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Hi folks,
For those who are about to visit USVI for the first (few) times:
- I found the available paper and online maps lacking in detail
- asking for directions is somewhat difficult because people don't use street names or highway numbers, they use landmarks; so, you can't reference these to a map.
- I found a web site that sells (donateware) USVI maps that can be downloaded to a Garmin GPS unit. I've had these portable GPS units for years so am already comfortable using them. I found this to be a HUGE help when getting around.
- If you haven't had a GPS unit (like the NUVIs) before, and are thinking of getting one for your trip to USVI, I'd suggest getting it a few weeks or months before your trip and get used to it in an area you know first... it's not necessary, but makes it MUCH easier when you're in an area that you don't know.
Posted : June 24, 2008 2:31 pm
I bought a Garmin Nuvi 760 and it is pre-loaded with St. Croix data (even though the box only mentions Puerto Rico.) It's not 100% accurate as many POIs are missing. I would estimate that 60-70% of what you might want to find is pretty easy to do with the Garmin using pre-loaded data. For the rest you sometimes need to find a street address online and find the street or cross-street on the Garmin and manually select it as a destination to get close to where you are trying to go.
Obviously some of the higher end features like traffic updates do not work here.
Posted : June 24, 2008 2:53 pm
Nice site EngRMP. I can't wait to try these maps but my cable is in a box that is currently in the custody of the USPS. As a new resident, I find my Nuvi 350 very useful. The lack of street addresses is a real drawback but once I have been to a place, I save the location and am able to navigate back there easily. The points of interest could be improved. I can find places like Chocolate's Bar-b-q but not the Bank of St. Croix. Go figure.
Posted : June 24, 2008 4:30 pm
Topic starter
Yup, and for me, I just love seeing where I am on a map, in realtime! It makes me more than willing to just take off on a road that looks interesting. I realize that the island is not THAT big, but I have the worst sense of direction... I'm sure (without a GPS) I could manage to stay lost for an hour or two, even on STX. BTW, I have both the NUVI 350 (well, the kids have it) and the NUVI 650 now. Even though the 650 has a few more features, I actually prefer the 350 because it's smaller and therefore easier to travel with. When I park, I take it with me.
Posted : June 24, 2008 6:05 pm
Thanks EngRMP! Downloading now... I have a 60CSx, so this will be very useful 😀
Posted : June 25, 2008 2:23 am
