Moving in August

Which island are you looking at?

If I can find a job and place to stay, any island would suit me. But if not, St Thomas and I'll go from there. I'd prefer the laid back lifestyles of St John or St Croix but I have nothing against living on St Thomas. I can do anything so Im not picky. And I don't care if I just rent a room. I just want to get there and get going. I'm not there to party my way off the islands either. I'm there to live. I've traveled a lot. So I'm not going to get homesick or island fever. I'm just not the type. I'm a quiet, Christian man. I have a good resume and the desire to make it there. This is my dream. I am not doing this with any delusions. I've raised 3 kids, I'm alone and it is time to do for me while I'm still young enough to do it. Any advice you can give me is greatly appreciated.

you know, lots of people have packed up what they could carry, moved down sight unseen and made it work.
if thats what you want, just do it. dont live with regrets

Thank you for the encouraging words! That is thee way I look at it. I don't need much. And I can do anything. As long as I have a job and a place to stay. I've been to the islands before. I came 21 years ago. And I've dreamed of living there ever since. I have some money coming in. So I'll have an income when I get there. I just need to supplement it. I'm excited about it. I know it wont be easy but nothing worth having ever is.

You can get a cheap room at the Villa Morales restaurant/guest house on STX to hold you over until you find a permanent place to lease. I saw a poster on STX for a studio for $500/mo for example last week or so.

also check out the classified forum here

Also check out http://www.crystalpalaceusvi.com/. Ronnie is doing short term rentals for folks looking to get started here on St Thomas. He's been at it for 20+ years..

Thanks to all of you for the recommendations! I'll definitely look into them. I appreciate it. Can't wait to get there. Best wishes and God bless you all!

You can also check Craig's List for shared accommodation and room rentals. Beware of scam ads on the Apts. for rent. It's best not to rent sight unseen unless at places such as Villa Morales/STX and Ronnie Lockhart's
Crystal Palace on STT that come recommended. There's also rental accommodations at Rhodas's Place in Tillet's Gardens/STT.

https://virgin.craigslist.org
http://www.rhodasguesthouse.com
http://www.crystalpalaceusvi.com

On STT there is NO public transportation for the north and south sides of island, unfortunately so one will need a car unless you can handle the bus service or $2 safari taxis routes which only pu and drop off on main roads, (tho buses do go into K-Mart shopping center) have erratic schedules and safaris don't run after dark, at all.
It really would be best to have your own transportation.
Can't comment on STX.

I'm on STX, saw a nice efficiency on the west end on Craigslist yesterday with nice view. I think it was $700. Was a real place and not a scam.

I did just that in '95 at the age of 45, with a grown daughter, Labrador and two cats in tow, one month to the day before Marilyn hit and next 2 months without electricity sent my 21 y/o daughter packing. After 3 months I secured employment., met current husband.

If determined, it can be done. I'm quite the determined gal and not much scares me!

The west end here with its beaches and views and quietness sounds just up your alley! Come on down!

Found these on Craigslist:

https://virgin.craigslist.org/apa/d/one-bedroom-in-redhook/6225332014.html Available august 1st

https://virgin.craigslist.org/apa/d/cabin-for-rent-on-bordeaux/6226493815.html

And this one available for the month of Oct, if you haven't already bought your flights for August and want somewhere inexpensive to crash while you get established!

I know you have to be careful on Craigslist, but we found ours on here before moving down. It may work for you too. Several more listings to Check out! Good luck!

Thank you so much for all of your help! I have been looking into the options that have been mentioned and will continue to do so as time is short. Best wishes!

Keep in mind, the islands have changed a LOT in 21 years. I'm sure you will do fine, just know there has been a lot of change and development since the 1990s.

Bring enough $ in one of those duffel bags to cover first/last/security deposit and a month's living expenses. If you are a good worker, you should land on your feet promptly. Good luck to you!