Also I do think the "bad apples" in both tourists and the service industry tend to get noticed...the squeaky wheel and all that. They seem to be more significant and in greater numbers than they actually are.

But I agree with Liane, much of it is what you bring to bear. What is your attitude and expectations etc. I expect it to be slower and I expect to be okay with that. I expect to engage employees personally (I actually do here in the states too...works better up here as well) before doing business. I think it actually fits the vibe better on vacation anyway.

If you have a timer that goes off (and then sets you off) at 5-10 minutes to get served most islands (not just the VIs) are going to frustrate you.