Yes, tipping taxi drivers in St. Thomas (U.S. Virgin Islands) is a standard expectation and a vital part of the local service economy. The general rule of thumb is to tip 15% to 20% of the total fare. Since taxi rates in St. Thomas are strictly regulated and charged per person rather than by a meter, the costs can add up quickly, but a tip is still expected for the service provided. If the driver goes above and beyond—such as acting as an informal tour guide by pointing out landmarks, or helping you maneuver heavy luggage or beach gear—it is polite to tip on the higher end of that scale. Additionally, if you are taking one of the "safari" taxis (open-air converted trucks) that run along set routes for a few dollars, a smaller tip of $1 or $2 per person is appreciated but less strictly required than in a private taxi. It is important to carry cash (U.S. Dollars), as many independent drivers in the Virgin Islands do not have reliable credit card machines and prefer direct cash tips for their daily expenses.