Hello! and some ??

I think bugs are bad depending on where you are. If you are near a saltpond, you'll probably have a lot more bugs to deal with. Population here is about 3,000-4,000 depending on the time of year. Yes, it's possible to find a deserted beach. You can probably find work, but you might have to work at a bar/restaurant to start off with, and this time of year is the best to move down -- right before season, when the touristy places are trying to get all their ducks in a row. With your background, you might check out Surf da Web at the Marketplace, and you might even have luck being a freelance tech guy (not sure what the correct term for that would be). Word of mouth is the best way to get a job here. For good rates on St. John, try the Inn at Tamarind Court. If you Google them, you'll find their web site. It's a common place for people to stay when they've first moved down. Not "resort-like," and within walking distance to town. If you have any other specific questions, please let me know! This message board was a huge help in my move to St. John over a year ago, and I like to return the favor whenever I can. 🙂

Hi Dalton:
I already sent you a PM regarding my PMV studio for rent on STT, but wanted the others who have same available to see your post.

Also, as I mentioned in the email, if you are willing to do IT work again, my understanding is that you will have no problem finding work.

As for bugs, we have the generals, limited mosquitos, some spiders, scorpions, etc. My most hated is this ugly flying beetle thing that bears a striking resemblance to a cockroach but blacker with ridges. Ugh.

Good luck!

Onik'a
http://www.perfectplaces.com/vacation-rentals/15000.htm

Thanks for the info! I may look into STT then if I might be able to stay in some sort of computer based trade. I've owned eight different PC's, starting with a 286 16mhz :). I would be nice to have a limited commute, without being run off the road by BMW's (Los Angeles).

I may do a short stay on STJ first to get familiar with the life-style tempo. I've been all over the continental US, and it sounds similar to rural mountainous Colorado living.

The bugs sounds similar to Michigan where I am originally from; plus a few new types. I sound be able to handle it. I really miss rainfall too so that will be good.

Anyone know where I can find a decent map of the islands? I love a pouring over maps and I haven't seen a decent digital one (the best I have is in an old cruiseline pamphlet.)

Thanks!
Dalton

Dalton: I promise you that life in the Virgin Islands is nothing like any place in Big America. The culture is definitely Caribbean. As to driving off somewhere and not seeing other people, it is much easier if you have a boat. The tropics are the home of many insects, but fortunately few flies. See the recent discussions of termite swarms, mosquitos and no-see-ums, etc.