St. Thomas Armed Robberies
 

I've been seeing numerous articles about armed robberies taking place in the shopping area on the island of St. Thomas. Should travelers reconsider coming to St. Thomas for a day of shopping?

We shopped all day last Friday in St. Thomas throughout the Charlotte-Amalie area. We also had lunch in town, too. We didn't have a problem. I think it's a good idea to be just as cautious in St. Thomas as you would walking around any city. The only thing that bothered me while shopping in town was the jewelery store sales people who would stand on the sidewalk outside their shops trying to get people into their stores. Other than that, we loved the cheap prices and no sales tax!

We were there recently and spent one day in Town shopping and were in Town a couple of other times for dinner but not walking alone late at night or in the wee hours of the morning where tourists would not normally go. It was not a problem and it was not the horrid experience I expected and been told about. With all those people around I felt very safe and was

Carnival Cruise Lines just announced they will no longer stop in St. Croix because of continuing crimes against passengers. That's a loss of about $34 Million for the USVI. Here's an article describing that, as well as the crime rate statistics:<BR><BR>http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News%3ALocal&p=50251<BR><BR>Crime remains an issue there, so just exercise much more caution that usual.

Sure hope crime hasn't gotten that bad in St. Croix, as we plan on going there in a few weeks! Now I am concerned!!<BR>HELP

It seems that Carnival's pulling out of St. Croix had other underlying reasons. They are upset with the VI Governmant for not giving them carte blanche for developing the Crown Bay dock in St. Thomas. They had asked the police for more protection and received it as evidenced in the police retort to the situation in the link below. There are always two sides to every story!<BR>Ronnie<BR>http://www.dailynews.vi/storydetail.asp?storyid=5117

Cheryl - Don't worry about your trip; just exercise some caution, as you would on most Caribbean islands.<BR><BR>There are many places with crime problems, some worse than St. Croix, some arguably not as bad. For instance: Jamaica, Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Mexico.<BR><BR>I'm very careful on St. Croix after dark - pretty much stay at your hotel, or take a recommended taxi to a recommended restaurant.<BR><BR>Daytime isn't much of a problem, but avoid neighborhoods that look iffy to you, and don't go to isolated locations where there's no one else around.<BR><BR>Personally, I don't see much reason to spend time in Frederiksted, but the historic portions of Christiansted are definitely worth a daytime visit. And whatever you do, don't miss Buck Island!<BR>

Hi Thanks for your help as I do get hesitant from all you hear. Is is OK to go to Christianstead in the evening for dinner as I gather there are quite a few restaurants there, which ones do you recommend? Also, we will be renting a car, but do you think it is better to drive ourselvesto the restaurant, if we might be coming back after dark, or should be take a taxi?

Why would you even consider going somewhere that you have to ask if it's safe to go out in the evening for dinner?

Just returned from a week on St. Croix. Being from NYC, we know the rules for staying "alert" etc. On more than one occasion (early evening) in Christiansted, we felt ourselves to be in danger. Am not surprised to learn that Carnival is pulling out. We didn't expect to feel so unsafe at a well known tourist destination. Whole experience there was very disappointing. Would not recommend St. Croix to anyone!

Just curious when you were in Christiansted did you go you there for dinner, and did you drive yourself, or take a taxi. We have plans to go in a couple of weeks, and would like to go there for dinner on a couple of nights, and we were planning on renting a car, but are reconsidering. Thinking maybe it would be better to take a taxi to the restaurants. Please advise. Thanks.

This St Croix nonsense is amazing to me. Carnival had many reasons for ending the stops in St Croix but crime was not at the top of the list. The crime rate in St Thomas is much higher but they won't pull out because it's such an in demand island. <BR>We go to St Croix three times a year, are planning to retire there in 7 years and take exactly the same precautions we do at home. That only means common sense! Please visit beautiful St Croix, enjoy the beaches, snorkeling, history and the world class dining. If you're afraid, please stay home in Seacaucus or Duluth or Boston or Toledo, I'm sure you're much safer there!

Just curious NoFan. You let your feelings of being unsafe make you not recommend St. Croix to anyone. You care to expound on these feelings or did something actually happen?<BR>I usually feel unsafe every time I get on a plane to fly, but still fly, even though my feelings tell me otherwise, knowing full well is the safest mode of transportation. If I followed my feelings, I probably wouldn't fly! <BR>So, maybe it's was your expectation of something bad happening to you, because of the nonsense that you read here, that made you feel that way!<BR>Ronnie<BR>

First off - Hi Cheryl, we enjoyed having the rental car.No problem with driving on the island, in fact would recommend so that you're free to travel at your own pace and can visit some of the places that you wouldn't think of seeing if limited to taxi travel. Restaurants we enjoyed were "Indies" and "Savant". Savant has own parking lot, and we found parking close to Indies on the two occasions we went there. We also enjoyed a decent meal at The Terrace at The Buccaneer one evening, and dinner at Villa Madeline was okay too. Second - Lisa - what an angry response. Personal preference is all we're talking here. I hope you enjoy your retirement - St. Croix certainly seems like a place more suited to the more mature visitor. And.... finally, Ronnie - I rarely feel unsafe when I fly (which is something I do most every week, both nationally and internationally). My reasons for not recommending St. Croix didn't stem just from feeling unsafe. (FYI - this was my first visit to the Fodors Travel Talk site, so I hadn't read any of the "nonsense" that you mention before visiting the island.) We just didn't find much to get excited about there. People not exactly tourist friendly (with the odd exception), service mediocre, scenery so-so, beaches and activities poor, except for Buck Island. I don't want to get into a snippy back and forth email exchange, but very disappointed with the whole experience (and I did a LOT of research - online, offline before going). I think a lot of people from the US will be drawn to the USVI after 9/11. For my money, if you're set on one of the USV islands, you're better off in St. John if you're looking for natural beauty and less surly/begrudging service. That's all. No axe to grind, just telling it like we found it. Thanks.

NoFan, Thanks for your HONEST reply, really appreciate it Have never been before and just don't know what to expect, looking forward to just relaxing, some real r& r. Have been to Aruba, people were real nice there, don't really care, as long as we can relax. Don't understand why people have to get so defensive, this is supposed to be a board to help people, or so I thought???? Anyway, thanks again.

Well NoFan, I am not engaging in a back and forth argument. You have answered my question. I now see that you had other reasons, but before only stated feeling unsafe. Thanks for the clarification. Sorry you weren't treated as you are accustomed to or expected. Hopefully someone from St. Croix will take note of this.<BR>Ronnie

Ronnie owns property in the VI, so keep in mind he's here and on every other Carib board to downplay anything that could impact his income. <BR><BR>Bottom line ==&gt; Carnival stated crime was one reason for their pullout.

I neverled anyone to believe that I have no economic stake in the Virgin Islands. A year or so ago I happened onto a message board that had folks answering questions about the VI that they had no idea about. I started answering to the bestof my abilty to help. I have since found many boards and do try and help on those too.<BR>This board, however, seems to have many people that want to continue to bash one island or the other. There does not seem to be any sort of monitor and lots of folks do write some nasty things.<BR>When Nofan wrote that because of their feelings of fear that they would not return to St. Croix I thought it odd, they have since said thattheyfound theplace to be unfriendly, and that's the real reason why they won't return. I can I accept that. I would not return either. I stated that I hope that someonein St. Croix should take note of this and try and correct it. I really find no no offense in what I was sayingand don't see why owningproperty has anyrthing to do with it. Your email address, if correct shows that you are at CVOA.com which is Caribbean Villa Owners Assn, so it seems that you too have property somewhere in the Caribbean and may have some reason to be writing what you do. So be it.<BR>In regard to the Carnival issue. Yes, they stated that the reason that they were pulling out was because of crime. There was another article that I posted the link to that showes a different story about that situation.I showed another side and I understand there are other unpublished issues to be delt with that may have also prompted the pullout.There are people like David1019, whomever that may be,that think it is necessary to let everyone know about these things. The same way I feel it is necessary to show both sides, simple enough. Now please try and get back to answering questions about travel. Thank you.<BR>Ronnie

Having visited St. Thomas and St. Croix multiple times, I don't believe there is a significant difference in the severity of the crime problem on the two islands.<BR><BR>I prefer the beaches on St. Thomas, plus the access to St. John, Tortola, etc. On St. Croix we have had the good fortune of staying at a relative's house. If you're staying in a hotel, the Buccaneer is far and away the best place to be.<BR><BR><BR>

Ronnie, <BR><BR>that link you posted doesn't work. Could you post the correct link? Also, what is your financial interest in the VI? Do you rent property? And what do you have against David1019 for posting a link to some info that might help <BR>people on this forum?

Hi Joe,<BR><BR>I agree completely with Ronnie and have found his advice to be of great value on many different travel boards. I don't seem to remember seeing your productive posts on any boards though. I don't even own property on any of the USVI.<BR><BR>As for the link that was posted, I don't believe Ronnie had a problem with it, rather that if one wants the 'real' story of what is going on, one needs to understand much of the 'back-room' politics that takes place on the islands. The public statement issued by Carnival cruise lines conveniently forgets to mention the multi-million dollar hit it stands to take due to the cancelling of the development project it was backing.<BR><BR>As in the states, you can take the 'pablum' answer that is spoon fed to those unwilling to delve into the backround of issues or you can take the time to research beyond the easy answer. In this case some very knowledgeable individuals were trying to give more of the story than might be apparent to the casual observer.<BR><BR>Sorry if you don't like my answer, but try posting something that helps travelers to the USVI instead of grinding that axe.<BR><BR>Just my opinion.<BR><BR>Schultz

Schultz, <BR><BR>you and Ron both have an email address in the same format ([email protected] and [email protected]). What's up with that, are you AOL buddies or something, or do you both just cover each others backs?<BR><BR>By the way, I post info about many different countries, I'm not just pushing one island like you guys seem to be, if you are separate people that is.

Joe,<BR><BR>Yes, we are both on America on Line.....just like tens of millions of other people all around the world. Guess that means we are the same person. DUH!<BR><BR>Your last post proves my point. You have nothing positive to offer and only want to make derogatory comments when people don't agree with your juvenile posting. If you can't contribute to increasing everyone's knowledge and information about the Virgin Islands, stick with the other boards you frequent. <BR><BR>Personally, I stick with the couple of boards that deal with the islands I know best and have the most information to share. Obviously not a concern to you from what you say.<BR><BR>Schultz

Joe, sorry the link did not work. Something is wrong, can't even get onto their website.<BR>In regard to why I chose to ask why David1019 would write about Carnival Cruise line pulling out of St. Croix is this. Although St. Thomas and St. Croix are in the Virgin Islands, they are two different islands. The person asked about St. Thomas. To post a link about St. Croix and their problems with Carnival is irrelevant to me. Just like trying to compare New York City to Rochester. Same things don't apply to both cities.<BR>Yes, I own rental properties in St. Thomas. So what? Do you see me advertising them? I am a 4th generation Virgin Islander and just would like us to get a fair shake, rather than having to answer to a few detractors that always want to discredit the USVI for reasons unknown to me!<BR>Ronnie

Oh yeah, another thing. When I chose my screenname for AOL,I thought I was unique. I have since met online GuyUSVI and well as a USVISuzyQ. All three of us are different people with interests in the USVI in common!<BR>Ronnie

All I care about is the facts, which you and "Ronnie" want to spin according to your needs. I'm just happy to have pointed out where you guys are coming from (ie Ronnie owns two rental properties there). I'll take links to facts on the web over the opinions of guys like you guys any day. You just can't let ANYTHING negative be said about the USVI, you guys are POSERS.

Joe,<BR><BR>You don't care anything about the facts, especially when they don't back up your own little version of things. That is clear.<BR><BR>As for POSERS...you are the one who doesn't list a valid email address. I wonder how many different names you've posted under on this board.<BR><BR>Schultz

OK here's my "real" email address, am I legit like you POSERS now?<BR><BR>Here's a fact for you. The USVI has a murder rate 5 times the national rate in the US as reported here... <BR><BR>http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News%3ALocal&p=46435<BR><BR>Now lets listen to the USVI buddies whimper about how it's not really true somehow.<BR>

Joe,Tried to email you. Here is what I got:<BR><BR>The following problems occurred while processing your request:<BR><BR>joeusvi - This is not a known member.<BR><BR>So who is a POSER here. <BR>Ronnie

I was obviously being facetious about how anyone can claim their ID is valid, sorry if that went over your head... your argument about email address validity is a red herring. Who knows if your address is valid? Anyone loser can get an ID on AOL in a second.<BR><BR>Since you own property in the USVI you should state that fact when you give advice so that people don't think you're just an innocent tourist offering them advice. Anyone who owns property there certainly has a reason to try to counter the facts as reported by valid web sites like the St. Thomas Source.

Joe,<BR>I suppose I'm another "AOL Loser" but I just couldn't let this go by any longer. I don't own any property in the USVI, the only stake I have is desire for my next vacation. NO ONE has denied the existance of crime on the islands. What people like Ron and Schultz have attempted to do is bring some sense of perspective to the discussion. I just got home from a wonderful visit to St Thomas and St John and I'm hoping to get back this August with my 17 year old son. I certainly wouldn't bring my child if I didn't feel safe. <BR>There is crime and poverty everywhere on the planet. I live in the NY metro area and take normal common sense precautions in living my life. <BR>Why would someone want to scare people away from such a wonderful vacation destination? What stake do you have Joe? What happened to make you so angry at those of us that love the USVI? <BR>Be well all and happy traveling!<BR>Mary Beth

The way I see it, some people are trying to warn others of some incidents of rising crime in the USVI reported in the press. There's a history of different groups trying to suppress info like that. I'd rather have some links to web sites with real information rather than just another opinion from someone with an axe to grind or business interests to protect.

Well Joe, I guess you ready have been completely over my head. I guess I need to throw up the white flag and concede. You win.<BR>Let me understand this correctly first. You know I own 2 properties, you know I post on several message boards, you want me to qualify myself when I post as to my holdings. So, when a person asks which restaurant to go to or what beach is nice, I should say I own 2 properties before I answer to qualify my answer. I see.<BR>Why then don't you qualify when you answer questions on here? Why must I?<BR>Also since you know so well that I answer on so many other boards, boards that I must use my email address on, how do you know it's me? Mmmm. Seems to blow a hole in your belief about my email address being a made up one. Yes it's made up. Made up the day I signed up for AOL, has been RonUSVI since then. If you don't believe me, why not email me? Oh, maybe you won't, then I would know who you really are! Well take care Joe, or whoever you are, or will be next. <BR>I will give some thought to qualifying when I am answering questions, when I see everyone else doing it! Until then I will remain a proud Virgin Islander, whose family has been in these islands for 4 generations. Take care.<BR>Ronnie

While all of you debated whether or not crime is really an issue in the USVI, the Police on Monday May 6 identified the latest victim in the rapidly growing number of murders on St. Thomas this year. Read it for yourself:<BR><BR>http://www.onepaper.com/stthomasvi/?v=d&i=&s=News%3ALocal&p=50629<BR><BR>Is it OK to warn tourists that this is happening, or should I just keep quiet so that no financial interests are adversely affected?<BR>

I'm sure Herr Schultz will feel much more comfortable on Caribbean-On-Line where you'll usually find him, and where the operator of that Board will censor you to the hilt and delete posts if you even DARE say anything negative about those disgustingly AWFUL islands!!!

"Disgustingly awful islands"??? Sweetheart you are so sad,lonely and bored aren't you? Guess it's been awhile since you had your last Caribbean vacation huh? <BR>Here's an idea, get off the computer, get a job, save some money and go off to St John for a week or two. Maybe you'll make some friends.

Can Joe tolerate another resident posting something here without getting defensive and paranoid? <BR>I don’t think I know who Ron is and I don’t think I know who Schulz is. I don’t own property here in the Virgin Islands but I do have a small business, I’ve lived here for almost twenty years and will probably live here for the rest of my life. <BR>Joe, you and others who love to post all the negatives, do you know anything about the crime here other than what you read on-line? Have you ever followed up on the crimes that are committed either here or anywhere that you post about?<BR>It’s sad that you can’t get it through your head that a few of us who live here simply post once in a while (me rarely) to help visitors who have legitimate questions. It has nothing to do with protecting interests. We’re intelligent people who choose to live here, who know what’s going on better than those “outside” and who have something to share.<BR>We take pride in the place in which we live. It’s a joy to welcome visitors and share with them what we know about our home, it’s wonderful history and beautiful scenery. I would venture to suspect that you have been here at some time or the other and have had a problem which I would venture to guess had more to do with your general attitude and demeanor than anything else.<BR>Nobody is denying that we have crime here. Maybe you live in a shack in the wilderness where nothing bad ever happens, or maybe you’re just simply a miserable being who likes to create melee but my point is that you really should write about what you know or have experienced first-hand rather than trying to scare off people by perpetuating negatives that you obviously know nothing about.<BR>And, yes, this is my real e-mail address.

Get out the violin, another whining business owner crying now that it is painfully obvious so many people with financial interests are posing as tourists here, and trying to explain away violent crime. Its the same group on several different Carib boards, all trying to bash any messenger that doesn't have a rave review.<BR><BR>Gee, they have "real" email addresses. They must be honest.

The bottom line is to do your research to whatever place you travel. Contact their government, for that matter contact our government and see what they have to say. Go if you want to and don't go if you don't want to. What could be easier than that. <BR>

Hey, "Sadsack" -- why don't you try your nonsensical pop psychology on someone else. I have many friends on Grand Caymand and St. Barts -- the two most WONDERFUL islands in the Caribbean!!