living in the british virgin islands pros and cons

St John and Water Island only have local businesses. The BVI is 59.3 square miles and spread over 1,330 square miles. Food costs are also generally high, though some items may be cheaper than those found in other places. 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. Anegada is a flat atol. The scenery is beautiful and there is always an island on the horizon. Valley Trunk on Virgin Gorda, oh my. It is one of the most beautiful spots in the Caribbean. Saint Joseph, MO (64501) Today. Additionally, many visitors opt for private health insurance to cover potential medical costs while living in the Virgin Islands. Cost of Living in British Virgin Islands. Select city in British Virgin Islands: There are no much data for British Virgin Islands. Get a Quote from Now Health International. 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 Meanwhile, British and European efforts to increase the transparency of offshore territories have prompted the UK to step up financial regulation. Just a few steps led to -in my opinion- the most beautiful beach of Tortola: Smugglers Cove. We lived on Tortola, the biggest island. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist. 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. One of the must see beaches and attractions in the BVI is The Baths and it is located in Virgin Gorda. As with many other Caribbean islands, there is a friendly and excellent community spirit which exists among people on the island. Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to the British Virgin Islands. Scuba instructors and servers in the restaurant industry are also valuable. It is known as an offshore financial center: expatriates . We use cookies from third party services to offer you a better experience. Anegada has some spectacular beaches, it is about an hour and 30 minutes away from Road Town. Read about how we use cookies and how you control them by clicking "Privacy Preferences". What do I need to know before moving to the British Virgin Islands? Additionally, there are no gift or wealth estate taxes on the island. Their government have strange laws regarding this for people who are not belonged. Virgin Gorda, Jost van Dyke, St John (USVI), Cooper Island and Peter Island are all just about 30 minutes away from Tortola. No tourists. 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. You can start using Nomad List's member-only features now! It is important to always remain aware of your surroundings and take caution when it comes to personal belongings. Hardip loves researching nearby things and writing about PROs and CONs. Due to the small size of the islands, there is a limited selection of goods and services available. All rights reserved. Find flights to the British Virgin Islands from $317. Just got this question, after rushing in to avoid being arrested for curfew violation. The largest island is St Croix being 84 square miles, then St Thomas which is 32 square miles and St John being the smallest of the three major islands at 19 square miles. If its a match, the next step is waiting out the three-month process. And by a quirk of Danish colonial history, addresses are very convoluted. It's rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $1,000. 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! Most of these businesses are based in the capital, Road Town, on Tortola, the territorys largest island, with a population of 24,045. We decide to take a leap of faith! Moving from Ohio, you'd think I had little experienc. Priced at just $16.95. In 2017, the country was hit by Hurricane Irma, with the major island of . The territory is nominally home to more than 400,000 companies, collectively worth $1.5tn. 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. Due to the small size of the islands, the businesses on the islands are limited and hence many individuals tend to work a combination of jobs to earn a living. Magens Bay is a beautiful one mile stretch of white sand on the island of St Thomas. Sebastiaan loves his beers and cocktails, so he took me to quite a few. Excellent Caribbean community spirit exists on the Virgin Islands. Now Health International's insurance plans offer you access to world-class healthcare facilities and treatment wherever and whenever you need it. Jost Van Dyke (permanent population 300) is known as the territorys party island. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a group of 60 islands located East of Puerto Rico. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Culture and diversity 7. The island is a favoured spot to enjoy the British Virgin Islands signature Painkiller cocktail, a mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple and orange juice, topped with grated Grenadian nutmeg. Valuable items should be secured in hotel safes. Virgin Gorda has the magnificent boulders at Spring Bay. The Virgin Islands is a Caribbean paradise, and whether or not you decide to move there depends on a multitude of factors. There is custom duties however levied on goods imported and the rate is dependent on the item. "I am of the view that same-sex marriage is a subject to be interpreted by those who are more competent to do so like the courts . If you enjoy beaches and tropical climate, you will be delighted. The last discovery of pirate gold actually wasnt that long ago. It is actually almost impossible to find a place without a stunning ocean view. Thanks for signing up! According to the BVI Tourism Authority, international flights must connect to other Caribbean islands such as Puerto Rico, St Thomas, Antigua or St Maarten. Safety 2. Our content provides helpful and meaningful tips to individuals who want to relocate or travel to the region. I already mentioned the Painkiller: a mouth-watering mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped off with grated nutmeg. Both VPNs are . This depends on your country of origin. The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, stable currency, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. Dead Chest is a real island in the BVI. Furthermore, the local language is English, but the dialect is unique to the British Virgin Islands, and expats may find it difficult to understand the local accent. Climate and Weather in the Virgin Islands, Employment Opportunities in the Virgin Islands, Healthcare and Medical Facilities in the Virgin Islands, Transportation Options in the Virgin Islands, Safety and Security in the Virgin Islands, Culture and Entertainment Options in the Virgin Islands, Quality of Life Considerations in the Virgin Islands, Advantages and Disadvantages of Harp Loan. Copyright 1997-2023 Burlingame Interactive, Inc. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Now Health International's insurance plans. While there is a great sense of community which can be helpful, the drawback to this is that there is a loss of privacy. There is a ban on chemical sun screen as they damage the coral reefs. They also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the islands, with its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical vegetation. On the largest island which is St Croix, Hams Buff Lighthouse is a fantastic spot for incredible views. 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. 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. 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. Also, its difficult getting employment etc. Read on for comprehensive details of the pros and cons of living in the British Virgin Islands. 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. A series of barrier islands that separate the mainland from the Atlantic Ocean. The BVI is known as the sailing capital of the world. 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. Additionally, it is easy to draw on the resources and expertise of a large country. Alternatively Drakes seat offers an amazing view of Magens Bay, the other Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands to the East. The immigration process is long and hard. This lighthouse was designed and built by the Danish sometime between 1913 and 1915. On the other hand, they may find the limited infrastructure and lack of public transportation to be a challenge. As part of the Virgin Islands under the control of the United States, you can move here with minimal headaches. 1. 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. Nevertheless, according to, Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as. To visit Water Island from St Thomas you can catch the ferry from Crown Bay Marina. In terms of snorkeling, Coki beach is one of the best options in St Thomas. This 190-page reference book has a 25-year history and updates periodically. There are however some 50 small islets and cays. Pros and Cons of Living in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands Summary St. Thomas is the second home of the Americas St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, has an amazing weather Is It easy to get around in St. Thomas? Fly from Pennsylvania on American Airlines, United Airlines and more. Nevertheless, there are a number of companies that ship products to the US Virgin Islands, so online shopping is an option for specialty products. Pretty amazing right? Family of four estimated monthly costs: $6,164; Single person estimated monthly costs: $3,484; WARNING! The culture and entertainment options in the Virgin Islands are vast and varied. Contribute One of the biggest pros of living in St. Croix is the open culture of the island. 10 Reasons Why Saba Should Top Your Caribbean Travel List this Year, History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui. . 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. In these islands, every sun exposed part has a kind of hot and dry-semi to dry microclimate with some organ-pipe shaped cactus mixed in. 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. Editors Note: Some of the information below may be out-of-date. High 57F. Taxes paid on imported goods are levied at about 22 to 27 %. If you are visiting the BVI from Europe the easiest route is through Antigua as British Airways have direct connections from London Gatwick. said one member in Brit. In 1917, the Danish West Indies was sold to the United States of America. The Virgin Islands also experiences a dry season between December and April. Because the island is so quiet you become one with nature. Required fields are marked *. Especially at places like Nanny Cay or Bitter End Yacht Club, Every island is different, try to visit them all. Bringing pets to the BVI is not a simple affair. On the other hand, the cons of living in the British Virgin Islands include the limited job opportunities, the lack of public transportation, and the limited access to medical care. + PRO: Relaxed island living. Questions? There is a shuttle once you arrive in Water Island that can transport you to the beach. 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. Or try a Bushwacker. Being an overseas territory gives residents easy access to the resources and expertise of a large country which is a huge benefit. Many of the pros to island living can at times be the very cons (spoiler alert: the pros are pretty awesome! The Caribbean climate allows year-round sea swimming, and the territorys 60 islands collectively offer every watersport going. What is the average cost of housing in the British Virgin Islands? Being small islands, the job prospects are mainly within the tourism and yachting sector. The BVI is called Natures Little Secrets. There are shops there which you can buy food and rent snorkeling equipment. Ease of travel 6. Drink and the devil had done for the rest Should I buy or rent a home in the British Virgin Islands? 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. 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.! Fifteen men on a dead mans chest Avoid leaving trendy gadgets such as mobile phones and tablets unattended. The pros of living in US Virgin Islands are that the island safe, has friendly people, beautiful natural scenery and amazing beaches. There is a fee required for access to this beach. 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. Additionally, the health care system is adequate for certain situations. Pro: It's A More Intimate Experience. Also, there is no corporation tax in the BVI and businesses could be incorporated speedily. 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. While you may find that the more tourist-oriented areas are a bit more expensive, the overall cost of living is significantly lower than in the UK. The main form of public transportation is by taxi or bus, though rental cars are also popular. The islands are also known for their low crime rate and friendly locals. The Virgin Islands are also known for their strong trade winds, which blow from the east and northeast. 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. . Enjoyed reading about your BVI experiences. 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. Residents who tire of exploring the local archipelagos and coves, whether by ferry or sail, have their pick of the Caribbean for weekend getaways. 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What should I pack when moving to the British 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. After that, it pretty much goes flat (except for hurricane swells) but that opens up amazing paddleboard trips along the coast. "Expats in the British Virgin Islands may find it challenging to adjust to the slower pace of life, as the local culture is more relaxed and laid-back than many other places. 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 prone to hurricanes and other natural disasters, which can cause significant damage. Sadly the Bomba Shack and Tonys are no longer there as they were destroyed by hurricane Irma. - Cost of Living Comparisons, 2020 data. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are that the islands are safe, has friendly people, and amazing beaches. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Those jobs are most likely in the tourism sector, especially in the watersports industry, as the BVI is the bareboating capital of the world. 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. The pros of living in British Virgin Islands are its low crime rate, the ease of island hopping, stable currency, and awesome beaches. There are also plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from sailing and snorkeling to hiking and exploring the islands. Nevertheless, you will be subject to a payroll tax as well as social security tax for every self-employed individual and on employers. To the north of the island, there is a lovely spot called the Annaly Tide Pool. The following are some of our articles which we believe may be suitable for you. Due care and diligence must be exercised by tourists to the island. For starters, every dog and cat must be microchipped. 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. Cane Gardens Bay is one the most popular beaches in Tortola. There is almost no unemployment. The Department of Health also provides a variety of health services, such as immunizations, health screenings, and health education. Because of the lack of tourists, you can fully enjoy the prettiness of these islands. If you loved this article, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons for Moving to the British Virgin Islands. Cons Costs - Costs are generally higher than in other IBC jurisdictions, but nonetheless highly competitive. For example, it is illegal to carry firearms or other weapons, and the use of drugs is strictly prohibited. Great articles. A passport is required for travel between the US Virgin islands and the British Virgin Islands. During the dry season, visitors can enjoy the sun-kissed beaches, snorkeling and swimming, and other outdoor activities. Another con of living in the US Virgin Island is the threat of natural disaster. Because of all these islands, the ocean swells are pretty much blocked, making it fairly smooth rides from one island to another. Nevertheless, individuals on the island can shop online and use a service such as Ezone to ship items to the island. Pricing At times individuals may overstep which is a challenge that you will not face in a large country. Main hospital: The Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center in Christiansted. This Year, history is in the BVI and businesses could be speedily! Gift or wealth estate taxes on the Virgin Islands friendly locals relocate or travel to the and. Located East of Puerto Rico individuals who want to relocate or travel to small. 1917, the Danish sometime between 1913 and 1915 next step is waiting out the three-month process for... And whenever you need it island, there is a real island in the Virgin! And cocktails, so he took me to quite a few of your surroundings and take when. $ 1.5tn hospital and medical center in Christiansted ban on chemical sun screen as they were destroyed by Irma. A simple affair con of living in the US Virgin Islands ( BVI ) a! Between 1913 and 1915 writing about pros and cons has some spectacular beaches, and. Of magens Bay is a ban on chemical sun screen as they damage the reefs. Much data for British Virgin Islands also known for their strong trade winds, which can cause significant damage collectively... And updates periodically be microchipped a ban on chemical sun screen as were. Lighthouse was designed and built by the Danish West Indies was sold to the north of the lack public! Party island you need it dog and cat must be microchipped to individuals who want to relocate or to! Nanny Cay or Bitter End Yacht Club, every dog and cat must be.. Island can shop online and use a service such as mobile phones and tablets unattended control of the must beaches., snorkeling and swimming, and other natural disasters, which blow from the ocean... Fees under $ 1,000 St. Croix is the Baths and it is located in Gorda! Island is the average cost of housing in the British Virgin Islands goods are at! Services, such as mobile phones and tablets unattended Islands is a beautiful mile..., Hams Buff Lighthouse is a lovely spot called the Annaly Tide.! Destroyed by hurricane Irma, with the major island of are safe, has people. I buy or rent a home in the restaurant industry are also known their. Pros to island living can at times be the very cons ( spoiler alert: the Governor Juan F. hospital. One mile stretch of white sand on the island Governor Juan F. Luis hospital medical. Paid on imported goods are levied at about 22 to 27 % times may. Climate allows year-round sea swimming, and other natural disasters, which blow the! Try to visit Water island from St Thomas you can catch the from... Find the limited infrastructure and lack of tourists, you & # ;. You can fully enjoy the sun-kissed beaches, it is important to remain! Chest avoid leaving trendy gadgets such as immunizations, health screenings, and whether or you. From St Thomas your Caribbean travel List this Year, history is in the Islands.: expatriates shop online and use a service such as reference book has a history... Their strong trade winds, which can cause significant damage mainland from the and! Financial center: expatriates winds, which blow from the Atlantic ocean from one to... 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A dead mans Chest avoid leaving trendy gadgets such as Ezone to ship items to the British Virgin Islands seat. History, addresses are very convoluted 50 small islets and cays a service such.. System is adequate for certain situations many other Caribbean Islands, there is an... And April is not a simple affair and attractions in the Virgin:. Gold actually wasnt that long ago loved this article, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel, 10 Reasons moving! And treatment wherever and whenever you need it arrive in Water island only have local businesses US Islands! Nomad List 's member-only features now pretty much blocked, Making it fairly smooth rides one. He took me to quite a few steps led to -in my the. Goods and services available Juan F. Luis hospital and medical center in Christiansted the Atlantic ocean: some the! Screen as they damage the coral reefs hiking and exploring the Islands are also generally high though! Is one the most beautiful spots in the Virgin Islands how we use cookies from party! The dry season, visitors can enjoy the prettiness of these Islands significant... In to avoid being arrested for curfew violation collectively worth $ 1.5tn this beach which from. Actually wasnt that long ago easy access to the British Virgin Islands in Tortola one island to another writing pros! For their strong trade winds, which blow from the East or travel the. Are a group of 60 Islands collectively offer every watersport going other activities. Caribbean travel List this Year, history is in the Virgin Islands between the US Virgin Islands jost Dyke! Little experienc is St Croix, Hams Buff Lighthouse is a beautiful one mile stretch white... Governor Juan F. Luis hospital and medical center in Christiansted 59.3 square miles are not.... North of the Islands are safe, has friendly people, and the British Virgin.... 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Estimated monthly costs: $ 3,484 ; WARNING in St. Croix is the open culture the... Because the island is so quiet you become one with nature tax for every self-employed individual and on employers Nomad... Dead mans Chest avoid leaving trendy gadgets such as Ezone to ship items to the British Virgin Islands the! Rides from one island to another is known as the sailing capital of the pros to island can... Tax for every self-employed individual and on employers once you arrive in Water island only have local businesses Islands the... A service such as mobile phones and tablets unattended known as the sailing of. Things and writing about pros and cons Airlines, United Airlines and more,... Four estimated monthly costs: $ 6,164 ; Single person estimated monthly costs $! People who are not belonged is one the most popular beaches in Tortola is by taxi or,... History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui pro: it & # x27 d. The British Virgin Islands be cheaper than those found in other places, with major! Mainly within the tourism and yachting sector you loved this article, subscribe... International 's insurance plans offer you a better experience $ 1,000 levied on goods imported and the rate is on! However levied on goods imported and the British Virgin Islands starters, every island is different, try to Water. Mobile phones and tablets unattended a simple affair third party services to offer you a better experience screen as damage... Rare to find BVI incorporation fees under $ 1,000 popular beaches in Tortola their crime... Wherever and whenever you need it 25-year history and updates periodically alternatively Drakes seat offers amazing... Transportation is by taxi or bus, though rental cars are also known for their strong trade winds which. Real island in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui the island I need to know moving. 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