Escape the Winter Blues! WFH in the USVI.

With the advent of the pandemic, many more of us learned what it was like to work from home. While it was probably lovely compared to the long commute and cubicle work life, a lot of us could probably agree that it could be made better with a nearby view of white sands and turquoise waters—and we don’t mean the picture of it splashed across our computer screen by the screensaver, either.

Instead, it’s high time that the view should be featured outside our window for real and waiting for us whenever we leave the building. If that sounds like something you need, the United States Virgin Islands might be your next WFH destination. 

Why WFH in the cold when you can be in the USVI? 

When looking at the gray skies and feeling the bitter cold of winter, it's hard to imagine a more tropical place to work from home than the USVI. With average temperatures in the low 80s and crystal-clear waters, it's easy to forget all your worries and focus on your work.

It's Easy to Travel to for U.S. Citizens

The USVI offers some of the greatest work-life balance in the world with its relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty. And if you want to work from home abroad in its paradise-like settings, it's easy if you are a U.S. citizen.

With direct flights from major airports on the mainland, it's almost effortless to travel to the islands. Additionally, you don't need a passport if you are a U.S. citizen. And with English as the predominant language spoken on the islands and a strong infrastructure, it's easy to transition and get started working from home. Lastly, with no state income tax in the USVI, you can keep more of your hard-earned money.

Warm Weather to Fend Off Seasonal Depression and Stay Focused

Research shows there is a strong link between a lack of sunlight and the blues in late fall and winter time when the days are shorter. Therefore, if you are looking to escape the winter blues, the USVI is a great place to work from home and start feeling joyous again. With its warm weather and relaxed atmosphere, it's oh so easy to stay focused on your work while enjoying your surroundings.

Explore the Island After Work to Boost Mood and Stay Active

In addition to the great work-life balance, another benefit of working from home in the USVI is that you have plenty of time to explore the island. With beaches, hiking trails and world-class restaurants, there's no shortage of things to do outside of work.

US Companies That Have Hubs in USVI

Currently, the U.S. government offers several tax breaks for companies based in the Virgin Islands, including a 90% reduction in personal income tax and corporate income tax.

Because tourism, rum manufacturing, and tourist-based retail stores are the biggest drivers of the economy, the U.S. Virgin Islands doesn't have as many remote-enabled companies as there are on the mainland.

However, that's not to say that "giggers," solopreneurs and other remote workers can't find opportunities on the islands. St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John all have high-speed internet now and provide the perfect environment for remote workers to work in the USVI for U.S. mainland-based companies.

Many of the larger companies have hubs in the USVI and are always looking for talented remote workers to help with their projects. Some of these companies include Aerotek, Net Transcripts, Inc. and Vheda Health.

Coworking Centers in the USVI

Coworking is really catching on in the mainland and on St. Croix and St. Thomas. As of 2019, they now have two coworking spaces on the islands: SEAT Caribbean (St. Thomas) and Rise Caribbean (St. Croix).

These work hubs provide the perfect place for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers to get out of the house, meet other like-minded people and get some work done.

You may not find the allure of sapphire waters and palm trees blowing in the wind at these coworking spaces, but you will find a great vibe, fast internet, a place to get some work done, local culinary delights, coffee, training seminars and networking events. Of course, the palm trees and sunny beaches will be waiting for you when you're done for the day.

Book Your Stay with Marketplace Suites

If you are looking to escape the winter blues and work from home abroad, why not consider the USVI?

With its direct flights from major airports on the mainland, ease of transition, English-speaking population, and tropical atmosphere, it's an ideal place to work remotely. And with no state income tax in the USVI, you can keep more of your hard-earned money.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your escape with us today!

Check out our vacation rentals here. Have questions? Contact us today at 1-800-727-6610. We'll be happy to help.