Surviving--And Thriving--In The Tropics
The exotic beauty of the Virgin Islands seems beyond compare with many properties offering a multi million-dollar view, regardless of the structure's price tag. Reliable Realty Inc. can acquaint you with any number of villas, condos and homes offering breathtakingly beautiful panoramas. But even if you are preparing to retire, free from financial cares, keep in mind that the most exquisite destination can have its quirks. You are infusing yourself in a new community -- and an entirely new culture. Although the American flag flies proudly in the air, the history and mystery of the Virgin Islands is 100 percent Caribbean.
That's where a savvy island realtor can make all the difference. At Reliable Realty Inc we take the time to take you beyond the initial drama of teal green seas and lush foliage. Not only do we want to see you survive island living -- we want you to thrive. We will help familiarize you with the untold joys -- as well as the many challenges -- unique to the territory. If you are prepared to deal with the idiosyncrasies of tropical living, the rewards can be great.
Currency
The U.S. Virgin Islands is an American territory and the U.S. dollar is the official currency. Take note that in the nearby British Virgin Islands, the U.S. dollar also is the accepted currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are plentiful.
Language
The official language is English, but you may also hear some locals speak in Creole or Patois. Because of the island's colonial history, you will also hear Spanish and French.
Safety Tips
Safety is no different an issue in the Virgin Islands than anywhere else. Common sense rules. Lock your car, your door and never leave possessions unattended.
Shopping
Duty-free shopping in the quaint downtown areas is a major draw for tourists on all three U.S. Virgin Islands. Residents tend to frequent the major retailers beyond town including Kmart, Home Depot, Cost-U-Less and Price Smart. Many independent retailers are located in popular shopping areas including Yacht Haven Grande, Havensight Mall, Tutu Park Mall and American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook.
Medical Services
Moving anywhere can be a challenge, even if it is just across the street. If you are planning a major move from mainland USA all the way to the U.S. Virgin Islands, it is important to keep your stress level in check. Reliable Realty Inc. will be happy to help.
One of the most vital things you need to do before you move is to collect all your medical records including prescriptions and treatments from your current physician, dentist, orthodontist and eye care professional. It is also advisable to ask your doctors whether they recommend any appropriate referrals fo you in your new community.
As soon as you arrive, you can rest easy knowing that state -of-art health servises are availabe on all three islands. The Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital and Medical Center is located at Estate Diamond Ruby on St. Croix. The Roy Lester Schneider Hospital and Community Health Center on St Thomas is at Sugar Estate. Both hospitals provide outpatient services as well as traditional medical and surgical units. On the island of St. John, emergency, routine practice and women's health care is provided at the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center.
Both hospitals are modern facilities equipped with radiology, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, orthopedic, pharmaceutical, intensive care, hemodialysis and cardiology services. The hospital on St. Thomas has the only hyperbaric chamber in the region.
St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix each have a number of dental, optometry and mental health services available both publicly and privately. For example, Dr. James P. Clayton owns and operates Cruz Bay Family Practice on St. John as well as the Red Hook Family Practice and Yacht Haven Family Practice on St. Thomas. The facilities offer emergency services 24 hours a day in addition to regular full medical centers services.
A number of pharmacies are licensed in the territory and offer quality service with the same rules, regulations and guidelines familiar in any U.S. pharmacy. Welcome differences might be found in the personalized attention you receive at a Virgin Islands pharmacy. a small town quaintness and familiarity tends to exist in many local establishments.
In the case of advanced medical treatment needs or for those who want the peace of mind to travel back to a hometown base, an air ambulance is available. Several companies including MASA and SkyMed provide insurance coverage for emergency situations.
With regard to health insurance, your stateside carrier may not apply in the USVI. Although some companies cover medical expenses incurred in the islands, many do not. It is imperative that you check and -- if necessary -- change carriers.
