/r/stcroix

Photograph via snooOG

St Croix - US Virgin Islands

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/r/stcroix

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1

Weather Changing?

I looked at the two-week forecast for Christiansted and the weather looks horrible! Cloudy and rainy. Is that typical for early November? We are not coming until early December but I’m slightly worried…Thanks!!

3 Comments
2024/10/31
18:19 UTC

2

Is there any volunteering jobs that work with animals in STX?

Hey guys the other day I requested info on where to find a job here and I found one! Thank you guys!

Now I ask if there any farm that needs part time help with animal? Horses? Dogs? Etc.

Mostly going to a place and help, not so much in taking the work home, like fostering…

If you know of anyone, let me know.

6 Comments
2024/10/30
22:04 UTC

4

Pool at Carambola

Has anyone been to Carambola lately? Are they actively working on the pool remodel? We’re going to be out there most of January and it’ll be really disappointing for my kids if the pool is still shut down.

We’ve stayed there twice and like the property, but sometimes when they say they’re working on something they’re not really making progress.

5 Comments
2024/10/30
15:06 UTC

1

Restaurants open Mondays

Hi everyone, my husband and I are going to St. Croix for our anniversary, which happens to fall on a Monday. I know many places are closed on Mondays so I wanted to see if anyone here had recommendations. Thanks in advance!

4 Comments
2024/10/29
04:34 UTC

2

Hotel for kids and snorkeling

Hi everyone! We’re looking for a hotel that is optimum for kids and snorkeling. We have adventurous 10 year olds and would love some recommendations. Thanks so much for the help!

10 Comments
2024/10/28
23:42 UTC

3

Job searching

Hey guys new to this app but I figured since im on the job hunt might as well ask here.

Anybody hiring?

5 Comments
2024/10/27
18:57 UTC

1

Generator technicians on island

Hello all. Does anyone have any recs for someone who can work on/troubleshoot a 22kw generac generator? It powers our entire home during the frequent Wapa outages. Runs on propane.

2 Comments
2024/10/26
17:01 UTC

1

El Leon

What happened to El Leon? Was looking forward to trying it when we come in December. Saw it’s permanently closed.

8 Comments
2024/10/21
23:45 UTC

0

Clothing optional in St Croix

3 Comments
2024/10/19
17:27 UTC

2

USVI over Thanksgiving?

Hello.

My wife and I want to take our two year old to USVI or PR the week of Thanksgiving.

I keep reading about dengue fever.

Multiple layers and lathering repellent don't sound like a fun vacation.

How bad is it really?

18 Comments
2024/10/15
23:28 UTC

2

Frederiksted Cruise Ships

Hi! Just wondering if it’s recommended to stay away from Frederiksted the days when the cruise ships come in. We will be first time visitors. Thanks!

11 Comments
2024/10/15
19:46 UTC

3

Car rental vs taxi/walking/biking

Hi! Were coming to visit in February and wondering if a car rental is necessary. We’re looking at staying in christenstad and mainly doing a lot of diving. Everything around there looks pretty walkable and I saw that there’s an Avis rental shop in town if we wanted to take a car for a day. Is this reasonable or should we just rent one for the whole time to be safe? Are taxis fairly easy to get? Can you bike at all? We’ll be there for five days before our friends come. Then we’ll have a giant van for everyone.

12 Comments
2024/10/02
13:54 UTC

1

Sound Equipment Rental

Does anyone know who ‘the guy’ is to call on the island for a small/mid size concert set up?

Can’t figure on google. Thanks!

3 Comments
2024/09/26
04:20 UTC

3

Estate solitude

I used to live in St Croix early 70’s ( as a kid ) , we lived in Estate Solitude ( what is was called ) . Anyone from that area ? There were only a few houses on the hillside at that time .

11 Comments
2024/09/20
18:13 UTC

1

Contaminated water after a storm?

I hear that after a storm you shouldn't go into the water due to contamination. What does that mean? Do you get sick? How long does it last? What should you look for? I'm just wanting to learn more.

7 Comments
2024/09/12
02:10 UTC

3

Car rental suggestions anyone? Will be there one week over Christmas.

17 Comments
2024/09/05
01:38 UTC

2

Condo complex suggestions

My wife and I are looking at buying a St. Croix condo in the near future as a vacation/eventual snowbird retirement site.

Does anyone have any insight into any of the various condo locations? We would like at least 2 bedrooms and have a price range up to around $600k. Any experience with using it as a rental part time?

We have visited the island half a dozen times in the last 15 years so are somewhat familiar with basic geography.

Thanks in advance

13 Comments
2024/09/05
01:06 UTC

13

Review of Big Beard tour

We took the 10am, half day tour and we loved it. The Buck island US national monument is a must see landmark and an experience of a life time. The reef and the fish are an incredible sight. It's like jumping into an aquarium.

Note: Snorkeling is a physical activity and the reef has slightly rough water depending on the tide, so stay within your limits. The captain and crew member are watching everyone like a hawk, but if there are multiple tours, it might be difficult for them to track everyone all the time.

Big beard was a good choice for us. They seem very experienced and well staffed. The Catamaran is big and comfortable for the long ride to the island. About half the people on the tour were noobs like us and the experienced guests were very friendly and nice people.

We were first taken to turtle beach on the island, where we were given snorkeling gear and lessons. We got to practice and swim around this side where they have nice fish watching and turtle grass. Then we got back on the boat and headed to the reef itself. The crew member took everyone out on a round of the underwater trail. She trailed a rope with an inflated ring that those who were a little scared could hang on to. She then let us explore by ourselves and we had a blast following the underwater trail marker. We were blown away by the underwater scenery and the vibrant and colorful fish. We even saw big Tarpon (or is it Barracuda?) cruising majestically by. The experience exceeded my expectations and what i imagined by 1000x. Nothing compares to the real thing. It made the whole flight and trip worth it.

We reluctantly dragged ourselves back to the boat when the horn sounded and enjoyed the cruise back. They had cold water and punch for the guests. This was no ordinary punch. Real punch, made from fruit and optional vodka for adults. It was a treat in itself.

Overall: Highly recommended - Don't miss

4 Comments
2024/09/01
22:26 UTC

1

what is the best hotel/not too pricey resort location with the best snorkeling?!

5 Comments
2024/08/30
16:09 UTC

3

Is it windy enough to kite?

We will be traveling to st croix next week. I dont want to waste room in my luggage for no reason so just wondering if it's windy enough to Kite? My husband has a large synapse Kite he likes to fly.

Saw mixed answers on google.

Thanks for any advice!

8 Comments
2024/08/24
19:10 UTC

4

Island wildlife

What are animals we should be aware of both hiking and snorkeling on the island? I'm from Texas where we don't mess with nature because nature can be large, venomous, and fast. I'm non of those things.

21 Comments
2024/08/19
01:37 UTC

8

I hope all is ok after Ernesto

My wife and I visited the island in June on our first vacation alone since we were married 17 years ago and fell in love with everything and everyone!

We hope you are all ok!!!

7 Comments
2024/08/17
23:01 UTC

2

How windy is Cane Bay end of March typically?

We are looking to snorkel/swim and are wondering if we can expect calm water to do this or will it typically be very windy? If not calm, are there other places close by that would be? I think we would be staying in the Cane Bay area. Thanks!

3 Comments
2024/08/09
04:01 UTC

1

Weather Mid August?

Hi Its me again!

So I am getting close to booking my trip for mid august. I am looking and it seems like mostly 89 with a real feel of 96. I lived in texas for 10 years and now am in the south east so I am used to the heat.

My question is if I want to do outdoor stuff like hiking is it to hot to do so? I am used to 99 degree weather with a real feel or 106 but typically I just stay inside.

Appreciate it!

9 Comments
2024/08/08
13:36 UTC

0

Yes another thread about asking where to stay

Hi Everyone. I am sure this has been posted but wanted to give you a little background of what I am looking for and maybe I could get some tips on where to stay

  • mid 30's married male coming solo for a couple days to relax before I start new job
  • don't drink but like being around the bar scene and talking to people
  • like going to shops and like little towns
  • will rent a car so don't have to be in town
  • not opposed to renting an air bnb that is on the beach but also not opposed to a resort

all in all i'm just looking for a spot to relax for a couple days, do some outdoor adventures and walk around some shops and maybe chat with the locals at a bar.

TIA!

15 Comments
2024/08/04
03:47 UTC

0

People keep saying our government is corrupted

Of course, I don’t believe in rumors, I give people even politicians the benefit of the doubt. Let’s say there are some corrupted politicians though, how do we defeat this?

I say overfill them. If money is what is making them stray from righteousness then give them an unlimited credit card, let them spend as much as they want whatever they want.

At this point I do not know how to stop corruption. I do believe a person has to stop themselves.

Politicians of St Croix, please, it’s time we prosper.

21 Comments
2024/08/02
02:20 UTC

1

Healing hands?🙌

Any massage parlors around or someone that knows what they're doing?

0 Comments
2024/07/28
15:06 UTC

4

Going in December to Christiansted looking for maybe a private chef for some easy meals for 9 people. Has anyone ever done it and recommendation?

3 Comments
2024/07/25
01:53 UTC

8

A detailed plan for making St. Croix self-sustainable across various domains:

Comprehensive Sustainability Plan for St. Croix

  1. Renewable Energy

A. Solar Power

  1. Solar Farm Development
    • Action: Identify and secure land for large-scale solar farms.
    • Timeline: 1-2 years for site selection, 2-3 years for construction and commissioning.
    • Budget: go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, private investors, local utilities.
    • Outcomes: Reduced dependency on fossil fuels, lower electricity costs.
  2. Incentives for Residential and Commercial Solar
    • Action: Introduce tax incentives, rebates, and grants for solar panel installations.
    • Timeline: Immediate implementation with ongoing evaluation.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, homeowners, businesses.
    • Outcomes: Increased adoption of solar energy, lower energy bills.

B. Wind Energy

  1. Wind Turbine Installation
    • Action: Conduct feasibility studies to identify optimal locations for wind turbines.
    • Timeline: 1 year for studies, 2-3 years for installation.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, private sector, environmental agencies.
    • Outcomes: Diversified renewable energy sources, enhanced energy security.

C. Energy Storage

  1. Battery Storage Solutions
    • Action: Develop and install battery storage systems to stabilize the energy grid.
    • Timeline: 2-3 years.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, energy companies, technology providers.
    • Outcomes: Improved grid reliability, better energy management.
  2. Local Agriculture

A. Sustainable Farming

  1. Organic Farming Practices
    • Action: Provide training and resources for organic farming techniques.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Farmers, agricultural extension services, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Healthier crops, reduced environmental impact.
  2. Crop Diversification
    • Action: Encourage the cultivation of a variety of crops to ensure food security.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Farmers, agricultural researchers, government agencies.
    • Outcomes: Increased food self-sufficiency, resilience against crop failures.

B. Aquaponics and Hydroponics

  1. System Implementation
    • Action: Set up pilot projects and training programs for aquaponics and hydroponics.
    • Timeline: 1-2 years for pilot projects, ongoing for scaling.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Farmers, educational institutions, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Efficient food production, reduced water usage.

C. Support for Local Farmers

  1. Subsidies and Infrastructure Development
    • Action: Provide financial subsidies, build infrastructure, and offer marketing support.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, farmers' associations, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Increased agricultural productivity, stronger local economy.
  2. Water Management

A. Rainwater Harvesting

  1. System Installation
    • Action: Mandate rainwater harvesting systems in new buildings and retrofit existing structures.
    • Timeline: 1-2 years for policy development, ongoing for implementation.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, construction industry, homeowners.
    • Outcomes: Enhanced water availability, reduced strain on municipal supply.

B. Desalination Plants

  1. Plant Development
    • Action: Construct desalination plants to convert seawater into potable water.
    • Timeline: 3-5 years.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, private investors, water utilities.
    • Outcomes: Reliable water supply, resilience to drought.

C. Efficient Irrigation

  1. Drip Irrigation Systems
    • Action: Promote the use of drip irrigation systems in agriculture.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Farmers, agricultural extension services, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Water conservation, increased crop yields.
  2. Waste Reduction

A. Recycling Programs

  1. Comprehensive Recycling Initiatives
    • Action: Establish recycling centers and implement curbside recycling programs.
    • Timeline: 1-2 years for setup, ongoing for operation.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, waste management companies, residents.
    • Outcomes: Reduced landfill use, increased recycling rates.

B. Waste-to-Energy

  1. Technology Implementation
    • Action: Explore and invest in waste-to-energy technologies.
    • Timeline: 3-5 years.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, private investors, waste management companies.
    • Outcomes: Reduced waste, additional energy generation.

C. Education and Incentives

  1. Public Awareness Campaigns
    • Action: Launch educational campaigns on waste reduction and recycling.
    • Timeline: Immediate and ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, NGOs, media outlets.
    • Outcomes: Increased public participation, reduced waste generation.
  2. Economic Diversification

A. Tourism Development

  1. Eco-Tourism and Cultural Tourism
    • Action: Develop eco-friendly tourism projects and promote cultural heritage sites.
    • Timeline: 2-3 years.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, tourism industry, local communities.
    • Outcomes: Sustainable tourism growth, increased local income.

B. Local Manufacturing

  1. Small-Scale Manufacturing Support
    • Action: Provide incentives and infrastructure for local manufacturing.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: Go to debt
    • Stakeholders: Government, entrepreneurs, investors.
    • Outcomes: Job creation, reduced import dependency.

C. Technology and Innovation

  1. Tech Hubs and Innovation Centers
    • Action: Establish tech hubs and provide support for startups.
    • Timeline: 2-3 years for setup, ongoing for operation.
    • Budget: $10 million for initial setup, $5 million annually for operation.
    • Stakeholders: Government, educational institutions, private sector.
    • Outcomes: Attraction of talent, innovation-driven economic growth.
  2. Education and Community Engagement

A. Sustainability Education

  1. School Curricula Integration
    • Action: Integrate sustainability topics into school curricula.
    • Timeline: Immediate and ongoing.
    • Budget: $1 million annually for curriculum development and teacher training.
    • Stakeholders: Government, educational institutions, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Increased awareness and knowledge among students.

B. Community Involvement

  1. Engagement Programs
    • Action: Organize community workshops and participatory planning sessions.
    • Timeline: Ongoing.
    • Budget: $2 million annually.
    • Stakeholders: Government, community organizations, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Greater community ownership and participation in sustainability initiatives.

C. Public-Private Partnerships

  1. Collaboration and Funding
    • Action: Foster partnerships between the government, businesses, and NGOs.
    • Timeline: Immediate and ongoing.
    • Budget: $5 million annually for partnership development.
    • Stakeholders: Government, private sector, NGOs.
    • Outcomes: Enhanced resource pooling, increased project success rates.

This comprehensive plan leverages a multifaceted approach to achieve self-sustainability for St. Croix, balancing environmental, economic, and social aspects to create a resilient and thriving community and world wide visitors. —————————- St. Croix, as part of the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI), has a limited GDP. The USVI's GDP was approximately $4.8 billion in 2019. Implementing a comprehensive sustainability plan as detailed above would require substantial investment, potentially exceeding the financial capacity available through the local GDP alone. Here are considerations and potential funding sources: Considerations

  1. High Initial Costs: We will need a lot of community involvement and outreach we need all hands on deck to build structures and maintain as well.
  2. Long-Term Savings: Investments in renewable energy, water management, and waste reduction can lead to long-term savings and economic benefits. In the end it’ll all pay off for all of us, and future generations.
  3. Incremental Payback Plan: We need infrastructure loans from countries that are willing to understand our history and help us with a better future.

Contract out China, Japan, Denmark, US, ANYONE Potential Funding:

  1. Federal and International Grants: Seek grants from U.S. federal agencies (e.g., Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency) and international organizations (e.g., United Nations, World Bank).
  2. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaborate with private companies and investors who have an interest in sustainable development.
  3. Tourism Revenue: Increase revenue from eco-tourism and cultural tourism to fund sustainability projects.
  4. Green Bonds: Issue green bonds to attract investment specifically for environmentally friendly projects.
  5. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Partner with NGOs that focus on sustainability and development.
  6. Community Funding: Encourage local participation through crowdfunding and community investment initiatives.

Revised Budget Outline with Potential Funding Sources

  1. Renewable Energy
    • Solar Farm Development: $50 million (Federal grants, private investment)
    • Residential/Commercial Solar Incentives: $10 million annually (State and federal incentives, green bonds)
    • Wind Turbine Installation: $30 million (Private sector investment, green bonds)
    • Battery Storage Solutions: $20 million (Federal grants, public-private partnerships)
  2. Local Agriculture
    • Organic Farming Practices: $5 million annually (Federal agricultural programs, NGOs)
    • Crop Diversification: $2 million annually (Agricultural grants, local government budget)
    • Aquaponics/Hydroponics: $3 million (Private investment, community funding)
    • Support for Local Farmers: $10 million annually (Federal subsidies, local government budget)
  3. Water Management
    • Rainwater Harvesting: $5 million (Federal grants, local government)
    • Desalination Plants: $50 million (Public-private partnerships, international funding)
    • Efficient Irrigation: $2 million annually (Federal agricultural programs, NGOs)
  4. Waste Reduction
    • Recycling Programs: $10 million initial, $2 million annually (Federal and state programs, private sector)
    • Waste-to-Energy: $30 million (Private investment, federal grants)
    • Education and Incentives: $1 million annually (Local government, NGOs)
  5. Economic Diversification -Tourism Development: $20 million (Tourism revenue, private sector)
    • Local Manufacturing: $15 million annually (Federal economic development programs, private sector)
    • Technology and Innovation: $10 million initial, $5 million annually (Federal grants, private sector)
  6. Education and Community Engagement
    • Sustainability Education: $1 million annually (Educational grants, local government)
    • Community Involvement: $2 million annually (Local government, NGOs)
    • Public-Private Partnerships: $5 million annually (Government and private sector collaboration)

Conclusion:

Change is possible, if you want it. Let’s thrive together.

28 Comments
2024/07/24
16:46 UTC

0

Visiting the island in August, couple of questions...

We are staying at the Buccaneer, we have never been to the island before. What are some good food, beach, and sightseeing recommendations from some locals or regulars?

Also, we play tennis quite a bit, I know our resort has courts, but are there any public courts to go and play with great views?

Thank you in advance!

11 Comments
2024/07/22
15:16 UTC

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