by KALEAH ROSE
(STT, September 20, 2025}. Everybody on St. Thomas (STT) knows about island time, but island travel is an adventure in its own. One of the main ways we get around here is by ‘fari (or safari—the open-air trucks that run like buses).
They’re cheap, (somewhat) reliable, and if you’re new to the island be prepared for an experience very different from catching a subway or a city bus.
Here is a video link showing how to actually catch a safari, and some insight that didn’t make it in the recording:
1. Cruise ship days will test your patience.
If there are two or more ships in, just know you’ll be waiting longer. Fifteen to twenty-five minutes is normal, and yes, sometimes you’ll get lucky and hop on in three. But don’t bet on it. Plan if you need to be somewhere on time, chances are you may still run a little late.
2. Sundays and Mondays take island time to another level.
A lot of businesses are closed, and the entire island slows down (more than it already does). Safaris still run but if you’re unprepared, you’ll be standing around wondering why nothing’s moving. Because they are individually owned, there are no set times for a safari’s arrival or departure. Just find a stop, wait until one pulls up, and hop on.
3. Catching a safari means moving at the island’s pace.
It’s not about rushing. It’s about rolling with whatever happens. The wait, the breeze, the music playing as people pass by—it’s all part of the experience.
So, yes—watch the video if you want to see the “how,” but remember: traveling by safari isn’t just transportation, it’s part of the Virgin Islands lifestyle. Once you’ve caught a ‘fari’ or 2 then you’ll get where you need to go.
Just don’t forget your patience, a few dollars to pay, and maybe a good breeze to keep you company.
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