By Taxi -- Because of the bad roads, most visitors use taxis to get around. The government sets the rates, but taxis are unmetered, so be sure to agree on the fare before getting in. Figure on spending $5.60 to $20 or more to go from the airport to your hotel. You should tip about 12% of the fare.
You can also hire taxis to take you to the island's major attractions. Most drivers seem to be well-informed guides. (It won't take you long to learn everything you need to know about St. Vincent.) You'll spend from $20 per hour for a car holding two to four passengers.
By Rental Car -- Driving on St. Vincent is a bit of an adventure because of the narrow, twisting roads (sound your horn as you make the sharp hairpin turns). Most important: Drive on the left. If you present your valid driver's license from home at the police department, on Bay Street in Kingstown, and pay a $19 fee, you'll get a temporary permit to drive.
Avis (tel. 800/331-1084 in the U.S. and Canada; www.avis.com) has a branch at the airport. One local rental firm is Star Garage, on Grenville Street in Kingstown (tel. 784/456-1743). Make sure your car has a spare tire, because the roads are full of potholes.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
