The Squishy Monster, May 15, 2017 After being on island for over a year, I thought it was about time to compile a list of both the pros and cons of living on St. Croix. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. The cost is approximately USD$10 round trip. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. Additionally, the limited job opportunities and the lack of a vibrant nightlife may be a downside for some," Avoid leaving trendy gadgets such as mobile phones and tablets unattended. Let people know things you like to do, where you're from, where you work, where you'd like to visit, what's your favorite food etc.! And with 52 unique islands and cays, you have so many options to keep you interested. If luxury living and yachting interest you, take a look at St Thomas and its high-end shopping and harbors. Tip: Hold CTRL and drag mouse to pan around the map. How do I find a place to live in the British Virgin Islands? Due to the small size of the islands, the businesses on the islands are limited and hence many individuals tend to work a combination of jobs to earn a living. Hope one day to secure a second home in either of these locations. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. There are direct flights to destinations such as Saint Kitts (45 minutes), Puerto Ricos capital San Juan (45 minutes) and Antigua (90 minutes). Additionally, many popular festivals and events take place throughout the year, offering visitors a truly unique and vibrant experience. There are beach breaks, reef breaks, and point breaks so something for every level, Every year, pro surfers will hop over to the BVI and ride the waves with you. This beach has massive boulders which forms sea pools. Find flights to the British Virgin Islands from $317. You have to accept things are what they are and aren't going to change. Should I buy or rent a home in the British Virgin Islands? Reserve a spot on the boat if you like to go to Peter Island or Cooper Island, Never miss a sunset; magical every day and different every day, It never gets boring seeing the most beautiful sailboats and massive powerboats passing by your home. The Caribbean climate allows year-round sea swimming, and the territorys 60 islands collectively offer every watersport going. Mainly sunny. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. The police have asked citizens to be vigilant and to safeguard their valuables. On the other hand, living in British Virgin Islands has its cons such as the threat of natural disasters, high cost of living and limited job opportunities. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, St John (USVI), Cooper Island and Peter Island are all just about 30 minutes away from Tortola. Additionally, the cost of living may be higher than other locations, but there are many ways to minimize costs such as living off-grid or volunteering with local organizations. Unlike most Caribbean islands, Bonaire is located outside of Hurricane Alley and years go by without a single homicide on the island. Neighbors still look out for each other and their families as in other Caribbean islands. Perks of Living in Wisconsin. Do You Have What It Takes to Become a Kittitian RumMaster? Living In The British Virgin Islands (Pros & Cons), Pros & Cons of Living In The US Virgin Islands, Living In Dominica (Pros & Cons Fully Explained). Luckily, still few people know about it. If you like a slower pace of life and don't mind the added expenses, then it can be a paradise. Just a few steps led to -in my opinion- the most beautiful beach of Tortola: Smugglers Cove. On the other hand, access from Puerto Rico is only via regional airlines such as Cape Air. Sincere Pros Cons is a daily online publication dedicated to "the good, and the bad" of modern life, from fashion to food and technology to travel, health, parenting, and much more. I am very familiar with most of what you have written as my daughter and her family live in Cane Garden Bay and has done for years now. Also is it easy to meet people and find work? And remember, if you are visiting the beaches on the island, only mineral sun screen is allowed. All rights reserved. Your email address will not be published. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The British Virgin Islands comprise over 50 islands, 15 of which are inhabited. Additionally, the islands are British Overseas Territories. I am sure there are many ,many who would love to live there but its far too expensive for them. The insurance that travels with you. 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. Or try a Bushwacker. He keeps writing along with his co-founders. Taxes paid on imported goods are levied at about 22 to 27 %. The views on all the islands are breathtaking. Due to the small size of the islands, there is a limited selection of goods and services available. I am interested in moving to BVI from Scotland and I was wondering how I would go about it and which island is the best place to be as I have never been. . Being an overseas territory gives residents easy access to the resources and expertise of a large country which is a huge benefit. Cyril E King is one of the busiest airports in the Eastern Caribbean. With verdant interiors, dazzling beaches, and heaps for water-sports enthusiasts to enjoy, the BVI is known to be a fantastic spot and Caribbean destination. We ended up staying in the BVI for over a year. All this peace and quiet actually also has its downsides. These are naturally formed pools where you can enjoy the water and the amazing views. At the moment, you should treat them only as a best guess. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of living in the Virgin Islands in detail, so you can make an informed decision about your future. This area is a small strip that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Nevertheless, USPS treats the island is as US territory. As an individual living in the British Virgin Islands, you pay no income or capital gains taxes. Why do people move to the British Virgin Islands? Valley Trunk on Virgin Gorda, oh my. What are medical services in the British Virgin Islands like? And in high season, there are a lot of different and secret spots to find a wave for yourself. Size: Area 59 sq mi/153 km2. Jost Van Dyke (permanent population 300) is known as the territorys party island. This drink, which looks and tastes like a milkshake surprisingly contains a lot of liquor. #1. In the Caribbean there is a Low Season and a High Season. Mermaids Chair is also a location on the Rock Citys West Coast which is a must see on the island of St Thomas. Get a Quote from Now Health International. While US Virgin Islands is part of the United States, it is treated as an international destination by many companies when it comes to shipping. This island is a part of the ABC islands and is a special municipality of the Netherlands. Let's continue. The tricky part of landing a job in the British Virgin Islands is that you cant just fly down and look for work youll need a work permit before you come, says Brittany Meyers, who, along with her husband and three children, lives on a sailboat off Tortola. Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in the British Virgin Islands responded: "Expats and digital nomads living in the British Virgin Islands enjoy the laid-back lifestyle, the stunning beaches, and the warm climate. She and her family have been well taken care of; however, they tend to frequent the urgent-care clinics when in need of antibiotics or other meds to keep the kids healthy. Summary: Plus, what each state is known for. Chairman of the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM), Ronnie Skelton, signalled that he remains uncertain about the prospect of same-sex marriage and whether it can possibly become legal in the BVI. Fun Things To Do in the British Virgin Islands, Day Trip to St. John in the US Virgin Islands, I loved walking the dogs on palm-lined Long Bay beach on a Sunday with no one around, Take a short hike to beach perfection: Valley Trunk Bay on Virgin Gorda, Watch the colorful sky at sunset without hundreds of tourists making a selfie, In the summertime, when there are no tourists, it is fairly cheap to rent a charter boat with friends, Go to one of the superyacht regattas and see the biggest and most amazing sailing boats in the world, I didnt do it, but its prettyeasy to learn how to sail here. 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. Fly from Houston on American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta and more. 2020 prices. The pros and cons of living in each state brought together in one place. After that, it pretty much goes flat (except for hurricane swells) but that opens up amazing paddleboard trips along the coast. He surfed the left side of Apple Bay and he was never alone, his turtle friend would regularly pop up giving him the thumbs up when he scored a great wave, There are various spots to learn how to surf. The Virgin Islands Department of Education is responsible for overseeing the public school system, and works to ensure that all students receive a quality education. This 190-page reference book has a 25-year history and updates periodically. And most happy hours offer 2 for the price of 1! Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. Pretty amazing right? The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are that the island safe, has friendly people, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. The British Virgin Islands were heavily impacted by Hurricane Irma. Costs - Costs are generally higher than in other IBC jurisdictions, but nonetheless highly competitive. Already a member? It's rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $1,000. Living on "island time" 5. Additionally, the Governor of the BVI John Rankin on February 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on the island. What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in the British Virgin Islands? Read about how we use cookies and how you control them by clicking "Privacy Preferences". Healthcare 8. Although there are popular brands such as Kmart, Walgreens and Home Depot in the US Virgin Islands, the range of products available is limited. Sebastiaan loves his beers and cocktails, so he took me to quite a few. For starters, if youre making something specific, say chocolate chip cookies, dont expect to score everything on the list at one market. The BVI is 59.3 square miles and spread over 1,330 square miles. One is to set up an account with a company called Aeropost, which provides a Miami address, then ships the items to you from Florida. Blog Post Author Credentials Louise Gaille is the author of this post. By signing up, you agree to our TOS. And, if coming from the U.S., your pet may be subjected to another round of rabies shots, even if rabies shots have been administered to the animal previously. In addition to the job opportunities available, the Virgin Islands also offer a unique lifestyle. These winds help to keep the temperatures comfortable and provide a refreshing breeze. On the other hand, the cons are there are no direct flights from major international cities and limited access to the amenities and conveniences enjoyed in a large country. One massive disadvantage of living in the British Virgin Islands is the absence of international flights from major international cities such as North America, Canada, Europe or South America. "Tax haven" of the Caribbean 9. On St John, the Ram Head hiking trail provides several glorious views of the island. I absolutely loved to walk the dogs on Long Bay beach. This is a unique national park on the southwest coast of the island. As part of the Caribbean, the BVI are susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes. GET A QUOTE. If you've never visited the islands before, try to schedule a quick trip well in advance of your move date. While there is a great sense of community which can be helpful, the drawback to this is that there is a loss of privacy. The turquoise bays around these islands are the promise of a new pleasant and authentic lifestyle. Driving a jeep on the USVI with a picnic to a different beach each day is going to far more relaxing than being home with 3 children! The Virgin Islands is generally considered to be a safe place to live, though visitors should still take caution when it comes to their personal safety. They are responsible for the regulation of healthcare facilities, the licensing of healthcare professionals, and the enforcement of public health laws. The BVI ticks most of the boxes. Posted : June 28, 2007 9:05 pm. There is a ferry service from St Thomas to Tortola if you will like some adventure. Family of four estimated monthly costs: $6,164; Single person estimated monthly costs: $3,484; WARNING! Island Living: How to Move to the British Virgin Islands, What its like living in the British Virgin Islands. The Northern Mariana Islands are an archipelago of 15 islands located in the western Pacific. Required fields are marked *. Monthly rent in a normal area: CI$1,358/1,183/US$1,629. I loved Sundays. Does St. Thomas offer a Tax-free shopping experience? The song is based on the legend of Blackbeard leaving his men on an island with each a bottle of rum. High Rental Costs and Small Spaces. The insurance that travels with you. On the other hand, living in US Virgin Islands has its cons such as the threat of natural disasters, poor infrastructure and a slower pace of life. A Bonnier LLC Company. Additionally, large international chain stores are banned on the island in order to protect small local businesses. The country is safe, welcoming and ideal for raising kids. Work permits 11. One of the must see beaches and attractions in the BVI is The Baths and it is located in Virgin Gorda. The higher you get the better the view. There was a large damage to infrastructure which has significantly impacted the tourism sector on the island. Job seekers should expect to face competition for limited openings, as there are often more applicants than jobs available. EaglesLanded. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the US Virgin Islands. Surf season is from November until April. This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. Nevertheless, there are a number of companies that ship products to the US Virgin Islands, so online shopping is an option for specialty products. Being small islands, the job prospects are mainly within the tourism and yachting sector. It is important to factor in these costs when budgeting for a trip to the Virgin Islands, as they can add up quickly. The Virgin Islands are all very tiny pieces of land. by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Brit. The BVI is called Natures Little Secrets. The country is safe, welcoming and ideal for raising kids. When it comes to price, NordVPN is considerably cheaper than ExpressVPN, at $59.88 (49.84) per year compared to $80.04 (66.92) per year. Picture perfect beaches. With its tropical climate and stunning beaches, the Virgin Islands are a great place to live and work. The airport is located in the capital city, Charlotte Amalie in St Thomas. Just 2 of these will do the trick for me. Prices of restaurants, food, transportation, utilities and housing are included. Cruise ships traveling around the British Isles and river cruise boats in particular, are smaller than regular cruise ships, so cruising feels more intimate. Magens Bay is a beautiful one mile stretch of white sand on the island of St Thomas. If you require specialized care, overseas experts will be required. The Police on the island can be contacted at 999 or 911 in case of emergencies. Residents who tire of exploring the local archipelagos and coves, whether by ferry or sail, have their pick of the Caribbean for weekend getaways. Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as Ezone to ship items to the island. Major airlines such as Continental Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines provide both connecting and non-stop flights to the island. What should I pack when moving to the British Virgin Islands? If you want to settle down here, you should know that . Estimated GDP was $51,273 (2007 estimate). She says that the best way to get a gig is to research jobs and companies that fit your skills, then email to apply. If you're used to living in an expansive residential property, you'll find life in Hong Kong to be a bit surprising. No tourists. It is important if you are visiting the BVI to plan your travel plans carefully as you may have to overnight due to the lack of direct flights. Buck Island is a small uninhabited island which you can access via a boat or kayak. Pros Cons in British Virgin Islands Latin America Photo Larisa Birta via Unsplash Pros Cons Continents Latin America Countries British Virgin Islands Filters British Virgin Islands Clear 1 results Global travel medical insurance for $1.34/day! However, there are a number of medical facilities available, including hospitals and clinics. Trunk Bay is the most popular location especially with visitors to the island. There are however some 50 small islets and cays. Due care and diligence must be exercised by tourists to the island. A series of barrier islands that separate the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. Residents of the British Virgin Islands pay no tax on income, capital gains or inheritance, though stamp duty on property purchases by foreigners is 12 per cent. The pros of living in the British Virgin Islands include the beautiful scenery, the warm climate, and the low cost of living. Mountain Top and Drakes Seat are fantastic spots with amazing views in St Thomas. we still would have lived there. The cheaper option is to have visitors bring your online purchases with them when they fly down. Its an ordeal, says Meyers, so much so that a lot of folks in the sailing community avoid coming into the BVI because their animals get denied entry. If your pets dont meet the requirements, they can be quarantined, which doesnt make sense for short-term stays. Most of the tourists end up on a catamaran or sailboat and therefore the beaches and the islands are serene and quiet. In the BVI it still feels a lot more genuine and you will get reminded through names like Smuggles Cove. Leave me any questions if youlike and I will try to answer them the best I can from the first-hand experience. Nevertheless, according to Gov.Uk, serious crimes such as armed robberies and drug related incidents do occur. Also, there is no corporation tax in the BVI and businesses could be incorporated speedily. House starting price: $150,000 for a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom house in Christiansted. said one person in Brit. Therefore, relocation for job opportunities is seamless from a work permit standpoint for locals who want alternative options than those available on a small island. said a person living in Brit. There are several positives to living in an island that is an overseas territory of a large country such as the United States. You can also try paddleboarding or go bodyboarding at Long Bay. Then you can enjoy the snorkeling, sailing, and diving that is part of life here. Because of the lack of tourists, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these islands. The British Virgin Islands experienced severe devastating impacts of hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017. Measles. RE/MAX can help! Some individuals travel to neighboring St Thomas as goods are cheaper over there and there is more variety and popular brands such as Kmart, Walgreens and Home Depot. Hi I lived on Tortola for 7 months ,great place loveeeeee it. Or visit one of the luxury resorts on Cooper or Peter Island. Once you have made friends with the locals, they will let you know the places to shop to get deals on the islands as well as persons who sell items such as fresh meat and fish. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from sailing and snorkeling to hiking and exploring the islands. In terms of snorkeling, Coki beach is one of the best options in St Thomas. The islands cover an area of 477 sq.km. As an example, if you live in the Caribbean island of, In the US Virgin Islands you are never far away from the beach, The US Virgin islands are extremely safe. Club Med 2 is Back with New Elevated Amenities and Exciting Destinations, For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental, Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia, Shellona Abaco Beach House Provides an Ideal Setting for a Family Spring Break Getaway. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Now Health International's insurance plans. , the licensing of healthcare facilities, the Virgin Islands are the promise of large... Offer 2 for the regulation of healthcare professionals, and the low cost of living is part of the of. ; 5 series of barrier Islands that separate the mainland from the first-hand experience pros and cons of in! Offer every watersport going there was a large damage to infrastructure which has significantly impacted tourism... The Netherlands or visit one of the Islands, 15 of which inhabited! 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