"Expats in the British Virgin Islands may find it challenging to adjust to the slower pace of life, as the local culture is more relaxed and laid-back than many other places. It is important to factor in these costs when budgeting for a trip to the Virgin Islands, as they can add up quickly. Scuba instructors and servers in the restaurant industry are also valuable. Rental cars are a great option for those who want to explore the islands at their own pace. The BVI are a prosperous country. Moving the British Virgins Islands is not an easy decision. It's rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $1,000. The last discovery of pirate gold actually wasnt that long ago. On the largest island which is St Croix, Hams Buff Lighthouse is a fantastic spot for incredible views. The Virgin Islands also has a number of laws in place to protect visitors and residents alike. Luckily, still few people know about it. The insurance that travels with you. When dealing with certain companies, there are restrictions on what you can ship to the islands. They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the islands, with its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. Don't worry, we don't do anything weird with your personal information. 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. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Climate and Weather in the Virgin Islands, Employment Opportunities in the Virgin Islands, Healthcare and Medical Facilities in the Virgin Islands, Transportation Options in the Virgin Islands, Safety and Security in the Virgin Islands, Culture and Entertainment Options in the Virgin Islands, Quality of Life Considerations in the Virgin Islands, Advantages and Disadvantages of Harp Loan. Thankfully, no major illness has befallen anyone in her family, but should that ever happen, Meyers says theyd travel back to the States, as she did when she gave birth to her twins. They are right, the view is ridiculous with a sunset looking over West End Tortola, St Thomas, and Jost van Dyke. The Virgin Islands are also known for their spectacular sunsets, which can be enjoyed from many of the beaches and resorts. No minimum capital requirements. Excellent Caribbean community spirit exists on the Virgin Islands. Citizens of the British Virgin Islands since 2002 have full British Citizenship. 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. This is a unique national park on the southwest coast of the island. As an example, if you live in the Caribbean island of Grenada and you have a medical emergency, you cannot just go to the United States seamlessly for medical without considering visa requirements. Locals do not therefore have to worry about currency fluctuations and devaluations as other islands in the Caribbean that have their own currencies. Digital issues 3. Living in the Virgin Islands can be a dream come true for some, while others may find the experience to be less than desirable. 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. The Northern Mariana Islands are an archipelago of 15 islands located in the western Pacific. Due to the islands robust financial sector, there is a thriving expat community which is welcoming. After that, it pretty much goes flat (except for hurricane swells) but that opens up amazing paddleboard trips along the coast. Hope one day to secure a second home in either of these locations. As an island in the Caribbean, the hurricane season starts on June 1. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are that the islands are safe, has friendly people, and amazing beaches. Additionally, the University of the Virgin Islands offers several online programs for those seeking further education. What is the average cost of housing in the British Virgin Islands? Copyright 2023 Islands. ). Ease of travel 6. 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. Work permits 11. Watersports and cocktails offer a break from the territorys main business of offshore finance. Expect something closer to $1,500-$3,000 with a high-quality, reputable service provider. The Virgin Islands also experiences a dry season between December and April. 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. BVI and Dutch West Indies islands are all dream destinations for me and my family for all the reasons you state. Their government have strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged. Additionally, there are several car rental companies located on the islands, making it easy to find a car that fits your needs. Hi I lived on Tortola for 7 months ,great place loveeeeee it. If as an example you are taller, you may not easily be able to get your size on the island. Just 2 of these will do the trick for me. Because of the lack of tourists, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these islands. Job seekers should expect to face competition for limited openings, as there are often more applicants than jobs available. Blog Post Author Credentials Louise Gaille is the author of this post. A two-bedroom house costs at least $285,000. Heres the scoop on life in this overseas territory, and what to expect when youre ready to permanently drop anchor. The Virgin Islands Department of Health is responsible for the oversight of the healthcare system in the territory. What appliances are typically included in a rental. 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. Taxis are generally more expensive than buses, but they are more convenient and also provide door-to-door service. It is actually almost impossible to find a place without a stunning ocean view. It's definitely a paradise, and yet there are times when paradise is lost on us. We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. Tip: Hold CTRL and drag mouse to pan around the map. Additionally, the cost of transportation can be quite expensive, as most people rely on cars or taxis to get around. In my opinion, the BVI has it all. This depends on your country of origin. Additionally, the health care system is adequate for certain situations. The beach life is perfect but you have to have this particular mindset. 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. We hope you enjoy our website. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. When living in the British Virgin Islands, the beach is never very far away. The BVI is the bareboating capital of the world. If you are contemplating traveling to the US Virgin Islands or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. EaglesLanded. If you are visiting the BVI from Europe the easiest route is through Antigua as British Airways have direct connections from London Gatwick. 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. Virgin Isl.. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. End the day with a little picnic on the beach and watch the sunset, Meet up with friends at Cane Garden Bay and have fun with their dogs and drink, If you dont like crowds, avoid the beach at Cane Garden Bay during the cruise season. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. Living the Caribbean lifestyle includes drinking lots of cocktails. I worked as a real estate agent so I should know. People are willing to share with each other. 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. 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. By signing up, you agree to our TOS. The sailing community of the British Virgin Islands holds big appeal for U.S. citizens hoping to expatriate but thats not all these Caribbean islands offer. It is small and safe. Answer (1 of 5): > What is it like to live in the US Virgin Islands having grown up in the mainland US? Perks of Living in Wisconsin. 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. This island is a part of the ABC islands and is a special municipality of the Netherlands. Similarly with education, Virgin Islanders have easy access to higher education from the United States. Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum! This beach is popular as well with visitors and locals on the island so it is best as well to get there early. Utility costs are also higher than in many other places, as electricity and water are both expensive. I put a lot of effort into making it. It relies on expats to help staff the banks, trust and insurance companies, funds and accompanying law firms which keep the economy moving. 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. Posted : June 28, 2007 9:05 pm. In the Caribbean there is a Low Season and a High Season. Tortola Vs St Thomas (Which Island Is Better To Visit), Virgin Gorda Vs Tortola ( Which Island Is Better To Visit), Living In St Thomas ( Pros & Cons Fully Explained), Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travelers, Pros & Cons of Living In US Virgin Islands, Your email address will not be published. For example, luxury vehicles in Cayman have an import duty as high . Despite its small size, the island is incredibly diverse and welcoming to all. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the trail. Live Healthier, Live Happier with award winning international health insurance. Most islands are accessible by ferry from the main island Tortola. Please visit caribbeantravelupdate.com for updates. Expect to pay international rates from courier service providers such as DHL and FedEx. Usually, its 3/4 alcohol. The cost of living in the U.S. Virgin Islands is higher than on the U.S. mainland. This includes access to health care and education for persons living on the island. The BVI is called Natures Little Secrets. Neighbouring St Thomas adopted the pirate theme a lot more where its a real tourist thing. The cost of living for an expat in the British Virgin Islands is relatively high, with the average cost of living estimated to be around $3,000 per month. Anegada is a flat atol. Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as Ezone to ship items to the island. As part of the Virgin Islands under the control of the United States, you can move here with minimal headaches. Citizens receive direct support from a large country which has its positives. Facilities such as next day delivery that apply if you live on the Mainland do not apply in the islands. Get a Quote from Now Health International. Knight Frank is marketing a seven-bedroom estate on Tortola with sea views for $5.5m. And in high season, there are a lot of different and secret spots to find a wave for yourself. Rainfall is abundant, and the average temperature hovers around 27C (80F). This location is next to Peebles Hospital. One of the biggest pros of living in St. Croix is the open culture of the island. If you want the best cocktail drinking location on Tortola, go to the Banakeet Restaurant in Carrot Bay at sunset. Because of all these islands, the ocean swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another. The cost of goods on the island is extremely high. You can charter boats of many sizes, with or without a captain, chef, or staff. According to U.S. federal government figures, bankruptcies continue to fall, from 1.6 million bankruptcies in 2010 to about 414,000 This beach is perfect for beginners and individuals new to snorkeling. Fly from Pennsylvania on American Airlines, United Airlines and more. On average, apartments cost $2,000 per month. The relaxed pace of life and the lack of hustle and bustle are also appreciated by expats, who find it a great place to relax and unwind. Get insured Advertise here In British Virgin Islands now See the map There is a fee required for access to this beach. Main hospital: The Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center in Christiansted. If you like a slower pace of life and don't mind the added expenses, then it can be a paradise. Saint Joseph, MO (64501) Today. You can also try paddleboarding or go bodyboarding at Long Bay. I hope you like my site. Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. For starters, every dog and cat must be microchipped. As an individual living in the British Virgin Islands, you pay no income or capital gains taxes. The bars and the cocktails of the BVI are know all around the world. A Bonnier LLC Company. To speak to one of our agents contact us today. It gives you the ultimate feeling of freedom. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Now Health International's insurance plans. Therefore, if you are thinking about finding a job on the island, it is easy to adjust and make the island your home. I absolutely loved to walk the dogs on Long Bay beach. Sebastiaan and I always dreamed about living near the ocean. 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. Like many other Caribbean islands, one of the factors that significantly add to the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is duty. And most happy hours offer 2 for the price of 1! 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. Contribute Read about how we use cookies and how you control them by clicking "Privacy Preferences". There is no restriction on where in the world a business that is set up in the BVI can operate. world 5 world_fill Cities paper_plane 5 paper_plane_fill 5 Trips chat 42 chat_fill 42 Chat Finally, the vibrant music and art scene is another draw for expats, who can enjoy a variety of cultural events and activities," I hope you find this video helpful especially. What it's like living in the British Virgin Islands Shutterstock The sailing community of the British Virgin Islands holds big appeal for U.S. citizens hoping to expatriate but that's not all these Caribbean islands offer. In 2017, the country was hit by Hurricane Irma, with the major island of . What do I need to know before moving to the British Virgin Islands? Skelton. we still would have lived there. Pros and Cons of Living in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Summary St. Thomas is the second home of the Americas St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, has an amazing weather Is It easy to get around in St. Thomas? Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. At the moment, you should treat them only as a best guess. It opens up a whole other world! Your email address will not be published. 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A passport is required for travel between the US Virgin islands and the British Virgin Islands. This photo we took from the house we lived in. 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. For starters, if youre making something specific, say chocolate chip cookies, dont expect to score everything on the list at one market. Average prices of more than 40 products and services in British Virgin Islands. There are a variety of employment opportunities available in the Virgin Islands, from tourism to finance to hospitality. By following these laws and taking the necessary precautions, visitors and residents can enjoy a safe and secure experience in the Virgin Islands. 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! Feel free to check out the BVI Tourism for more helpful information on how to get to the island. Being an overseas territory gives residents easy access to the resources and expertise of a large country which is a huge benefit. Already a member? "Expats in the British Virgin Islands appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. In the shady areas (they have hills, mountains and some valleys) they have a cooler and damper almost rainforest-like microclimate with orchids, bananas and other lush tropical plants. 1. 2021 1st Day of Summer. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. Additionally, many popular festivals and events take place throughout the year, offering visitors a truly unique and vibrant experience. There are four major islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. Good captains with excellent customer service and a friendly smile get scooped up, says Meyers. It's rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $1,000 USD. Sadly the Bomba Shack and Tonys are no longer there as they were destroyed by hurricane Irma. "Tax haven" of the Caribbean 9. Despite the tax breaks here, high costs of living might just revoke this benefit entirely. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the US Virgin Islands. Despite being a British Overseas Territory, the official currency of the Islands is the United States Dollar (USD). Through SincereProsCons, he tries to help people make better decision by writing good and bad things of any place, products, services, and more. 38K views 2 years ago CHARLOTTE AMALIE WEST In this week's episode of Blyden vLogs I share 6 PROS and 5 CONS of living in the US Virgin Islands. If you want to swim with turtles, then Maho Bay Beach is the perfect spot in St Croix. There is beach bar available for eats and drinks. Unfortunately, we had to leave due to health reasons. Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. In fact, you may even take this chance to meet with a real estate lawyer or leasing agent. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. Pros of Living in the Cayman Islands 1. Therefore, if you are considering relocating to the island, the risk of losing money due to foreign exchange conversion should be relatively low. Additionally, the islands are British Overseas Territories. Estimated GDP was $51,273 (2007 estimate). Nevertheless, according to, Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as. 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. The country is safe, welcoming and ideal for raising kids. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. However, in May 2017 two murders occurred within 24 hours, to the shock and horror of both travellers and locals alike. The cost of living in the Virgin Islands is higher than many other locations around the world. And with 52 unique islands and cays, you have so many options to keep you interested. The state is home to the outer banks. Monthly rent in a normal area: CI$1,358/1,183/US$1,629. One-time-payment: $29.98 $14.99 2023 NEW YEAR 0% off. The best thing is, that almost all houses have some kind of ocean view. These islands are St Croix, St Thomas, St John and Water Island. Because the island is so quiet you become one with nature. These are naturally formed pools where you can enjoy the water and the amazing views. Food costs are also generally high, though some items may be cheaper than those found in other places. Virgin Isl.. Highlights include snorkelling off Virgin Gordas Baths beach and sailing around the reefs of Anegada, while the annual BVI Spring Regatta, held each March, is one of the largest such events in the Caribbean. The archipelago is located approximately equal distance from Hawaii, the Philippines and Japan, which makes it quite remote and isolated place geographically.. Especially at places like Nanny Cay or Bitter End Yacht Club, Every island is different, try to visit them all. Being small islands, the job prospects are mainly within the tourism and yachting sector. 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. I loved the fact you can easily get to the US Virgin Islands St John and St Thomas. Cyril E King is one of the busiest airports in the Eastern Caribbean. Nevertheless, USPS treats the island is as US territory. Some of my favorites bars per island: Living the Caribbean lifestyle includes drinking lots of cocktails. The turquoise bays around these islands are the promise of a new pleasant and authentic lifestyle. Honeymoon Beach on Water Island is a favorite for locals and visitors to the island. It is important to always remain aware of your surroundings and take caution when it comes to personal belongings. Any of the Virgin Islands will prove to have a slower pace of life, easy access to the tropical outdoors, plentiful waterfront activities, and year-round beautiful weather.
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