News Archive:

• Class for Taxi Drivers to Start February 1, Virgin Islands Daily News, January 22, 2007  
• UVI CELL Holds Press Conference Today in Havensight, University of the Virgin Islands, January 19, 2007


• Senator Shawn Michael Malone’s Press Release, January 18, 2007


• First USVI Taxi & Tour Guides Gain Certification, Caribbean Net News, December 14, 2006

In 2006, the Taxi and Tour Guide Certification Training Program was started by a small group of concerned taxi/tour guides and the University of the Virgin Islands, Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning (UVI-CELL),  the United States Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, the USVI Hotel and Tourism Association, and the Caribbean Hotel Association. This collaborative group remains committed to the highest possible proficiency standards for persons working in tourism in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI).

A principal goal was to vigorously prepare a well defined curriculum, including customer service, points of interest, VI history and culture, and presentation skills. To evaluate knowledge and skills, a two-part (written and oral) USVI Certified Tour Guide exam was strategically developed and administered. To maintain integrity, the exam is upgraded with each new session.

Having successfully completed the two-part test, a new USVI Certified Tour Guide has the ability to demonstrate achievement in the field of USVI tourism. As a result of this campaign, the USVI Certified Tour Guide Association was developed as a testament to the high level of commitment and proficiency of the Certified Tour Guide Professional Designation.

Since its inception the USVI Certified Tour Guide Association has expanded its mandate to include the organization of educational and social programs, the coordination of mentorships for new recruits, recruitment of language specialty guides, and conduct several business meetings annually. The USVI Certified Tour Guide Association’s Board of Directors, which includes both elected officers and appointed committee chairs, further raises awareness of the profession by networking with local tourism entities, such as the Chamber of Commerce, USVI Hotel and Tourism Association, the Department of Tourism, and the Caribbean Tourism Association, with educational and entertainment venues, and with off-island meeting planners. Another goal of the USVI Certified Tour Guide Association is participation in the International Tour Guide Day, an annual worldwide celebration organized by tour guides throughout the world.

The United States Virgin Islands are considered as “America’s Paradise” and a few very dedicated individuals have created this Association of local, national and international influence and distinction to provide local oversight of remarkable and astonishing tours at very convenient and affordable pricing. USVI Certified Tour Guides stand apart with coordinated uniforms, certification identification cards, large yellow taxi decals, shirt/cap emblems with certification logo and points of interest reference manuals.

We have developed a unique niche in the tourism industry by creating the Certified Tour Guide Association.  Each guide receives customized training tailored to an individual island.  This unique concept generates awareness in visitors, tourists and “locals” alike who are very passionate about the United States Virgin Islands.  We have a wide variety of tours to offer our diverse customer base.