Although they are part of the United States, the Virgin Islands have a unique culture and history. So why should you choose The U.S. wanted to maintain control over the Caribbean region during World War I, and these islands held strategic value. African Diaspora in the Virgin Islands. beautiful island destinations in the world, dressed with powdery the unique underwater world. When you move fully prepared for the changes that will take place, then the adverse issues with surprise problems becomes a minimal risk. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. a number of reasons to consider relocating to St Thomas. Consider each key point carefully if youre thinking about living in St. Thomas soon so that it can be a wonderful experience. African Diaspora in the Virgin Islands - National Park Service 1,077. from $167 per adult. Be captivated by peerless turquoise Great Bay and verdant mountain views, endless beaches, thrilling water sports . Otherwise, you can join the millions of people like me that have fallen in love with the beauty of the US Virgin Islands! Plan your trip with the best resorts on the beach in St Thomas, View the best Places and Areas to Stay in St John. Charlotte Amalie, Saint Thomas, US Virgin Islands Daily Weather Living in St. Thomas - Welcome Input! That means youll need to get used to driving under different conditions when you first move here, which can be a challenge for some people. The U.S. Virgin Islands enjoy warm sunny weather year-round. Magens Bay is a beautiful one mile stretch of white sand. Housing costs on St. Thomas are surprisingly affordable. Sealing ensures the integrity of the tank and needs repeating every 5 or so years. Locals and government officials encourage visitors to not walk around the island alone at night. Are the US Virgin Islands Safe in 2023? - Caribbean Uncovered WTJX - Channel 12 (PBS. On the other hand, the cons of living in St Thomas are frequent power outages, the threat of natural disasters, limited access to the specialized products and traffic congestion. | 0 comments Living In Saba Island (Pros & Cons Fully Explained)What Is the Best Currency For St Vincent & The Grenadines You may also likeLeave a Reply Cancel replyYour email address will not be published. There are relatively few shopping destinations that you can find on St. Thomas or the USVI in general. While this comes down to personal preference, many people choose St John because of its pristine and secluded beaches and hikes. St Croix in the US Virgin Islands is a beautiful place to live, work, and visit. St. Thomas balances sophistication and tropical flair so well, it is easy to see why many plans to relocate to the island. Guns are used twice as often in a robbery and three times more often during an assault incident than the global average. St. Thomas is located in the You can also head out there on a sunny afternoon to enjoy the warmth of the sand and the peacefulness of the situation. You will discover that living on the Virgin Islands means being self-sufficient. Easy access building site, will offer close to a 270 degree view, assuring cooling tradewinds year round. The hotels available on the island are all in safe areas. It can cost a bit more to arrive than a new home in the mainland, but it doesnt take long to adjust to the slower pace of island live in the USVI. The unemployment rate typically hovers around 10% in any given year. All the islands are beautiful and, on some, weddings have Located on the islands East End in order of cache are Water Point, Deck Point and Cabrita Point. My family and I arrived on St. Thomas from Massachusetts in 2003. I like to say to people who are moving here for the first time, there are two rules for Living in the Virgin Islands. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2 Bedroom Apt. It was purchased in 1917 for $25 million in gold from Denmark, and the capital is called Charlotte Amalie in honor of the wife of King Christian V of Denmark. If youre worried about the high crime rate, you can head to St John, the safest of the three territories. Locals and visitors to the island therefore should be extra cautious with their valuables. In addition, residents of the Virgin Islands are US citizens and have all of the same rights and privileges as other American citizens. This makes travel to the islands much easier and more convenient. Home Blogs Moving to St. Thomas USVI: What You Need to Know. I can be of assistance. blue sea and near perfect year-round weather, there are Tropical weather, as well as the risk of hurricanes, can wreak havoc on some of your most valued possessions. . There is Cowpet Bay East, Cowpet Bay West, Cowpet Beach Resort, also known as the Elysian, and finally there are the Anchorage Condominiums, all of which sit on Cowpet Bay. Since it requires an actual ship, freight, or airplane movement to bring the items, you may find that it is easier to sell your items before moving. And there are widely popular bay-like beaches with amenities such as restaurants, rest rooms, chair rentals and complete water sports centers offering a variety of rental equipment . Copyright 2023 Barbara Birt. New Listing. There is less stress here unless you actively seek out problematic situations. You will discover that living on the Virgin Islands means being self-sufficient. Next thing to consideris your car fit to survive the driving conditions on the island, where most roads are steep and winding, and a lot of low riding cars bottom out? Youll need your Social Security card, a passport, and other identification papers. local service. Another well-loved beach on the island is Coki beach. , Barbara is absolutely patient and engaging. We are now happy St. Thomas homeowners and without her diligence, it never would have happened. Talk to me at 340-690-9995 or fill out the form here so we can start planning your move accordingly. Then you can enjoy the snorkeling, sailing, and diving that is part of life here. The Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Lindquist Beach - Best beaches in St. Thomas. You can work and travel freely, but it is a good idea to keep your passport handy and a Social Security card available. In addition there is a hospital on island that serves both St. Thomas and St. John residents. Concrete vs. a wood framed home? If youre not the biggest fan of spiders, then you need to know that tarantulas will want to share your living space as well. Pros & Cons of Living In The US Virgin Islands Renting is a positive experience in St. Thomas. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans), Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL), Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child, International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child, 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ), Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre, Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre, Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate. 2023 Caribbean Uncovered - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP, Is St John Worth Visiting in 2023? If you take basic precautions, youll likely have a safe and enjoyable trip to the Virgin Islands. New vehicles here are more expensive than on the mainland, but if you dont purchase the car from a local dealership, they wont honor the new-car warranty from the Stateside dealer. This can change depending on the number of ships in port. Generally, the ships of Carnival Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Royal Caribbean (except Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas) dock at Havensight. Even on your worst day, youre still living in the Caribbean. While St Croix may have its challenges, it is still a wonderful destination worth visiting. St. John Source. Trip Report St. Thomas is dangerous - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums This 397-acre enclave at the secluded West End of St. Thomas boasts a perfect and pristine worlda spectacular collection of beachside residences on some of the largest estate home sites in the Caribbean.". The islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. . The Nature Conservancy's Virgin Islands Program Receives Reef by Shevy Baskin. Driving on the roads requires some extra caution because of the narrow windy roads and lack of infrastructure in some areas. For those who qualify, this can result in up to a 90% reduction in income taxesand a 100% exemption on property taxes. That means you will receive protection via the criminal laws of the United States. Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, 5 Essential Negotiating Tips for Buying a Home, moving to the US Virgin Islands with pets. All Inclusive Resorts St. Thomas | HGTV There are a few things to know before traveling to the US Virgin Islands to make sure your trip is as safe and easy as possible! This airport is one of the busiest in the Eastern Caribbean. While St Thomas is a beautiful and popular tourist destination, it is important to be aware of the potential for crime. 8. We've narrowed the search to islands with direct flights from NY. Generally, St Thomas is a safe island. Then, you will need your passport, and to go through customs as well. If you live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then you are going to have a governor that oversees the administrative tasks of being a territory. The service she gave us was truly exceptional. The largest island is St Croix being 84 square miles, then St Thomas which is 32 square miles and St John being the smallest of the three major islands at 19 square miles. Each time I go, I find a welcoming and safe environment that encourages me to visit again and again! But, there are many pros and cons to living in St Thomas and living in St John. If you are contemplating traveling to St Thomas or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. ), Barbara Birt stands out as one of the most trustworthy, efficient, and conscientious real estate professionals I knowanywhere. The island's natural attractions include numerous bays and beaches. 9. Additionally, Cyril E King airport is also an important connecting gateway for the British Virgin Islands where no direct international flights serve this island grouping. Your resort or hotel will warn you ahead of time if there is a problem with the tap water. Living on St John USVI: Pros and Cons in 2023 Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 sqft) furnished accommodation in expensive area. This 190-page reference book has a 25-year history and updates periodically. 2 bed. The U.S. This can be an issue because roads can be rough and cars on the island are exposed to salt air, which speeds up corrosion issues. Most places will accept credit cards. WTJX-TV Channel 12 to Provide Live Coverage of St. Thomas Carnival Parades It is best to visit during low tide if you will like to walk across this strip. No Pressure. In broad day light. Both are located on the south side of the island not far from Charlotte Amalie. Before you pack your bags and board the first plane to the USVI, here are some of the most important things you need to know about moving here. and was voted Best Realtor on St. Thomas by readers of the Virgin Islands Daily News three consecutive years. Life is similar to what you would expect in the States. As such, any US citizen can live in the USVI without having to go through any special immigration procedures. Terms of Use and The USVI primary uses paved streets that meet the current standards that you would find in all of the states. Many of the major chains have made it to the island, so youll have access to the goods you want. Over the past few months, there were a number of power outages on the island. Getting outside the box. According to the CDC, the US Virgin Islands are safe to visit. That change in status also means that you can no longer vote in stateside elections. Beachfront properties are minimal when you start looking for a home. With all these advantages, 265-1 Hospital Ground New Unit Lower. Its important to take precautions when swimming or hiking in St John or hiking in St Thomas alone. St. Thomas and its nearby neighbor St. John, lay between the Atlantic and the Caribbean. There are day camps for the kids, spiritual groups that offer activities, golf tournaments, and lots of fishing. . There are spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities on all of the islands. Below are the tax rates by property type. 10 Sorgenfri Ss. This advantage means that Virgin Islanders receive protection under the criminal laws of the United States. Seaborne Airlines also offers sea plane service between the islands. Thats why most of the residents on St. Thomas tend to purchase used goods for their home upon their arrival. the Caribbean. Beginning in the early 1670's, The Danish West India company established a slave Market in the port of Charlotte Amalie, on St. Thomas. The government of the Virgin Islands provides a tax break to companies that locate to the territory to do business. Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour WTJX-TV Channel 12 to Provide Live Coverage of St. Thomas Carnival 3. It features chapters on each of the three Virgin Islands, including island culture, history, relocation, housing, and local services such as: real estate, government offices, physicians, civic groups to join. Gun violence, drugs, theft, and various other crimes are serious problems that the government is working to solve. A church was built in 1660, and then attempts to colonize the area began in earnest around 1665. Those who opt to stay and explore this once Dutch- and . Youll also experience the support and friendliness of your neighbors once you let it be known that your intention is to stay. The cost of living is higher in St John vs St Thomas and St Croix and it also has the lowest population. St. John is one of the most beautiful islands in the USVI and the Caribbean in general. Anything that is heavy, bulky, or large is going to come with a significant shipping charge. The property taxes imposed on real estate when you start living in St. Thomas are 1.25% of the assessed value. There are multiple pharmacies on island, including . Overall, yes! As a first time home buyer, Barbara took the time and extra effort to guide me through every aspect of the home buying process. on island including Chiropractors, Optometrists, Dentists, Psychologists, etc. This Senior Stand Guidelines Released for St. Thomas Carnival 2023 VI If you need more information contact to the Puerto Rico Contact center. The Peterborg peninsula separates world famous Magens Bay from the Atlantic Ocean and is home to four gated communities: Peterborg East, Dove Way, Sydneys Fancy and Red Rock. Prepare yourself for making the jump into our tropical Caribbean waters. Youll need to relearn how to drive in the USVI. If you live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then you are going to have a governor that oversees the administrative tasks of being a territory. List of people from the United States Virgin Islands - Wikipedia There are relatively few jobs available on St. Thomas. Does a Permanent Resident Need a Visa for the Virgin Islands? The best time to visit the Virgin Islands is between January and April for the best weather and most opportunities for excursions and activities. There are hiring restrictions in place in the Virgin Islands. retail stores such as K-Mart, Radio Shack, and Western The Rent Control Act freezes rental levels at what they were in 1947. Downed powerlines, felled trees, and general havoc occur whenever one blows through. The proximity of the Thatch Cay . Several airlines such as Continental Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines provide both connecting and direct flights to the island. The British islands and the USVI follow this law, even though most of the vehicles driven on the islands have the steering wheel placed on the left side of the car as well. Moving to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands | Barbara Birt, Realtor 3. You can take a snorkeling trip at a moments notice especially with the large discounts the companies offer to local residents. , Quite frankly, I dont know how we could have made this move without Barbara. multicultural history, friendly people, open spaces, the means mainland US companies do business here including Companies such as DHL and FEDEX charges international rates when shipping to St Thomas. Politics can be particularly challenging at the local level. There are many additional cays and islands surrounding the area that is also the property of USVI. (Hold on to your hat - we even have a bowling alley. Most Virgin Islanders are warm and accepting if you stay committed to the community and plan to live on the islands full time. You will need to learn to love the cruise ships that stop by all year long. a trip to the St. Thomas is exciting, fun and so easy.. Isolation can be an issue when living in St. Thomas. Youll see stunning artwork displays, beautiful European and colonial architecture, and get to experience the folklore and traditions of the island where you choose to live. The climate is humid and tropical, with an average temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Hurricane season is something that you will need to consider. Hiking In St. Thomas: 5 Amazing Trails You Shouldn't Miss - Jessie on a Life moves at a much slower pace in the Virgin Islands, for better and for worse. is important in both business and personal matters. You will have a drug issue and some poverty issues to balance. . , This person is a professional in every sense of the word! Bring your snorkeling gear because there is fantastic . Once weve solved the real estate questions, what about daily life? That means you can have a say in who becomes governor over the territory. You wont have congressional representation that can vote either despite the obligations to pay into the Social Security program and pay federal taxes. Before buying a home, it's a good idea to consult our buyer's guide to for information on the cost of living in the US Virgin Islands, tips for negotiating, local info & more. Jews from Denmark first arrived on the white beaches of what is now St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islandsa tiny speck off the coast of Puerto Ricoin the mid-17th century. Your voting status will change once you become a resident. $323. Most of the territories in the Caribbean require their residents to navigate along unpaved roads to reach their destination. Buy the The Settlers Handbook Guide to Baseball is the most popular game played on the island, but there are other sports teams organized by the schools that offer competitive play. That way you'll get plenty of pampering, undisturbed nature and colonial history . As long as theres not a hurricane, the only thing that will put a damper on your vacation is rain! 1. St. Thomas Overall, the US Virgin Islands are a safe place to visit. For an ex-pat from Australia, the hardship premium for the US Virgin Islands is 10%, i.e., host location (the US Virgin Islands) premium of 20% minus home location (Australia) premium of 10%. Postal Service delivers your mail here as well. They are located along the easternmost edge of the Greater Antilles, sitting to the east of Puerto Rico. Travel Tips & FAQ | US Virgin Islands - Visit USVI 5. Sailing. Home; Welcome. Homes for Sale in St Thomas Virgin Islands | Barbara Birt There are numerous natural attractions for you to enjoy. Housing in a gated community with a private beach can be over $1 million when looking for a 4-bedroom home. St. Thomas above others? The average rate of taxation for a company on the island is just 3.37% and that was before the Republican congress passed sweeping corporate tax cuts with the blessing of the Trump Administration. You can find the occasional mall on St. Thomas or make your way to St. Croix for some retail therapy, but the buildings are not as large as you might expect. Virgin Islanders cannot vote for the presidential ticket when the elections come around every four years. Feel free to browse our website for more content on the St Thomas and the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. You will want to take steps to secure employment and verify the security assets of your property before your arrival to minimize risks and complications. Its location is 1,100 miles south of Miami, so it is far enough away from the influences of the mainland that the local charm is still present. Artwork needs to be well framed as the humidity and the salt can take a toll. If you start living in the Virgin Islands, then you will need to search for scorpions in your house. Any housing that existed before July of that year has a maximum rent ceiling of what the costs where at that point. She was very patient as I tried to get all family members on board. For example, precious wooden furniture might get damaged by termites which are a frequent pest here. The only exception is if you want to visit the British Virgin Islands. Known as the fourth Virgin, Water Island is a charming residential community where residents buzz about on golf carts, dodging their fellow inhabitants the many large turtles that amble the islands terrain. Retire in the US Virgin Islands Truth about living in St Thomas - YouTube These were not as a result of factors such as natural disasters. and its nearby neighbor St. John, lay between the Atlantic and St. Thomas Source. Cruise Ship Schedule for May 2023 | St. Croix Source NPR) WTJX-TV Channel 12 invites everybody, everywhere to join its live coverage of the St. Thomas Carnival parades. It can be exasperating at times, but living here is one of the most magical experiences you can find in life. Sometimes, youll hear about Water Island as well. A direct impact by one can be enough to wipe entire neighborhoods off of the island. Contact Property. Virgin Islands Port Authority schedule for St. Croix cruise ships. But there are over 50 smaller cays and islands in this archipelago. All Rights Reserved. St. Thomas 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor If you are ready to start living in St. Thomas, then the prices are not going to be as high as you think to get a decent place. Local news. A 3-bedroom house in a good neighborhood on the island will go for about $250,000, and that usually includes a view of the water. All three islands have roads with significant hurricane damage that have not been fixed yet. For your off-island There is no territorial tax or state tax to worry about either. Explore St Croix Real Estate Market Stats. Youll need to start paying attention to the weather report in June each year. Then there are the lush mountains and the craggy cliffs that give the island its personality. Taking regular precautions and using common sense will help you make your vacation to the Virgin Islands one to remember. Living In St Thomas (Pros & Cons Fully Explained) The pros and cons of living in the Virgin Islands are vital to consider if this is where you want to call home one day. The Hull Bay trail is a 1.6-mile trail located near the capital of the U.S Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie. Cost of Living in U.S. Virgin Islands - 2023 prices. Court approval is required for evictions. IKEA Virgin Islands - St. Croix - St. Thomas - A contemporary open-air Homes for Sale in US Virgin Islands | Barbara Birt This territory may be synonymous with luxury real estate and seaplanes, but for the discerning budget buyer, there are always a handful of homes that could become a vacation . St. US Virgin Islands (St Thomas & St Croix) are supplied by IKEA Puerto Rico. It was colonialism that was the purpose of this transaction. (+ Best Time To Visit), Is There Uber in Aruba? 2. When comparing the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands, it really depends on what you want in a vacation. For Americans in particular, the beautiful US Virgin Islands is a coveted destination for a beach home. Try to avoid deserted areas and alleyways, especially at night. It Copyright 2023 Barbara Birt. Most neighbors come out to help one another get ready, which helps to bring the community together. Despite being a group of islands in the Caribbean, the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) are actually a part of the United States. Popular Cities. Relocation. St. Thomas is located in the Lesser Antilles, 1,600 miles south, south east of New York City; 1,100 east, southeast of Miami; 70 miles of San Juan. Virgin Islands Port Authority-April 28, 2023. Government. However, it also has the highest crime rate in USVI. St John is the smallest territory in the US Virgin Islands, and it also has the lowest crime rate. Residents of the Virgin Islands are US citizens and have all of the same rights and privileges as other American citizens. That means you dont need any new documents in terms of a work visa or similar papers. When it comes to beautiful natural scenery, St Thomas has a lot to offer. Then there is the island time to consider. Therefore, St John is considered to be the safest US Virgin Islands territory. USVI Income Taxes - US Virgin Islands of U.S. mortgage, insurance and banking companies offer Cisterns and roofs? Find out how expensive cost of living is in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Terms and Conditions St Thomas is the second largest of the four major US Virgin Islands. Once you establish a residency on one of the islands, you will find that life feels pretty normal here if you can get used to the weather. You might be having a terrible day, but the place you call home is still incredibly beautiful. Most tourists and locals do feel safe in St Thomas overall, but it is always best to take precautions. Being the hub for commercial activities in the US Virgin Islands, there is a presence of international brands on the island. Hurricane season in the US Virgin Islands runs from June 1st to November 30th. St. Thomas is a vibrant and picturesque island located in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea. The temperature profile of the Virgin Islands is consistent.
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