Cayman Islands now...STT. in the future?
I'm a single 40 year old female that is currently living and working in the Cayman Islands. I am an American and have been living the island lifestyle for years here and yes I love it along with the tax free benefits. I came here to scuba dive(my hobby) on a vacation in 97 and stayed to live the dream. However, I am considering moving to St. Thomas because of a possible job opportunity. My passion is underwater photography and love shore diving as well as boat diving. Any lovers of the underwater world out there? I would appreciate any advice on any of the above mentioned topics.
Don't know much about the diving scenarios, but you won't be tax free for long here!!
RL
The diving isn't as spectacular in the Virgin Islands as it is in the Caymans, but there is still a lot to see and it's better than the diving in many places around the world. It's hard to beat the Caymans, Cozumel, Belize, etc. The western Caribbean reef system is quite amazing in all the areas I have had the opportunity to dive upon it. I'm looking forward to my first trip to dive in Roatan coming up in April. I'm a PADI SCUBA Instructor, but don't get to dive nearly as often as I would like due to how busy I am with my "other" profession as a Realtor.
With so many islands to dive from throughout the USVI and BVI's and further east and south through the island chain, you will find lots of inspiration for u/w photography. Whether you are seeking micro or macro subject matter, we do have a lot of variety. Even when just snorkeling on STX, I often see sting rays, spotted eagle rays, squid, nurse sharks, several varieties of sea turtles, baracuda, lobster and a multitude of tropical fish of all varieties. There were lots of dolphins hanging out here in January and now the whales are passing by. If you have a fine eye, there are more seahorses here than people realize. They sure are hard to spot, though, even when you know they are there!
Thanks Ronnie,
However, as an American I cannot open up any business here on the island without a Cayman partner which is also the largest shareholder. Are there any restrictions for Americans openning up a business in ST.T?
You have inspired me Alexandra. I am also in real esate, vaction properties and dive as a hobby. I am interested in all of the different islands to explore as I have pretty much conquered all of the dive sites on all 3 island in Cayman.
I just came back from a dive to Roatan and had a great time. I recommend the "shark dive" and the Anthony Key's Resort ":Dolphin Trainor for the day" if you have a love for these animals. It was very third world, pretty much went diving 4-5 dives a day and enjoyed myself...the visibility wasn't as good as Cayman but they have excellent coral foramtions and the biggest groupers that I had ever seen!
Have a great time when you go.
kpcayman
kpcayman
You ask if there are any restrictions for an American to open a business on STT. The answer is....STT is American. Apparently you weren't aware that ST Thomas, St Croix and St John are all part of the USVI. That is the United States Virgin Islands,is a possession of the USA. People here pay our "federal" taxes directly to the USVI government , so they can be used locally and not be wasted by a corrupt federal tax system. We have been able to raise corruption and ineptitude to level even the states can't imagine. Oh yeah, the biggest restriction is money.
How much are willing to risk?
The nearby British Virgin Islands( BVI). Are similar to the Caymans when it comes to keeping outsiders ...out.
If you are really interested in relocation, this website is the best place to start. Read all of the stories and articles and then start searching the older posts. There is a lot of information here.
Thanks Cayman helper....yes I knew that these were US territories but wasn't sure about the business aspect. That makes sense to me and yes will take your advice and read, read and read some more info. on this message board which I find very informative.
Thanks again for taking the time to answer my question.
kpcayman
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