Wildlife 1. The scenery is beautiful and there is always an island on the horizon. It is actually almost impossible to find a place without a stunning ocean view. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. Especially at places like Nanny Cay or Bitter End Yacht Club, Every island is different, try to visit them all. The BVI is known as the sailing capital of the world. The country is safe, welcoming and ideal for raising kids. They also appreciate the low cost of living and the lack of income tax. It is known as an offshore financial center: expatriates . This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. 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. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Now Health International's insurance plans. Pros Cons in British Virgin Islands Latin America Photo Larisa Birta via Unsplash Pros Cons Continents Latin America Countries British Virgin Islands Filters British Virgin Islands Clear 1 results Global travel medical insurance for $1.34/day! Additionally, ferries are available for transportation between islands. Questions? Living In The British Virgin Islands (Pros & Cons), Pros & Cons of Living In The US Virgin Islands, Living In Dominica (Pros & Cons Fully Explained). This is mainly due to the fact that most of what is consumed on the island is imported from North America, UK or other Caribbean islands. In this article we will explore all the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. Food costs are also generally high, though some items may be cheaper than those found in other places. 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. At times individuals may overstep which is a challenge that you will not face in a large country. Summary: The US Virgin Islands is part of the United States. The quality of life in the Virgin Islands is generally high. Maybe a few islanders and one or two tourists all the way on the other end of the beach. Virgin Isl.. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. It is important to factor in these costs when budgeting for a trip to the Virgin Islands, as they can add up quickly. The four main islands are Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke. The views on all the islands are breathtaking. Should I buy or rent a home in the British Virgin Islands? Nevertheless according to, Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. I wouldnt call it state of the art, but its very good, says Meyers. This location is next to Peebles Hospital. Does St. Thomas offer a Tax-free shopping experience? Or try a Bushwacker. In 2017, the country was hit by Hurricane Irma, with the major island of . If you want to swim with turtles, then Maho Bay Beach is the perfect spot in St Croix. 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. For more information visit Virgin Islands Geography. The Cons of Living on an Island Now that we've gone over some of the main pros of living that island lifestyle, what are the cons? After that, it pretty much goes flat (except for hurricane swells) but that opens up amazing paddleboard trips along the coast. There is an underwater trail that you can follow if snorkeling. There are high levels of HIV on the islands with 31.4 people out of 100,000 diagnosed with HIV. And most happy hours offer 2 for the price of 1! Additionally, many popular festivals and events take place throughout the year, offering visitors a truly unique and vibrant experience. An SUV may be suitable if you are living in certain areas of the islands due to the road network. If you are contemplating traveling to the British Virgin Islands or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. And I understand why. If you're used to living in an expansive residential property, you'll find life in Hong Kong to be a bit surprising. Island life takes adjustment. Citizens receive direct support from a large country which has its positives. Skelton. Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum Living in the Virgin Islands can be a dream come true for some, while others may find the experience to be less than desirable. The Virgin Islands is generally considered to be a safe place to live, though visitors should still take caution when it comes to their personal safety. How do I find a place to live in the British Virgin Islands? I didnt have time to hit up four stores, so I had to make something else, says Meyers. 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. There is custom duties however levied on goods imported and the rate is dependent on the item. Due to the islands robust financial sector, there is a thriving expat community which is welcoming. Because of the differences between islands (nature wise, but also beach bars, tranquility, etc), there is always something new to discover. Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book. Public and Private Education + Higher Education Opportunites 3. 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. 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. 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. Most islands are accessible by ferry from the main island Tortola. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Additionally, the Virgin Islands has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. There are no major industries and large chain stores on the island, so the job opportunities available are limited. EaglesLanded. There is no instant gratification of Amazon Prime here, says Meyers. Why do people move to the British Virgin Islands? A Boomer and Millennial Board a Virgin Voyages CruiseWill They Both Enjoy It? Also is it easy to meet people and find work? Cruise ships traveling around the British Isles and river cruise boats in particular, are smaller than regular cruise ships, so cruising feels more intimate. Cons Costs - Costs are generally higher than in other IBC jurisdictions, but nonetheless highly competitive. According to U.S. federal government figures, bankruptcies continue to fall, from 1.6 million bankruptcies in 2010 to about 414,000 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. This is a unique national park on the southwest coast of the island. Pretty amazing right? That's just the way it is and we happily accept this part of life. If you like a slower pace of life and don't mind the added expenses, then it can be a paradise. Cane Gardens Bay is one the most popular beaches in Tortola. 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. Thanks for signing up! 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. There is almost no unemployment. We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. If you are contemplating traveling to the US Virgin Islands or the rest of the Caribbean, cruising is an affordable option to consider. 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. They are relatively inexpensive and provide the freedom to explore the islands without relying on public transportation. Additionally, the cost of transportation can be quite expensive, as most people rely on cars or taxis to get around. One is to set up an account with a company called Aeropost, which provides a Miami address, then ships the items to you from Florida. Valley Trunk on Virgin Gorda, oh my. Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, St John (USVI), Cooper Island and Peter Island are all just about 30 minutes away from Tortola. If you are visiting the BVI from Europe the easiest route is through Antigua as British Airways have direct connections from London Gatwick. Because of all these islands, the ocean swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another. This drink, which looks and tastes like a milkshake surprisingly contains a lot of liquor. In addition to the job opportunities available, the Virgin Islands also offer a unique lifestyle. Get a Quote from Now Health International. What do I need to know before moving to the British 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.! Another less obvious, in-demand occupation is a lawyer: these islands are also home to a bustling financial market. In my opinion, the BVI has it all. 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. If you need a ride on the island, someone will offer to transport you to your location. No tourists. You can bar hop in places such as Red Hook and Haven Sight in St Thomas but if you are expecting entertainment such as Las Vegas or South Beach, Miami then you will not get that in the US Virgin islands. Because of the lack of tourists, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these islands. He keeps writing along with his co-founders. Additionally, the limited job opportunities and the lack of a vibrant nightlife may be a downside for some," From there, Meyers manages the marketing for the day-sailing operation Aristocat Charters. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. Most of the islands, including the ones that are inhabited, are volcanic creations with montane land. End the day with a little picnic on the beach and watch the sunset, Meet up with friends at Cane Garden Bay and have fun with their dogs and drink, If you dont like crowds, avoid the beach at Cane Garden Bay during the cruise season. Additionally, the islands are British Overseas Territories. 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. Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. Let's continue. In general, the BVI doesnt have the same system of named streets and addresses as in the States, and Amazon wont deliver. 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. Editors Note: Some of the information below may be out-of-date. Those jobs are most likely in the tourism sector, especially in the watersports industry, as the BVI is the bareboating capital of the world. By some quirk of British colonial history, Virgin Islanders drive on the left side of the road, British style, but use left-hand drive cars (American style). Scuba instructors and servers in the restaurant industry are also valuable. Expect something closer to $1,500-$3,000 with a high-quality, reputable service provider. 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. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from sailing and snorkeling to hiking and exploring the islands. . All rights reserved. There is beach bar available for eats and drinks. 2021 1st Day of Summer. The best thing is, that almost all houses have some kind of ocean view. No minimum capital requirements. The Channel Islands are situated in the English Channel between Britain and France. Average prices of more than 40 products and services in British Virgin Islands. Posted : June 28, 2007 9:05 pm. People are willing to share with each other. The beach life is perfect but you have to have this particular mindset. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. St Lucia Vs St Thomas: Which Island Is Better For A Vacation, Best Caribbean Islands For Solo Female Travel, Living In The British Virgin Islands ( Pros & Cons), Living In St Thomas (Pros & Cons Fully Explained), Your email address will not be published. Additionally, the Governor of the BVI John Rankin on February 22nd, 2021 shared his concerns about crime on the island. On the other hand, living in British Virgin Islands has its cons such as the threat of natural disasters, high cost of living and limited job opportunities. Hop on a (fairly priced) ferry and spend your day at one of the many gorgeous beaches the other islands have to offer. What appliances are typically included in a rental. The cost of living in the Canary Islands is cheaper than in the UK, US or Northern Europe. Required fields are marked *. We hit the jackpot when we found one with direct beach access for a good price. Virgin Gorda has the magnificent boulders at Spring Bay. I already mentioned the Painkiller: a mouth-watering mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped off with grated nutmeg. The road infrastructure could be further enhanced and there are areas where there are potholes. Living in the Virgin Islands is not a convenient lifestyle. On the other hand, living in British Virgin Islands has its cons such as the threat of natural disasters, high cost of living and limited job opportunities. 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 pros of living in British Virgin Islands are that the islands are safe, has friendly people, and amazing beaches. The main islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke BV Islanders are both British and EU citizens even though not part of the EU. Priced at just $16.95. I hope you like my site. All this peace and quiet actually also has its downsides. It is small and safe. Ease of travel 6. Or try a Bushwacker. So if you if you are considering a cruise for your next Caribbean vacation, check out How To Cruise For Less. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, the ease of island hopping, stable currency, and awesome beaches. The ability and island choices varies. Enjoyed reading about your BVI experiences. Victims were threatened at gunpoint and valuables such as cash, cellphones and vehicles were demanded. Moving the British Virgins Islands is not an easy decision. Sebastiaan loves his beers and cocktails, so he took me to quite a few. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Where possible, avoid being on the streets and in secluded areas alone especially at nights. Additionally, the health care system is adequate for certain situations. In fact, you may even take this chance to meet with a real estate lawyer or leasing agent. 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. 2020 prices. Medical visa to the United States of America is discretionary for other Caribbean 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. For those committing to the long haul, its simply a necessary step. These winds help to keep the temperatures comfortable and provide a refreshing breeze. Taxes paid on imported goods are levied at about 22 to 27 %. The Virgin Islands are also known for their spectacular sunsets, which can be enjoyed from many of the beaches and resorts. Search Island-wide Listings Here! These businesses only have branches in St Croix and St Thomas. The cost of goods on the island is extremely high. 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. Trust me, I have been in your shoes. As an island in the Caribbean, the hurricane season starts on June 1. These are naturally formed pools where you can enjoy the water and the amazing views. 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. Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum! I absolutely loved to walk the dogs on Long Bay beach. I already mentioned the Painkiller: a mouth-watering mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped off with grated nutmeg. 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