My first-hand knowledge of St. Thomas's strict COVID-19 rules and regulations was a reminder to me that the US Virgin Islands hasn't yet eased up on their own.

In the midst of what feels like an endless New York winter, the Caribbean was the only place that called to quordle me. St. Thomas was an obvious choice due to the abundance of flight options and the ease of remaining in the United States.

In spite of the fact that the number of COVID-19 cases on St. Thomas has decreased, the USVI Travel Portal requires passengers to digitally upload proof of a negative PCR test. In the first three days following your arrival, you must complete all required testing.

A QR code will be emailed to travelers who have submitted a negative test result and a flight or boat itinerary to the portal. For visitors to the US Virgin Islands, vaccination is optional (although passengers who have been vaccinated may include a photo of their vaccine card).

Our temperature was taken and our QR codes were scanned as soon as we stepped off the plane in less than four hours from JFK in New York.

When I arrived at baggage claim, I was greeted by live performers, DJs and even rum tastings to help me get the island vibe I was looking for (a frequent occurrence at the airport). St. Thomas was clearly taking COVID-19 very seriously, with signs everywhere reminding visitors that they must wear a face mask, regardless of their vaccination status.

There is a restaurant, beach bar, coffee shop, and snorkel stand just four minutes away from my Airbnb. No service, no mask, said every business in the neighborhood.

Patrons are required to wear a mask in restaurants, unless they are seated at a table, according to the USVI Department of Health. Employees are always masked. A mask is also required for "safari taxis" and other open-air beach bars.