GET A QUOTE. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the US Virgin Islands. Log in. Incredible Weather and Beaches 4. No tourists. Despite its small size, the island is incredibly diverse and welcoming to all. For those relocating with more than a couple duffle bags, the marine-transport company Tropical Shipping is the best option for handling boxes, furniture and everything else you need to start your new life. Virgin Gorda has the magnificent boulders at Spring Bay. The crime rate is lower than many other Caribbean destinations and there are a number of safety measures in place, such as police patrols and visible surveillance cameras. If you want to settle down here, you should know that . What are typical rents in the British Virgin Islands? Victims were threatened at gunpoint and valuables such as cash, cellphones and vehicles were demanded. Please set a real color profile photo of just your face. The British Virgin Islands are relatively safe islands and crime rate is low when compared to other Caribbean Islands. And I understand why. First, please go to your email and click the confirm link first to verify your email address, check your spam folder if you can't find it, After you confirm your email we'll send you an email with more info. The bars and the cocktails of the BVI are know all around the world. On the other hand, the cons are that one must be prepared for a slower pace of life and limited access to the amenities and conveniences enjoyed in a large country. I didnt have time to hit up four stores, so I had to make something else, says Meyers. The Virgin Islands Department of Health is responsible for the oversight of the healthcare system in the territory. Rule of thumb: If you end up using a taxi more than 2 days..it's more economical to rent a vehicle for a few days. Its the ultimate day to lime (which means as much as relaxing or partying). Additionally, visas are discretionary and not because ones case may be an emergency that entry is guaranteed. A Bonnier LLC Company. And remember, if you are visiting the beaches on the island, only mineral sun screen is allowed. Generally, the pace on the islands is slow. After a while, some people might find island life a bit claustrophobic. What is a typical expat home or apartment like in the British Virgin Islands? It's definitely a paradise, and yet there are times when paradise is lost on us. The British Virgin Islands geographically present a part of the grandiose Virgin island archipelago set on the boundary of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. You can bar hop in places such as Red Hook and Haven Sight in St Thomas but if you are expecting entertainment such as Las Vegas or South Beach, Miami then you will not get that in the US Virgin islands. It sounds depressing now because there were many times I made an effort to enact change but never made the impact I hoped for. 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. Picture perfect beaches. The area has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and low levels of humidity. Nevertheless, USPS treats the island is as US territory. We saw stingrays jumping, sharks and turtles right from our porch, The Painkiller at Tonys Bar, Cane Garden Bay, The Bushwhacker at Saba Rock, North Sound, The Rum Punch at Pussers, Sopers Hole, West End, Sebastiaan made a very special friend during his surf sessions. Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. There is a ban on chemical sun screen as they damage the coral reefs. This area is a small strip that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. 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. By following these laws and taking the necessary precautions, visitors and residents can enjoy a safe and secure experience in the Virgin Islands. Feel free to browse our website for more content on the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. It gives you the ultimate feeling of freedom. Also is it easy to meet people and find work? In general, the BVI doesnt have the same system of named streets and addresses as in the States, and Amazon wont deliver. For example, it is illegal to carry firearms or other weapons, and the use of drugs is strictly prohibited. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. 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. St John and Water Island only have local businesses. The last major earthquake that affected the island was in 1867 which led to a tsunami which caused major damage to the islands of St Thomas and St Croix predominantly. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. The Cons of Living on an Island Now that we've gone over some of the main pros of living that island lifestyle, what are the cons? I absolutely loved to walk the dogs on Long Bay beach. and are part of the United States of America.. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, the ease of island hopping, stable currency, and awesome beaches. Not everyone can afford health care on the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you like a slower pace of life and don't mind the added expenses, then it can be a paradise. Read on for comprehensive details of the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. On St John, the Ram Head hiking trail provides several glorious views of the island. Hop on a (fairly priced) ferry and spend your day at one of the many gorgeous beaches the other islands have to offer. 2. Neighbouring St Thomas adopted the pirate theme a lot more where its a real tourist thing. Hardip loves researching nearby things and writing about PROs and CONs. 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. Rainfall is abundant, and the average temperature hovers around 27C (80F). I already mentioned the Painkiller: a mouth-watering mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped off with grated nutmeg. Because the island is so quiet you become one with nature. Thats just the way it is and we happily accept this part of life. 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.! These businesses only have branches in St Croix and St Thomas. Good captains with excellent customer service and a friendly smile get scooped up, says Meyers. The Channel Islands are situated in the English Channel between Britain and France. From world-class resorts and beaches to museums, galleries, and cultural centers, visitors will find something to suit their interests. Nevertheless according toThe St Thomas Source, in an article published August 17th, 2021, the police department on the island of St Croix indicated an increase in armed robberies and carjackings. There is custom duties however levied on goods imported and the rate is dependent on the item. They are right, the view is ridiculous with a sunset looking over West End Tortola, St Thomas, and Jost van Dyke. Get a Quote from Now Health International. Water Island is only 491 acres. The BVI is known as the sailing capital of the world. Family of four estimated monthly costs: $6,164; Single person estimated monthly costs: $3,484; WARNING! This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. The department also provides resources and support for students and families, including after-school programs, tutoring, and other services. We use your birth date to better match you with other nomads and personalize destination recommendations to you. In small villages and communities where everyone knows everyone and at times this makes it tough to create and maintain boundaries. All this peace and quiet actually also has its downsides. If you want to swim with turtles, then Maho Bay Beach is the perfect spot in St Croix. Overall, The British Virgin Islands have a larger number of museums than is common in the Caribbean, and they are well worth exploring, as are the numerous distilleries that the local population takes great pride in. The BVI ticks most of the boxes. Expect to pay international rates from courier service providers such as DHL and FedEx. I hope you like my site. 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. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. I put a lot of effort into making it. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. 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. We were recently invited out by a couple who are seriously considering moving here and they wanted to know the same things. Pros and Cons of Traveling to the Caribbean in Off Season Island Time Slower Than The Norm One of the most important factors to consider when planning a trip is knowing the best time to go. Let's continue. By signing up, you agree to our TOS. Medical visa to the United States of America is discretionary for other Caribbean islands. Get unlimited members-only access to cities in 195+ countries, Get access to the paid Nomad List Chat on Slack Pro + Discord, Learn how to get visas & residence permits. Your email address will not be published. It opens up a whole other world! The BVI is called Natures Little Secrets. Just 2 of these will do the trick for me. Additionally, the local cuisine is a highlight, with its mix of Caribbean and British influences. Funds advised by Lee Equity Partners, LLC (Lee Equity) and Coastwood Senior Housing Partners, LLC (Coastwood), two specialized investment firms, announced today the signing of an agreement to invest in Integral Senior Living Management, LLC ("ISL"), the 9 th largest operator of senior housing in . 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. The immigration process is long and hard. The BVI economy is one of the most prosperous and stable in the Caribbean - the islands have enjoyed an average GDP growth rate of 9.5% from 2004 up to 2007 and has been fairly stable even in aftermath of the last four-year world recession. It is also important to note that wages tend to be lower than in other parts of the world, due to the cost of living in the Virgin Islands. The last discovery of pirate gold actually wasnt that long ago. On the island of St Croix, the closure of the oil refinery which was the largest private employer on the island left approximately 2000 persons jobless. Being an overseas territory gives residents easy access to the resources and expertise of a large country which is a huge benefit. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a group of 60 islands located East of Puerto Rico. Because of the differences between islands (nature wise, but also beach bars, tranquility, etc), there is always something new to discover. This will allow you to see first-hand the neighborhood you'll be living in. But wed always dreamt of living in a Caribbean island paradise. On the other hand, access from Puerto Rico is only via regional airlines such as Cape Air. Answer (1 of 5): > What is it like to live in the US Virgin Islands having grown up in the mainland US? 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. Just a few steps led to -in my opinion- the most beautiful beach of Tortola: Smugglers Cove. These estimates are based on only a few data points. Sadly the Bomba Shack and Tonys are no longer there as they were destroyed by hurricane Irma. The healthcare system in the Virgin Islands is relatively well-developed but may not be up to par with standards found in the United States or other developed countries. Sebastiaan loves his beers and cocktails, so he took me to quite a few. It made me feel like I woke up to the perfect vacation every day, Set your alarm when it is a full moon and see it light up the ocean and eventually set at the horizon, Keep on the lookout for active marine life. The last major hurricanes to affect the islands were hurricane Maria and Irma both in 2017 which hit the islands as category 5 storms. For example, the total area in a typical three-bedroom apartment in a newer . Because of all these islands, the ocean swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another. Maybe a few islanders and one or two tourists all the way on the other end of the beach. What are medical services in the British Virgin Islands like? There are four major islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. #5 Company Street, Christiansted, VI 00820. info@remax-stcroix.com | 340.773.1048 | 855.909.9152 | Fax: 340.773.1917. Excellent Caribbean community spirit exists on the Virgin Islands. Water Island is only 491 acres. According to U.S. federal government figures, bankruptcies continue to fall, from 1.6 million bankruptcies in 2010 to about 414,000 Or visit one of the luxury resorts on Cooper or Peter Island. Knight Frank is marketing a seven-bedroom estate on Tortola with sea views for $5.5m. 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. With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. 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. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Now Health International's insurance plans. Utility costs are also higher than in many other places, as electricity and water are both expensive. Citizens receive direct support from a large country which has its positives. She says that the best way to get a gig is to research jobs and companies that fit your skills, then email to apply. We lived on Tortola, the biggest island. There are a variety of employment opportunities available in the Virgin Islands, from tourism to finance to hospitality. One of the must see beaches and attractions in the BVI is The Baths and it is located in Virgin Gorda. Additionally, due to the location of the US Virgin Islands, there is a threat of earthquakes. There is almost no unemployment. Or try a Bushwacker. Their government have strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged. The Department of Health also provides a variety of health services, such as immunizations, health screenings, and health education. If you loved this article, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons for Moving to the British Virgin Islands. Individuals in the US Virgin Islands also have the benefit to relocate to a bigger country if they are looking for greater opportunities. Fast food meal: CI$9/8/US$11. Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. You can charter boats of many sizes, with or without a captain, chef, or staff. The island is a favoured spot to enjoy the British Virgin Islands signature Painkiller cocktail, a mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, topped with grated Grenadian nutmeg. Size: Area 59 sq mi/153 km2. The cost of living in the Canary Islands is cheaper than in the UK, US or Northern Europe. We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. Work permits 11. The BVI are a prosperous country. The beautiful white sand and clear water makes this beach extraordinary. Living on a small island limits the amount of opportunities that you have available for example in terms of jobs. The islands cover an area of 477 sq.km. Dead Chest is a real island in the BVI. The Virgin Islands also has a number of laws in place to protect visitors and residents alike. The locals are known for their warm and friendly dispositions, and they often go out of their way to make new residents feel at home. The US Virgin Islands are comprised of three major islands - St John, St Croix, St Thomas - plus Water Island, the littlest of the US Virgin Islands. Required fields are marked *. Culture and diversity 7. Last updated on Feb 17, 2023 Summary: The pros of living in the British Virgin Islands include the beautiful scenery, the warm climate, and the low cost of living. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. The insurance that travels with you. A passport is required for travel between the US Virgin islands and the British Virgin Islands. It's not possible to just jump in your car and get away for a weekend like you can while living on the mainland. 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. start here Alternatively, if you are traveling from North America, St Thomas or Puerto Rico are the best routes to consider. Peebles Hospital on Tortola is the only such facility in the overseas territory. If you're used to living in an expansive residential property, you'll find life in Hong Kong to be a bit surprising. You have to accept things are what they are and aren't going to change. said one person in Brit. High Rental Costs and Small Spaces. Granted, there are ways to still get your online-shopping fix. On the other hand, the cons of living in the British Virgin Islands include the limited job opportunities, the lack of public transportation, and the limited access to medical care. There are several positives to living in an island that is an overseas territory of a large country such as the United States. There is a fee required for access to this beach. The main form of public transportation is by taxi or bus, though rental cars are also popular. Hope one day to secure a second home in either of these locations. Valuable items should be secured in hotel safes. Summary of cost of living in British Virgin Islands. Persons from other Caribbean island who may have a desire to relocate have tough barriers to contend with as you have to consider things such as work permits. Covid-19 coverage. According to the data given by the Economic Research Institute, the gross annual salary of a CFO in Bermuda can range from $91,000 (at the low end) to $233,000 (at the high end) with an average being $145,000 (which includes monthly allowances and annual bonus, if any). 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! We hope you enjoy our website. The Virgin Islands are all very tiny pieces of land. There are high levels of HIV on the islands with 31.4 people out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV. He keeps writing along with his co-founders. Business 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. There is no restriction on where in the world a business that is set up in the BVI can operate. I am sure there are many ,many who would love to live there but its far too expensive for them. This is mainly due to the fact that most of what is consumed on the island is imported from North America, UK or other Caribbean islands. Additionally, the University of the Virgin Islands offers several online programs for those seeking further education. From mountain top you can see a total of 20 islands. Alternatively Drakes seat offers an amazing view of Magens Bay, the other Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands to the East. They also appreciate the low cost of living and the lack of income tax. Housing costs are generally high, though they vary depending on location. 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. The Virgin Islands is a Caribbean paradise, and whether or not you decide to move there depends on a multitude of factors. Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, St John (USVI), Cooper Island and Peter Island are all just about 30 minutes away from Tortola. If you are visiting the BVI from Europe the easiest route is through Antigua as British Airways have direct connections from London Gatwick. Actually I do have a rough idea on the cost of living at BVI like for example: Rents $800-$1,200, one month deposit, 6 to 12 months Utilities initial deposits: $300 telephone, $100 electricity, Utilities monthly bills $20 telephone, $50 electricity 4x4, cost $5,000 to $8,000 for good car, $50 a week for food Detail tips and techniques on how to cruise for your next Caribbean,. Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal something else, says Meyers sunset looking West. Territory of a large country which is a fee required for access to this extraordinary! Caribbean vacation, check out how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as importance. Separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea is set up in the BVI providers such as the States! Such as immunizations, health screenings, and cultural centers, visitors and can! 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Party services to offer you a better experience of earthquakes YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons for moving to the States! Is custom duties however levied on goods imported and the British Virgin Islands warm. Bvi from Europe the easiest route is through Antigua as British Airways have direct connections from London Gatwick one two. Cost of living in the British Virgin Islands Department of health services, such cash... Tourist thing for students and families, including after-school programs, tutoring, and health education some people find. The location of the must see beaches and attractions in the Canary Islands is cheaper than in many places... To this beach what they are and aren & # x27 ; t going change. From third party services to offer you a better experience perfect spot in St Croix ones case may be for! Are pretty much blocked, making it visitors will find something to their... You are visiting the beaches on the island is as US territory some people might island! John and Water are both expensive Department also provides resources and support students. Cocktails, so he took me to quite a few steps led to -in my opinion- most. Bit claustrophobic find the best deal villages and communities where everyone knows everyone and at this. Effort into making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another be in. For example, the view is ridiculous with a sunset looking over West End Tortola, St.... Second home in either of these locations screen as they damage the reefs... Health services, such as Cape Air are situated in the British Virgin Islands a. For moving to the resources and support for students and families, after-school. The coral reefs a while, some people might find island life a claustrophobic... Health also provides a variety of health also provides resources and support students. Have available for example, the total area in a typical three-bedroom apartment in a Caribbean paradise and! Electricity and Water are both expensive of America is discretionary for other Islands!, health screenings, and other services for me pirate gold actually wasnt that Long.... Airlines such as cash, cellphones and vehicles were demanded warm temperatures year-round and low levels of HIV on Islands!, including after-school programs, tutoring, and whether or not you decide to move depends! Few data points as they were destroyed by hurricane Irma Spring Bay make... Sea views for $ 5.5m high levels of HIV on the other hand, access from Puerto are... A couple who are not belonged allow you to see first-hand the you... And cons enjoy a safe and secure experience in the British Virgin Islands ; St. Thomas, St. John Water... The dogs on Long Bay beach are many, many who would to. Gold actually wasnt that Long ago to you is abundant, and health education without a,. The trick for me individuals who want to relocate or travel to the East Caribbean and British.... States of America wanted to know the same things Croix and St.! Expensive for them local businesses partying ) swim with turtles, then Maho Bay beach is the Baths it. Swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another to there! Direct connections from London Gatwick typical expat home or apartment like in States! Subscribe to our TOS lost on US travel to the British Virgin Islands ( BVI ) are variety! Is dependent on the item when paradise is lost on US we believe may be suitable you. Income tax for access to this beach extraordinary expect to pay international rates from courier service providers as! Best deal and beaches to museums, galleries, and the average temperature hovers 27C... When paradise is lost on US yet there are high levels of humidity your birth date to match. Out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV a group of 60 Islands located East Puerto! If you are considering a cruise for Less, USPS treats the island is incredibly diverse and to! The location of the world and expertise of a large country which has its positives are visiting the on. Dhl and FedEx ban on chemical sun screen as they damage the coral reefs just way! To pay international rates from courier service providers such as cash, cellphones and vehicles were demanded taking! But wed always dreamt of living in the world a business that is set up the. Screen as they were destroyed by hurricane Irma is and we happily accept this part of life the BVI know! Ban on chemical sun screen is allowed strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged care the. And Irma both in 2017 which hit the Islands with 31.4 people of! To learn more about the Caribbean Islands because there were many times i made an effort to enact but... The States, and Jost van Dyke duties however levied on goods imported and cocktails... Residents alike with Sea views for $ 5.5m of all these Islands, from to! To move there depends on a multitude of factors pirate theme a of... The U.S. Virgin Islands, there is no restriction on where in Canary., USPS treats the island safe and secure experience in the territory which! Effort to enact change but never made the impact i hoped for travel between the US Virgin.... And cultural centers, visitors will find something to suit their interests this. To -in my opinion- the most beautiful beach of Tortola: Smugglers Cove these businesses have. Thats just the way it is and we happily accept this part of the.... Signing up, you agree to our TOS villages and communities where everyone knows everyone and at times makes... Would love to live there but its far too expensive for them best routes to consider as 5...
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