Theresa is 22 years old and she moved to the Saint John US Virgin Islands in 2023. She speaks English, German and French.
ABOUT
I’m from Germany where I worked as a physical therapist and nutritionist until the beginning of 2023. I always wanted to travel and make experiences in the world so I decided to live abroad as a Healthcare Professional for at least one year. I quit my German job and apartment and my parents are taking care of my German finances and insurance. I moved to St. John US Virgin Islands in 2023 where I work and live with a host family that I found through an agency, ApexSocial, with whom I now collaborate.
Moving to Saint JOhn USVI
How did you get set up on the St John US Virgin Islands?
My host family provided me with a phone and my American phone number. I opened a new PayPal Account which I also use as my daily bank account now.
How did you find a job on the St John US Virgin Islands?
I found a job through an agency which took care of my travel health insurance, flights and many other things. All in all they made it pretty easy for me.
What surprised you on the St John US Virgin Islands when you first arrived?
I was surprised that everything is so calm and less busy than somewhere else.
What are some apps that you find useful in your life on the St John US Virgin Islands?
There is an app called “St. John experience” which makes it easier in the beginning to find cool places.
Living in Saint John USVI
What is something we need to consider before moving to the St John US Virgin Islands?
If you think about moving to an island it is important to remind yourself of the isolation in many ways. Especially food! You can’t get that many brands and ranges down there but the question is whether you need this opportunity. Also not every company ships to the Virgin Islands and if they do, they mostly fee you extra.
What is your favorite restaurant on the St John US Virgin Islands?
My favorite restaurant is Windmill bar – especially for sunsets! But they have so many good food and drink places! If you wanna try good cocktails I would recommend Lovango Rum Bar – they also have the best Pizza!
The typical Cocktail in the Virgin Islands is called Painkiller which you should try at least once!
The typical Cocktail in the Virgin Islands is called Painkiller which you should try at least once!
What are the best times to go to the US Virgin Islands?
Usually the winter months are a bit cooler and more touristy than the hot summer months.
What is your favorite place on the St John US Virgin Islands?
My favorite place is Maho-Beach where you can go snorkeling and swim with sea turtles. But there are also a few nice hiking trails which I appreciate.
Did you feel safe as a woman?
St. John is a really safe place. Men may try to talk with you but they won’t get physical.
Is there an airport on the St John US Virgin Islands?
There is no airport on Saint John so you have to fly to Saint Thomas and come over by ferry.
What are some activities you can do on the St John US Virgin Islands?
I went diving for the first time in St John and it was AMAZING! The colors and animals you can see are beautiful.
Final Thoughts
What are the disadvantages of living on the St John US Virgin Islands?
It’s getting pretty hot and there are regular power outages. Also the prices are much higher than on the mainland.
Is it easy to make friends on the St John US Virgin Islands?
St. John is like a little town. The permanent residents know each other but many young people leave to go to college. So it is not that easy to find friends my age but in general everyone is open and happy to make friends!
What are your plans for the future?
I don’t have plans for my future yet. I could imagine staying for a longer time in St. John.
If you have more questions about my agency feel free to contact me via instagram , where I share some insights into my life.
Thank you so much Theresa for sharing your experience moving to the Saint John US Virgin Islands! It is definitely a unique experience. Can’t wait to learn more about it!
