Warning: Don't buy a basket from guy near the STJ pass ferry

[Lo in VA]

Some of you may be smarter than us, or know better by now...but I thought I'd pass this along. In June we bought a palm leaf basket from the old guy on the beach next to the STJ passenger ferry in Cruz Bay. Nice basket, he was only asking $10, but my husband wanted to help the ole guy out, and gave him $13. Well, if you declare it on your customs form, the customs agents in STT will take it from you. Apparently, the palm leaves need to be microwaved and varnished in order to pass inspection. Otherwise they may harbor a red Caribbean spider mite. This ole guy didn't look like he owned a microwave. The customs agent knew about him, said he'd been warned about selling them to tourists. There is another basket seller somewhere who abides by the rules, but I don't know where he's located. Not out much money, just thought I'd save someone else the trouble.

[gobucs]

Thanks for the info

[Barb Y]

We just had the same experience in June. My Mom purchased two baskets, a hat, and a bird all of which were taken by customs. Oh well, live and learn!

[California Girl]

I did the same thing. The trick to getting it home is to mail it to yourself from St. John! I love my basket...it's in my guestroom!

[greyhoundmom]

Two years ago, we mailed our basket home before we left. Somehow we knew it would go the way of the hot sauce at the airport! Live and learn....we had my granddaughter's best friend with us and she bought hot sauce for her dad and put it in her backpack. Of course, they tossed it in the big bin at the airport. She was in tears as that was her dad's gift on her limited budget. We came back, went on line to Ruth's and sent some to her dad. As we only do backpack carry ons, my rule is to do your shopping early and USPS it all back!

[hoosierdaddy]

I did the same thing. The trick to getting it home is to mail it to yourself from St. John! I love my basket...it's in my guestroom!

Do you have any red caribbean spider mites?

[California Girl]

Nope, not that I can tell after a year. But if I do that again, I'll spray it with Raid before sending it home!