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Hi, My name is Erin, My boyfriend and I have been considering making the move from New York to St Thomas ( or one of the surrounding virgin islands) for some time now. But like any couple we have our reservations about it and we were hoping that anyone who has made the move to St Thomas or is in the process of moving could ease our minds and give us some helpful information. For example, how difficult is it to find employment, most likely in bartending or food services? how difficult is it to find suitable living, such as furnished apartments and ideal location (close to employment)? Will we need a car or are there other suitable forms of transportation, preferably walking? If anyone is willing to provide any information it would be greatly appreciated, and we hope to be part of your community soon.......thanks!
Posted : March 30, 2005 1:20 am
Hello Erin,
Welcome to the board.
Finding employment in bartending/food services is fairly easy during season. Best bet is to get here at the beginning of season. Season runs roughly Nov-May.
Finding an apartment on St. Thomas isn't overly difficult once you are on island. Finding a place from away is difficult. Most listings are in the newspapers, some are signs by the road/driveway to the property and then there is word of mouth too. Availabilities are fewer during mid-season months, due to the influx of seasonal workers, as compared to off season months like August/September.
Finding something close to work could be tricky depending on where you are working. Walking isn't a sound transportation option because of the islands' topography, lack of sidewalks, blind corners. The easiest area to live and potentially find work is the East End as there are several restaurants, several resorts and residential areas/condo developments.
If you worked say at the Frenchman's Reef Resort or Northdrop Restaurant or Sibs Restaurant... there are residences not far but grocery stores are far enough to require transportation.
A car is easiest, however you can depend on bus, $1 safari buses (taxis that run a $1 service along the bus route), friends, hitching... during the day. If you work a night shift then you can take taxis.
Be sure to read the moving stories in our What to Expect Section. Click on Home Page at the top of this very page and then choose What to Expect from the options. Also order the Settlers Handbook and read through it. Its shown at the top of this page as well.
Good Luck.
--Islander
Posted : March 30, 2005 5:16 am
