If you're a watersports enthusiast, try to stay at a beachside resort that has a few inclusive activities to do. My resort had both a PADI dive center, an adjacent full-service marina area and a half-mile beach. Onsite snorkeling, beginner windsurfing and sunfish sailing were some inclusive activities. Onland activities to look into: take a tour into the upper elevations of the island and the different vistas along the way of the neighboring islands; check out some of the many restaurants in and around Charlotte Amalie, especially for the great range of fresh seafood; shop till you drop for duty and tax-free merchandise from around the world in the narrow streets of Charlotte Amalie.${QuickSuggestions} Sunblock, for one thing. SPF30 or greater.

Shoes: bring the slip-on, covered kind you can wear in the water that are all rubber. If you're going to do any onland hiking on St. Thomas or neighboring islands, bring some lightweight but higher topped boots.

${BestWay} There are some of the mainland major rental companies (such as Thrifty) if you're determined to drive yourself. I didn't--given this island's steep hill ascents and descents, twists and -- to top it off -- left hand drive in a right-hand wheel rental -- both the lower gears and brakes would have been shot within 72 hours of my driving anything here. There are open-side tour buses you'll see shooting around the island at all times, these seem to be the best way to get around, otherwise take a cab (and know the approximate fare before you set off).

From journal St. Thomas - Iguanas, Painkillers and Power Yachts!