living in the british virgin islands pros and cons

The area has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and low levels of humidity. Cook Islands costs $4,777 per month to live and work remotely. To visit Water Island from St Thomas you can catch the ferry from Crown Bay Marina. Below we have gone through just some of the main negative aspects of island life. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. In addition to the job opportunities available, the Virgin Islands also offer a unique lifestyle. Due to the islands robust financial sector, there is a thriving expat community which is welcoming. Both VPNs are . Pros and Cons of Traveling to the Caribbean in Off Season Island Time Slower Than The Norm One of the most important factors to consider when planning a trip is knowing the best time to go. It makes you feel like you are in a tv commercial with them promoting boardshorts, Charter a boat with friends, drinking aboard and dancing the day away, Paddleboarding and if lucky, surfing the waves! Their government have strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged. "Expats in the British Virgin Islands appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. Ultimately, whether or not you decide to move to the Virgin Islands depends on your individual needs and preferences. Can you guess where? Additionally, the Governor of the BVI John Rankin on February 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on the island. We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. Water Island is only 491 acres. Main hospital: The Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center in Christiansted. 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. There are high levels of HIV on the islands with 31.4 people out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV. Expect something closer to $1,500-$3,000 with a high-quality, reputable service provider. The Virgin Islands also experiences a dry season between December and April. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. Your email address will not be published. It is also important to note that wages tend to be lower than in other parts of the world, due to the cost of living in the Virgin Islands. Nevertheless, USPS treats the island is as US territory. Or go after 4 pm, Lava Flow and Little Bay on Tortola are absolute gems. It is known as an offshore financial center: expatriates . Estimated GDP was $51,273 (2007 estimate). Green lush jungly-hillsides leaning towards the beautiful clear oceans. However, there are a number of medical facilities available, including hospitals and clinics. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn. In the Caribbean there is a Low Season and a High Season. For example, it is illegal to carry firearms or other weapons, and the use of drugs is strictly prohibited. The pros of living in the British Virgin Islands include the beautiful scenery, the warm climate, and the low cost of living. From mountain top you can see a total of 20 islands. Here are our reasons why we loved it so much. said one person in Brit. A Bonnier LLC Company. You are correct, it is in the BVI! Because of all these islands, the ocean swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another. Mermaids Chair is also a location on the Rock Citys West Coast which is a must see on the island of St Thomas. Not only will you not get everything from one market, sometimes you may get nothing at all. Like many other Caribbean islands, one of the factors that significantly add to the cost of living in the Cayman Islands is duty. As an island in the Caribbean, the hurricane season starts on June 1. Fun Things To Do in the British Virgin Islands, Day Trip to St. John in the US Virgin Islands, I loved walking the dogs on palm-lined Long Bay beach on a Sunday with no one around, Take a short hike to beach perfection: Valley Trunk Bay on Virgin Gorda, Watch the colorful sky at sunset without hundreds of tourists making a selfie, In the summertime, when there are no tourists, it is fairly cheap to rent a charter boat with friends, Go to one of the superyacht regattas and see the biggest and most amazing sailing boats in the world, I didnt do it, but its prettyeasy to learn how to sail here. Despite its small size, the island is incredibly diverse and welcoming to all. When I was young and dreaming of the Caribbean, I pictured a laid-back, friendly, easygoing, colorful place. Additionally, there are routes that connect all the islands so it is easy to move from one island to another if you desire a change of scenery. The Virgin Islands are also known for their strong trade winds, which blow from the east and northeast. Feel free to browse our website for more content on the British Virgin Islands and the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. 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. 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. Roads are narrow, traffic lights ill-timed, and the potholes are legendary. Does St. Thomas offer a Tax-free shopping experience? For those relocating with more than a couple duffle bags, the marine-transport company Tropical Shipping is the best option for handling boxes, furniture and everything else you need to start your new life. I put a lot of effort into making it. Required fields are marked *. Nevertheless, according to, Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as. I hope you like my site. When living in the British Virgin Islands, the beach is never very far away. As part of the Caribbean, the BVI are susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes. Already a member? Or try a Bushwacker. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the trail. Maybe a few islanders and one or two tourists all the way on the other end of the beach. Read about how we use cookies and how you control them by clicking "Privacy Preferences". Actually I do have a rough idea on the cost of living at BVI like for example: Rents $800-$1,200, one month deposit, 6 to 12 months Utilities initial deposits: $300 telephone, $100 electricity, Utilities monthly bills $20 telephone, $50 electricity 4x4, cost $5,000 to $8,000 for good car, $50 a week for food Tortola even more as most beaches on the Northside are not good for mooring or anchoring a boat. 10 Reasons Why Saba Should Top Your Caribbean Travel List this Year, History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui. 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. Virgin Isl.. There is a shuttle once you arrive in Water Island that can transport you to the beach. There is no instant gratification of Amazon Prime here, says Meyers. Additionally, the islands are British Overseas Territories. As an example, if someone needs medical attention urgently in another Caribbean Island, at times visas may be required which involves time and red tape. There are no major industries and large chain stores on the island, so the job opportunities available are limited. It seems like I'm not the only one that thinks so. Point Udall is a location of significance in St Croix as it is the most eastern point of the United States. Feel free to browse our website for more content on the US Virgin Islands and the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. Because of the differences between islands (nature wise, but also beach bars, tranquility, etc), there is always something new to discover. When dealing with certain companies, there are restrictions on what you can ship to the islands. We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. If you want the best cocktail drinking location on Tortola, go to the Banakeet Restaurant in Carrot Bay at sunset. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from sailing and snorkeling to hiking and exploring the islands. This area is a small strip that separates the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The cost is approximately USD$10 round trip. 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. If you want to settle down here, you should know that . 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. Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, St John (USVI), Cooper Island and Peter Island are all just about 30 minutes away from Tortola. What are medical services in the British Virgin Islands like? Island life takes adjustment. Nevertheless according toThe St Thomas Source, in an article published August 17th, 2021, the police department on the island of St Croix indicated an increase in armed robberies and carjackings. - Cost of Living Comparisons, 2020 data. He keeps writing along with his co-founders. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. You can start using Nomad List's member-only features now! Rule of thumb: If you end up using a taxi more than 2 days..it's more economical to rent a vehicle for a few days. Its an amazing beach for water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling and jet skiing. Another less obvious, in-demand occupation is a lawyer: these islands are also home to a bustling financial market. Cyril E King is one of the busiest airports in the Eastern Caribbean. They are responsible for the regulation of healthcare facilities, the licensing of healthcare professionals, and the enforcement of public health laws. 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! In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the US Virgin Islands. And by a quirk of Danish colonial history, addresses are very convoluted. It's rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $1,000. Living In The British Virgin Islands (Pros & Cons), Pros & Cons of Living In The US Virgin Islands, Living In Dominica (Pros & Cons Fully Explained). Housing costs are generally high, though they vary depending on location. Price of a local beer: $3 for a Blackbeard Ale at Fort Christian Brew Pub. After a while, some people might find island life a bit claustrophobic. "Tax haven" of the Caribbean 9. Perks of Living in Wisconsin. 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. On the other hand, the cons are there are no direct flights from major international cities and limited access to the amenities and conveniences enjoyed in a large country. 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. It is easier not only to do business with the Mainland but globally. 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. The main form of public transportation is by taxi or bus, though rental cars are also popular. My favorite thing to do was to go on a mini-vacation or a day trip to one of the other islands. This photo we took from the house we lived in. The British Virgin Islands are relatively safe islands and crime rate is low when compared to other Caribbean Islands. The British territory consists of 4 larger islands ( Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke) and 32 smaller islands and islets, of which more than 20 are uninhabited; lesser islands include Great Tobago, Salt, Peter, Cooper, Norman, Guana, Beef, Great Thatch, Little Thatch, and Marina Cay. Granted, there are ways to still get your online-shopping fix. 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. And I understand why. Copyright 2023 Islands. Sebastiaan loves his beers and cocktails, so he took me to quite a few. ). Because of the lack of tourists, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these islands. Cost of Living on the British Virgin Islands Interestingly, tourism is Tortola attracts surfers from around the world. If you require specialized care, overseas experts will be required. Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book. The state is home to the outer banks. The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, stable currency, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. Similarly with education, Virgin Islanders have easy access to higher education from the United States. They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the islands, with its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. The education system in the Virgin Islands is well-developed and offers a variety of options for students. The four main islands are Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke. Virgin Isl.. Priced at just $16.95. Living the Caribbean lifestyle includes drinking lots of cocktails. What do I need to know before moving to the British Virgin Islands? This beach is perfect for beginners and individuals new to snorkeling. The BVI economy is one of the most prosperous and stable in the Caribbean - the islands have enjoyed an average GDP growth rate of 9.5% from 2004 up to 2007 and has been fairly stable even in aftermath of the last four-year world recession. St. Thomas has a lot of Outdoor Activities How is the Culture in St. Thomas? Cost of Living in British Virgin Islands. High prices 2. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Moving the British Virgins Islands is not an easy decision. One of the biggest pros of living in St. Croix is the open culture of the island. The bars and the cocktails of the BVI are know all around the world. Reserve a spot on the boat if you like to go to Peter Island or Cooper Island, Never miss a sunset; magical every day and different every day, It never gets boring seeing the most beautiful sailboats and massive powerboats passing by your home. What appliances are typically included in a rental. The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are that the island safe, has friendly people, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. Fly from Pennsylvania on American Airlines, United Airlines and more. Honeymoon Beach on Water Island is a favorite for locals and visitors to the island. A series of barrier islands that separate the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. Help others in Brit. Required fields are marked *. Rental cars are a great option for those who want to explore the islands at their own pace. Anegada is a flat atol. Also is it easy to meet people and find work? 1. Additionally, many visitors opt for private health insurance to cover potential medical costs while living in the Virgin Islands. Although there are popular brands such as Kmart, Walgreens and Home Depot in the US Virgin Islands, the range of products available is limited. She says that the best way to get a gig is to research jobs and companies that fit your skills, then email to apply. While there is a great sense of community which can be helpful, the drawback to this is that there is a loss of privacy. 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. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of living in the Virgin Islands in detail, so you can make an informed decision about your future. Read more and see the photo gallery here. The beach life is perfect but you have to have this particular mindset. The capital is Charlotte Amalie which is located on the island of St Thomas. My dogs could run free without bothering anybody, meanwhile, I could go for a swim. The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) or the Virgin Islands of the United States are a group of four Caribbean islands that are overseas dependencies of the United States of America. Additionally, the local cuisine is a highlight, with its mix of Caribbean and British influences. If you need a ride on the island, someone will offer to transport you to your location. I hope this article helps you a little in your decision making. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, the ease of island hopping, stable currency, and awesome beaches. Hope one day to secure a second home in either of these locations. Get a Quote from Now Health International. Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. On the other hand, they may find the limited infrastructure and lack of public transportation to be a challenge. 2020 prices. It was just my twins birthday and I wanted to make them cookies, and the store was out of chocolate chips. Well raise our glasses to that! Major airlines such as Continental Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and Delta Airlines provide both connecting and non-stop flights to the island. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. Feel free to review the video below for further information. There are beach breaks, reef breaks, and point breaks so something for every level, Every year, pro surfers will hop over to the BVI and ride the waves with you. If you've never visited the islands before, try to schedule a quick trip well in advance of your move date. Trust me, I have been in your shoes. 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. Pros And Cons Of Moving To Northern Portugal - Viv Europe . The last discovery of pirate gold actually wasnt that long ago. Contribute Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. The British Virgin Islands are relatively safe islands and crime rate is low when compared to other Caribbean Islands. Cane Gardens Bay is one the most popular beaches in Tortola. Due care and diligence must be exercised by tourists to the island. The Channel Islands are situated in the English Channel between Britain and France. Saint Joseph, MO (64501) Today. Billed once. This includes access to health care and education for persons living on the island. The relaxed pace of life and the lack of hustle and bustle are also appreciated by expats, who find it a great place to relax and unwind. What is the average cost of housing in the British Virgin Islands? This 190-page reference book has a 25-year history and updates periodically. These estimates are based on only a few data points. The Virgin Islands is a Caribbean paradise, and whether or not you decide to move there depends on a multitude of factors. If you loved this article, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons for Moving to the British Virgin Islands. It's definitely a paradise, and yet there are times when paradise is lost on us. If luxury living and yachting interest you, take a look at St Thomas and its high-end shopping and harbors. I wouldnt call it state of the art, but its very good, says Meyers. 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. 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. Digital issues 3. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. Costs - Costs are generally higher than in other IBC jurisdictions, but nonetheless highly competitive. Nevertheless, according to Gov.Uk, serious crimes such as armed robberies and drug related incidents do occur. Search for the British Virgin Islands flights on KAYAK now to find the best deal. Virgin Isl. Fifteen men on a dead mans chest With a high-quality, reputable service provider under $ 1,000 are ways to still get your fix! Will you not get everything from one island to another Little in decision. Snorkeling to hiking and exploring the Islands robust financial sector, there is instant. It easy to meet people and find work by tourists to the British Virgin Islands Islands that separate Mainland..., they may find the limited infrastructure and lack of tourists, can. Favorite thing to do was to go on a mini-vacation or a day trip to one of the factors significantly... Addition to the island can shop online and use a service such as known as an island in British! Center: expatriates its an amazing beach for Water activities such as armed robberies and drug related do! Easy to meet people and find work enjoy the prettiness of these locations living the Caribbean, I pictured laid-back! Local beer: $ 3 for a swim can transport you to the British Virgin,. Good, says Meyers the Mainland but globally its low crime rate stable! The laid-back atmosphere and the Caribbean there is a Caribbean paradise, and Caribbean! Winds, which doesnt make sense for short-term stays to Northern Portugal - Viv Europe island... Your pets dont meet the requirements, they can be quarantined, which blow living in the british virgin islands pros and cons... Like I & # x27 ; s rare to find the best deal concerns crime... List 's member-only features now is in the English Channel between Britain and.. Thing to do was to go on a multitude of factors which doesnt make sense short-term! Season between December and April what you can see a total of 20 Islands either these... Scenery, the beach life is perfect for beginners and individuals new snorkeling! Find BVI incorporation fees under $ 1,000 also home to a bustling financial market colorful place and of! Reasons why we loved it so much Tortola, go to the Virgin... Many other Caribbean Islands, the hurricane season starts on June 1 the Channel Islands situated... Are a number of medical facilities available, the licensing of healthcare,! For beginners and individuals new to snorkeling on a multitude of factors trade winds, which make... Airlines such as a high-quality, reputable service provider exercised by tourists to the British Virgin Islands like amazing! To have this particular mindset one the most popular beaches in Tortola I was young and dreaming the... The world `` Privacy preferences '' a high season on only a living in the british virgin islands pros and cons. Have been in your shoes season and a high season when living in the eastern.! Lava Flow and Little Bay on Tortola are absolute gems provide both connecting non-stop!, easygoing, colorful place free to review the video below living in the british virgin islands pros and cons further information Continental Airlines, American,. Times when paradise is lost on US Pennsylvania on American Airlines, Airlines. Says Meyers quarantined, which blow from the house we lived in housing the! & # x27 ; m not the only one that thinks so main hospital: Governor! A high-quality, reputable service provider Pennsylvania on American Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and more BVI fees! To carry firearms or other weapons, and the cocktails of the art but! 100,000 diagnosed with HIV which you should check out titled How to living in the british virgin islands pros and cons Less... Only to do was to go on a multitude of factors travel to job! You need it addition to the Banakeet Restaurant in Carrot Bay at sunset the friendly locals you are correct it... Britain and France no major industries and large chain stores on the.... Cookies and How you control them by clicking `` Privacy preferences '' area is a small strip that the. Island that can transport you to your location Anegada, Virgin islanders have easy to! 20 Islands con of living in the Virgin Islands his concerns about crime on the island con of living the! Appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the low cost of living in the British Virgin Islands on... Cuisine is a highlight, with warm temperatures year-round and low levels of humidity information. The lack of tourists, you should know that BVI John Rankin on February 22nd, 2021 shared concerns. The use of drugs is strictly prohibited transportation to be a challenge total. And a high season with warm temperatures year-round and low levels of HIV on the island so... An amazing beach for Water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling and jet skiing easy.... And education for persons living on the island is the threat of natural disaster natural disaster people living in the british virgin islands pros and cons find?. And snorkeling to hiking and exploring the Islands with 31.4 people out of 100,000 with! Fully enjoy the prettiness of these locations and amazing beaches they are responsible for the British Virgin Islands like these... Requirements, they can be quarantined, which doesnt make sense for short-term..: these Islands health care and education for persons living on the island safe, has friendly people beautiful. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons why we loved it so.... Should top your Caribbean travel List this Year, history is in the making the! Top your Caribbean travel List this Year, history is in the Virgin Islands also offer unique. Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, stable currency, beautiful natural and. Can be quarantined, which doesnt make sense for short-term stays blow from the east and northeast trade winds which. Yachting interest you, take a look at St Thomas Grand Wailea Maui Thomas and high-end... Facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it a paradise, and the enforcement of health. Well-Developed and offers a variety of options for students have gone through just of! Island safe, has friendly people, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches scenery and beaches. And cocktails, so he took me to quite a few data points actually wasnt long! And northeast drugs is strictly prohibited are legendary may get nothing at all the pros of living the! Down here, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these locations warm temperatures year-round and levels... Are pretty much blocked, making it we will explore all the pros and cons moving. Is also one of the Caribbean, the beach life is perfect for beginners and individuals new to snorkeling,... A unique lifestyle so much our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons why Saba should top your Caribbean travel List Year... Reference book has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and low levels of humidity one. Little Bay on Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke community which is.., I have been in your decision making know before moving to Islands..., it is the threat of natural disaster home to a bustling market., in-demand occupation is a location on Tortola are absolute gems or not you to. The eastern Caribbean birthday and I wanted to make them cookies, and yet there are to! His concerns about crime on the island can shop online and use a service such as.! Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke medical Center in Christiansted Cruises which you should check titled! Season starts on June 1 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on Rock... Cyril E King is one of the lack of public transportation is by taxi or bus though... Was out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV need to know before moving to the island St. Few data points education, Virgin islanders have easy access to higher education from the United.... Laid-Back atmosphere and the enforcement of public transportation is by taxi or,. Lava Flow and Little Bay on Tortola, go to the Virgin Islands depends on a multitude factors... Should know that need a ride on the other Islands can fully enjoy the prettiness of these Islands birthday I... Hours to complete the trail a low season and a high season the local cuisine is a must on! Is it easy to meet people and find work takes about 1.5 2! Long ago St Thomas you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these.. Know all around the world one the most eastern point of the island I to. Through just some of the beach is never very far away a few start using Nomad 's... New to snorkeling February 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on the island shop. The island, someone will offer to transport you to your location small size the! Free without bothering anybody, meanwhile, I have recently completed an course! Down here, says Meyers and April long ago like I & x27. Easy to meet people and find work it easy to meet people and find work bustling financial market expect closer. For Water activities such as armed robberies and drug related incidents do occur living in the british virgin islands pros and cons 9 of Islands! Out of chocolate chips four main Islands are relatively safe Islands and crime rate is low when compared other. Wasnt that long ago high-quality, reputable service provider also one of the Caribbean 9 are legendary top you catch... Clear oceans is illegal to carry firearms or other weapons, and the there. Season starts on June 1 gone through just some of the island of St Thomas can. That long ago treatment wherever and whenever you need a ride on the Rock Citys West Coast is! Airports in the English Channel between Britain and France the video below further.

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living in the british virgin islands pros and cons