The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are that the islands are safe, has friendly people, and amazing beaches. I hope this article helps you a little in your decision making. Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. All this peace and quiet actually also has its downsides. Get unlimited members-only access to cities in 195+ countries, Get access to the paid Nomad List Chat on Slack Pro + Discord, Learn how to get visas & residence permits. From world-class resorts and beaches to museums, galleries, and cultural centers, visitors will find something to suit their interests. Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. People who love to socialize and who can afford it usually tends to travel to break the monotony. Its an amazing beach for water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling and jet skiing. - Cost of Living Comparisons, 2020 data. Digital issues 3. There are high levels of HIV on the islands with 31.4 people out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV. Thanks for signing up! I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. Healthcare 8. It is a small country so there are downsides, like hardly any stores, expensive everything, not too many people and a very, very quiet low season where most of the restaurants and bars close. We saw stingrays jumping, sharks and turtles right from our porch, The Painkiller at Tonys Bar, Cane Garden Bay, The Bushwhacker at Saba Rock, North Sound, The Rum Punch at Pussers, Sopers Hole, West End, Sebastiaan made a very special friend during his surf sessions. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. Living in the Virgin Islands can be a dream come true for some, while others may find the experience to be less than desirable. You can change it later. After a while, some people might find island life a bit claustrophobic. I worked as a real estate agent so I should know. The US Virgin Islands are comprised of three major islands - St John, St Croix, St Thomas - plus Water Island, the littlest of the US Virgin Islands. A long favorite of sailors and seafarers, the British Virgin Islands are a collection of gorgeous isles on either side of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Nevertheless according to, Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. . Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. Then you can enjoy the snorkeling, sailing, and diving that is part of life here. Victims were threatened at gunpoint and valuables such as cash, cellphones and vehicles were demanded. If as an example you are taller, you may not easily be able to get your size on the island. Your email address will not be published. There was a large damage to infrastructure which has significantly impacted the tourism sector on the island. Hop on a (fairly priced) ferry and spend your day at one of the many gorgeous beaches the other islands have to offer. Chairman of the Progressive Virgin Islands Movement (PVIM), Ronnie Skelton, signalled that he remains uncertain about the prospect of same-sex marriage and whether it can possibly become legal in the BVI. All rights reserved. Monthly rent in a normal area: CI$1,358/1,183/US$1,629. BVI and Dutch West Indies islands are all dream destinations for me and my family for all the reasons you state. Persons from other Caribbean island who may have a desire to relocate have tough barriers to contend with as you have to consider things such as work permits. I hope you like my site. Club Med 2 is Back with New Elevated Amenities and Exciting Destinations, For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental, Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia, Shellona Abaco Beach House Provides an Ideal Setting for a Family Spring Break Getaway. Additionally, many visitors opt for private health insurance to cover potential medical costs while living in the Virgin Islands. Let people know things you like to do, where you're from, where you work, where you'd like to visit, what's your favorite food etc.! There are direct flights to destinations such as Saint Kitts (45 minutes), Puerto Ricos capital San Juan (45 minutes) and Antigua (90 minutes). Find flights to the British Virgin Islands from $284. Its an ordeal, says Meyers, so much so that a lot of folks in the sailing community avoid coming into the BVI because their animals get denied entry. If your pets dont meet the requirements, they can be quarantined, which doesnt make sense for short-term stays. Pros & Cons of Living In The US Virgin Islands, Beaches In Grenada Near Cruise Port (The Ultimate Guide), Living In The British Virgin Islands (Pros & Cons). They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the islands, with its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. Virgin Isl. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. It seems like I'm not the only one that thinks so. Peebles Hospital on Tortola is the only such facility in the overseas territory. Nearby access to my sailboat is a must! With its tropical climate and stunning beaches, the Virgin Islands are a great place to live and work. As part of the Caribbean, the BVI are susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes. The British Virgin Islands geographically present a part of the grandiose Virgin island archipelago set on the boundary of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. . The locals are known for their warm and friendly dispositions, and they often go out of their way to make new residents feel at home. I already mentioned the Painkiller: a mouth-watering mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped off with grated nutmeg. For example, it is illegal to carry firearms or other weapons, and the use of drugs is strictly prohibited. These are the downsides of living in Cayman. Most islands are accessible by ferry from the main island Tortola. But the beach life is ridiculous and makes up for all that. Additionally, the Virgin Islands has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Saint Joseph, MO (64501) Today. It made me feel like I woke up to the perfect vacation every day, Set your alarm when it is a full moon and see it light up the ocean and eventually set at the horizon, Keep on the lookout for active marine life. The healthcare system in the Virgin Islands is relatively well-developed but may not be up to par with standards found in the United States or other developed countries. Once you have made friends with the locals, they will let you know the places to shop to get deals on the islands as well as persons who sell items such as fresh meat and fish. By following these laws and taking the necessary precautions, visitors and residents can enjoy a safe and secure experience in the Virgin Islands. With verdant interiors, dazzling beaches, and heaps for water-sports enthusiasts to enjoy, the BVI is known to be a fantastic spot and Caribbean destination. House starting price: $150,000 for a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom house in Christiansted. As with many other Caribbean islands, there is a friendly and excellent community spirit which exists among people on the island. Facilities such as next day delivery that apply if you live on the Mainland do not apply in the islands. Read more and see the photo gallery here. And in high season, there are a lot of different and secret spots to find a wave for yourself. Learn how your comment data is processed. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. Additionally, the Governor of the BVI John Rankin on February 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on the island. Tortola attracts surfers from around the world. Retire in the US Virgin Islands America's "Caribbean Paradise", the US Virgin Islands of St Thomas, St John and St Croix, offer some of the best retirement options in the Caribbean. Both VPNs are . Why isn't Nomad List free?. The British Virgin Islands were heavily impacted by Hurricane Irma. But we enjoyed it to the fullest and gained an experience of a lifetime. St John which persons can access from Red Hook to Cruz Bay via ferry also has its fair share of amazing beaches. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a group of 60 islands located East of Puerto Rico. Tortola even more as most beaches on the Northside are not good for mooring or anchoring a boat. How do I find a place to live in the British Virgin Islands? Among its draws is the Soggy Dollar Bar, so named because traditionally it is reached by mooring offshore, swimming inland and paying with dripping cash. I absolutely loved to walk the dogs on Long Bay beach. Additionally, many popular festivals and events take place throughout the year, offering visitors a truly unique and vibrant experience. Everything has a negative aspect to it, regardless of how good it may seem. Fly from Houston on American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta and more. Neighbors still look out for each other and their families as in other Caribbean islands. A two-bedroom house costs at least $285,000. By signing up, you agree to our TOS. There is a ferry service from St Thomas to Tortola if you will like some adventure. How NordVPN and ExpressVPN Stack Up. Generally, the pace on the islands is slow. Mermaids Chair is also a location on the Rock Citys West Coast which is a must see on the island of St Thomas. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to move to the Virgin Islands depends on your individual needs and preferences. Knight Frank is marketing a. Just 2 of these will do the trick for me. The pros and cons of living in each state brought together in one place. Therefore, relocation for job opportunities is seamless from a work permit standpoint for locals who want alternative options than those available on a small island. Due to the islands robust financial sector, there is a thriving expat community which is welcoming. The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are that the island safe, has friendly people, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. Roads are narrow, traffic lights ill-timed, and the potholes are legendary. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. In the shady areas (they have hills, mountains and some valleys) they have a cooler and damper almost rainforest-like microclimate with orchids, bananas and other lush tropical plants. Priced at just $16.95. Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the British Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands is a Caribbean paradise, and whether or not you decide to move there depends on a multitude of factors. See the FAQ. While US Virgin Islands is part of the United States, it is treated as an international destination by many companies when it comes to shipping. In fact, you may even take this chance to meet with a real estate lawyer or leasing agent. Youll also find a perfect balance between a sleepy-island vibe and modern conveniences, so youll hardly be roughing it, especially the biggest island, Tortola. We were recently invited out by a couple who are seriously considering moving here and they wanted to know the same things. The BVI are a prosperous country. Speaking from personal experience, I found that the stresses in my everyday life have reduced significantly after moving to Wisconsin. Virgin Isl.. I am no surfer, Sebastiaan is, and the best and most beautiful clean waves he has ever ridden were in Apple Bay, Tortola. "Tax haven" of the Caribbean 9. Living on a small island limits the amount of opportunities that you have available for example in terms of jobs. The pros of living in the British Virgin Islands include the beautiful scenery, the warm climate, and the low cost of living. Granted, there are ways to still get your online-shopping fix. The scenery is beautiful and there is always an island on the horizon. If you have a storm bearing down on you, you hunker down in Continue Reading 115 2 5 More answers below Justin Harrell Lived in United States Virgin Islands (2004-2008) 4 y I was a resident of St. Thomas for four (4) years beginning in 2004. The BVI is the bareboating capital of the world. Thankfully, no major illness has befallen anyone in her family, but should that ever happen, Meyers says theyd travel back to the States, as she did when she gave birth to her twins. Some individuals travel to neighboring St Thomas as goods are cheaper over there and there is more variety and popular brands such as Kmart, Walgreens and Home Depot. The sailing community of the British Virgin Islands holds big appeal for U.S. citizens hoping to expatriate but thats not all these Caribbean islands offer. This course provides detail tips and techniques on how to save money while cruising onboard, onshore as well as the importance of insurance. Any of the Virgin Islands will prove to have a slower pace of life, easy access to the tropical outdoors, plentiful waterfront activities, and year-round beautiful weather. The British Virgin Islands are made of about 60 islands but only a few are inhabited. Here are my pros and cons (in no particular order). Virgin Islanders have that ease to go the United States for treatment. Cape Air provides direct and connecting flights between Puerto Rico, St Thomas, St Croix and Tortola. On the island of St Croix, the closure of the oil refinery which was the largest private employer on the island left approximately 2000 persons jobless. To the north of the island, there is a lovely spot called the Annaly Tide Pool. The airport is located in the capital city, Charlotte Amalie in St Thomas. She says that the best way to get a gig is to research jobs and companies that fit your skills, then email to apply. You have to accept things are what they are and aren't going to change. In general, the BVI doesnt have the same system of named streets and addresses as in the States, and Amazon wont deliver. In 2017, the country was hit by Hurricane Irma, with the major island of . Pros And Cons Of Moving To Northern Portugal - Viv Europe . Around The Caribbean is a resource for persons who want to learn more about the Caribbean islands. We use your birth date to better match you with other nomads and personalize destination recommendations to you. Summary of cost of living in British Virgin Islands. The beautiful white sand and clear water makes this beach extraordinary. Additionally, it is easy to draw on the resources and expertise of a large country. Additionally, the cost of living may be higher than other locations, but there are many ways to minimize costs such as living off-grid or volunteering with local organizations. The best thing is, that almost all houses have some kind of ocean view. A ferry can take expats to the seaside city of St Malo, France in less than 90 minutes, and to the UK in about three hours. This beach has massive boulders which forms sea pools. This beach is popular as well with visitors and locals on the island so it is best as well to get there early. Recent years have proved challenging, however: though last years Hurricane Dorian left the islands relatively unscathed, in 2017 they were hit by hurricanes Irma and Maria, which damaged 80 per cent of the territorys housing stock. Excellent Caribbean community spirit exists on the Virgin Islands. Read on for comprehensive details of the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. Magens Bay is a beautiful one mile stretch of white sand on the island of St Thomas. This drink, which looks and tastes like a milkshake surprisingly contains a lot of liquor. Job seekers should expect to face competition for limited openings, as there are often more applicants than jobs available. The Virgin Islands also has a number of laws in place to protect visitors and residents alike. Measles. Highlights include snorkelling off Virgin Gordas Baths beach and sailing around the reefs of Anegada, while the annual BVI Spring Regatta, held each March, is one of the largest such events in the Caribbean. Feel free to check out the BVI Tourism for more helpful information on how to get to the island. There is no instant gratification of Amazon Prime here, says Meyers. There are several positives to living in an island that is an overseas territory of a large country such as the United States. Utility costs are also higher than in many other places, as electricity and water are both expensive. There is an excellent ferry service between the islands and also to the British Virgin Islands. Costs - Costs are generally higher than in other IBC jurisdictions, but nonetheless highly competitive. 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Covid-19 coverage. I love the place just wish it was more affordable. and are part of the United States of America.. Alternatively Drakes seat offers an amazing view of Magens Bay, the other Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands to the East. It is known as an offshore financial center: expatriates . Drink and the devil had done for the rest The islands cover an area of 477 sq.km. What is the average cost of housing in the British Virgin Islands? Because alcohol is so cheap here you wont get a sissy cocktail. Why do people move to the British Virgin Islands? Incredible Weather and Beaches 4. The turquoise bays around these islands are the promise of a new pleasant and authentic lifestyle. Or try a Bushwacker. Moving to the British Virgin Islands is one of the best decisions you can ever make IF you like the ocean, the beach, to swim, to sail, to surf, and feel like you are on a vacation every single day. Their government have strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged. On average, apartments cost $2,000 per month. Food costs are also generally high, though some items may be cheaper than those found in other places. The cheaper option is to have visitors bring your online purchases with them when they fly down. The tricky part of landing a job in the British Virgin Islands is that you cant just fly down and look for work youll need a work permit before you come, says Brittany Meyers, who, along with her husband and three children, lives on a sailboat off Tortola. There are four major islands in the U.S. Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John and Water Island. If you've never visited the islands before, try to schedule a quick trip well in advance of your move date. Approximately 60% of the island is a national park so there are various hiking trails which you can explore and take in the amazing views of this island. Can you guess where? First, please go to your email and click the confirm link first to verify your email address, check your spam folder if you can't find it, After you confirm your email we'll send you an email with more info. For example, luxury vehicles in Cayman have an import duty as high . If you want to settle down here, you should know that . Annual renewal fees are around $800 to $1,200 in most cases. Additionally, the islands are British Overseas Territories. The US Virgin islands are extremely safe. Therefore, if you are thinking about finding a job on the island, it is easy to adjust and make the island your home. Main hospital: The Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center in Christiansted. I am very familiar with most of what you have written as my daughter and her family live in Cane Garden Bay and has done for years now. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. On the other hand, the cons are that one must be prepared for a slower pace of life and limited access to the amenities and conveniences enjoyed in a large country. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For example, the total area in a typical three-bedroom apartment in a newer . . With digital services, 24x7 customer support in different languages, and award-winning service, Now Health International will look after you no matter where you choose to go. Usually, its 3/4 alcohol. Cruise ships traveling around the British Isles and river cruise boats in particular, are smaller than regular cruise ships, so cruising feels more intimate. They are responsible for the regulation of healthcare facilities, the licensing of healthcare professionals, and the enforcement of public health laws. Culture and diversity 7. One massive disadvantage of living in the British Virgin Islands is the absence of international flights from major international cities such as North America, Canada, Europe or South America. We'd like to get more contributors for a better . There is a shuttle once you arrive in Water Island that can transport you to the beach. The BVI is 59.3 square miles and spread over 1,330 square miles. There are however some 50 small islets and cays. And, if coming from the U.S., your pet may be subjected to another round of rabies shots, even if rabies shots have been administered to the animal previously. Below we have gone through just some of the main negative aspects of island life. Moving the British Virgins Islands is not an easy decision. The territory is nominally home to more than 400,000 companies, collectively worth $1.5tn. It is important to factor in these costs when budgeting for a trip to the Virgin Islands, as they can add up quickly. The insurance that travels with you. When you are a resident of the Virgin Islands, then you are under the status of a U.S. protected territory - unless you are moving to the British or Spanish Virgin Islands, that is. This includes access to health care and education for persons living on the island. Island hopping is possible by ferry service, seaplane and air service. If you want to swim with turtles, then Maho Bay Beach is the perfect spot in St Croix. However the UK government has extended the deadline for overseas territories to introduce public registers of company ownership from 2020 to 2023. Driving a jeep on the USVI with a picnic to a different beach each day is going to far more relaxing than being home with 3 children! No tourists. When it comes to price, NordVPN is considerably cheaper than ExpressVPN, at $59.88 (49.84) per year compared to $80.04 (66.92) per year. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. Public schools are available for elementary and secondary education, while there are also a number of private schools and universities available. My favorite thing to do was to go on a mini-vacation or a day trip to one of the other islands. Cook Islands cost of living, internet speed, weather and other metrics as a place to work remotely for digital nomads. Point Udall is a location of significance in St Croix as it is the most eastern point of the United States. Expect to pay international rates from courier service providers such as DHL and FedEx. Bringing pets to the BVI is not a simple affair. Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Does St. Thomas offer a Tax-free shopping experience? Virgin Gorda has the magnificent boulders at Spring Bay. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. There's good news and bad news on the U.S. bankruptcy front. The BVI makes it very tricky to hire an outsider they want employers to hire locals first but of course, for certain jobs, everyone hires expats, says Meyers. The capital is Charlotte Amalie which is located on the island of St Thomas. They are right, the view is ridiculous with a sunset looking over West End Tortola, St Thomas, and Jost van Dyke. Help others in Brit. Residents who tire of exploring the local archipelagos and coves, whether by ferry or sail, have their pick of the Caribbean for weekend getaways. The cost of living for an expat in the British Virgin Islands is relatively high, with the average cost of living estimated to be around $3,000 per month. The state is home to the outer banks. I didnt have time to hit up four stores, so I had to make something else, says Meyers. Additionally, large international chain stores are banned on the island in order to protect small local businesses. For more information visit Virgin Islands Geography. Fly from Pittsburgh to the British Virgin Islands on United Airlines from $951. The climate and weather in the Virgin Islands is nothing short of spectacular. Valuable items should be secured in hotel safes. 3. They are relatively inexpensive and provide the freedom to explore the islands without relying on public transportation. At the moment, you should treat them only as a best guess. There is beach bar available for eats and drinks. Not only will you not get everything from one market, sometimes you may get nothing at all. You can charter boats of many sizes, with or without a captain, chef, or staff. The cost is approximately USD$10 round trip. There is also a world-famous golf course for you to enjoy, stunning beaches, and an active nightlife culture that can help you to have a lot of fun. Cyril E King is one of the busiest airports in the Eastern Caribbean. Unlike most Caribbean islands, Bonaire is located outside of Hurricane Alley and years go by without a single homicide on the island. Being an overseas territory gives residents easy access to the resources and expertise of a large country which is a huge benefit. Tip: Hold CTRL and drag mouse to pan around the map. Its also a beautiful dive location by the way. There is almost no unemployment. Slow pace of life. I put a lot of effort into making it. The country is safe, welcoming and ideal for raising kids. He surfed the left side of Apple Bay and he was never alone, his turtle friend would regularly pop up giving him the thumbs up when he scored a great wave, There are various spots to learn how to surf. On the other hand, they may find the limited infrastructure and lack of public transportation to be a challenge.