banks

First Bank & Scotia are about 6 of one, half dozen of the other. I use Scotia on STT & haven't had bad luck there.

We use Banco Popular and have been satisfied with service.

Do they have a branch in STJ?

The only two banks on STJ are First Bank in Cruz Bay and Scotia Bank at The Marketplace - both about the same but we prefer Scotia (much nicer) so recently switched from First

Pia

Thank you all for your advice!

i heard that scotia is not fdic insured, so keep that in mind too

1st bank will put a 7 business day hold on all non-local checks too. You are "supposed" to have access to $100 immediately upon deposit, but in inland time, it's 24 hrs!!!!! Keep that in mind too. And make sure you have 2 forms of ID with you,

Welcome to island life. The first year or so this kind of stuff may be stressful. But remember to breathe and slow down. And always bring a book with you everywhere. Waiting here is a common theme. Almost nothing happens anywhere near as fast as stateside or what is advertised. It does wonders for your patience and tolerance, or you go home.