3 islands and 1 national park

US Virgin Islands is three islands, one national park and US-dollar convenience. You should go if: You want a Caribbean trip with no passport for US citizens You like snorkeling and hiking You want to choose between lively and quiet islands Must-visit places: St. John: Virgin Islands National Park and Trunk Bay St. Thomas: Magens Bay, shopping in Charlotte Amalie St. Croix: Christiansted, Buck Island Reef and rum distilleries Cruz Bay: A lively harbor town on St. John Hassel Island: Historic ruins reached by boat Must-try foods: Johnnycakes and fungi with fish Callaloo Pates: Fried pastry with meat or fish Cruzan rum and the Painkiller cocktail Fun facts: The US bought the islands from Denmark in 1917 for $25 million. People drive on the left, but cars have the steering wheel on the left. About 60 percent of St. John is a national park. Logistics: Best time: December to April; hurricane season runs June to November Currency: US dollar Getting there: Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas or Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) on St. Croix; ferries link St. Thomas and St. John Getting around: Taxis and rental cars; drive on the left Tipping: 15 to 20 percent Must-learn phrases: Good morning: Greet first Thank you: Thanks "Island time": A relaxed pace