Hello VI forum

I just want to hug every single one of you for your part in this thread. I finally asked a question on another board after being so disappointed by the negativity I was coming across --also what I kept calling specifically vague responses-- and yet again, received what so many others before me had received -- a mixture of negativity, with a little of what comes off via text as condescending tone (I'm sure it's most likely not meant to come off that way, but it does unfortunately), and a TON of contradicting comments. As I mentioned on my other post in a different forum, I felt as though I was seeing a lot of people saying, "Use common sense. Don't go out after night, etc. etc. etc." then a "newbie" would ask if there were any particular areas one should avoid and it was as if people were offended someone would even ask such a thing. STT Resident did his best to answer my questions and he did so in a very timely manner...which I appreciated greatly! I hope more people are now directed to this particular thread. For those of us considering a move to STX, we're just looking for someone to reach out to that is currently living there that can help us through such a big move. Obviously if we're considering such a big move, we are aware of the fact that island living isn't for everyone...but for whatever reason, it appeals to us. Clearly we know there is crime stateside, as there is everywhere...but it's nice to know before hand if there are certain areas we should avoid moreso than other and when; is it all of the time, or just at night? I had read some threads about white kids having a very difficult time as racism is strong in the public schools... then I'm told "racism is here, as it is everywhere." Ok, I'm sure it is..but is it to the degree that some say... or not so much? Does it depends on the area of the school? Is one school worse than the other? Things like these that I never found a real answer too.. we're locating and changing our lives, and sometimes that of our families, and doing our best to research and look into it to the best of our ability... then getting redirected to this forum only to find some redirecting us to another forum... as I told STT Resident in the other forum (there are so many, by the way), I was starting to feel as though STX wasn't the place for my mother, daughter and I...I felt like I was going in circles and never getting any answers..and the answers that were here and there, most of which were outdated, were covered in negativity... So.. I'm sorry for going on and on... but I seriously thank you all for this particular thread. Although some of my questions have gone unanswered still, I feel so much better after reading this thread. I'm feeling pretty good about my PMV and checking it all out. And before anyone says it, I just want to say that I'm aware people are going to have different experiences and some are going to like the schools, some aren't... but I think those of us that are venturing out of our comfort zones and taking on this task of relocating our families are just looking for someone to give us a general idea, lend a helping hand, even if it is done on the computer, we're still seeking guidance, advice, positivity, etc... being realistic is also appreciated, VERY much...but doing so with a little tact, understanding, and consideration is also very much appreciated. I hope more people see this thread..

Very few white people send their kids to public school, because they feel private schools offer better education, and they can often afford the tuition. There may be a few schools where that's the exception, but I live on St Thomas so can't speak about St Croix schools.

@andshelovestolaugh:

I don't see you as rambling at all. A lot of what you say is true. In these boards all you can do is search, and weed out "feelings" and tone.

I lived in STX for over 6 years, and never ever was a victim of any crime. All I can share is that, once you are there, you will immediately hear of areas to avoid, many are isolated and have no names. Common sense will go a long way in avoiding putting yourself in a vulnerable and/or compromised situation. For example, I never ever used an ATM an hour before sunset and after dark. It is all about discipline and keeping you. There are areas in Downtown Christiansted that should be avoided, specifically areas with limited traffic. West of Time Square is a good example, West of Gallows Bay area is another, the Government Parking Lot area, etc. There are beaches I went to that I just rented a car and left it open (windows down) with no valuables. My cars all stayed at home... Etc...

The last time I shared that experience here I got a very nasty reply saying I was just "lucky". IMHO, luck, control, and hope, are just illusions....

Just gather as much as you can pertinent for your situation and get on with it. No one can take your goals away from you! Just do have a back-up plan in case it doesn't work out.

Best wishes!

P.S. Many friends shared their experience regarding schooling. Those who used public schools didn't complaint much. They just kept a watchful eyes on the kids and kept good communication with the kids. It isn't all doom and gloom in the VIs.

Feel free to PM me regarding the public schools if you like. Even though I am not there yet, I have a good friend who is and has given me lots of info regarding the schooling, both public and private. I am also applying for a teaching job in the public schools and am learning which of the schools are in the better areas.

Good luck!

rowdy is correct in those areas to avoid, i would say most public housing would be best to avoid. and yes, he is lucky he has not been a victim. we do not go to certain areas at certain times of the night. when we go to dinner, we stay close to home and go to places that have close parking. at one time not that long ago, downtown had great security. now, not so much. i am not going to list the crimes that we have experienced, they are here somewhere.

you will enjoy your time here however long it is. lots of beaches. lots of sunshine. some nice activities, nice cook offs, christmas has the best events/activities going on. gotostcroix.com has a calendar of events, you can check it out.

lots of people like the public schools.

racism? yes but is it worse than the states, probably not. maybe what we perceive as racism isnt really? might just be plain ignorance.

come visit if you can

Wow, thank you all so much for the replies! I was hoping my message wouldn't come off as rude or loaded with attitude. Just want to make sure I'm asking the right questions in a clear and concise manner to better inform myself... at least for my daughter's sake. I want it to be a great life experience for her. I kept reading so much about crime and found myself thinking, "Am I doing the right thing for her? Maybe I shouldn't do this.." We're no stranger to crime, though sadly. We currently live in Oklahoma and Tulsa was getting so bad (people being robbed, shot and killed outside of their apartment, day and night) we relocated to a smaller town. Now we're surrounded by meth addicts, cops are outside of our home every day, someone's attempted to break into my house twice now. So, for me personally, it was just a matter of what am I willing to put up with elsewhere. The Oklahoma weather has taken a toll on us. Three seasons here: Tornado, ridiculously hot, and freezing cold.. so island life trumps Oklahoma life right from the get-go, haha. I'm trying to tough it out until I'm done with my degree, which will be in the IT field. Whether I find a job in that area or not really makes no difference to me at this point. Just searching for a better quality of life for my daughter and I. klpmtm, I will definitely be taking you up on the offer, it is greatly appreciated. One of these days I promise to master the skill of the shorter message, haha. Thank you all again!!

Based on your description, the VI crime is not as bad.

That's definitely reassuring.

agree