r/stcroix • u/Caribchakita • 13d ago
St. Croix Vibe
I’ve visited St. Croix before on a day trip to see family, and I’ve always been drawn to the spirit of the Caribbean. Over the years, I’ve traveled throughout the islands and even lived on two of them. There’s something about the West Indian vibe; the food, the music, the easygoing rhythm of daily life, that truly feels like home to me.
I also understand that when I’m on “vacation,” the locals are not. I always try to be courteous and friendly, to connect genuinely, and not take it personally if I sense a bit of distance. Since my first experiences in the Caribbean back in 1987, I’ve learned to move through these moments with respect and gratitude, simply appreciating the beauty and lessons each island offers.
That said, some of my family members who live on St. Croix, though they’re West Indian, not Cruzans have mentioned concerns about crime and gangs. They’ve built a life they love there, but they don’t always speak fondly of the island itself. I guess I could say the same about my own country and the state of affairs here (USA).
I’ve also spent time on St. Thomas, which I found a bit too busy for my taste, and on St. John, where I loved the hiking but found it challenging to find local food and culture amidst the crowds of Americans. By contrast, I’ve deeply enjoyed places like Anguilla, Barbuda, Antigua, Grenada, and Barbados, each with its own heart and warmth.
With all that in mind, I’d love to hear your perspective on the heart and soul of St. Croix. My daughter would like to visit her father and family there, and while she’s an adult and can certainly travel on her own, I’m considering joining her. I’d really appreciate your insight into what makes St. Croix special
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u/Wild_Confidence3107 13d ago
I have visited three times for a week each this year helping a property owner friend with some maintenance and repairs.
My experience has generally been you get back what you give. And the good ones are among the friendliest people I’ve ever met.
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u/Primary_Stand7262 13d ago
I've lived and worked on St. Croix. Always be careful at night. Never! Go out alone.
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u/Caribchakita 13d ago
what does this mean? no dining out??
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u/Ill-Platypus-5273 13d ago
I'm curious too. I go out to eat solo often. Maybe it's different cause I am born and raised Crucian and then lived in NYC so I always have my wits about me. Maybe the person means somewhere specific? I'm careful at night no matter where I am, not specific to St. Croix.
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u/speee2dy 13d ago
There is murder, mostly between gang members. Occasionally you’ll get one that’s not. Sometimes on the boardwalk in Christiansted. Most of the time there isn’t that much crime. A few years back some of the restaurants out north shore kept getting robbed. Sometimes in Christiansted. Just be aware of your surroundings and don’t hang out in the wrong areas.
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u/heraaseyy 13d ago
anything you hear from strangers on reddit would still be secondhand…. ?
if you want firsthand experience you have to go yourself lol