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Hi everyone. I've been reading through the What to Expect section and I'm a bit distressed by the majority of the comments by people who have relocated to STX. We've done a lot of research (except for a pre-move visit yet) and have decided that STX seems to be the best island for us to possibly relocate to. However, after reading through that section on this site....I'm a bit discourage. Most of the comments seem to be 10+ years old so I'm wondering if anyone current can give us some good or bad insight on the island.
The topics that seem to get the most attention are: corrupt government, inconsistencies in licensing/permits for starting a business, trash on beaches and around the island and the crime rate. Have any of these issues been resolved or are they as rampant as the comments seem to indicate.
thanks in advance for any responses.
Posted : March 18, 2014 2:27 pm
Uh, pretty much, status quo...Except that utilities and the cost of living are higher now...
Posted : March 18, 2014 2:47 pm
In a few months I'll be "celebrating" my 30th year of residency in the USVI. In many/most respects nothing has changed (if you set aside building expansion and a larger population) but it's not all bad and really boils down to the simple fact that island living just isn't for everyone, as "small town" living isn't for everyone. It's impossible to generalize but I've read the stories you're referring to and they're certainly not all gloom and doom!
This is a very transient society and the majority of people who wrote those stories have long since left the islands. Some leave with fond memories of their time here and some can't wait to get back to their "safe zone" and then tell everyone who'll listen what a dreadful place it is. It's all very subjective. As far as corruption is concerned, I always find it rather ironic when newcomers start ranting about the subject where the USVI is concerned yet before coming here, most had no clue about what was happening right under their noses stateside and in the US/world in general.
It's all subjective and only you can make the decision. A PMV is very helpful, particularly if you have a family moving with you. Some make a PMV and can't wait to get back home; others don't and stay for years. I've known several people who've left after one weekend!
Hope it works out for you and that at least the prospect of possibly starting a new adventure is fun!
Posted : March 18, 2014 3:11 pm
To the OP:
Opinions and experience will vary on crime... It has been discussed in this board "ad nauseum"... There are many threads that had been started and/or developed into the topic for the last 12 months... It is a bit annoying, but do go back and look them up...
My experience was very good and never ever had any issues... Yes, I had acquaintances that did have issues... As in any place, common sense will go a long way in helping you stay away from bad situations...
IMHO, the level of corruption is rather high.. To make matters worse, the government is over populated, yet, very inefficient...
I can't speak directly on the business/ entrepreneur side... My advice is for you to bring forth any plans and/or ideas here so that board members can help you with their experiences...
Don't forget to consider the cost of living in general, health insurance, and limited resources and flexibility on hand... Also, the St. Croix Source and the Virgin Islands Daily News are OK resources of information...
The obvious: a PMV, though not required, is highly recommended...
I hope the board can help give you a better feel and, maybe, even help you get rid of any distress...
Best wishes to you!
Posted : March 18, 2014 5:14 pm
So true, So true OT, most everything is subjective. But I wouldn't discount St. Thomas either, especially if you have never been to either island. I would check out both if you have the time and resources. It would also help to put a little about yourself down, which would better give forum members a little more information as to what kind of advice to give you.
Posted : March 18, 2014 5:20 pm
crime is actually less this year and last. electricity is about 50+ cents per kilowatt. food is about 1/3 higher. the only "good" road we have is the bypass.
there is no individual health insurance.
you could focus on the negative if you want or you could look at the positive. if you have the money and health, come on down and enjoy the beach 365
Posted : March 18, 2014 5:26 pm
Topic starter
Thank you for the information and input from everyone. This forum is a wealth of knowledge and I'm sure I'll have more questions as we progress forward!
Posted : March 20, 2014 12:57 pm
Contact me. We lived there for a year with the intent to buy and retire. Now in Florida. If you would rather just call me let me know...will send my number!
Posted : March 20, 2014 3:16 pm
Moving after almost 25 years. Lots of reasons
Why. But our choice for a new adventure at
This time in our lives.
Posted : March 20, 2014 9:55 pm
