The U.S. Virgin Islands make themselves one of the best Caribbean destinations for getting married. They don't require blood tests, physical exams or residency requirements. The U.S. Virgins simply require a completed marriage application from the bride and groom -- typed and notarized.
Applications must be forwarded to the Territorial Court of the U.S. Virgin Islands (809) 774-7325 at least two weeks before you plan to arrive. Once received, the application takes eight days for processing. During this time, the application is posted for public inspection.After that, the license can be issued, but you must pick it up in person (unless your wedding planner has been authorized by the court to pick it up for you). There is a $25 fee.
When to go
Everyone wants to escape the cold winter in the United States, so Caribbean rates are highest then. In the summer (roughly from mid-April to mid-December), you can save as much as 40 percent off the winter high-season prices. The best bargains: shoulder season rates in late April and again in November.
What's the weather like? Steady trade winds modify the climate, keeping it from getting too hot in the summer. The rainy season, usually in the fall, has quick and heavy showers late at night or early in the morning. Hurricane season is from June to November.
Insider tips
Many people (especially seasoned travelers) find that St. Thomas is very "touristy" and crowded. Recent crime sprees have given parts of this island a less than stellar reputation. Our advice: Get married here and then quickly leave for a more exciting island.
Nearby St. John's (the smallest of the three U.S. Virgin Islands) is stunning. Two thirds of this laid-back island is a national park. A car is essential to get around on St. Thomas or St. John. Drivers drive on the left side of the road.
While you don't need a passport to visit the Virgins, you do need proof of U.S. citizenship to leave. This can be a passport, driver's license, birth certificate, voter registration card or other proof of citizenship.
Who to call
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism: (800) USVI-INFO.
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