If the business wants to get their expected tax break, then they must hire a specific percentage of workers that have been residents for a minimum of 12 months. All the islands are beautiful and, on some, weddings have There are a few things to consider when choosing for yourself whether you feel safe visiting USVI. In addition there is a hospital on island that serves both St. Thomas and St. John residents. , If anyone is looking to sell or buy a property in St Thomas, Barbara Birt is amazing. Youll need your Social Security card, a passport, and other identification papers. But there are over 50 smaller cays and islands in this archipelago. Population: 50,601. Prepare yourself for making the jump into our tropical Caribbean waters. Your use of this service is subject to our, Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course, McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal), Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat), Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (Or Equivalent New Car), Toyota Corolla Sedan 1.6l 97kW Comfort (Or Equivalent New Car), Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment, 1 min. Outside of the tourism industry, the government, and the handful of retail outlets that have made their way to the island, there isnt much for work. Getting Around in 2023Continue, Read More Is Punta Cana Worth Visiting in 2023?Continue, Read More What is the best time of year to go to St Maarten?Continue. All donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. If you are contemplating traveling to St Thomas . The islands offer stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Resort. Total size of USVI: 133 square milesSize of St John: 19 square miles (smallest island)Size of St Thomas: 32 square milesSize of St Croix: 84 square miles (largest island). includes St Croix, operate under U.S. law which Four Times Voted Best Realtor on STT Readers, VI Daily News, No Hype. You can take a snorkeling trip at a moments notice especially with the large discounts the companies offer to local residents. Those who opt to stay and explore this once Dutch- and . That means having a home right on the water is virtually impossible. The pros and cons of living in St. Thomas present some challenges, but there are also some incredible rewards. St. Thomas is dangerous. You'll still find malls on St. Thomas or St. Croix, but there are relatively few places to go shopping compared to what you will find on the Continental 48. Then there are the lush mountains and the craggy cliffs that give the island its personality. Terms of Use and 9. The apartment market is quite active in the USVI, but expect to pay at least $1,000 per month for rent to grab a studio without a view. London ; Melbourne ; New York ; Hong Kong ; Malaga-Andalusia ; Lifestyles Youll need to know how to prepare your property to manage the heavy winds and rain that will come if one passes over. There are three main islands in USVI St Thomas, St John, and St Croix. Saint Thomas, VI 00802. The beach area has several amenities which make it perfect for entertainment including tables, bathrooms and lifeguards. Unlike in the mainland US where water usually comes from rivers, lakes, and streams that feed a public water system, rainwater is the resource on St. Thomas. The isolation of St. Thomas is due to the expensive nature of arriving there in the first place. 1. 15 & 15B&D Shoys (The) EA, St. Croix, VI 00820, 4 Rem Lovenlund GNS, St. Thomas, VI 00802, 15 B&D Shoys (The) EA, St. Croix, VI 00820, 15 & 18-1 Bellevue FB, St. Thomas, VI 00802, 1&1-F Morningstar QU, St. Croix, VI 00820, 15-51-D Frenchman Bay FB, St. Thomas, VI 00802. And, visitors still feel safe in hotel areas, beaches, and downtown Christiansted and Frederiksted. However, before you get too excited, you must meet some travel requirements. 6 Bedrooms. Most tourists and locals do feel safe in St Thomas overall, but it is always best to take precautions. As long as youre prepared for some bad weather, visiting during hurricane season is safe and can be a great way to save money on your trip. 265-1 Hospital Ground New Unit Lower. This makes it convenient for tourists visiting from other islands as well as persons who are considering relocating to St Thomas. Both are very beautiful, and the cost to get to the islands in the first place means that only the people who want to be present tend to hang around. The Virgin Islands are one of the most unique groupings of territories in the world today. Drug activity is particularly prevalent on the islands, and the government is working to crack down on this problem. Even if the USVI doesnt take the full impact of a hurricane, it is not unusual to deal with downed power lines, flooded roads, toppled trees, and infrastructure damage that can limit your movement for several days if not weeks. There can be some humidity since this is an island destination that youd be calling home, but it usually isnt too bad. If you live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then you are going to have a governor that oversees the administrative tasks of being a territory. XO Bistro - you name it! Another big pro of living in St John USVI is nearly two-thirds of the island is covered by the Virgin Islands National Park, so there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring.. You can explore many of St John's hiking trails, snorkel in pristine reefs, and soak up the sun to your heart's content. St. Thomas US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands. One of the reasons why this part of the infrastructure is lacking is due to the cost of transporting goods to the island in the first place. There is less stress here unless you actively seek out problematic situations. Are the virgin Islands safe to visit during hurricane season? Lindquist Beach - Best beaches in St. Thomas. Many households on the island have more than one vehicle and as a result during rush hours expect traffic delays. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. This also depends on which Island you are visiting, as all three US Virgin Islands vary in their crime rates. The water is safe to drink in USVI. (Travel Guide)Continue, Read More What Is Rainy Season In Aruba? There is also a 36-month resident distinction that is part of this process. Below are the tax rates by property type. If youre planning on visiting the US Virgin Islands, you may be wondering if its safe to drive. I am happy to share my enthusiasm for the island with those just dipping their toes into our gorgeous Caribbean waters. You might need to take a ferry ride to a different island so that you can get the groceries that you need for the week. St. Thomas is located in the The islands offer an authorized 90% reduction in the personal and corporate income taxes that are paid each year. What kind of weather can I expect during my vacation? Born in Buffalo, I will never forget being introduced to the island by a real estate agent who took us up a very steep driveway, prompting the all-intelligent question from me How do they do this in the snow?!. Rain is funneled from the roof of your home into a cistern a concrete tank underneath the home. The beloved resort invites families, couples and adventure-seekers to encounter the beauty of the Virgin Islands in a new light. The service she gave us was truly exceptional. There is no territorial tax or state tax to worry about either. The pros of living in St Thomas are that the island safe, has easy access to international cities and amazing beaches. Although they are part of the United States, the Virgin Islands have a unique culture and history. Each time I go, I find a welcoming and safe environment that encourages me to visit again and again! Overall, yes! Hotel security responded in about 15 min, the . The government of the Virgin Islands provides a tax break to companies that locate to the territory to do business. The unemployment rate typically hovers around 10% in any given year. , This person is a professional in every sense of the word! Brokered by Real Solutions Real Estate And Management Service. Several airlines such as Continental Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines provide both connecting and direct flights to the island. $3,600. It can cost a bit more to arrive than a new home in the mainland, but it doesnt take long to adjust to the slower pace of island live in the USVI. 4. St. Thomas is a vibrant and picturesque island located in the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea. If youre not the biggest fan of spiders, then you need to know that tarantulas will want to share your living space as well. Overall, the US Virgin Islands are a safe place to visit. The move to the Virgin Islands is relatively easy for most Americans. Is St Thomas safe? 5. | 0 comments Living In Saba Island (Pros & Cons Fully Explained)What Is the Best Currency For St Vincent & The Grenadines You may also likeLeave a Reply Cancel replyYour email address will not be published. You can also go with the luxury option if your budget can afford it. . Even on your worst day, youre still living in the Caribbean. She is more interested in the right home for your family than the commission, which speaks volumes about her professionalism and dedication. You are still using U.S. currency for every purchase, and debit or credit cards still work there as they would at any other location. Home; Welcome. The Virgin Islands National Park on St. John is a hiker's paradise, with 20-plus trails ranging from flat and short to challenging all with views of blue bays and green islands. The Rent Control Act freezes rental levels at what they were in 1947. There are many additional cays and islands surrounding the area that is also the property of USVI. the Caribbean. Talk to me at 340-690-9995 or fill out the form here so we can start planning your move accordingly. 4. In terms of living in the Virgin Islands, its always important to do your own research and know where is safe to live and where is not. Life moves at a much slower pace in the Virgin Islands, for better and for worse. You might be having a terrible day, but the place you call home is still incredibly beautiful. Off-Road Driving. Therefore, St John is considered to be the safest US Virgin Islands territory. Over the past few months, there were a number of power outages on the island. Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour St Croix is the largest and best-known of the US Virgin Islands, loved for its rich history, abundant coastline, and authentic local cuisine. Not only is she a highly knowledgeable realtor, she also has a wealth of information to share regarding our islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands are a tourism hotspot in the Caribbean comprised of four major islands: St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island. Home Blogs Moving to St. Thomas USVI: What You Need to Know. Baseball is the most popular game played on the island, but there are other sports teams organized by the schools that offer competitive play. You can find fine dining opportunities, take a sip of imported wine, or buy a burger at Wendys. The average winter temperature is 77F (25C), and the average summer temperature is 82F (28C). Its important to take precautions when swimming or hiking in St John or hiking in St Thomas alone. The mountains of the island provide opportunities to have a few of the water from your place if you want, with numerous condominium complexes offering an opportunity to purchase or rent. Copyright 2009-2023 Numbeo. Ocean waters are pristine and clear in the Virgin Islands. The property taxes imposed on real estate when you start living in St. Thomas are 1.25% of the assessed value. We're considering St. Martin, St. Lucia or St. Thomas. The official 2023 St. Thomas Carnival dates have not been released but . This advantage means that Virgin Islanders receive protection under the criminal laws of the United States. Many of the islands are free from light sources at night too, which means you can do some fantastic stargazing. You have a 1 in 2,000 chance of having someone try to kill you with a rate of 52.64 murders per 100,000 people. It can also be a lot of fun to decorate your palm trees for Christmas! Mountain Top and Drakes Seat are excellent spots with stunning views in St Thomas. Many of the local residents felt that the Dutch were poorly managing the island, so they persuaded a sale of St. Thomas (along with St. John and St. Croix) to the United States. Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. You will discover that living on the Virgin Islands means being self-sufficient. (Travel Guide), What Is Rainy Season In Aruba? Moving to the USVI as an American citizen means there is no need for any new documents like a work visa or identification papers. Youll rarely experience a day that dips below 75F, even during the rainy season or the winter months. Generally, instead of filing returns and paying taxes to the IRS, residents of the USVI, and corporations [3] formed in the USVI, file returns and pay income taxes directly the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue [13]. In terms of vacationing in USVI, Id definitely suggest planning a trip ASAP! Theres always a risk of natural disasters like tropical storms and hurricanes during hurricane season. by Shevy Baskin. Life is similar to what you would expect in the States. "The Settler's Handbook" is highly recommended as an informative source for those considering moving to, or investing in, the U.S. Virgin Islands of St. Croix, St. Thomas or St. John. blue sea and near perfect year-round weather, there are Tip: The Caribbean sun is intense, cotton clothes are the best choice for staying cool and remember to drink plenty of water and . The incentives are meant to bolster the economy, where over 30% of the residents live below the poverty line and the per capita income is $13,000. Despite the laidback nature of the island, youll find that it stays busy and tends to offer a sophisticated living experience. 8. However, despite these challenges, the US Virgin Islands is a beautiful place to visit and well worth the effort to get around. St. Thomas is home to the stunning city of Charlotte Amalie, as well as a variety of resorts, restaurants, and nightlife options. Many of the major chains have made it to the island, so youll have access to the goods you want. The final cost was $25 million in gold in 1917, or the equivalent of about $500 million today. Although employment can be tricky if youre not in the hospitality industry, there is still a lot of magic to find on this small island. The capital, Charlotte Amalie is located on St Thomas. St. Thomas has over 40 major beaches along its sun-drenched coasts. Some maps also list Culebra and Vieques as being the Spanish Virgin Islands, but they are part of the territory of Puerto Rico. Then there is the island time to consider. If you decide to start living in the USVI, then it will not take long for you to realize that youre joining a very different culture than what you might have experienced before when living stateside. Plan your trip with the best resorts on the beach in St Thomas, View the best Places and Areas to Stay in St John. St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. St John is the least populated and has the lowest crime rate in the US Virgin Islands. Then you can enjoy the snorkeling, sailing, and diving that is part of life here. Upon their return, they can Your use of this service is subject to our and Cingular all operate here. Locals and government officials encourage visitors to not walk around the island alone at night. Hello - with so many great perspectives in this forum, I hoping those with insight can weigh in: my husband and I are considering buying a vacation home in the Caribbean. It is best to visit during low tide if you will like to walk across this strip. Still, others purchase drinking water. 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. You can visit either St. Thomas, St. John or St. Croix, or better yet, spend a little time on all three islands. Gun violence, drugs, theft, and various other crimes are serious problems that the government is working to solve. Driving on the roads requires some extra caution because of the narrow windy roads and lack of infrastructure in some areas. Then, you will need your passport, and to go through customs as well. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S Virgin Islands, is located on St. Thomas. Atlantic Standard Time all year. It features chapters on each of the three Virgin Islands, including island culture, history, relocation, housing, and local services such as: real estate, government offices, physicians, civic groups to join. Property taxes can be high for some individuals on St. Thomas. The Virgin Islands give you an opportunity to start making new memories in one of the best places on Earth. Its home to the islands capital, Charlotte Amalie; any bustling city comes with its downsides. Browse 3,888 st. thomas virgin islands photos and images available, or start a new search to explore more photos and images. $2,268. on island including Chiropractors, Optometrists, Dentists, Psychologists, etc. Virgin Islands Port Authority-April 28, 2023. And trust me, you wont regret it. St. John . It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. Youll need to form new habits, like checking your sheets and shoes before using them, to avoid an uncomfortable encounter. If the property is newer then that, then the maximum rent allowed for the property is the initial amount charged during the lease signing. On the other hand, the cons of living in St Thomas are frequent power outages, the threat of natural disasters, limited access to the specialized products and traffic congestion. The island also receives protection from the military in case there is something that happens in the world. Denmark entered into an agreement in the early 20th century which provided for the sale of the Danish Virgin Islands to the U.S. for $25 million in gold. You are going to be sharing your home with some unwanted friends. St. Thomas serves as the capital of the USVI. However, this list of top 10 facts about living conditions in the Virgin Islands goes beyond the images of tropical paradise to get a closer look at life on . There are some challenges to consider when living in the Virgin Islands, but those issues are more related to its location in the Caribbean and the logistical issues that come with that problem. There are spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities on all of the islands. Your email address will not be published. Competitive Tax Benefits for Residents. Lutheran Social Services of the Virgin Islands, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. She was so patient, understanding and honest to deal with. There are relatively few jobs available on St. Thomas. Moving to St. Thomas USVI: What You Need to Know. Thats a definite advantage compared to St. John, where almost 70% of the island is a national park and most of the housing is in the structure of weekly villa rentals. no estate or inheritance tax. The U.S. Virgin Islands enjoy warm sunny weather year-round. First, youll want to keep an eye on the weather and be aware of any potential storms or hurricanes that could be headed for the area. That change in status also means that you can no longer vote in stateside elections. About St Thomas; . Cheaper accommodations provide unique challenges that are not always present stateside. Renting is a positive experience in St. Thomas. St. Thomas is a safe destination for your next Caribbean vacation. Petty theft and vandalism are the most common crimes against visitors, so it is important to use common sense. 2. The USVI are pro-tenant when it comes to the landlord-tenant relationship for renting. Average prices of more than 40 products and services in St Thomas, Us Virgin IslandsJan 2023. You can also take the three-mile ferry ride over to St. John that will take you 20 minutes to complete when a day trip is in order. website at www.dhs.gov.vi Get the latest news straight to your phone with the VI Consortium app. All Rights Reserved. Has it been sealed recently? Visiting during hurricane season isnt the best time to visit, but it is safe, overall. Commercial development is the priority along the beaches of St. Thomas. These flights serve persons visiting other US Virgin Island territories. O: 340.774.5277 Save. Planning If you need more information contact to the Puerto Rico Contact center. Your resort or hotel will warn you ahead of time if there is a problem with the tap water. 2 bed. There is less availability for goods and services. combination wedding/honeymoon. 6. St Thomas is a dependency of the United States of America and as such uses the US dollars. , Quite frankly, I dont know how we could have made this move without Barbara. Even when there are specials in place, a family of four can pay up to $3,000 just to arrive at the island. This gated community along the Atlantic is known for its cool breezes and its spectacular down-island views into the British Virgin Islands. Copyright 2023 Barbara Birt. Significant on-island employers are few. #3 Magens Bay - Best Area on St Thomas for Families. It can be exasperating at times, but living here is one of the most magical experiences you can find in life. The last major earthquake that affected St Thomas was in 1867 which led to a tsunami which caused major damage to the island. Travelers going between the U.S. and its dependent territories aren't required to show either passports or green cards for entry, according to U.S. Customs and Border . St. Thomas balances sophistication and tropical flair so well, it is easy to see why many plans to relocate to the island. On the other hand, the cons of living in St Thomas are frequent power outages, the threat of natural disasters, limited access to the specialized products and traffic congestion. $323. The Virgin Islands Housing Authority (VIHA) serves a population of 4000 plus low-income residents, who live both in public housing and Section 8 units. Check out our blog for more ideas on how to experience St. Thomas to the fullest. 4. Unlike in the mainland US where water usually comes from rivers, lakes, and streams that feed a public water system, rainwater is the resource on St. Thomas. Best beach day ever. The Hull Bay trail is a 1.6-mile trail located near the capital of the U.S Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie. Terms and Conditions In broad day light. The highest amount of rainfall usually falls between August and December, making prices drop significantly. Her knowledge of the island was a great help. Parasailing. That way you'll get plenty of pampering, undisturbed nature and colonial history . This city had 22 entries in the past 12 months by 6 different contributors. St Thomas is part of the US Virgin Islands, however for shipping purposes it is treated as an international destination. Its port city of Charlotte Amalie often serves as a popular jumping-off point for travelers to destinations elsewhere in the Caribbean. One disadvantage of living in St Thomas is the threat of natural disaster in particular hurricanes. Once weve solved the real estate questions, what about daily life? If you are building your house in St. Thomas, an estimated 10 percent of the building cost may go toward a cistern the bigger the better. 2 bed. In terms of living in the Virgin Islands, it's always important to do your own research and know where is safe to live and where is not. If you are used to living along the southern shores of the Continental 48, then a move to the Virgin Islands is going to feel very similar to that experience. for 2 people in 85m2 flat. These were not as a result of factors such as natural disasters. Snorkel, sunbathe, surf, and more. There are a few things to know before traveling to the US Virgin Islands to make sure your trip is as safe and easy as possible! why on earth would you want to live anywhere else? About Us. In the United States Virgin Islands, English is the dominant language. financial services such as Merrill Lynch and a variety Second, travel insurance is always a good idea in case you need to cancel your trip due to a storm. 7. , Barbara is absolutely patient and engaging. Many of the experiences that you will have are the same as any other destination as an American citizen. Downed powerlines, felled trees, and general havoc occur whenever one blows through. 3 bed. #1 Downtown Charlotte Amalie - Best Place to Stay on St Thomas for your First Time. We also share information about your use of our site with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Many US citizens make the move to USVI and love every minute of it. Rain is funneled from the roof of your home into a cistern - a concrete tank underneath the home. The people of St. Thomas (and the USVI as a whole) are friendly, but it is up to you to start making new friends. About the Virgin Islands. Artwork needs to be well framed as the humidity and the salt can take a toll. 7. Most assessments are for about 60% of the fair market value of the real estate. 2022 VisitStthomas.com Allphotos + content 1999-2021- all rights reserved. Sports. Housing in a gated community with a private beach can be over $1 million when looking for a 4-bedroom home. This can change depending on the number of ships in port. The island's natural attractions include numerous bays and beaches. Best Places To Eat On St. Thomas. Yes, the US Virgin Islands are safe for not just visitors, but the many locals that live there as well! There is no Daylight Saving Time in USVI! Located on the islands East End in order of cache are Water Point, Deck Point and Cabrita Point. Living in St. Thomas - Welcome Input! You are surrounded by views of the Caribbean and the neighboring islands wherever you go. From June to November, hurricanes are common in the Virgin Islands. Sometimes, youll hear about Water Island as well. Privacy Policy. On St. ThomasMore Info, So many wonderful events and things to do in St. Thomas. St. St. John does not have the Virgin Islands Boa, Corn Snake, or the Racer (but there may be the odd sighting of the latter), and St. Croix only has the Blind Snake and another non . 4. Generally, St Thomas is a safe island. It takes a lot of proactive planning to navigate this issue, and even then, you can find that essentials like toilet paper might be out of stock or in short supply. 9. 1. Hurricane season in the Virgin Islands begins in June and ends in November every year. Thats why youll find those who arent involved in the hospitality arena tend to operate a side hustle as a way to make money. You will lose the right to vote in presidential elections. Also, you can hop between islands without your passport. also, for residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands, there is Well I quickly figured out the answer, and Ive never looked back. You can also get your currency exchanged at most banks on the islands. This makes travel to the islands much easier and more convenient. So why should you choose See sights that can only be reached on foot, most notably ancient rock carvings called petroglyphs. The US Virgin Islands are located in the eastern Caribbean sea, about 60 miles east of Puerto Rico and about 1000 miles southeast of Florida. Saint Thomas (Danish: Sankt Thomas) is one of the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea, one of the three largest of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated territory of the United . The US Virgin Islands is classified as a problematic location. On August 20, 2003, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assumed. There is steel drum music that plays everywhere when you travel throughout the Virgin Islands. If you are moving from a coastal community in the United States to the Virgin Islands, then you will notice immediately that there is a difference in water clarity at the beach. If you are thinking about moving to St. Thomas or living in the US Virgin Islands or even Puerto Rico or any other Caribbean Island, then you need to watch t. Locals and visitors to the island therefore should be extra cautious with their valuables. Thomas, one of the three United States Virign Islands, St Thomas Mangrove Lagoon Kayak and Snorkel Tour in the US Virgin Islands. Additionally, many people feel safe and secure visiting a US territory. Sealing ensures the integrity of the tank and needs repeating every 5 or so years. Condos are a possibility for some people, but they might be connected with a busy resort too. On a whole, crime on the island is related to domestic issues and not directed at visitors to the island. For an ex-pat from Australia, the hardship premium for the US Virgin Islands is 10%, i.e., host location (the US Virgin Islands) premium of 20% minus home location (Australia) premium of 10%. When it comes to beautiful natural scenery, St Thomas has a lot to offer. Based on our St. Thomas cost of living calculator, St. Thomas is 35% more expensive than the national average and 4% more expensive to live in than the average city in Virgin Islands.