felt safe and here's why. We follow the same practices as we do at home. Some areas at night just aren't the place to be, you don't need to know the names of the street, it's dark,late and it's isolated.

We don't flash our money or wear expensive jewelry or clothing. In other words we stay under the radar and blend in. We don't start fights with the locals, we don't get drunk and loud.

Don't carry your life in your wallet/purse take only what you will need for the day or evening. Leave the rest in the room safe.

Lock your doors and windows, just like home. If you have traveled with valuables put them in the room safe or hotel safe especially if you are going out.

Marriott Frenchman's Reef resort is a upscale resort, I'm sure they will have security in place BUT still follow the same caution you use at home.

You will have a great time in St Thomas. If you can, rent a car and tour the island. The views are awesome.

Remember to greet the locals with "Good Morning", Good Evening" especially before asking a question. It's considered rude not to.

Enjoy)

Answer 4

I would have to say the most dangerous island in the Caribbean is Grenada.  I was just there while on a cruise and it was wicked scarey.  No police on the island, potholes so big that I almost fell into one on the sidewalk.  The second we left port we seen all the dangerous things, and some guy threatening to beat up someone.

When we got back on the ship we heard a few people complaing about the driver on the excursion they went on.  They said the driver was playing chicken with just about every car that passed him.