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Hello. I am debating a move to either St Thomas, St John, or Kauai. I have to all three places many times and enjoy them all. I realize that all have pros and cons, but I was curious if anyone on here has actually lived in both areas and can offer any input?
My favorite thing to do is hike (where I think Kauai might have an edge), but I also like to snorkel. I also want to learn to sail.
It is also really important to have a truly walkable town (which I think Cruz Bay or Charlotte Amalie edges out Kauai).
Safety is important also, which is why I am leaning more for St John vs. Kauai, (but I do love St Thomas!)
Costwise it's ok, because I am coming from San Francisco, so prices look good any of these spots.
I am a type B personality and very outdoorsy.
I expect long lines, days/weeks of waiting for things to be fixed, etc., stores to be out of stock of products.
I take it all in stride.
(fyi, I debated Honolulu and Maui, but they are just not a place i would want to live.)
Thanks!
Dave
Posted : September 28, 2009 11:40 pm
Hi Dave,
Well not sure if there are many on the site that have spent time in the 3 locations you mentioned. We live here in STT out near Red Hook and love it. Got the convenience of STT when you want it but STJ is right there as well. Best of both worlds
My bro-in-law is Hawaiian and we have spent plenty of time in Hawaii. Of all the islands in the chain, Kauai is the favorite. I think you will find it is less expensive to live here. We also felt quite a bit more isolated from family/friends there then we do here. Miami is just 2+ hours away.
You can't beat the water and the beaches here, besides all the other islands to explore that are so close by. We prefer the Caribbean hands down even tho' we do love Kauai....ah, decisions, decisions. Just be glad you can make them for such special places like here or there.
Posted : September 29, 2009 8:55 pm
Really, nobody can tell you which place is best for you. That's your decision alone. Try each place, if you can.
Posted : September 29, 2009 8:57 pm
Topic starter
Trade -
Very true! I thought about trying each place and I could. It would just be more cost effective to try to narrow it down if I can first.
gcgem-
Good points, I have often thought about Hawaii is just so far out there. In fact, if I read correctly I believe it is the most isolated island chain on earth. Making a decision for such specials places has not gone unnoticed by me, and I appreciate it every day.
Posted : September 29, 2009 10:11 pm
Trails: When I moved here, my choice was Oahu (I had a good friend there) and here. I enjoyed Hawaii, BUT it was just like America only several hours removed, it was VERY remote and I hate poi and Spam.;) Sailing is great around here- lots of places to go. Snorkeling is good- and you don't have to worry about getting eaten by a shark. I did not like standing on the beach and seeing only the horizon. Here, you cast your eyes on many islands.
Posted : September 30, 2009 1:32 am
Topic starter
East Ender,
Thanks, that is very helpful information. I know what you mean when you say it is very remote. The sailing is a huge pull also, more options in the USVI and surrounding waters. It is nice to hear from someone like yourself who had the option of either place and that you seem content where you are now.
Posted : September 30, 2009 5:09 am
