In no way do I try to deter people from full-filling their dream of moving to a tropical island. St. Croix seems to be a natural fit. Not far from the mainland, under the U.S. Flag and its english speaking, for the most part.
Photo courtesy G. Lobb, PhotoBloomGL.com
As you know, what I do try to do is be honest about living conditions, especially when you are trying to raise a family. A recent BFM follower had the opportunity to spend a month on St. Croix before she decided to fully commit. Her perspective is interesting; one I thought I would share for the sake of sharing. I know you are curious. And she is just being honest:
Initially, I did not instantly love the island. I had heard stories of people falling in love and buying a condo/house in a weekend, so I kinda thought the love would be immediate? Not the case… Obviously it is beautiful but it really took a little while to realize that although it is called USVI it is Very different from in the mainland. Although I think if you visited any Podunk town in rural US things would be very different too. not suggesting STX is Podunk. There is clearly some very nice real estate and money and then not so much… I met tons of very nice people and really enjoyed our visit. I can say it no other than it really grew on me and I really loved it! I can see us living there in the future, living the lifestyle that is much more laid back. I was told prior to leaving by a 20yr resident that they could see cruzan was in my blood… With all the negatives I feel the positives would be more! Food does suck and is very expensive, especially dairy (milk!). My little guy still drinks a lot and was drinking organic, but not for 8$ half gallon! I couldn’t seem to justify it?! Otherwise, we had an awesome time, enjoyed the beaches and met some great people! I can’t exactly say what the future holds but I can see myself there in the near future.
So living anywhere has some negatives but with precautions life goes on and is enjoyable! The no taxes are great, so my thought is that the cost of electricity balances out with the minimal property taxes.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could try out any potential living option for a month to see how we like it? So, that is that. Not always the “we go tot he beach everyday” but there are so many good things about living here – it just may not be for everyone and I / we just want people to know how it really is.
Make it paradise where ever you are!
xo - bfm
