U.S. Virgin Islands The United States Last Updated: 02/16/2024 | |
The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is a group of islands in the Caribbean Sea that is an unincorporated territory of the United States. The main islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands are Saint Thomas, Saint John, and Saint Croix, along with several smaller islands. Its population was 87,146 in 2020. | |
- Territorial Status: The U.S. Virgin Islands are an unincorporated territory of the United States, meaning that they are organized under U.S. jurisdiction but are not part of any U.S. state. - Capital: The capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands is Charlotte Amalie, located on the island of Saint Thomas. - Economy: Tourism is a major industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with visitors attracted to the beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites. Additionally, offshore financial services contribute to the economy. - Culture: The culture of the U.S. Virgin Islands is influenced by African, Danish, Spanish, French, and American traditions. The islands have a rich history, including periods of Danish and Spanish colonization before becoming a U.S. territory. - Language: English is the official language, and the U.S. dollar is the official currency. - Hurricane Impact: Like many Caribbean islands, the U.S. Virgin Islands are susceptible to hurricanes. They were significantly affected by hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria in 2017, which caused extensive damage to infrastructure. - Transportation: The islands are served by airports, and inter-island transportation is facilitated by ferries. The driving is on the left side of the road, a remnant of the Danish colonial influence. - National Park: Virgin Islands National Park, located on the island of Saint John, is a U.S. national park known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and hiking trails. The U.S. Virgin Islands has a unique blend of Caribbean and American influences, making it a popular destination for tourists and a distinctive part of the United States. |