best time for PMV etc....

Remember that you will be coming in "hurricane season" - and oh, dear, we surely don't want that....but the weather could adversely affect any plans you make to a large or small degree, and who can guess? I don't recall September being bad last year, but there was one two-week period along through Oct. or Nov. when it rained and rained and rained sideways and ... well, you get the point. If you come in September, it is still very hot but before tourist season, and once season starts, rentals are difficult to locate or seem to be more expensive than before season. I would think September would be a great time - you'd have time to settle, enjoy the island for a while, and then be settled into a job before the rush starts. Oops, sorry, I can only speak for STX, and I do my job over the internet. Maybe I'd better back out of this one while I still can!

There seems to be an abundance of rentals available on STX right now, or at least in the paper and on some of the bulletin boards around town, and at what we have finally come to accept as "reasonable" prices. Don't know if that is also the case on STT or not.

One thing on the rental - make sure a pest control contract is included or plan on paying for monthly service yourself. The millipedes are doing their mating dance about now, and I can only assume the centipedes are as well....UGH! I am considering a flock of peacocks since they are somewhat prettier than chickens and do the same job, but I doubt my dogs would approve....

A problem with coming in September or October, especially if you plan on working in the hospitality industry, is that some places close for a period of time during these months since it is so slow.
I didn't make a pre-move visit, but I think if I were and I was going to put in applications/resume I would make it at least withing 2 months of moving. Maybe less. Otherwise, potential employers can always just hire someone who is on island to stay.

I too, would be interested in hearing more about the best time for a PMV. I was thinking of September/October to search for a job in one of the larger duty free shops, preferably selling jewelry. Do places like AH Riise, Little Switzerland, DI close during those months?? It may turn out that I just bite the bullet and come down in October (hurricanes be damned!) on a one-way ticket and see what happens. I plan to give myself 2 months to find a job, housing, etc. - thoughts welcome from anyone on if this is reasonable?

Pink - sounds like you and I are on the same timetable! I am also single (albeit several years older than you, I believe - LOL) and moving down alone from NYC. I wish you luck in your search...if you're interested maybe we could brainstorm privately...two heads are better than one, no?

Thanks to everyone who has offered wonderful advice so far! Many more questions to come, I'm sure.

Have a great day!

I have read through many of the responses to you. Sounds like good information. In terms of prices, you would probably be better off to move off season and lock in a lower price on a rental or purchase. Jobs? I came here last September (and do remember the sideways rains, though I thought they were kind of fun). Temperature is relative. The sun was stronger, but with a constant breeze if you are not in a valley, it was (based on the heat index) 15-20 degrees cooler than South Carolina...and the air moved!

I am unable to work outside of the home, but I know that my room mate was offered several jobs for "when the restaurant opens back up on October 4". That was not his gig, but he sure could have had a job rather quickly.

If you really want to work, it doesn't seem to be a problem. If you have a very restricted focus, that is a disadvantage. If you are willing to temp, you could be to work in a week or two. Many of the temp positions turn into FT offers.

Okay. Enough. If you do visit and need an inexpensive place to stay, I do rent a private room near C'sted. Just drop me a note at Affiliationllc@aol.com and I'll set some time aside for you.

Best wishes,

Dan

Becky,

Had to laugh at the peacock and dog comment, I agree they are prettier than chickens!! Thank you for the info on the pest control. First time I have heard of it included in a rental agreement, I just planning on paying for it out of pocket! Sounds like my timing will be right on par. Thanx again.

Pink

Kat.....When do the businesses open? I was under the assumption they would open November/December? Did you mean September/ October were good months to come down to settle in, as that would be 2 months prior to get settled. Thank you for your help!

Ann....YOU GO GIRL!!! What you are about to do is exactly what I originally planned to do! I am sending you a PM so we can chat.

Pink

Dan......So you agree my timing is right? I love the rain in the tropics, just not in the NW where it is bone chilling! I'm with you on that one, won't bother me a bit! Thanx for the works of encouragement and housing opportunity however, I plan to live on St. Thomas. That is for long term but for my PMV your place might be perfect! I'll let you know. Thank you again!

Pink

AnnNYpisces,

Wasn't able to PM you. Send me one I would love to chat!

Pink

Hi Pink - PM'd you...I think, LOL! Would love to "chat".