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Hello-I have enjoyed reading all of the questions and replies, this is a great forum. I have not come upon the topic of starting one’s own business. My questions regarding this, without giving away my business idea, are these: In the “moving guide”, is there a section with the topic of starting a business. If one was to start a snorkel business, how do you go about gaining entry to the waterways? To further clarify this question, would one be able to get access at a public beach, a dock or marina? Would one need to purchase a “lot” or a “slice” of beachfront to gain access to the water, would you need to rent from a land owner for access, or the like? Relating questions would include what licensing is needed; (I have found info on taxes and such). Lastly, just a quick question on dogs. Are dogs allowed on the beaches? Thanks a lot, in advance, to those who have taken the time to read this and a special advanced thanks to those who are able to reply.
Posted : January 28, 2003 9:31 pm
Hello Adam,
I will try and answer.
Actually there is not a starting a business in the VI section in our moving guide at this time. However you might consider getting the Settlers Handbook from http://www.vitraders.com , Books section, there is information on business 'environment' in the USVI among topics for moving and life in the VI. I am not sure if you would have to pay anyone to access the beach, you cant purchase a lot on a beach (all beaches in the USVI are public property). People can own the land around the beach, and many hotels are built on those lands. Docks and marinas are often privately owned or part of a resort, so yes you would need permission there, probally the resort would want to rent you a booth of some sort to set up your buinsess in, hotel guest would of course then become clients of yours, as you are there and so are they. I don't know what the legalities are to a business taking their guest on tours underwater, and entering on a beach. I dont' see an issue arrising with the exception of beaches that have resorts nearby, as you would access those beaches through the resort (which is Ok, but if you are bringing a big ground through the grounds to the beach, eventually someone might want to know whats up. You would need a business license (which involves getting tax clearance letter, establish business type with lt. gov office, and then file for license at Licensiing and Consumer Affairs). You would possiably need some sort of insurance as you are taking folks in the water, might need CPR qualifications (not sure on that, just seems like a good idea).
Dogs are not allowed on beaches that are resort maintained, they are public beaches but you have to get to the beach from the resort. And Magens Bay does not want dogs, as is the same for Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay... there are people maintaining the beach there, National Park for St. John. And so the beaches that are public, without resort required access, or National Park, or highly populated beaches - where locals might not appreciate your dog being there, and have very few people on it yes you can take your dog there for a walk and swim. I have seen people with dogs at Hull Bay, Mandahl Bay, Dorothea Bay, Neltjeberg (sp??)... on St. Thomas.
--Islander
Posted : January 29, 2003 5:40 am
Islander-Thank you so much for the great information. I am already putting it to use. If anyone has any other ideas on items I missed, please do let me know. Thanks.
Posted : January 29, 2003 8:15 pm
